13 April 2025 - Palm Sunday
Welcome
Welcome to the Bridgey Newsletter! Whether this is the first or thousandth time reading, we hope this helps connect you deeper with Bridgeman and what Christ is doing in and through the community. Our genuine desire is to be a church that is passionate about our relationship with Christ, and obedient to the direction of the Holy Spirit. As a group of God’s people, we want to live humbly and be known as a church where everyone is accepted, loved, served and encouraged.
If you want to get in touch you can call 3263 1950 or email hello@bridgeman.org.au
NATHAN HARRIS
JONATHAN HARRIS SENIOR PASTOR WORSHIP & ONLINE nathan@bridgeman.org.au jonathan@bridgeman.org.au
SARA MILLARD KIDS & FAMILIES PASTOR sara@bridgeman.org.au
ANDREW CARNELL LEAD MINISTRY PASTOR andrew@bridgeman.org.au
PETER SWEETMAN FOUNDING PASTOR peter@bridgeman.org.au
DAN MOURA CITY CONGREGATION & DISCIPLESHIP dan@bridgeman.org.au
TRAVIS GRAINGER TRAINING & DISCPLESHIP travis@bridgeman.org.au
JODI TRAVES
TYRONE THOMAS WOMEN & BRIDGECARE YOUNG ADULTS & NEXT GENERATIONS jodi@bridgeman.org.au tyrone@bridgeman.org.au
DAVID TWIGG OUTREACH david@bridgeman.org.au
NEIL BERNARD INSPIRE & PASTORAL CARE neil@bridgeman.org.au
EMILY MCLEOD
REGIONAL NETWORKS & CHURCH PLANTING emily@bridgeman.org.au
SCOTT MCLEOD MENS & CHURCH PLANTING scott@bridgeman.org.au
ASH TURNBULL YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS ash@bridgeman.org.au
MITCH PEACOCK YOUTH & KIDS mitch@bridgeman.org.au
Weekly Pastor’s Note
This weekend we are looking forward to having Charles Price sharing with us at our 8am, 10am, 4pm and 5.30pm services as well as sharing at our Inspire service on Wednesday at 9.30am. Charles served as the Principal of Capernwray Bible School in the north of England before taking on the role of Lead Pastor with The People’s Church in Toronto, Canada, where he still lives. Charles has written eight books and is a sought after preacher all over the world. He is in Australia for conference speaking engagements over Easter and we are very thankful to have this opportunity for Charles to share with us and I know you will be blessed through his ministry.
We are also excited to be sharing in a number of baptisms today at our 8am, 10am and 5:30pm services.
Here is a little snippet of one of the stories being shared by Stephen:
I completed the Alpha course last January and in August my friend Jason invited me to start attending services here at Bridgey. God’s word started to be revealed to me and I was especially struck to learn that Jesus’ primary concern is what is in a man’s heart. I realized that I needed my heart to be healed in a way that only he can heal someone. My part was to believe and trust in Him. When I invited Jesus into my heart I was freed of much of the sin, fleshly desires, and addiction that lead to my misery, separation from God, and spiritual death. Through his infinite love, mercy, and grace God has put a new spirit into me.
I am no longer a slave to sin, but long to become a servant to His righteousness. I describe these recent years of my life as a revolution for one, but I have a desire to share what Jesus has done for me and is doing for me with as many people as I possibly can. I believe He takes my weakness and brokenness and transforms it that I may help others find Him and be freed from their suffering also. Thank you to everyone at Bridgey for the warm welcomes and for this opportunity. I want to publicly declare my faith in God the Father, Christ the Son, and the Holy Spirit. All praise be to our Lord Jesus Christ and may I follow Him all my days.
Once again we are in awe of the way Jesus changes lives and the power of a simple invitation. I can’t help but think of the impact Jason’s invitation to Alpha and then to church has had on Stephen’s life and how that invitation is now multiplying to impact even more lives. Praise God!
With this in mind I want to remind you again of the opportunity over our Easter weekend to pray and invite others to share with us at these outreach services. I am faith-filled for the way the Holy Spirit will be touching many lives across our Good Friday and Easter Sunday services.
I also wanted to add a reminder about our Easter Sunday Baptism Service at 5:30pm. We already have eight people booked in and counting. Praise God! It’s not too late for you to be baptised at this service also if God has been prompting you and there is no need to share your testimony publicly if you would prefer.
On the night we will be celebrating in these baptisms and Pastor David will be sharing a brief Gospel message. I can’t think of a better way to celebrate Resurrection Sunday.
