A Minute with Chris
Senior Pastor
Thursday 3 June, 2021
I think if ever there was a season in the world that could be labelled as unpredictable, this would have to be it.
The latest outbreak has reminded us yet again that nothing in our schedules can be set in stone. Within a week of our first service of mask-free singing, we again found ourselves facing another lockdown.
As we continue to travel down this bumpy road, can I encourage you to join me in following Paul's invitation to the Philippians:
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (Philippians 4:6)
It is important to remember that in times of great anxiety our prayers and requests are taken very seriously by God.
Interestingly, Paul doesn’t leave us with just that one reassurance but also gives us a filter through which we can pray: with thanksgiving.
I know that when I am in a tight spot my prayers are filled with many things: fear, worry, concern, angst, distress, and more often than not, irritation and impatience.
When things go pear-shaped or have the potential to create anxiety, thanksgiving is probably not the first thing that comes to mind. Yet we know that when we are genuinely able to express gratitude it is often a game-changer.
It seems that science is catching up with Paul.
Studies have shown that the regular practice of gratitude can impact the feel-good neurotransmitter, dopamine.
Paul offers more than that to his readers though…
Studies have shown that the regular practice of gratitude can impact the feel-good neurotransmitter, dopamine.
Paul offers more than that to his readers though…
7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Whether we locate and are thankful for God’s goodness in the past or the present, it seems that Paul is utterly confident that in naming God's goodness we can also simultaneously locate his peace.
Perhaps the next time we ask God to deal with our anxious situation or circumstances it might also be good to spend some time in thanksgiving for his kindness, his goodness, his mercy and his presence - no matter what we are feeling.
As we name God's goodness, may we all experience his incredible peace as well.
Blessings,
Chris Danes
Feature News
Tax-Deductible Giving
At this time of year, many of us are looking to give to great organisations and ministries which qualify for tax-deductibility. The good news is that Syndal has TWO great organisations which have tax-deductible status!
Community Care and Karinya Counselling Centre both serve the local community in vital ways, and your financial support helps them make a difference in the lives of many individuals and families.
You can read more about their ministry in the Ministry Spotlights this month (below), and watch out for our video features during Sunday services throughout June.
Give to Community Care
Give to Karinya Counselling
How can we pray for you?
The snap lockdown last week took many of us by surprise and has caused no shortage of disruption to many plans - in the lives of individuals and as a church. We feel deeply for those who are facing disappointment and anxiety at the moment.
It's anyone's guess what lies ahead in terms of lockdowns and restrictions, but there is one thing we want to remind you of:
God is not locked down. His power and presence is still available to us all, we need only ask.
Prayer is one of the most important things we can be doing - personally and corporately - in this season. We'd love to know how we can pray for you in whatever you're facing. This may include disappointment from cancelled plans, the strain of homeschooling, anxiety about work and income or something completely different.
So take a minute to complete a prayer request and our staff and prayer team will be praying for you this week.
And maybe consider who you could reach out to and ask: "How can I pray for you at the moment?"
Submit prayer request
Tax-deductible giving
COMMUNITY CARE
With Steve Nicholas, Pastor for Community Care
Syndal Baptist Community Care supports people in times of crisis, financial need and through various hardships. Our aim is to provide a care service, offering genuine support in a safe, warm and friendly environment. We offer friendship, connection and practical support through our Community Care ministries to the people of Monash and the surrounding suburbs.
What has been happening recently?
Before COVID, we ran a weekly community lunch on Fridays called ‘Matrix’. We have recently restarted Matrix in a different form called the ‘Matrix Coffee Club’.
Twice a month on a Friday people, meet in the East fellowship area to connect with others in a safe, warm and friendly environment over a cuppa and some food. This has been growing and recently we celebrated people’s birthdays. Everyone seems to enjoy the celebration and just being together. For some, the Matrix coffee club is their highlight of their week and an opportunity to build meaningful connections.
What has been encouraging?
It has been encouraging to see new volunteers join the Community Care teams and we have been assisting more new people in need in the community.
We hold on to the certainty that God is at work. We rely on him every day to try and make a difference to the people God has brought to us.
- Steve Nicholas
What challenges have you been facing?
COVID has certainly brought many challenges in how we do things. A question we have continued to ask is “How do we keep everyone safe while we care for our guests/clients, but also our team of volunteers?”. We have also needed wisdom in knowing how to best support people who have lost jobs and/or are struggling with their mental health, as well as various other challenges presented by this pandemic.
We have learned to adapt to this new environment and how to assist people the best way we can.
Where have you seen God at work?
We see God at work every day in what we do.
