The Record – 15 March 2026

March 12, 2026March 13, 2026 eddie

Welcome to Worship

10am

+ Worship Service led by Eddie Chapman; Preacher: Geoff Pound

+ Scripture: John 8: 12-20.

+ Theme: ‘Walking in the Light.’ A further study in our Dust to Dawn: Walking into Easter series.

11am Morning Tea in the Barn.

12.30pm After Morning Tea there is an open invitation to return to the church for a presentation on the outcomes of the Ellingworth Project feasibility study into potential opportunities for the redevelopment of our properties.

Order of Service

Bible reading – Light
Call to Worship
Song: Today I awake, and God is before me
Prayer
Bible reading – Follow
Song: Will you come and follow me
Community News
Offering
Bible reading – Darkness
Prayer of Confession
Song: Nothing is lost on the love of God.
Sermon (Geoff) – Walking in the Light
Bible reading – Light
Pastoral Prayers
Song: Christ be our light
Benediction

Community News

+ The scaffolding has arrived and the wall is coming down! Thanks for everyone’s generosity and patience as we finally repair our front wall. This is likely to take a week or two, so expect there to be some minor disruptions to our services for this Sunday and next.

+ After church, at 12.30pm, there will be a presentation on the outcomes of the Ellingworth Project Feasibility Study into potential opportunities for the redevelopment of our properties. Everybody is welcome to join us, and the session will be recorded if you can’t make it.

+ This Saturday (14th) we are undertaking the most challenging of our ‘Dust to Dawn’ walks. We will gather at the Olinda Precinct carpark (75-77 Olinda Monbulk Rd) at 11:30am for coffee, before commencing the walk at 12. For those keen to join in but not interested in the long walk, there is the option to take a shorter walk through the Botanic Gardens just around the corner.

+ Want to give a bird, possum, or bee a home? Through our Community Shed we are working with some community members to explore the potential for a new project building habitat boxes for the local environment. We’ll be meeting at the Village Well at 7:30pm this Wednesday the 18th to discuss and explore what’s possible.

+ On the 12th of April, we will be hosting a Community Musicale in the church, commencing at 12.45pm. Community Musicale is a welcoming and supportive performance space for musicians and music-lovers of all ages and level, and all proceeds go to support the new habitat box initiative! Tickets and more info at https://events.humanitix.com/communitymusicale

Food for Thought, Prayer & Action

+ Andrew Hamilton asks, “Is Australia’s support for the Iran strike a retreat from principle?” Eureka Street, 4 March 2026.

+ Concert pianist Yirui Weng grew up an atheist, but found Christian faith after hearing Vivaldi’s Gloria. Listen to her story on Heart & Soul, BBC.

+ Are things going forwards for women or backwards? Justine Toh, of the Centre for Public Christianity, presented a special episode of God Forbid to mark International Women’s Day. ABC Radio National.

+ Feeling fearful? Tim Costello named the deeper question behind the repatriation of ISIS-linked Australian citizens.

On Sunday the 22nd you’re invited to walk with others, gathering by 2 pm at Schwerkolt Cottage in Mitcham. This is a 3-5 km loop through the Mullum Valley, ending at Lorraine Mitchell’s home for refreshments at about 4 pm.

You can find more information about our other upcoming walks here.

Easter Services

Palm Sunday – 29 March

Our monthly Last Breakfast Service on the theme “Walking into Turmoil”. We will be putting this into practice as we head into the city afterwards to walk with other churches and people in the annual March for Refugees, commencing at Princes Bridge at 1pm.

Maundy Thursday – 2 April

Reflective dinner in the Barn at 6pm.

Good Friday – 3 April

We will be “Walking the Way of the Cross”, in our Good Friday service, commencing at 9.30am.

Easter Sunday – 5 April

“Walking towards Resurrection” is our theme, and we will be taking this very literally as we create some opportunities for those who wish to gather at a few local homes, before ‘walking to the empty tomb’ to celebrate the risen Christ together!

Coming soon

Sunday 22 March – 2pm- Dust to Dawn walk in Mitcham (see info above).

This Week

Monday

+ 4.30pm-8.30pm Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Tuesday

+ 9.30am is the usual time for the Box Hill Community Choir to practice but owing to many of the choir members being away (due to the Labour Weekend Holiday) there will not be any choir next Tuesday.

+ 7.15pm for a cuppa and at 7.30pm the Bible & Chats Group meets in the Village Well. We will be pondering the theme, ‘Walking by Faith’ as we study the Scripture for the following Sunday: 2 Corinthians 5: 6-10.

Thursday

+ 11am-1pm The Social Chat Group (upstairs in the Village Well) will be learning basic English, playing table tennis and other games, drinking tea and coffee and making friends.

+ 1.30pm-2.30pm Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Friday

+ 4.30-8.30pm: Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Saturday

+ 7.30am-8.30am Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Small Groups @ BHBC

Box Hill Baptist Church runs a number of small groups which create opportunities to build friendships, study the Bible and other resources, pray and strengthen our spiritual journeys.

If you are interested in any of the groups below, feel welcome to contact the convenor, or speak to one of our pastors. (And if you’d like to be part of a group but these don’t work for you, come and speak to us and we’ll see if we can start something new!)

Bible & Chat: Currently each Tuesday, 7:15pm for 7.30pm start at the Village Well (5 Ellingworth Pde). The group normally reflects on a Scripture passage for the following Sunday service. Convenor: Geoff Pound
KYB (Know Your Bible): Tuesdays fortnightly via Zoom. (Convenor: Helen Timms)

Next Sunday 22 March at 10am.

+ Worship Service led by Andy McCulloch; Preacher: Geoff Pound

+ Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5: 6-10.

+ Theme: ‘Walking by Faith.’ A further study in our Dust to Dawn: Walking into Easter series. Walking expresses our trust in God amid uncertainty and difficult circumstances. What does it mean to walk by faith, not by sight?

11am Morning Tea in the Barn.

2pm. A physical walk by sight and faith: You’re invited to walk with others, gathering by 2 pm at Schwerkolt Cottage in Mitcham. This is a 3-5 km loop through the Mullum Valley, ending at Lorraine Mitchell’s home for refreshments at about 4 pm.