I also wanted to mention our Easter Appeal. Every Easter we love as a church being able to give away to bless those in need in our world and local community. This Easter, we have the opportunity to give towards the incredible work of two organisations bringing hope and transformation to those impacted by the prison system.They are Inside Out Prison Chaplaincy and Dhiiyaan’s True Fella Initiative. You can read more about the amazing work they are doing in your newsletter today as well as details on how to give towards this appeal. God’s heart for us is to be generous to those in need and those doing it tough and this is a great opportunity for us to help more people encounter His life-transforming love.
This week I was at an event and happened to be seated with a couple from Gladstone who serve in a local church there. They were sharing how their pastor has called a special meeting of the key leaders to pray and work out a plan for discipleship and purchasing more seats because they are seeing more people coming to faith than ever before and are struggling to keep up with what God is doing.
The couple shared that they haven’t done anything particularly different as a church but are seeing a deep spiritual hunger in the community and a fresh move of the Spirit of God. This was yet another affirmation of the story we are hearing again and again in many communities of the way God is on the move. Let’s pray with faith this Easter and be ready to invite and welcome the crowds with a heart of expectation for all God is going to do.
“I
tell you, now is the time of God's favour, now is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2).
NATHAN HARRIS SENIOR PASTOR
Cha«e¯ P«lce a· B«ldgea
This Sunday, 13 April, we are blessed to have Charles Price coming to share with us across all of our services, 8am, 10am, 4pm and 5.30pm. Charles is originally from England where he served as the Principal of Capernwray Bible School in the north of England. Charles was then the Lead Pastor at The People’s Church in Toronto, Canada, from 2001-20016 where he still lives. Charles has written eight books and is a soughtafter preacher all over the world. Charles will be in Australia for conference speaking engagements over Easter and we are very thankful to have this opportunity for Charles to share with us.
Ea¯·e« Le··e«bÖ D«¨
Help us share the hope of Easter with our community! Pick up a letterbox drop pack and distribute fliers throughout Bridgeman Downs, McDowall, and Albany Creek. If you live outside these areas, loose paper fliers and digital versions are available at the Welcome Desk — let’s spread the word together!
Join us as we gather with women of all ages for our Girls’ Breakfast! We are looking forward to hearing from Marilyn Skinner, co-founder of Watoto Church, bringing hope and care to orphaned and vulnerable children. We would love for you to join us as we share in this special morning together!
Guest Speaker: Marilyn Skinner
When: 10 May
Cost : $20
Where: Bridgeman Baptist Church
Registrations close 4 May
https://bridgeman.elvanto.com.au/form/8ddcd64e-ce804e2f-8c99-bdc550403bc2
Ba¨·l¯ Se«Ðlce Ea¯·e« S¼da× 5.30¨
On Easter Sunday night we will also be holding a special Easter Baptism Celebration Service at 5.30pm. Resurrection Sunday captures so well the significance and truth of baptism and is such great day to mark this important step of faith. We are planning to hold multiple baptisms on this night with an option to be baptised without sharing your testimony publicly as well as an opportunity for spontaneous baptism. Pastor David will share a brief gospel message and it will be another great outreach opportunity and such a joy-filled way to wrap up our Easter weekend. If you would like to be baptised as part of this service you can contact one of the pastors or the church office hello@bridgeman.org.au
This Easter, we have the opportunity to give towards the incredible work of two organisations bringing hope and transformation to those impacted by the prison system.
Inside Out Prison Chaplaincy
Inside Out provides pastoral care in 14 correctional centres across Queensland through a dedicated team of over 40 volunteer chaplains. For more than 50 years, their chaplains have walked alongside men and women in prison, offering emotional and spiritual support and helping them begin a journey of transformation. Inside Out Prison Chaplaincy is a ministry of Carinity, an outreach of Queensland Baptists.
Dhiiyaan’s True Fella Initiative
True Fella builds Christ-centred relationships with disadvantaged youth who are at risk of offending or already involved with the youth justice system. Following a highly successful pilot, the initiative engaged with 248 young people in 2024 and is preparing to expand further in 2025. True Fella is focused on long-term impact, walking with young people in a spirit of unconditional love and respect.
carinity.org.au/get-involved/iopc/
dhiiyaan.org.au/donate-to-true-fella
Please note: Only donations to Inside Out Prison Chaplaincy are tax-deductible. To give, scan the QR codes or visit the Welcome Desk if you prefer to give in cash.
