By Colleen Fuller

I love my “job” as Children’s Director. One of the great joys I see in the life of our church is the way Playgroup creates space for families to feel welcomed, known and supported. It is a relaxed and friendly place where parents, carers and children can come as they are, enjoy time together, and begin building meaningful connections with others.

For many families, Playgroup is more than a weekly activity. It can be a first point of friendship if they are new to Hervey Bay, a place of encouragement for those who are new to parenting, or a gentle doorway into the wider church community. Our spacious indoor and outdoor areas give children room to explore and play, while adults have time to talk, laugh, share stories and realise they are not alone.

It has been encouraging to hear local families describe Playgroup as warm, friendly and welcoming. We have even seen it recommended on community Facebook pages, which tells us that people are experiencing a genuine connection when they come.

At the heart of Playgroup is a wonderful team of volunteers. They greet people warmly, notice new faces, help families settle in, listen with care, and create an atmosphere where people feel comfortable returning. I am especially thankful for the parents from our church who attend, build friendships with community families, and invite their own friends along. These natural relationships are one of the reasons Playgroup has such a meaningful place in our church’s ministry.

One parent enjoyed Playgroup so much that she continued coming as a volunteer even after her children had started school. That kind of commitment says a lot about the sense of belonging and purpose that can grow through this ministry.

Another beautiful thing has been seeing some parents from Playgroup begin coming to church and attending a Life Group. It is such a privilege to watch relationships grow naturally and to see families finding deeper connection within our church community.

Playgroup also gives us opportunities to offer practical care and gentle support. When families need extra help, we can connect them with appropriate support pathways, including our church COACH program and other professional services in the community. Sometimes that support is as simple as a conversation over morning tea; at other times, it becomes a deeper expression of care.

We have seen this in very real ways. When one young parent received a cancer diagnosis, the Playgroup community responded with prayer, meals and practical help. Moments like this show the depth of connection that can grow when people are given a safe and welcoming place to belong.

This is why I would love to invite more people to consider being involved. Playgroup is a simple but powerful way to bless families in our community. You do not need to have all the answers or a special qualification to make a difference. A warm smile, a listening ear, a willingness to help set up and pack away, pray for families, or simply be a friendly presence can mean so much.

If you are looking for a practical, welcoming and meaningful way to serve in Playgroup, I would love you to come and chat to me or email me at colleen@hbbc.com.au.
Jobs Board

There are many biblical metaphors of the church. The church as a family, the church as a building, the church as a vine, the church as an army, but one of the most powerful metaphors is the church as a body. Simply put, the church is made up of different parts that form one body together. God’s design for salvation is not only that we go to heaven when we die, but that we are being built together into a kingdom, and this kingdom is bonded spiritually. We rely on each other. As we exercise our giftings and abilities in unity, we can produce much more for the glory of God than we could otherwise achieve alone. I sometimes like to think of the church as a kind of jigsaw puzzle, each piece is important.

Some might say “I don’t need to go to church to be a Christian.” And whilst that is theologically true, what that statement overlooks is our place in the body of Christ. It is not so much what you need to be a Christian but more, what do you bring? For some, the word fellowship means little more than friendship, a gathering, somewhere to belong. But the way the Bible uses the word fellowship is more like partnership. We commit to one another for the purpose of a common vision. This is true fellowship and what the church is all about.

Brett

Mark 1 captures the story of amazing miracles. Jesus spent the whole day healing in Capernaum, then Mark describes the whole town coming out to observe. There is no greater description of revival than this. And yet Jesus left it all behind to go on to other towns. Why did He not stay and enjoy the revival? There were many more needs. He could have really established Himself.  

But early in the morning, during a time of godly solitude, Jesus found clarity. He often went away on his own to spend time with the Father. This is a discipline that far too many Christians overlook.

At the core of our being we are social creatures. God designed us this way. We really do need each other and we are much stronger in community than we are alone. Loneliness is a real problem for many. Solitary confinement is the worst punishment. And yet there is a Godly solitude. The spiritual discipline of solitude is not as much a ‘getting away from people’ as it is a quiet time without distraction where we can spend time with God. This is where we gain clarity.

When was the last time you were by yourself for an extended period of time, where your purpose was to pray and spend time with God? I want to encourage you to plan such a time and walk in the footsteps of Jesus.