Worship Roster

The Record – 8 March 2026

March 6, 2026 eddie

Welcome to Worship

+ Worship Service led by Geoff Pound; Preacher: Eddie Chapman

+ Scripture: John 13: 30-35.

+ Theme: ‘Walking in Love.’ A further study in our Dust to Dawn: Walking into Easter series.

+ Interview with Rev Kevin Purvis about the Purvis years at Box Hill. We look forward to welcoming back Kevin, Jenny and any other members of the Purvis family that visit.

+ 11.30am – You are invited to join a 6-8km walk from the Barn to Blackburn Lake ending with refreshments at the Pounds, 2 Anjaya Court, Blackburn. If you’re not up to walking such a distance do come for refreshments at approximately 1pm.

Order of Service

Call to Worship

Hymn 559 (BP&W) Love divine, all loves excelling

Prayer

Welcome

Notices/Announcements

Offering

Sung Offertory Prayer: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases

Interview with Kevin Purvis on the Purvis Years at Box Hill Baptist

Song: Now We are Leaving the Bay (Sea of Love)

Scripture Reading: John 13: 30-35 (Ian Parker)

Sermon: ‘Walking in Love’ (Eddie)

Song: Lord let me See, see more and more.

Prayers for the World

Sung Benediction: Go in Peace, Go in Love

Community News

+ Pat Paul has moved to Vermont Aged Care (770 Canterbury Rd, Vermont VIC 3133) in the temporary placement programme. This is an interim measure while the family investigate a permanent placement for her; Diane Heagney is currently in Knox Hospital as she has blood clots in her leg and lungs. Pray for a permanent home for Pat and good health for Diane.

+ ‘Welcome to a New Year at Whitley College.’ Read all the Whitley News.

+ On Sunday 15 March at 12.30pm there will be a presentation on the outcomes of the Ellingworth Project Feasibility Study into potential opportunities for the redevelopment of our properties. Everybody is welcome to join us, and the session will be recorded if you can’t make it.

+ Thanks to those who have already donated money to go towards the $10,000 needed to re-plaster and repaint the front wall in the church after some of it start to crumble. The works will be commencing this coming Tuesday so be prepared for a Sunday or two of scaffolding!

Food for Thought

+ Simon Holt reflects on his move from Melbourne to Canberra in, ‘The Beauty Under Our Feet,’ Simply Simon.

+ Rabbi Shai Held writes an essay on ‘One of the Bible’s Greatest Moral Revolutions,’ an open access article in the New York Times, 22 February 2026.

+ ‘Display of St. Francis of Assisi’s bones confirms enduring appeal of relics for [some] Christians,’ Religion News Service, 24 February 2026.

After a few weeks of shorter walks, next Saturday (14th of March) we will be taking on our most challenging walk – approximately 14km through the Dandenong Ranges.

We will gather at the Olinda Precinct carpark (75-77 Oinda Monbulk Rd) at 11:30am for coffee, before commencing the walk at 12.

For those keen to join in but not interested in the long walk, there is the option to take a shorter walk through the Botanic Gardens just around the corner.

You can find more information about our other upcoming walks here.

Coming soon

Saturday 14 March – 11.30am – Dust to Dawn walk through the Dandenong Ranges (see info above)

Sunday 15 March – 12.30pm – Presentation on the outcomes of the Ellingworth Project feasibility study into potential opportunities for the redevelopment of our properties.

This Week

Monday

+ 4.30pm-8.30pm Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Tuesday

+ 7.15pm for a cuppa and at 7.30pm the Bible & Chats Group meets in the Village Well. We will be pondering the theme, ‘Walking in the Light’ as they study the Scripture for the following Sunday: John 8: 12-20.

Thursday

+ 11am-1pm The Social Chat Group (upstairs in the Village Well) will be learning basic English, playing table tennis and other games, drinking tea and coffee and making friends.

+ 1.30pm-2.30pm Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Friday

+ 4.30-8.30pm: Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Saturday

+ 7.30am-8.30am Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

+ 11.30am – You are invited to meet at Olinda and walk approximately 14 km through the Dandenong Ranges. There is an option to visit the National Rhododendron Garden for those not up to walking the full distance. (see info earlier on in the Record)

Small Groups @ BHBC

Box Hill Baptist Church runs a number of small groups which create opportunities to build friendships, study the Bible and other resources, pray and strengthen our spiritual journeys.

Bible & Chat: Currently each Tuesday, 7:15pm for 7.30pm start at the Village Well (5 Ellingworth Pde). The group normally reflects on a Scripture passage for the following Sunday service. Convenor: Geoff Pound
KYB (Know Your Bible): Tuesdays fortnightly via Zoom. (Convenor: Helen Timms)

Next Sunday 1 March at 10am.

+ Worship Service led by Eddie Chapman; Preacher: Geoff Pound

+ Scripture: John 8: 12-20.

+ Theme: ‘Walking in the Light.’ A further study in our Dust to Dawn: Walking into Easter series.

11am Morning Tea in the Barn.

Worship Roster

The Record – 1 March 2026

February 24, 2026 eddie

Welcome to Worship

+ 10am Communion Service; Worship Leader: Shueh Wah Kennedy; Preacher: Geoff Pound.

+ Scripture: Matthew 4: 12-23; Theme: Walking in ‘The Way.’

+ As part of our offering on Communion Sunday we will receive non-perishable food items to be given to needy people in our suburb.

+ 11.30am: A short Church Meeting will follow Morning Tea in the Barn.

+ 12.30pm You are invited to go on a Box Hill historical walk led by Andy McCulloch, a total of 4.3kms, with a shorter option of 2.3kms. The route passes Andy and Wendy’s house, where lunch can be enjoyed by the walkers! They should be able to accommodate most dietary requirements, but check with Andy and Wendy to be sure. Learn more from Andy about the route.

Order of Service

Call to Worship

Opening Prayer

Song Will you come and follow me

Community News

Offering

Song Make me a channel of your peace

Reading Matthew 4: 12-23

Sermon Walking in ‘The Way’

Song Come as you are

Communion

Prayers for the World

Song Be not Afraid

Benediction

Community News

+ Kevin and Jenny Purvis have been invited to attend our morning service at Box Hill at 10am on March 8 and Kevin will take part in an eight-minute interview as part of the service. This will focus on remembering and celebrating the ministry of the church while Kevin, Jenny and their family were at Box Hill from 1998-2002.