Ba¨·l¯ Ca¯¯
This Sunday 6 April at 3pm in the Chapel there will be a Baptism Class for those interested in being baptised or finding out more about baptism. We are excited to have a number of people being baptised over the coming weeks including at our Easter Sunday 5.30pm baptism service.
Le··e«¯ · I¨«l¯ed Ch«l¯·la¯
Thank you. There are now three churches involved in signing letters and post cards. These are to the prisoners or officials requesting clemency.
Together on Sunday 30 March we signed :
24 letters to Chinese Christians in prison
1051 letters to Eritrean Christians in prison
126 Post cards to Chinese Embassies in various countries.
77 Post cards to Eritrean Embassies
That is a total of 1278 pieces of mail….. wow! Thank you so much. They will be posted gradually, over the next three months. We organise signing four times per year. The next signing is planned for late July. Does it make a difference? We know each letter is counted and read. Would you like to get more involved? Just ask us via Pastor Andrew or Pastor Travis.
O¨ Sh¨ V¼·ee«¯ Needed f« Sa·¼«da× Shed R¯·e«
We are looking for volunteers to help open the shed on Saturdays! If you can spare a few hours each month, we’d love to have you join our rostered team. Your help will ensure our Op Shop is up and running and ready to serve the community. It's a simple and rewarding role: working the retail register and greeting visitors and assisting them when needed. All help is appreciated, and your time will make a real difference to our mission.
Please contact Nicole Newton (nicole@bridgeman.org.au) or Priska O'Dempsey (priska@bridgeman.org.au) to sign up for a Saturday shift or to learn more.
I¯¨l«e - Thl¯ Wede¯da×
You will not want to miss INSPIRE this Wednesday, 9.30am, A2. Charles Price is our special guest preacher. Charles is in SE Queensland for Easter Convention at Mt Tamborine and we are fortunate to have him speak. Invite a friend. You will be blessed. A delicious morning tea follows.
Upcoming Equip Seminar – 20 May
We’re thrilled to welcome Rev. Dr. Donald Morcom as our guest speaker for the next Equip Seminar on Tuesday, 20 May. D will be leading us through a deep dive into the Book of Revelation — one of the most theologically rich yet often misunderstood books of the Bible.
Revelation’s unique literary style has puzzled readers for centuries, leaving it open to a wide range of interpretations. This seminar will help bring clarity and insight, equipping us to read and understand it with greater confidence and depth.
Don’t miss this opportunity to explore this powerful book with fresh eyes and theological depth!
20 May | 6:30-8:00pm | A2
Matt and Gemma Sweetman Mission Update
At the end of April, Matt and Gemma along with their children Audrey, George and Wesley will be heading to Nagoya, Japan for two years. Matt served as a pastor here at Bridgeman until sensing God’s call to Japan in 2023. They have been prayerfully seeking God’s leading and He has opened up this opportunity in His perfect time. Mattwill be teaching English through a small business called Connect English School— mainly to adults in a one-to-one setting, but also some children and young people. The school was originally established by two missionaries from the UK, one of whom still runs it today. Gemma will be raising the kids, including educating Audrey in her first years of school from 2026.Matt and Gemma write the following:
Audrey, George (and Wesley sort of) have been practicing their Japanese(!), and we are all looking forward to learning a new language and culture, as well as getting to know people from a context so different to our own. We feel so happy to be going not just as a family by ourselves, but from the Albion / Bridgey city community, and the broader Bridgey community too. Thank you for the support we have received.If you remember us in your prayers, the words of Paul in Philippians 2:9-11 would be apt: “that your love may abound etc…” We are hoping to send some updates throughout our time— emailmatthew.sweetman@outlook.com.May we come to know the presence of an all-inall God: both Japanese and Australian included! With love,Matt, Gemma, Audrey, George and WesleySweetman
As a church we will be upholding Matt and Gemma and the children in prayer as they take this step of faith and look forward to partnering with them to see God’s kingdom expand in this region of the world.
Stories from Ukraine
Jonathan and Anita Clerke
7:30pm, Tuesday 15 April, in A2
Jonathan and Anita Clerke returned from an exciting and impactful two months in Ukraine during mid-2024. Anita taught extensively in hospitals, and Jonathan preached and presented many seminars. Together they served in five towns.
Jon and Anita will talk about how God used them to show his love and care. Also hear about how Ukrainian Christians are shining Jesus' light during such dark times. Listen to the stories of men such as Nicola and Sergei, women such as Valentine, and soldiers such as Satan and Ruslan. Spend time praying together and joining in the Q&A.