At times, we come across complex situations which people are facing. In addition, we ask God for help, and he does! He is working behind the scenes, making things happen. We are partnering with God in doing what he is already doing.
Jesus said that we are to love God and love our neighbour as ourselves, and when we do that, we are really partnering with him to make a real difference to where he has placed us.
PRAY
For God's wisdom and his guidance every day for the people we help.
SERVE
If you have a heart of compassion for people and a heart for God, please contact Steve to chat about how you could be involved. Email snicholas@sb.org.au
GIVE
You can make a tax-deductible donation to Community Care via the button below.
KARINYA COUNSELLING CENTRE
With Kathy Smith, Director of Karinya Counselling Centre
The mission of Karinya Counselling Centre is to provide high quality counselling and psychology services at an affordable fee to those who are in need within the church and local community.
The purpose is to restore health and wholeness to people carrying wounds and hurts, increasing awareness of self and others, thereby improving family and other relationships.
What has been happening at Karinya recently?
We continue to be encouraged that even in light of the challenge of lockdowns and regular need for 'telehealth' sessions (rather than face-to-face), our client numbers are growing.
We have seen an increase in the number of new clients, of returning clients and in the number of sessions we are running each month (compared with the same time in the previous two years).
“Karinya continuing to provide counselling during lockdown last year saved my life. The social isolation and increased pressure at work resulted in my mental health declining. I was suicidally depressed and being able to speak with my Counsellor through that period helped me get through. Thank you Karinya for continuing to operate through such a difficult time.”
- Karinya Client
Where do you see God at work?
That's such an important question. As a staff team we recently discussed what it meant for us to serve in this ministry, and what we love about it.
Some of the things which were communicated was a sense that our clients know and accept that we are Christians, and there is no fear in our clients faces about this. And that's amazing, as we think at least 50% (if not more) of our clients do not share our faith.
Another important aspect which was shared is that Karinya is a place where we can partner with the Holy Spirit, a place of release for people, and an anchor in the world.
There is a genuine sense that serving at Karinya offers a sense of value and purpose, and we hope our clients sense that too.
What have you got coming up this year?
A working party will begin meeting soon to discuss and finalise Karinya’s vision, mission, values as well as our policies/procedures. We're also looking at some other aspects of our communication and marketing strategies as we move forward.
PRAY
For the team to sense the empowering of the Holy Spirit as they care for and connect with clients and the community. For our working team as we clarify our vision, mission and values.
CONNECT
Find out more about Karinya Counselling Centre and the services they offer at https://www.karinyacounselling.com.au/
GIVE
You can make a tax-deductible donation to Karinya Counselling via the button below.
Happening this month
Wednesday, 9th June, 8-9pm
Praying together as a church is one of the most important and powerful things we can be doing.
While we would have loved to gather in person, we know that prayer is just as powerful when we gather online and turn our hearts to Jesus together.
You will be able to receive personal prayer from our prayer team as well as participate in prayer with others for our church, country and world.
Please register below and you will be sent a Zoom link for the event.
Register now
Syndal's own SYG!
Saturday June 12
We're still hoping that our Syndal v Syndal SYG event will go ahead, so if you're in year 7-12 or aged between 18-30ish and haven't registered yet, make sure you do!
Time: From 7:30am
Cost: $25 for one session, $35 for two sessions or $45 for 3 sessions.
Early Bird Discount: Sign up by Sunday 16 May and receive a $10 discount.
Find Out More
Pray for Rami and Michelle
Please join us as we pray and make quilts:
For Rami, a 46 yr old man of faith. He has been unable to work for along time due to multiple medical conditions including osteoporosis which causes him fractures and tendon tears which will not heal. Rami is married with three children, one of whom has special needs.
For Michelle, carer for her severely disabled 21 year old daughter Caitlin who has up to 5 seizures a day and significant behavioural issues, which makes life very challenging. Michelle's own body is breaking down and she is concerned about her daughter's future.
Please pray and then click the button to indicate that you have done so.
It will be a great encouragement to Rami and Michelle to receive not only their quilts with our prayers, but a letter telling them that a large number of people in our church have prayed for them too.
I've prayed!
Pray for Stephanie
Stephanie McWilliam is one of our Members in Service, working in Zambia as a teacher trainer.
Recently, Stephanie tested positive for COVID-19 and has been unwell as a result.
In Zambia there is a lot of stigma and misinformation around COVID and so this has added extra complexity to her situation.
Please pray for a complete and quick recovery for Stephanie, as well for wisdom for her and her team about how to best handle her situation and what information to share with those in her community.