Brett

This week we commence a series of sermons and studies about life habits that enhance spiritual growth and maturity.

There is no better place to start than the Bible itself. The Bible is God’s revelation to the world through the Prophets and Apostles. It is His word revealed. But the Bible isn’t just a book about God. It is not just the ancient historical word from God. This verse in Hebrews speaks of it as a living word.

In the pages of the Bible we learn about God, we learn what pleases Him and what angers Him. We learn of His salvation plan and how to be born again into His kingdom. But it is more than that. God often speaks through it personally to us. As we read it, His Spirit leads our spirit. His thoughts are infused into ours. The more we read, the more the Holy Spirit can speak to us on a personal level.

The Bible is God’s way of teaching us, guiding us, correcting us, and leading us into His will. It is the richest resource we have in the journey to spiritual growth and maturity. Ignoring the habit of Bible reading is like turning off the most significant source of spiritual food that we have. If you find this hard you could try a number of things; use a modern easy to read translation to keep it fresh. You could listen to it on a Bible app. You could read with friends. Some even write it out. The discipline will turn into a habit, the habit will turn into a life changing journey.

Brett

We humans are so often fooled into the belief that it is our external circumstances that bring us fulfilling joy. This is at the core of our desire for money. We believe if we have enough money then we will have no more worries.

We do this with many other things too. If only I had a different job ….. If only I was married to someone else …… If only I had more money …… If only …… .  This is how we show that we believe our internal joy depends on outward circumstances.

But it is not true. Joy is affected most by the attitude of the heart.

In the above verse, Paul uses the example of the Macedonian church. The external circumstances of these Christians were not great. The wording Paul uses indicates a severe suffering. It is likely that their community has rejected their newfound faith. This has led to a society exclusion which has resulted in poverty.

Yet Paul speaks of them as “filled with abundant joy”. This term carries the understanding of something that is not just filled up but overflowing. And the overflow is remarkable. It is not what you would expect from people who are poor. The overflow of joy results in generosity. Their external circumstances were dire. But the joy in their lives came from the heart.
This joy comes by the presence of God and his wonderful promises. They were a part of something great.

This gave them joy regardless of the circumstances.

Brett

Hervey Bay Baptist Church has had a strong partnership with The College of Theology and Evangelism Fiji, (affectionately known to us as the Fiji Bible College), since 1993. Along with financial and practical support, HBBC teams have travelled to the College many times over the years to join in outreach programs in their community.

Fiji Bible College have been committed to providing each of their students with a rich, Christ Centred learning environment since it was established in 1974. They offer full academic scholarships, and their live-in students receive additional scholarships covering tuition, food, and accommodation; ensuring that finances are never a barrier to their education. They are the oldest accredited theological college in Fiji and exist to disciple and train up the next generation of Christians for life and ministry.

A ministry of Ambassadors for Christ South Pacific, the college was established by Narayan Nair and his wife Savita, after converting from Hinduism to Christianity.

HBBC missions team are planning a short-term mission trip to the Fiji Bible College in April next year. If you’re interested, please join them for more information after church this Sunday June 28th, where Keith Stevenson will be sharing the latest news from the college.

Monthly newsletters are forwarded to us from Dr Narayan and you can read more on the college, their staff and students on their website.

May Newsletter

We humans tend to be most moved by what we see, even if what we see is not the reality.

The apostle Paul had many opponents and most of these opponents gathered followers through their spectacular ministry. They were great speakers, insightful teachers, flatterers, and well connected. Yet their hearts were far from God.

From a human standpoint it is not overly difficult to produce a spectacular ministry. If you can gather a lot of people by running an exciting program, convince them to give lots of money, then shower the programs with all the bells and whistles, people will be attracted to it. Crowds draw crowds.

But is there a genuine spiritual growth happening?

Is there faith filled prayer?

Is there love and compassion?

Is there a heart for the gospel?

It is not the size of the program that makes it better, it is the heart of the people. This is what God looks for. Our point of celebration ought to be changed lives, genuine faith, a rich unity, and clear gospel teaching. This is always something to celebrate regardless of size.

Brett

By Mel Dearden,

Recently, several members of our team attended the Queensland Baptists Safe Spaces Roadshow, joining churches across the state in a shared commitment to making our ministries places where children and young people are genuinely safe, valued and heard.