+ If you would like to ensure that certain former members and friends who attended BHBC receive a letter of invitation to this Back to Box Hill Baptist service on 8 March when Kevin Purvis will be present, please give the names and contact details to Eddie Chapman as soon as possible.

+ We extend our condolences to Raymond Chow (Wai Man Chow) and his family upon the death of his mother, Chan Fo Mui, on Friday, 20 February. A service of thanksgiving was held to celebrate her life last Wednesday morning.

+ Check out the range of events and resources being offered in 2026 by the WellSpring Centre in Ashburton.

+ Thanks to those who have already donated money to go towards the $10,000 needed to re-plaster and repaint the front wall in the church after some of it start to crumble. Here are the bank account numbers to use if you are going to transfer money from your account and deposit it with the Church.

BSB: 704-922
Account name: Box Hill Baptist Church
Account number: 100005657
Please use the word ‘Plaster’ or ‘Wall’ in the reference line. Please put one of these words on your envelope if you are giving through the offering bag.

Food for Thought

+ 400+ American leaders have written a declaration urging people to resist the current administration and take a stand on faith and justice. ‘A Call to Christians in a Crisis of Faith and Democracy.’ Link. A news report about this is posted on Religion News.

+ This year the dates of Ash Wednesday and Ramadan coincide. Andrew Hamilton reflects , ‘When Lent Meets Ramadan in a divided world,’ Eureka Street, 19 February 2026.

+ Jesse Jackson, who believed that his political life sprang out of his call to be a preacher, dies at 84. Valerie Bridgeman reflects on his life and service in Religion News Service.

+ Rosemary (Pastor and Chaplain) and Alex (economist and musician) are members of the Ponsonby Baptist Church in Auckland. They reflect on their journey after Alex was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, in ‘The Words are Still There, Dementia, NZ.

Our new ‘Dust to Dawn: Walking into Easter” has commenced!

Not only will this series follow the theme of ‘walking’ as we journey through Lent, it will also create opportunities for us to literally walk into Easter through a series of weekly walks being organised by various members of the church.

Walks commence on the 22nd of February, and you can find more information as it comes to hand here.

Coming soon

Sunday 15 March – 12.30pm – Presentation on the outcomes of the Ellingworth Project feasibility study into potential opportunities for the redevelopment of our properties.

This Week

Monday

+ 4.30pm-8.30pm Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

+ Monday at 7.30pm Our Deacons have their monthly meeting.

Tuesday

+ The Box Hill Community Choir is meets on Tuesday at 9:30 am, in the church. (Cost is $50 per term.)

+ 7.15pm for a cuppa and at 7.30pm the Bible & Chats Group meets in the Village Well. We will be pondering the theme, ‘Walking in Love’ as they study the Scripture for the following Sunday: John 13:30-35.

Thursday

+ 11am-1pm The Social Chat Group (upstairs in the Village Well) will be hearing from Maggie Wang speaking about buying, selling and leasing apartments and homes in Australia.

+ 1.30pm-2.30pm Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Friday

+ 4.30-8.30pm: Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Saturday

+ 7.30am-8.30am Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Small Groups @ BHBC

Box Hill Baptist Church runs a number of small groups which create opportunities to build friendships, study the Bible and other resources, pray and strengthen our spiritual journeys.

Bible & Chat: Currently each Tuesday, 7:15pm for 7.30pm start at the Village Well (5 Ellingworth Pde). The group normally reflects on a Scripture passage for the following Sunday service. Convenor: Geoff Pound
KYB (Know Your Bible): Tuesdays fortnightly via Zoom. (Convenor: Helen Timms)

Next Sunday 1 March at 10am.

10am

+ Worship Service led by Eddie Chapman; Preacher: TBC.

+ Scripture: John 13: 30-35.

+ Theme: ‘Walking in Love.’ A further study in our Dust to Dawn: Walking into Easter series.

+ Interview with Rev Kevin Purvis.

11.30am

You are invited to join a 6-8km walk from the Barn to Blackburn Lake ending with refreshments at the Pounds, 2 Anjaya Court, Blackburn. If you’re not up to walking such a distance do come for refreshments.

Worship Roster

The Record – 22 February 2026

February 20, 2026 eddie

Welcome to Worship

This Sunday 22 February 2026 at 10am

10am It’s our Last Breakfast with food, talk (by Eddie on the theme ‘Walking Humbly with your God’ based on the Scripture, Micah 6: 6-8) and conversation around tables. Please bring food to share.

11.30am You’re invited to join our first gentle walk from the Barn led by Graeme Davison. We’ll walk from Box Hill to Mont Albert (approximately 2-3kms), ending with refreshments at the Davisons. Need more info? Ask Graeme.

Community News

+ Raelene Lilies has returned home this week after a stay in hospital; Greta Carter is in Epworth (Richmond) recovering after breaking seven ribs. Please pray for these and others you are aware of who are not well.

+ Our new ‘Dust to Dawn: Walking into Easter” has commenced! Not only will this series follow the theme of ‘walking’ as we journey through Lent, it will also create opportunities for us to literally walk into Easter through a series of weekly walks being organised by various members of the church. Walks commence this Sunday the 22nd of February, and you can find more information as it comes to hand here.

+ I (Geoff) met up with Sam Neville this week. He used to be in the Box Hill Baptist Youth Group in the 1990s. He said that many of the young men who were in the group are now fathers and recently these fathers and their sons got together for a wonderful weekend at Shoreham. People like Sam, Simon Carlyle, Matt and Ben Bissett, Ash Keys to name a few. Remember them? Many of the friendships forged at BHBC continue.

+ Happy Lunar New Year! Last Thursday at our Social Chat Group (11am) Mr Wang Chenggen visited and demonstrated his skills at calligraphy. He wrote and gifted some banners which express a blessing for the Box Hill Baptist Church. You may see some of these writings in the Gallery, the Barn and upstairs in the Village Well.