Support Foodbank as they support others
Our Community Care Foodbank provides struggling locals with pantry items they need. Every month you are invited to purchase and donate certain items the Foodbank requires.
This month's items are:
1 Ltr Full Cream Long Life Milk
Tinned Baked Beans (420g)
Tinned Spaghetti (420g)
You can drop your grocery items in the shopping trolley near the doors on High Street Road entrance, in the East Fellowship area for our Mandarin & Cantonese congregations or at the church office during the week between 9.30am-4.30pm.
We thankyou for your ongoing prayer and support of this vital ministry.
Pastor for Seniors
We are looking to appoint someone in the role of Pastor for Seniors, who will provide leadership and pastoral oversight to the retirement age group ministries.The role is for 5 days per week, and applications are due by June 30.
You can download the Position Description below.
Pastor for Young Adults
We are looking to appoint someone to the role of Pastor for Young Adults. This person will help develop passionate and resilient followers of Jesus in the 18-30 age range.
The role is for 4 days per week and applications are due by June 30.
You can download the Position Description below.
Next Sermon Series
At the end of June we start a new 3-week sermon series called 'Playlist'. This will be followed by a 3-week series called 'Praylist'. Here's the summary for the Playlist series:
What messages play on repeat in your life and in your mind?
The things we give the most airtime in our lives also often have the most influence.
What if we changed the track?
Join us for this three week series as we check out three different songs which express important truths from God - truths which, when played on repeat, can transform us.
Stories
Blown away!
Throughout May, we put the call out to our SBC community to consider giving to the work of Global Interaction as they share Jesus in communities around the world.
We set a $45,000 giving target which was to be divided across four giving projects.
In incredible and encouraging news, we can report that together we raised a total of
$74,150
A huge thankyou to the SBC community for your prayerful generosity during May Missions Month this year.
May we continue to be marked by this kind of extravagant generosity in the months and years ahead!
View final project totals
Honouring Peter Jenkin for his faithful service
At the recent Baptist Union of Victoria 'Nourish' event for Pastors and their spouses, one of our members, Rev Peter Jenkin, was honoured for his 60 years of ordained ministry as a Pastor with the Baptist Union of Victoria.
As Peter received a certificate to mark this there was a standing ovation from all present to honour him. Peter and Elizabeth have served together in many churches around Victoria and their pastoral, wise leadership has been valued by many, not the least of which is our SBC Community. We honour and thank Peter and Elizabeth.
Missions Cafe Prayer Recap
On Saturday, May 22nd, people from different generations, congregations and backgrounds gathered together in the church Cafe space to pray for mission.
There were 25 people in attendance, and it was awesome to hear from Mike and Kathryn (and their children, Simon and Thomas) via Zoom as they shared about life on mission in South Asia.
Time was spent praying with and for them, as well as praying for the four giving areas included in our May Missions Month giving to Global Interaction.
There will be more Missions Cafe prayer events later in the year, and we hope to see more people join us as we pray for the good news of Jesus to spread around the world.
Answered prayers
Earlier this year, our Prayers and Squares team created quilts for a lady (Carolyn) and her 19 year old daughter Aleysha.
They are a Christian family who had been having a really tough time.
Carolyn been carer for her dad who passed away, then her daughter contracted salmonella poisoning from seafood right before Christmas.
Aleysha was really ill and required surgery, and she developed complications and nerve damage afterwards.
Aleysha had been studying childcare and only had a limited amount of time to complete her placement, which was made difficult by the severe pain and fatigue she was experiencing.
We prayed for them and sought to support them in an ongoing way.
When they received their quilts, Carolyn texted me (Rosie Merrigan, Prayers and Squares Co-ordinator) to say that they had been overwhelmed by the gift and had sat down and prayed together with their quilts.
Carolyn kept in touch and recently let us know that Aleysha had successfully completed her course. According to Carolyn, Aleysha kept saying "it was prayer that got me through" and she requested that her mum send us a photo of her the day she received her graduation certificate (pictured).
Thanks to all who prayed for Carolyn and Aleysha and who continue to pray over the Prayers and Squares requests which are shared regularly through our eNews.
Prayers & Squares making a difference
By Rosie Merrigan
(Prayers & Squares Co-ordinator)
You won't have seen much happening, but during the month of May the Prayers & Squares Team have responded to 12 requests for prayers and accompanying quilts.
We've been praying for people in all sorts of situations: Some who have been rushed to hospital; have cancer; have shingles; have Type 1 diabetes; are frail and elderly; are carers; or are feeling stressed.
Some are from church, and others don't have a faith. One is 11 and another 88!
I love how prayer gives hope to people who don't know what to do or where to look. It's a comfort. It can bring peace and answers.