We explored the 10 Child Safe Standards and were able to workshop what those standards actually mean for our churches and ways we could implement them in our practices.

One of the most confronting facts presented was that one in four children will experience sexual abuse. While this statistic is heartbreaking, the training reminded us that every volunteer and staff member has a part to play in changing that story.

A recurring theme throughout the day was that safe cultures don't happen by accident—they begin with leadership and are strengthened by every person who serves. The attitudes we model, the conversations we have, and the way we care for one another all contribute to creating environments where trust can flourish.

Safety is everyone's responsibility. As a church family, we each have a role in caring for those around us. One phrase that was repeated throughout the training was, "See something, say something." If you notice or become aware of something that doesn't seem right, don't keep it to yourself—bring it to the appropriate church leaders so they can respond wisely and provide support where needed.

Sharing concerns with those responsible for safeguarding is an act of care, not gossip. By speaking to the right people and respecting the privacy of those involved, we help protect individuals, preserve dignity, and foster a culture where everyone can feel safe and supported.

When looking at creating safe environments for children within the church, one particularly powerful takeaway was this: when children know they are listened to in the little things, they are more likely to trust adults with the big things. Something as simple as taking time to hear a child's story, answering their questions, or acting on their feedback can help build the confidence they need to speak up when it matters most.

There are exciting developments ahead, with QB preparing to release new safeguarding training videos and an updated Code of Conduct to further support churches in this important work.

Thank you to every volunteer and staff member who helps make our church a place where people of all ages can encounter God's love in a safe and caring community. Together, we're building a culture where everyone belongs, everyone is valued, and everyone is protected.

One of the things that all young people chase is a sense of purpose. Why am I here? With that sense of purpose comes meaning and identity. I believe this instinct is put there by God as a testament to the fact that no person is an accident and that we each have something to contribute.

This is generally true of all people, but it is especially true when it comes to the kingdom of God. When a person becomes a follower of Jesus, they receive God’s Spirit into their souls. This spiritual re-birth brings us into a kingdom where we each have a specific part to play. The Bible makes this very clear in several places.

Take a look at your circumstances, the family you are in, the job you have, the things you are good at, and the things that tug at your heart. All of that is for a reason. God weaves our life’s circumstances like a complex tapestry that will, in time, reveal His grace and His power.

We must look at our circumstances and opportunities through the eyes of someone who is being intentionally led. We can choose to go our own way, of course, but the best way to live is to be sensitive to what God is leading you to do. Do not ignore what God is placing on your heart. Seek to do what He has planned for you to do. If you don’t know, just ask, then pay attention. He knows the plans He has for you. Set your mind and efforts on that.

Brett

We can sometimes fall prey to the misconception that our effectiveness in Christian ministry depends on our own skill and effort, as if salvation is by faith but everything else comes by hard work. Hard work is not wrong. Of course, we will work hard and diligently for God. It is just that sometimes we think it all depends on our hard work.

This small prayer of the apostle Paul for the Thessalonian church reveals something very special for all who seek to serve God faithfully. In his prayer, he leans on the power of God as the reason why we are successful.

Paul speaks of motivation to serve that comes by faith. This means that we believe God is leading us to serve in a certain place. This will be different for everyone. But just as important as that is the supernatural power that goes along with it.

It is a good thing for us to pray that God blesses our ministry. It is a good thing to remember that the scale of success in our ministry depends on the power of God over it.

And so I pray as well: may God pour out His supernatural power on your ministry so that you can achieve everything you believe He is wanting you to do.

Brett

By Karen Young

Life Groups have flourished this year at Hervey Bay Baptist, offering a front-row seat to God at work in these communities. At the end of 2025, Allan and Maria Mower felt led to start a new Life Group in Hervey Bay, while continuing their leadership in Burrum Heads. This step came at a crucial time, addressing the growing need for spaces where people could connect, deepen their faith, and support one another. When asked how their groups were progressing and where they’d witnessed God at work, Allan and Maria shared stories of hope and encouragement.

One of the most tangible answers to prayer came from a member who had recently been hospitalised. The group prayed earnestly, and they were encouraged when the person returned home with good news and without a serious diagnosis.