+ Public Lecture sponsored by Whitley College at Collins Street Baptist Church on ‘The Desire to Punish: Incarceration, Justice and the Church’s Crisis of Accountability.’ Speaker: Professor Douglas Campbell. Thursday 12 March at 6pm. Link for more info and registration details.

+ The Victorian Baptist Historical Society invites you to the Geoffrey Blackburn Memorial Lecture by Rev Dr Frank Rees on the topic, ‘Baptists and Roman Catholics.’ Saturday, 14 March at 10.45am.

+ The NewHope Baptist Church is conducting a training day for individuals and churches teaching the English language. Info link.

Food for Thought

+ Musician, Nick Caves, is asked to give counsel to a man whose wife has recently died. Here is his reply in the Red Hand Files.

+ A Rocha USA invites you to view the documentary An Invitation to Wonder which explores the ecology, mystery, and significance of the wetlands. Until 5 April you can view it free. Use thislink and the pass-code “WONDER2026” for access. There is a discussion and reflection guide at thislink. A Rocha also has prayers and readings for lent at this link andLenten Resources for Creation Justice.

+ Maggi Dawn reflects on the Transfiguration Scripture on her Substack, 14 February.

+ Baptist Mission Australia News and Prayer Notes.

Coming soon

Sunday 1 March – Church meeting (after the service in the Barn) – an opportunity to discuss the many things happening in the life of the church.

Sunday 15 March – 12.30pm – Presentation on the outcomes of the Ellingworth Project feasibility study into potential opportunities for the redevelopment of our properties.

This Week

Monday

+ 4.30pm-8.30pm Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Tuesday

+ The Box Hill Community Choir is meets on Tuesday at 9:30 am, in the church. (Cost is $50 per term.)

+ 7.15pm for a cuppa and at 7.30pm the Bible & Chats Group meets in the Village Well. We will be pondering the theme, ‘Walking in the Way’ as they study the Scripture for the following Sunday: Matthew 4: 18-22.

Thursday

+ 11am-1pm upstairs in the Village Well: The Thursday 11am Social Chat Group will be welcoming local MP, Paul Hamer, who will talk about resources that are available for newcomers to Box Hill and the City of Whitehorse.

+ 1.30pm-2.30pm Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Friday

+ 4.30-8.30pm: Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Saturday

+ 7.30am-8.30am Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Small Groups @ BHBC

Box Hill Baptist Church runs a number of small groups which create opportunities to build friendships, study the Bible and other resources, pray and strengthen our spiritual journeys.

Bible & Chat: Currently each Tuesday, 7:15pm for 7.30pm start at the Village Well (5 Ellingworth Pde). The group normally reflects on a Scripture passage for the following Sunday service. Convenor: Geoff Pound
KYB (Know Your Bible): Tuesdays fortnightly via Zoom. (Convenor: Helen Timms)

Next Sunday 1 March at 10am.

+ 10am Communion Service; Worship Leader: Shueh Wah Kennedy; Preacher: Geoff Pound.

+ Scripture: Matthew 4: 18-22; Theme: Walking in ‘The Way.’

+ As part of our offering on Communion Sunday we will receive non-perishable food items to be given for needy people in our suburb.

+ 11.30am: A short Church Meeting will follow Morning Tea in the Barn.

+ 12.30pm You are invited to go on a Box Hill historical walk led by Andy McCulloch, a total of 4.3kms, with a shorter option of 2.3kms. Learn more from Andy.

Worship Roster

The Record – 15 February 2026

February 13, 2026 eddie

Welcome to Worship

This Sunday 15 February 2026 at 10am

+ Worship Leader: Lorraine Mitchell; Preacher: Geoff Pound

+ Scripture: Isaiah 43: 1-3A

+ Theme: Walking in Difficult Times—Third in our series ‘Dust to Dawn: Walking into Easter.’

Order of Service

Call to Worship
Hymn 388 – O love of God, how strong and true
Prayer
Song – Like a Candle burning brightly
Welcome & Community News
Offering
Bible Reading: Isaiah 43:1-3A
Hymn 117 – By Gracious Powers
Sermon (Geoff)
Song: When peace like a river
Pastoral Prayers
Song: Deep Stillness
Benediction

Community News

+ Thanks to those who have begun to donate one book each to the Box Hill Baptist Church. One book just donated is entitled Sources of Strength by Jimmy Carter – a collection of some of his Sunday school lessons, laced with personal stories from his presidency. Visit the library, take and read.

+ This Tuesday, February 17 marks the beginning of Lunar New Year – the Year of the Horse – with celebrations shared by many cultures across Asia and the global diaspora. Remember to wish ‘A Happy Lunar New Year’ to the people that you meet in this season from Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Brunei, Philippines, China, South Korea, North Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, Tibet, Mongolia and more.

+ The season of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday (18 February). It serves as a 40-day “wilderness” journey modelled after Jesus’ time in the desert. It’s not a legalistic thing to do but it can be a creative way to foster our relationship with Jesus. Some practices that people adopt include: fasting (giving up), digital fast (to quieten the screen noise), adding in (reading a book, starting a prayer journal, writing poetry), acts of service (intentional kindness, contributing to a cause), focused prayer and meditation, walking (for a cause and to pray).

+ Our next regular Church Meeting will take place after Morning Tea in the Barn on Sunday 1 March.

+ There have been lots of positive reports on new songs, new features and newcomers to the Box Hill Community Choir, including the new conductor, Kylie. It is not too late to join this Tuesday morning group that sings, performs, shares morning tea and celebrates.

+ Our new worship roster is out, can be downloaded here.

Food for Thought

+ Wisdom Keepers on PBS explores the timeless questions of who we are and where we are going. In these conversations are Joan Chittister, David Brooks, Kevin Kelly and more.

+ Justine Toh, (Centre for Public Christianity) urges, ‘As the year begins, don’t look away from the headlines, look better and deeper,’ The Guardian, 12 January 2026.

+ Most Monday mornings at 8am you can tune into (Zoom link) Monday Matters with Ian Bunston. The guest tomorrow (16^th) is Dr Rodney van der Ree speaking on the impacts of human activity on human diversity and on the 23^rd, Haydn Blake a Tactical Flight Officer Air Wing VicPol. If you can’t make the Monday time you can catch up on these informative talks via these links on Spotify or YouTube.