Thanks to those of you who have suggested people who might like a prayer quilt, especially if it's someone who isn't part of our congregation. We even recently sent quilts to a couple in Ballarat!
I recently found myself in an online conversation with a lady while helping arrange some accommodation. She and her husband were having such a hard time I decided to take a risk and ask whether they would like prayer and a quilt. They said yes!
I have no idea if they believe in God, but now the connection and the conversation has started.
Their quilts should arrive any day.
Please be in touch if you or someone you know would like a prayer quilt too. Be brave enough to ask them! "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of love and power..." 2Tim 1:7
To request a quilt, contact Rosie at rmerrigan@sb.org.au or call the church office on 9803 9144.
Church Council Update
Our Church Council meets regularly to serve the SBC community as a whole, and is responsible for overseeing the integrity of the vision, mission and values of the church.
They are deeply involved in helping us navigate our way forward together, and it's great to be able to catch up on what they've been turning their attention to on behalf of us all.
If you'd love to read what sort of things they've been working on together recently, and their message to the church, you can download their report below.
Hear from Haley, MWSC Chaplain
Haley Bullmore has been serving as the Chaplain at Mount Waverley Secondary College. We have a long term relationship with the school and have loved supporting the Chaplains who work there.
Find out about what's been happening in Haley's ministry and how you can pray for her and get involved.
Find Out More
Share a story
Our community is encouraged and God is honoured when we share good news about what's been going on. But we can't share what we don't know! So, if you've got something to share, click the button below and tell us about it!
Congregation Spotlight
Mandarin Congregation
With Lu Chen, Pastor for the Mandarin Congregation
WHAT HAS BEEN HAPPENING IN YOUR CONGREGATION RECENTLY?We just finished our Alpha gospel class last weekend which had 22 participating onsite and 14 online!
WHAT HAS BEEN ENCOURAGING?6 people are going to be baptized at a due time. In fact, we had planned a baptism for them this coming Sunday. Because of the virus outbreak we have postponed it until further notice. We'll do it as soon as we are allowed to do so.
HOW HAVE YOU SEEN GOD AT WORK?In witnessing people move from seeking the truth to making their confession to accept Jesus as their Lord.
One man has been coming to church with his wife for some time. He told me that he intentionally reminded himself not to be persuaded during Alpha and to stand firm as he was. Yet, as he attended the class and learned the truth of who Jesus really is he could not help but weep and accept Jesus as his Savior and Lord.
One man has been coming to church with his wife for some time. He told me that he intentionally reminded himself not to be persuaded during Alpha and to stand firm as he was. Yet, as he attended the class and learned the truth of who Jesus really is he could not help but weep and accept Jesus as his Savior and Lord.
HOW CAN WE BE PRAYING FOR YOUR CONGREGATION?Please keep praying that more new friends would open their hearts to the Lord!
Giving this week
This week $31, 606 (83% of budget)
Budget $38,100
YTD weekly average $31,615 (83% of budget)
Sunday Service Information
This Sunday
Series: Love Letters
Sermon: Slumbering
Preacher: Andrew Bawden
It can be easy to resent the alarm that wakes us up in the morning.
It’s easy to feel like it steals our comfort and interrupts our dreaming.
Yet it actually helps us wake up and live.
God’s letter to one of the seven churches in the Book of Revelation is a bit like an alarm. It’s tempting to ignore it, but it exists to help us wake up and really live.
Coming Up
Sunday 13th June
Series: Love Letters
Sermon: The Love of Your Life
Preacher: Chris Danes
There are so many things battling for our love and affection.
But God’s love for us is not fleeting or flippant. It’s a promise of forever.
What would it mean for our love for him to be the same – whatever we may face in this life?
Join us this week as Chris leads us through a truly beautiful love letter from God to a group of his people as they faced difficult times yet held tight to him.
Sunday 20th June
Series: Love Letters
Sermon: Can't Buy Me Love
Preacher: Mike Riddell
We all know that ‘the comfortable life’ costs money.
But what if it costs far more than that?
More than we may even realise? More than we may be willing to lose?
Join us for the final week of ‘Love Letters’ as Mike Riddell helps us understand the last of the letters to the seven churches in the Book of Revelation.
Sunday 27th June
Series: Playlist
Sermon: He Shall Reign
Preacher: Fiona Brown
The way we see the world, our place in it, and what we believe matters most is often shaped by the things we see and hear on a daily basis. Sometimes those influences can distort our perspective and we can end up feeling a little lost.
Maybe it’s time to put a new song on repeat to help reframe the picture – one that reminds us of who is truly in control.
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