Spiritual growth and leadership have also been evident. One member has demonstrated exceptional dedication and devotion, helping to lead discussions with depth of understanding and insight into God's Word, a blessing to others.

The groups have demonstrated Christ’s love by supporting each other during tough times. When a member mourned a loved one, they prayed, offered encouragement, and provided practical help via their Messenger chat during this difficult period.

As the year progresses, new friendships are forming. People are building trust, opening up more freely, and feeling increasingly connected and valued within the group family.

Meaningful spiritual conversations have significantly impacted the group. In a recent discussion, they explored the difference between happiness and the joy of the Lord, realizing joy isn’t dependent on circumstances and can be experienced even in sadness.

We thank God for His consistent working in our lives and are reminded of the essential roles that community and faith play.

A recent meeting revealed a clear sign of God’s work, as members shared deeply personal stories. Allan and Maria noticed that this increased openness built trust, unity, and a sense of belonging, serving as a strong reminder that God is actively working among His people.

We are grateful for how God is working through our Life Groups - bringing healing, growth, friendship, encouragement, and deeper faith. Please keep praying for all our Life Groups as they help people connect with God and each other.

Prayer is a major element in the lives of God’s people throughout the Bible. From the Garden of Eden where God walked with His people, to the prayers of Revelation described as rising incense, God has always been interested in connecting with His people. For that is what prayer is. It is a holy connection.

Some people look at prayer as some kind of credit card. You put your request into God, make sure you ask in the right way like some kind of spiritual pin number, then hey presto! You get what you want. That is why many prayers are not effective. It is not about how you pray, nor what words you use, nor your posture, nor the time of day. Prayer is simply about relationship with God.

Simply put, God loves to listen to His children. Prayer is powerful and effective, because we have a relationship with God. It is not that we trust in prayer, but rather we trust in God. There is a difference. The righteousness given to us through the death and resurrection of Jesus, brings us into holy connection with the Father. That is why our prayers are powerful and effective.

Brett

By Ali Davis

‘Life Together - Gospel Shaped Relationships’ was the theme of our 2026 Young Adults camp and over 40 of us enjoyed a lovely long weekend away in Kenilworth spending time together. The weekend was filled with campfires, bible talks, bible studies, an evangelism seminar, yummy food, trivia night, good conversations, DIY mini golf and many a smashed egg.

Our guest speaker Matthew Andersen, trainee pastor from Grace Bible Church Springwood (previously from HBBC), led three great talks on how the gospel shapes our relationships with God, with those in the world and in romantic relationships. Matthew is also very gifted in the area of evangelism and he ran a seminar which really helped us all to think about how we would approach different people with the gospel. He talked about the logical argument approaches being less influential in our generation and the need to talk about the goodness and beauty of God as ways to bring God into discussions.

Lach also did the last talk on the topic of Church Relationships, including community and singleness. It was great to hear all about the church community and how we are to strengthen and support each other. We also spent time in Ephesians for the bible studies, the evangelism seminar and a Q&A panel. And of course, we had lots of time together hanging out and doing fun activities at camp and in Kenilworth including a 1kg donut.

Altogether it was amazing to get to have this time away together and many people wouldn’t have been able to join if it wasn’t for the generous support of the church in praying for us and financially supporting us too. Thanks to everyone who donated money and provided food, amongst other things. And thank you to our camp committee who worked hard to bring the camp together. Praise God for the work He did over this weekend and His continual care for the Young Adults of HBBC.

By Miriam Frangakis  
 
Last year in June when I spoke at Life Church, I ended by saying, “God is a God of
provision, and He Will provide”. God is faithful, and He did provide, and He has
provided for 2026.

In Term 4, 2025, I was informed - along with many other Chaplains, that due to lack of
funding our hours/day were being cut. I was going to go from four days a week to two,
which meant I was down to one day a week at each school. Needless to say I was very
discouraged and even angry.

The good thing is I could take this out on God. I asked God why?
Why, when the need is so great and this is what you have called me to do, is this
happening? I can’t afford to live on two days a week. Do I not have enough faith?
Well, at the 11th hour, on the last day of the 2025 school year, both my boss and principal came to me and informed me that they had found sponsors for me for the next 12 months. I was back to four days. God is faithful. However, what will happen at the end of this year? I don’t know, but I do know, God will provide – even if it does mean another job.