This Week

Monday

+ 4.30pm-8.30pm Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

+ 7.30pm The Deacons have their first meeting of the year.

Tuesday

+ The Box Hill Community Choir is meets on Tuesday at 9:30 am, in the church. (Cost is $50 per term.)

+ 7.15pm for a cuppa and at 7.30pm the Bible & Chats Group meets in the Village Well. We are going to be pondering the theme, ‘Walking Humbly with your God’ as they study the Scripture: Micah 6: 6-8.

Thursday

+ 11am-1pm upstairs in the Village Well: The Thursday 11am Social Chat Group will be enjoying a special New Year morning tea with different new year delicacies from their countries and provinces. Come and join the celebration.

+ 1.30pm-2.30pm Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Friday

+ 4.30-8.30pm: Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Saturday

+ 7.30am-8.30am Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Small Groups @ BHBC

Box Hill Baptist Church runs a number of small groups which create opportunities to build friendships, study the Bible and other resources, pray and strengthen our spiritual journeys.

Bible & Chat: Currently each Tuesday, 7:15pm for 7.30pm start at the Village Well (5 Ellingworth Pde). The group normally reflects on a Scripture passage for the following Sunday service. Convenor: Geoff Pound
KYB (Know Your Bible): Tuesdays fortnightly via Zoom. (Convenor: Helen Timms)

Next Sunday 22 February at 10am.

Worship Roster

The Record – 8 February 2026

February 7, 2026February 7, 2026 eddie

Welcome to Worship

This Sunday 8 February 2026 at 10am

+ Worship Leader: Keith Dyer; Preacher: Eddie Chapman

+ Scripture: Joshua 22: 1-6

+ Theme: Walking in God’s Ways—Second in our series ‘Dust to Dawn: Walking into Easter.’

+ The Rev Colin Hunter plans to attend our morning service at Box Hill at 10am this Sunday and will take part in an eight-minute interview as part of the service. This will focus on remembering and celebrating the ministry of the church while Colin and Jenny were at Box Hill from 1990-1996. Colin is especially looking forward to meeting up over morning tea with people who were at Box Hill in the Hunter years. Do invite former members and friends who were here in the nineties to come next Sunday. Bring any photos with you from this period.

Order of Service

Acknowledgement of Country and Call to Worship:
Song/Hymn: ‘The journey of life’
Prayer of gathering and confession
Welcome and community news
Song/Hymn: ‘We are marching in the light of God’
Our offering and prayer
Interview: Rev Dr Colin Hunter (with Geoff)
Bible reading: Joshua 22:1–6 — Raymond
Song/Hymn: ‘Faith has set us on a journey’
Sermon: ‘Walking in God’s Way’— Eddie
Song/Hymn: ‘One more step along the world I go’
Prayers for the world
Benediction

Community News

+ Please pray for the people of Iran following the atrocities waged by the regime against its own people. Some estimate Tehran’s crackdown on anti-government rallies has claimed up to 30,000 lives. Remember Vahid and Mina in their concern for their family and friends.

+ Congratulations to Bill Firth-Smith on reaching the great age of 90 this week.

+ Kylie Wagenvoort was welcomed last Tuesday as the new conductor of the Box Hill Community Choir. Kylie brings experience, shaped by over 25 years of working with solo singers and choirs, advising music, stage, and choral directors, coaching vocal ensembles and musical theatre performers, along with experience in record producing and sound engineering. Kylie has recently returned from five weeks in the southern United States immersing in Black gospel, country, and blues traditions that prioritise conviction in song lyrics – a core value to her leadership. Her calling and hope for the Box Hill Community Choir is to inspire singers to grow in skill, understanding, and confidence, so that in “one voice” they can sing with clarity, joy, and freedom. Kylie is grateful for the opportunity to bring her experience and passion to the Box Hill Community Choir. It’s a good time for you to join the choir!

+ Notes from last week’s Deacons meeting:

Our new church constitution has been submitted to and approved by the Baptist Union. Click here if you’d like a copy of the final version.
Shueh Wah Kennedy has been appointed as the Chair for the coming year.
Budget notes: We have committed approximately $10,000 for the repair the plaster on the front wall of the church. We will be creating opportunities for those who may want to help cover this unexpected costs. Offerings are currently not meeting budget.
We discussed our next steps in formalising our membership of the Open Baptists.
Our next church meeting will be on the 1st of March.
There will be a presentation on the Feasibility Study into redeveloping our church properties on Sunday the 15th of March.

+ Our new worship roster is out, can be downloaded here.

Food for Thought

+ Here’s a proven way to slow aging. Any volunteers? Link: MSN.

+ Check out some of the stories about what Baptist churches are doing around Victoria. Link

+ You’re invited to donate a book to the church library and while you are dropping in your contribution, take a book to read. “Reading is a life-long collision with minds not like your own.” – Jeanette Winterson.

+ Maggi Dawn writes about that saying, “I’m giving up for Lent…” Maggi Dawn’s Substack

This Week

Monday

+ 4.30pm-8.30pm Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

+ 7.30pm The Deacons have their first meeting of the year.

Tuesday

+ The Box Hill Community Choir is meets on Tuesday at 9:30 am, in the church. (Cost is $50 per term.)

+ 7.15pm for a cuppa and at 7.30pm the first Bible Study for the year. The Bible & Chats Group meets in the Village Well and studies the Scripture that will be the focus in the next Sunday’s sermon. The Scripture passage we are studying is Isaiah 43: 1-3A and our theme is: ‘Walking in Difficult Times.’Convener: Geoff Pound.

Thursday

+ 11am-1pm upstairs in the Village Well: The Social Chat Gathering continues at this time. Wang Chenggen will be demonstrating Chinese calligraphy.

+ 1.30pm-2.30pm Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Friday

+ 4.30-8.30pm: Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Saturday

+ 7.30am-8.30am Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Small Groups @ BHBC

Box Hill Baptist Church runs a number of small groups which create opportunities to build friendships, study the Bible and other resources, pray and strengthen our spiritual journeys.

Bible & Chat: Currently each Tuesday, 7:15pm for 7.30pm start at the Village Well (5 Ellingworth Pde). The group normally reflects on a Scripture passage for the following Sunday service. Convenor: Geoff Pound
KYB (Know Your Bible): Tuesdays fortnightly via Zoom. (Convenor: Helen Timms)

Next Sunday 8 February at 10am.

+ Worship Leader: Lorraine Mitchell; Preacher: Geoff Pound

+ Scripture: Isaiah 43: 1-3A

+ Theme: Walking in Difficult Times—Third in our series ‘Dust to Dawn: Walking into Easter.’

Worship Roster

The Record – 1 February 2026

January 30, 2026January 30, 2026 eddie

Welcome to Worship

This Sunday 1 February 2026 at 10am

+ Communion Service (usually held on the first Sunday of the month). On this Sunday we bring non-perishable food items that are given to support needy people in our community.

+ Worship Leader: Eddie Chapman; Preacher: Geoff Pound.

+ Scripture Reading: Genesis 3: 1-13

+ Theme: Walking with God: First in our new series “Dust to Dawn: Walking into Easter”

Order of Service

Call to worship
Song: Guide us O Thou Great Redeemer
Opening Prayer
Offering
Community News
Reading: Genesis 3:1-13
A moment of hiding
Song: Strong and Constant is Your Love.
Sermon
Communion
Song: Abide with me
Pastoral Prayers
Sung Benediction: May the feet of God go with you.

Community News

+ Our new ‘Dust to Dawn: Walking into Easter” series commences this Sunday! Not only will this series follow the theme of ‘walking’ as we journey through Lent, it will also create opportunities for us to literally walk into Easter through a series of weekly walks being organised by various members of the church. Stay tuned for the details of these upcoming walks, commencing on the 22nd of February.

+ The Open Baptists Conference is being held at the Mt Carmel Retreat Centre, Varroville, NSW on 12-14 June 2026. More information and registration details at Open Baptists.

+ The WellSpring Spirituality Centre based in Ashburton has a rich menu of events and resources to share in 2026. Learn more.

+ Have you noticed our church library in a room off the Barn. There are some good books in there like Kenneth Bailey’s ‘Poet and Peasant, and Through Peasant Eyes’ (studies on the parables of Jesus) and Bruce Turley’s ‘Being there for Others’ (a basic text to learn about doing pastoral care). If you have been inspired by a wonderful book, please donate it (one book per person) to the church library. Our library is for everyone.

+ Choir News: Carolyn Bunston is unable to lead the choir this year but a new choir conductor, Kylie Wagenvoort, will be present this Tuesday. New choir members are very welcome to attend.

Food for Thought

+ Bible scholars and theologians at Spurgeon’s College in England were miffed when a cook book put out by the College sold far more copies than their commentaries and biblical tomes. Simon Holt has been both a chef and a pastor and his blog Eating Heaven combines foody stories and theological insights. Now writing from Canberra, Simon provides this yummy Catalan Teacake recipe and reminds us that “taste and memory are so often connected.”

+ Maggi Dawn revisits the Parable of the Sower in ‘Doing Nothing for God,’ MaggiDawn’s Substack, 28 January 2026.

+ Barbara Brown Taylor offers her reflection on the Parable of the Sower in ‘The Automatic Earth,’ Coming Down to Earth with Barbara Brown Taylor, 28 January 2026.

Coming Soon:

This Week

Monday

+ 4.30pm-8.30pm Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

+ 7.30pm The Deacons have their first meeting of the year.

Tuesday

+ The Box Hill Community Choir is starting up again for a new year this Tuesday at 9:30 am, in the church. (Cost is $50 per term.)

+ 7.15pm for a cuppa and at 7.30pm the first Bible Study for the year. The Bible & Chats Group meets in the Village Well and studies the Scripture that will be the focus in the next Sunday’s sermon. Questions are available beforehand. Ask for a copy. Convener: Geoff Pound.

Thursday

+ 11am-1pm upstairs in the Village Well: The Social Chat Gathering continues at this time.

+ 1.30pm-2.30pm Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Friday

+ 4.30-8.30pm: Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Saturday

+ 7.30am-8.30am Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Small Groups @ BHBC

Box Hill Baptist Church runs a number of small groups which create opportunities to build friendships, study the Bible and other resources, pray and strengthen our spiritual journeys.

Bible & Chat: Currently each Tuesday, 7:15pm for 7.30pm start at the Village Well (5 Ellingworth Pde). The group normally reflects on a Scripture passage for the following Sunday service. Convenor: Geoff Pound
KYB (Know Your Bible): Tuesdays fortnightly via Zoom. (Convenor: Helen Timms)

Next Sunday 8 February at 10am.

+ Worship Leader: Keith Dyer Preacher: Eddie Chapman

+ Scripture: Joshua 22:1-6

+ Theme: Walking in God’s Ways—Second in our series ‘Dust to Dawn: Walking into Easter.’

+ The Rev Colin Hunter and his companion, Margaret, plan to attend our morning service at Box Hill at 10am next Sunday on February 8. Colin will take part in an eight-minute interview as part of the service. This will focus on remembering and celebrating the ministry of the church while Colin and Jenny were at Box Hill from 1990-1996. Colin is especially looking forward to meeting up over morning tea with people who were at Box Hill in the Hunter years. Do invite former members and friends who were here in the nineties to come next Sunday.

Worship Roster

The Record – 25 January 2026

January 22, 2026 eddie

Welcome to Worship

This Sunday at 10am, we come together at our monthly, informal Last Breakfast service.

Over good food and good company, we’ll be celebrating ‘Australian Stories’.

+ Worship Leader: Eddie Chapman

Community News

+ Celebrating 125 Years!

This year is the 125^th anniversary of the Box Hill Baptist Church as a community.

In August of last year, we celebrated 100 years since the opening of the red brick sanctuary.

We are planning some special events during our Church Anniversary weekend which is scheduled for the 16-18 October 2026 (please reserve these dates in your calendar). This weekend will include a Morning Service of Thanksgiving and also a time to launch the history book that Lorraine Mitchell has been writing.