Last year, I was able to support families and students in several ways. From food
hampers and other provisions due to cyclone Alfred, uniforms, shoes, I bought a Bible
for a student who requested one and things that we take for granted, like a pillow. We
had a student come to us from residential care. He was not in a good place and had
nothing. Well, seeing him get his pillow and a new school bag stuffed with all sorts of
goodies, including new shoes, was like Christmas. He couldn’t believe that he actually
got to keep them.

This term for me has been very exciting. Sometimes – ok, a lot of the time, God works in
way we least expect. I have been running a drum program focusing on emotional
resilience. In one of the sessions, we talk about things, ways, or people that can help us.
One young boy said Jesus. Well, I sat back and watched these five boys discuss God,
prayer and Jesus. The following week the discussion continued. The beautiful thing is,
that in that space I was able to share my faith – which I do in these sessions - and how,
yes, we can go to God if we believe in Him and He will help us and give us strength and
courage. Some of these boys I meet with on an individual basis, and we continue these
discussions.

I’ve had discussions with the principles about the easter bunny, the Elf on the shelf, the
end times, church and faith. In the last two weeks, I have had beautiful discussions with
a staff member who came to me requesting a bible. Of course, this led to further
discussion and questions. I gave her one of my bibles and shared a few passages with
her. She and her partner are interested in learning and are reading the bible together,
even though they don’t understand. I have proposed to her that they come and have a
meal with us so that we can share with them. God is certainly working in their lives.

Please pray for Scripture Union and Chaplaincy. (SU Australia - Apr-Jun Prayer Guide)
Many chaplains have had to leave because of funding and yet so many schools are asking for chaplains. We are missionaries in our very own community.
We face challenges every day and sometimes it can be lonely, and you feel as if you’re in
this battle alone.

There are now only four chaplains in Hervey Bay, and we only have ONE community member, from the Uniting Church, serving on our Chaplaincy Support team. This is one of the many areas where you can be involved. Others include, prayer, finance/fundraising, Bridge2Brisbane fun run, volunteering in the school with Chappy
activities and just offering a word of encouragement. Join Chaplains to make a
difference in this beautiful community of Hervey Bay.

If you would like to know more about how you can get involved, I would love to catch up
with you. For further incite to the work of Scripture Union have a look at their website, su.org.au

For donations or to sponsor a specific Chaplain or school, details are as follows.
Please make sure you inform Jacinta Garty - jacinta.garty@outlook.com, of your deposit.

Thank you and God bless
Miriam

Miriam is working at Kawungan & Sandy Straits State Schools, together averaging 1600 students.
Our other SU Chaplains in Hervey Bay are;

• Paul Featherstone – Hervey Bay State High School
• Joseph Griffiths - Urangan State High School
• Stacey Fua - Hervey Bay Special School, Torquay State School

Many of us who love and follow God will make decisions that we believe will be pleasing to God.

We worship Him by obeying Him, working hard to advance the knowledge of Him, and we love each other as He has told us to. But some of us are still yet to realise that it is not our will power that keeps us productive in our walk with Jesus but rather a cooperation with Him.

Let me explain. In the verse above, Philippians 2:13, the apostle Paul explains that because God dwells within us through the Holy Spirit, He is the one that shapes our will and also strengthens us to do His work. This means that if we are sensitive to the Holy Spirit, then we will notice that our desire to work for Him will come naturally from within and overflow into action. It will no longer be guilt, or pride, or ambition, or duty that drives us, but a supernatural desire, planted by the Holy Spirit, that leads us into His will. We often refer to this as a ‘calling.’ He motivates us then equips us to do His work. The only thing that can de-rail this, is if our own self-determined will, drowns out the Spirit’s leading. But when we quiet ourselves to focus on Him, then the expression of His will flows out and becomes our own will.

This is how we ‘win’ in the Christian journey.

Brett

There will continue to be the opportunity to contribute to our special May Mission Project via Penny Pig and online this month.
This year’s project supporting those teams going out on short term mission over the coming 12 months.

Bank details for Direct Debit

• Missions:
• 
  
  • BSB 704 913
  • ACC# 400041919
  • General mission offering: 
    • Reference: Mission Gift
  • May Mission Month Project:
    • Reference: Project 2026

Thank you again for praying and considering how God may be leading you to assist in Supporting this important work.