We are planning some segments in church services (often on the second Sunday of each month) when we invite a former pastor or member and their family to attend. We will usually interview them about their time at Box Hill Baptist. We also want to send a special letter of invitation to people who attended BHBC during the years when that person was a pastor, a church leader etc. These will be Back to Box Hill Baptist Church Sundays and it will give visitors returning a chance to catch up with our returning guests over morning tea in the Barn.

The Rev Colin Hunter plans to attend our morning service at Box Hill at 10am on February 8 and he will take part in an eight-minute interview as part of the service. This will focus on remembering and celebrating the ministry of the church while Colin and Jenny were at Box Hill from 1990-1996.

If you would like to ensure that certain former members and friends who attended BHBC receive a letter of invitation to this first event on 8 February when Colin Hunter will be present, please give the names and contact details to Eddie Chapman as soon as possible.

+ Lyn Pound writes: “After two very happy years of running our church Playgroup, we have decided not to continue for 2026. By the end of 2025, our numbers had dropped and the remaining children were transitioning to kinder or childcare. We have greatly appreciated the enthusiastic help of our volunteers: Su, Barbara and Geoff, but also earlier on, Sonya and Mina. A huge thanks to you all!”

+ The Box Hill Community Choir is getting underway on Tuesday 3 February at 9.30am in our church sanctuary. Newcomers are especially welcome.

+ Thank you for Christmas Gifts 2025. Note from Meredith Beaton, Pastoral Worker for Jubilee Housing to Box Hill Baptist Church: “We wish to thank you for the kindness shown towards the children who are a part of Jubilee Housing. We received a wonderful variety of gifts for those in our Box Hill and Burwood housing complexes. They were distributed and received with joy and excitement. We are thankful to have such great support from BHBC along with our other partner churches. Please know you have made a big difference to these families at a time when life can be challenging. Thank you to the Box Hill Baptist Church Community for your ongoing support of our program.”

+ World Leprosy Day (today, Sunday 25 January 2026) is recognised around the world as an opportunity to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and celebrate progress. Check out the Leprosy Mission Australia website to learn about progress in the fight to end leprosy, to donate and to discover projects you can support. Some things to pray for:

Churches and prayer partners — that together we may continue to bring God’s healing and justice to life.
People still waiting for diagnosis or treatment — that they may find healing and hope.
Those living with stigma and rejection — that they may experience acceptance and love.
Community workers and health staff — that they may serve with strength and compassion.
The Leprosy Mission’s work worldwide — that it may be effective, loving, and guided by God’s wisdom.

+ Like to be part of a Small Discussion Group in 2026?

In the first week of February we resume our Small Groups after the Christmas holiday period. So far, we have a Know Your Bible that meets on Zoom on Tuesdays every fortnight and a Bible & Chats Group that meets on Tuesday nights in the Village Well which looks at the Scripture for the next Sunday. Have a think and let us know what you’d prefer in terms of a study, the day of the week and whether it is daytime or evening. We may be able to assemble some new groups.

Food for Thought

+ Jody Ray writes about the Mercy hospital ship on which Australian medical experts volunteer to bring health care to people in need, ‘The Hope Ship,’ ABC, 18 January 2026

Coming Soon:

This Week

Monday

+ 4.30pm-8.30pm Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Thursday

+ 11am-1pm upstairs in the Village Well: The Social Chat Gathering continues at this time.

+ 1.30pm-2.30pm Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Friday

+ 4.30-8.30pm: Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Saturday

+ 7.30am-8.30am Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Small Groups @ BHBC

Box Hill Baptist Church runs a number of small groups which create opportunities to build friendships, study the Bible and other resources, pray and strengthen our spiritual journeys.

Bible & Chat: Currently each Tuesday, 7:15pm for 7.30pm start at the Village Well (5 Ellingworth Pde). The group normally reflects on a Scripture passage for the following Sunday service. Convenor: Geoff Pound
KYB (Know Your Bible): Tuesdays fortnightly via Zoom. (Convenor: Helen Timms)

Next Sunday 1 February at 10am.

+ Walking with God: First in our new series “Dust to Dawn: Walking into Easter”

+ Scripture: Genesis 3:1-13

+ Worship Leader: Eddie Chapman + Preacher: Geoff Pound

+ Includes our monthly Communion service, and offering of non-perishable food items for the community through Box Hill Community Information & Support.

Worship Roster

The Record – 18 January 2025

January 14, 2026 eddie

Welcome to Worship

This Sunday 18 January at 10am.

+ Worship Leader: Lorraine MItchell. Preacher: Geoff Pound.

+ Scripture: Isaiah 61:1-4

+ Theme: ‘Questing for Beauty in Difficult Times.’ Third and final in the ‘Beauty That Saves’ series.

+ Your Input: Geoff would love your input for this Sunday’s sermon. What song do you play (or hum) to lift your spirits when you are going through difficult times? Send your reply to him asap at geoffpound@gmail.com or text to his phone at 0417 485 200. He won’t quote you by name but he is interested to know how a piece of music can keep you afloat. Accompany your choice of song with a brief explanation if you wish.

Order of Service

Call to worship
Hymn 121: For the beauty of the earth
Prayer
Song: Colourful Creator
Welcome & Community News
Offering
Bible reading: Isaiah 61:1-4
Song: Daring Dancing Trinity
Sermon
Pastoral Prayers
Song: Beauty for Brokenness
Benediction

Community News

+ Church member, Raymond Chow, has advised that his REJOICE Chinese Christian Communication Centre has recently moved to the new address of Unit 1&2, 20 Station Street, Nunawading 3131. From this base, Raymond and his team will continue to support Chinese migrants in Australia through various events, the publication of an online newspaper-Sameway, the sale of books, radio broadcasts and more, in seeking to address not only spiritual needs but the social, economic and cultural challenges new Chinese migrants face in Australia. Pray for Raymond and his team in this new chapter.

+ Do keep in your prayers, Jim and Jane Barr, (Jim is a former Box Hill pastor and they are still members of Box Hill Baptist), who live in Walkerville by the waters of Bass Strait in South Gippsland. Jim has taken up a position as Supply Minister for two days a week with the Corner Inlet Uniting Church and Jane is serving on the Church Council. This involves three congregations meeting at Foster, Fish Creek and Tarwin Lower. The Fish Creek and Tarwin Lower congregations are “Union Churches” with members from many different denominations and pastoral leadership from Uniting Church and Anglican clergy (and one stray Baptist “in UCA clothing”!)