HBBC Missions Team

There will continue to be the opportunity to contribute to our special May Mission Project via Penny Pig and online this month.
This year’s project supporting those teams going out on short term mission over the coming 12 months.

Bank details for Direct Debit

• Missions:
• 
  
  • BSB 704 913
  • ACC# 400041919
  • General mission offering: 
    • Reference: Mission Gift
  • May Mission Month Project:
    • Reference: Project 2026

Thank you again for praying and considering how God may be leading you to assist in Supporting this important work.

HBBC Missions Team

This week we celebrate Pentecost. Pentecost began as a Jewish festival in the Old Covenant. It is set 50 days after the beginning of the Passover festival, and also called ‘feast of weeks.’ It marked the beginning of the Barley harvest.

For Christians it is the celebration of the day the Holy Spirit came upon the believers for the first time, signalling the beginning of the new covenant and the birth of the church.

I think it is another example of God’s prophetic use of the Old Covenant that the original Pentecost celebrated a physical harvest, reflecting the spiritual harvest through the church that has continued to today.

As we witness for Christ in our lives, wherever we are, whatever we are doing, the Holy Spirit brings a harvest of souls. This was the work of God at the beginning and remains the work of God. It is a great honour for us to join Him in this work and be significant as workers of the harvest. Let us celebrate this harvest with our Christian brothers and sisters across the city this Sunday night.

Brett

By James Dearden

I was once again voted in by the Ministers as the Chair for the Hervey Bay Christian Ministers Association (HBCMA) for 2026. It is a privilege and honour to serve our churches in this capacity.

My heart and vision for the churches is to see a growing unity. That each of the Ministers can feel they can connect with each other across the denominations, as we are all part of the one family of God. My heart is to see these relationships grow and role model this to our church congregations.

My vision for Hervey Bay is that we would continue to see a spiritual awakening, and I want as many churches as possible on board, to be open to a growing move of God. God is at work in Hervey Bay and having other ministers outside of our church by our side, helps me see the bigger picture.

We may be the biggest church in Hervey Bay, but we cannot reach Hervey Bay by ourselves. We need the larger body of Christ if we want to see more people come to know Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour.

Pentecost is coming up fast on the 24th of May. Maybe you would like to come and be a part of a combined churches service. An opportunity to worship our God together. There will be a time of prayer and a sausage sizzle at 5pm, before the service starts at 6pm. We would love to see you there.

"Training is always happening".
As a teacher this is one of my favourite sayings. Over the years of mentoring others in schools, churches and workplaces I have been aware that we are always in a state of training or being trained. We find ourselves in a place of either constant improvement or gradual decline. We make choices everyday that are life giving choices or choices that eventually impact us negatively.

COACH mentoring is a space where our mentors work with participants who have decided to train themselves in an aspect of life that will be life giving. Often participants come to COACH mentoring with a realisation that positive change needs to happen. Even if that change is one or two things amongst many life challenges, those changes can create a chain reaction that leads to unintended goals. The goal of eating better, learning how to cook healthy meals or making regular exercise a goal, they all can lead our participants to a path to better living.

It has been encouraging to see how God is at work in these relationships and how each mentor I have met and spent time with has a keen desire to support people who are looking for positive changes. COACH is unique in how everyday people do amazing work in our community. Sometimes it may feel like a drop in the ocean, but each relationship and each conversation is part of the bigger picture where we see life change and community impact through authentic relationships.

If you know a family who could benefit from a Family COACH mentor please contact me by email, mark.payne@hbbc.com.au I would value the opportunity to talk about this.

Mark Payne
Coach Coordinator

NB: Join us for the upcoming training to become a mentor on May 30 & Jun 06.
Register here.

There is a danger that we can take for granted the blessings of God. Rather than seeking God, we turn away from Him to seek the blessing itself. This is a common and real danger. We can become so used to God’s blessing that we eventually believe that it is because of our cleverness and hard work, that it is our right. So we take the blessings of God and use them to indulge, to promote ourselves or to rule over others.

The context of the Ezekiel verse is that of the firstborn son. God reminded them that He spared their firstborn during the plagues of Egypt, and that their firstborn are a blessing who are dedicated to Him. Instead, the Israelites began sacrificing their firstborn in detestable rituals to the god of Molech. They took what was a gift from God, and violated it by handing it to other gods.

Beware of greed, of selfishness, of mis-using God’s blessing. Do not be spoiled by the blessings of God, turning them into the objects of worship rather than God himself. Every blessing we have comes from God. Let us always honour Him for them, enjoying them, but living for Him.

Brett

There will continue to be the opportunity to contribute to our special May Mission Project via Penny Pig and online this month.
This year’s project supporting those teams going out on short term mission over the coming 12 months.

Bank details for Direct Debit

• Missions:
• 
  
  • BSB 704 913
  • ACC# 400041919
  • General mission offering: 
    • Reference: Mission Gift
  • May Mission Month Project:
    • Reference: Project 2026

Thank you again for praying and considering how God may be leading you to assist in Supporting this important work.

HBBC Missions Team

There will continue to be the opportunity to contribute to our special May Mission Project via Penny Pig and online this month.
This year’s project supporting those teams going out on short term mission over the coming 12 months.

Bank details for Direct Debit

• Missions:
• 
  
  • BSB 704 913
  • ACC# 400041919
  • General mission offering: 
    • Reference: Mission Gift
  • May Mission Month Project:
    • Reference: Project 2026

Thank you again for praying and considering how God may be leading you to assist in Supporting this important work.

HBBC Missions Team

This week we celebrate Mothers’ Day.

It is a chance to focus on and elevate the important role that mothers play. We should never underestimate how costly, but also how important, it is for a woman to carry a child, give birth, and then raise that child into a functioning adult. It is one of the highest callings.

One of the things that is easy to notice in God’s Word is how prominent women are in the movement of God. Some religions squash women. Even Christianity has had times throughout its history where women have been greatly underestimated in their ministry.

But in the Bible, many are honoured. Lydia, for example, was the first convert at Philippi. Her home became the centre of ministry for Paul and Silas. Lydia is not the only ‘first one’ in the story of God. It was the women who first discovered that Jesus had risen. Other heroes such as Jael, Deborah, Ruth, and Mary are all examples of how God honours them through His salvation story.

May all women, and especially mothers this Sunday, know how valuable they are to God and to us.

Brett

By Karen Painter,

Mothers Day; a special day when we can take the time to express our thanks and appreciation to our Mums for their important role in our lives. It’s also a time to reflect on all that it is to be a mother.

There are so many voices in the world. Voices saying you’re losing out by being a mother; voices pulling mothers in so many directions; to go after what is made to look important so that in the end we’re stretched, weary and overwhelmed, present, but not present.

As Christian mothers, God’s voice is the voice we need to listen to. God hasn’t called mothers to be perfect, or for our children to be perfect and have everything that the world says they should have. God has called mothers to the highest calling – the ministry of motherhood. Faithfully nurturing our children with love, patience, kindness, teaching and a heart for Jesus. Delighting in our children and helping them see God in the world around them and in their lives. Each day embracing the calling He has given us and focusing on what matters the most for eternity.

Mothers have been entrusted with their children for a limited time. This time goes by quickly – so we need to be raising children with eternity in mind. That means raising our children to see what it’s like to live by faith. Laying down the foundation for them to stand on when they’re grown. To entrust them with a strong Christian worldview and know why they believe in the living God. To know that His Word is reliable and can be trusted (2 Samuel 22:31).

God hasn’t left mothers to do this on their own. He has given us His Word. There are many passages for guidance and encouragement. Passages like Deuteronomy 6:5-7 “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might and these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.”

God’s Word tells us that children are a gift from Him and families are His plan. We need to keep the bigger picture in mind as it only takes one generation to fall or come to faith. So, be encouraged mothers, to embrace this vital role and be in ministry with God and further His Kingdom for His glory.

My prayer for Mothers.
“Heavenly Father thank you for the ministry of motherhood; the privilege of investing in the next generations of Christians. Thank you that you don’t expect perfection – just a willingness to follow You. Thank you that our worth and joy comes from You and that this joy is the source of strength we need for each day. May our homes be filled with Your presence and peace. May we seek to put You first and listen to Your voice in our lives and for our families. May our lives be an encouragement and a light to those around us that don’t yet know You. In Jesus precious name and for Your glory we pray, Amen.”