“It’s a tough gig,” says Jim. “We are very small and ageing congregations and I have to drive 20-30 kilometres from home through rolling green hills and magnificent seascapes to get to any of the churches. A round trip to all three is about 100 km on the road, but there are excellent cafés scattered through the region to host pastoral encounters.”

+ On another matter, Jim writes: “The Gippsland Camino from April 16-19 involves a pilgrim walk along the Great Southern Rail Trail. If you would like to be involved with the Camino, or make your own personal pilgrimage in one of the most beautiful corners of the state, or share in other ways in the ministry of these Christian communities, please contact Jim (042 546 2277, jimbarr55@gmail.com ).”

+ Annually, Aboriginal Sunday is celebrated the Sunday before January 26 (this year the 25^th January), as an opportunity for individuals and congregations to stand in solidarity and pray for justice and the flourishing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Check out resources from Common Grace to foster deep listening and learning.

+ World Leprosy Day (on Sunday 25 January 2026) is recognised around the world as an opportunity to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and celebrate progress. Check out the Leprosy Mission Australia website to learn about progress in the fight to end leprosy, to donate and to discover projects you can support. Some things to pray for:

People still waiting for diagnosis or treatment — that they may find healing and hope.
Those living with stigma and rejection — that they may experience acceptance and love.
Community workers and health staff — that they may serve with strength and compassion.
The Leprosy Mission’s work worldwide — that it may be effective, loving, and guided by God’s wisdom.
Churches and prayer partners — that together we may continue to bring God’s healing and justice to life.

+ Every Sunday, our Sound & Video volunteers work to make sure that everyone can hear, see, and participate in our worship services – both in the church building and at home. We’d love to have a few more volunteers who could learn some new skills and share that responsibility – So if you’re keen, speak to Eddie as we’ll be organising some training sessions early in the year.

This Week

Monday

+ 4.30pm-8.30pm Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Thursday

+ 11am-1pm upstairs in the Village Well: The Social Chat Gathering continues at this time.

+ 1.30pm-2.30pm Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Friday

+ 4.30-8.30pm: Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Saturday

+ 7.30am-8.30am Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Small Groups @ BHBC

Box Hill Baptist Church runs a number of small groups which create opportunities to build friendships, study the Bible and other resources, pray and strengthen our spiritual journeys.

Bible & Chat: Currently each Tuesday, 7:15pm for 7.30pm start at the Village Well (5 Ellingworth Pde). The group normally reflects on a Scripture passage for the following Sunday service. Convenor: Geoff Pound
KYB (Know Your Bible): Tuesdays fortnightly via Zoom. (Convenor: Helen Timms)

Next Sunday 25 January at 10am.

+ The Last Breakfast: Eating breakfast or brunch around the tables (bring food to share); A great opportunity to discuss with others.

+ Led by Eddie Chapman.

Worship Roster

The Record – 11 January 2025

January 9, 2026January 10, 2026 eddie

Welcome to Worship

This Sunday 11 January at 10am.

+ Worship Leader: Keith Dyer; Preacher: Geoff Pound.

+ Scripture: Genesis 1:28-31

+ Theme: ‘Encountering Beauty: Where Does Beauty Dwell?

Order of Service

Acknowledgment of Country and Call to worship
Song: Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness
Prayer of gathering and confession
Welcome & Community News
Song: I lift my eyes to the quiet hills
Offering and prayer
Beauty Spot
Bible Reading: Genesis 1:28-31
Song: Taking Shape in God’s Creation
Sermon
Song: All things bright and beautiful.
Prayers for the World
Benediction: Deep stillness

Community News

+ People News: Recently Pat Paul has been in the Box Hill Hospital for tests but is currently in the Wantirna Health Hospital (Building B, Level 3, Bed 23). Pat’s mobile number: 0404 500 331; Meriel Barber has had a stay in the Box Hill Hospital after being diagnosed with pneumonia but she is back now at Surrey Hills Garden Care Community, 9-17 Broughton Rd, Surrey Hills (Second floor, Room 6). Her mobile number: 0402 550 690.

+ A note of thanks from the Kedem Jewish congregation:

On behalf of the Kedem congregation I write to thank you for your moving support of the Kedem community after the terrible Bondi events. Your messages will be distributed to our membership. As Jewish Australians it is very reassuring to know that the rest of the Australian community is as concerned and affected by the Bondi situation as we are. Although the terrorists specifically attacked members of the Jewish community, in reality they attacked every thinking Australian, be they Jewish, Christian, Hindu, Muslim or atheist. Please convey to your members our appreciation of the good wishes and compassionate thoughts of your congregation. (Julian Rood, Kedem President)

People still waiting for diagnosis or treatment — that they may find healing and hope.
Those living with stigma and rejection — that they may experience acceptance and love.
Community workers and health staff — that they may serve with strength and compassion.
The Leprosy Mission’s work worldwide — that it may be effective, loving, and guided by God’s wisdom.
Churches and prayer partners — that together we may continue to bring God’s healing and justice to life.

+ Check out the courses available at Whitley College this year.

Coming soon

This Week

Monday

+ 4.30pm-8.30pm Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Thursday

+ 11am-1pm upstairs in the Village Well: The Social Chat Gathering continues at this time.

+ 1.30pm-2.30pm Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Friday

+ 4.30-8.30pm: Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Saturday

+ 7.30am-8.30am Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Small Groups @ BHBC

Box Hill Baptist Church runs a number of small groups which create opportunities to build friendships, study the Bible and other resources, pray and strengthen our spiritual journeys.

Bible & Chat: Currently each Tuesday, 7:15pm for 7.30pm start at the Village Well (5 Ellingworth Pde). The group normally reflects on a Scripture passage for the following Sunday service. Convenor: Geoff Pound
KYB (Know Your Bible): Tuesdays fortnightly via Zoom. (Convenor: Helen Timms)

Next Sunday 11 January at 10am.

+ Worship Leader: Lorraine Mitchell; Preacher: Geoff Pound.

+ Scripture: Isaiah 61:1-4

+ Service Theme: ‘Questing for beauty in difficult times’