They would also value your support as they prepare to serve again in Ukraine for the month of May this year.
Over the last few months, the grounds team has received an increasing number of requests to borrow the church's garden maintenance equipment, including the ute (even prior to the recent weather event). Unfortunately, due to challenges in monitoring the safe use of the equipment, insurance complexities, and maintenance requirements, we have chosen not to lend out this equipment. We appreciate your understanding and support in this matter.
New Mother’s GROUP
Becoming a new Mum is an exciting, rewarding, and sometimes overwhelming experience. Join us for a special group where you can share your joys and challenges while connecting with other Mums.
FORTNIGHTLY DURING SCHOOL TERMS 9:30-11:30AM
YOU ARE ALSO WELCOME TO JOIN US ON THE OFF WEEKS AT PLAYTIME!
AUDITORIUM 2, BRIDGEMAN BAPTIST CHURCH
TAYLA DAY: 0411 406 607
TEXT TAYLA FOR DATES AND INFO
New babies to walking age
Free six-week course
Dates: Thursday 1 May - 5 June
Time: 9:30am-11:30am at the Zillmere Community Centre
Time: 6:30pm-8:00pm at the Bridgey Studio
Facilitators: Pam and Tracy Register your interest by email tracy@bridgecare.org.au or phone 0494 067 016
Ba¨·l¯· W«d Cg«e¯¯ - 7-11 J¼×
Registrations remain open for this convention being held July 7-11 at Brisbane’s Convention Centre. Among the speakers from around the world will be Ric Warren, the Founder of Saddleback Church and author of the Purpose Driven Life which has sold 35 million copies.
A special discount price for the conference closes on April 17. If registering please use the code QLDSPECIAL.
For more information about the Congress, or to register to attend, please see the Congress website –Living the Good News | BWA Congress 2025
C¯e¯ A¨«l 17
If you’ve been thinking about volunteering at the Baptist World Congress, now is the time to sign up! Expressions of Interest to Volunteer will close onThursday 17 April, so make sure you don’t miss out on this great opportunity to be part of welcoming the global Baptist family to Brisbane.
There is a specific need for the kids’ program team, so if you serve in Kids ministry and have a heart for young children please contactandie.eames@qb.org.au
Translators and Interpreters are also needed. We are seeking those with skills in simultaneous interpretation, for the following languages: French, Spanish, Portuguese, Korean, Burmese, Hakha, Chin and Mandarin.
If«lg ×¼« Fede«a Eec·l V·e
A dedicated website has been established by ACL to inform Australian citizens on issues which are important to Christians as they vote in the upcoming federal election. The website is nonpartisan, and the information provided shares answers from the various parties on a number of important issues. The website can be found at australiavotes.org.au ‘The Re-cec·ed Ma’ Se«le¯
A powerful life-changing journey for men. Come and find out what it’s all about at the introduction night, Thursday 1 May 7.00pm in the church seminar rooms.
Outback Flood Appeal
The 2025 Outback Queensland floods have created overwhelming need with an area twice the size of Victoria being impacted.
The Longreach Baptist Church, led by Pastor Steve Ballin, is planning to join with theirlocal communities on the recovery road to help rebuild not only lives, little towns, homes, livelihoods, but hope and resilience to get up and go again.
Any financial support will go directly to the recovery of people’s lives and will be coordinated through Outback Connect, Outback Aerial Mission and the church’s contacts with local council disaster teams and agencies who are working on the ground. Steve and Longreach Baps also greatly value prayers for the affected people and for them as a church body as they seek to love, serve and support these outbackcommunities in God-led ways.
Any contributions can be sent to the following account and are received with great thanks. Longreach Baptist Church Outback Connect.
BSB: 704 913
ACC: 4000 17505
Please reference: 2025 Floods www.bridgeman.org.au/newsletter
Finance
This Week’s Finance
There are busy preparations happening on the new financial year budget. Please pray for the leadership as we determine where God is leading us for our next budget season. We are so thankful for the support of our church and the community of faithfilled believers!
“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” (Proverbs 16:9).
Faith for More Fund
We have passed the $200K mark, only 20% more to raise before we fully fund our Faith for More appeal! We are blessed to be able to have a church investing in the future of our site and leaders! Through your generosity we have been able to do more than we could have through our general offering alone. If you would like to give towards this appeal, please use the details below and reference “Faith for More”.
Want to Give?
Account Name: Bridgeman Baptist Community Church
BSB: 704-913
Account Number: 400039525
Ref/Description: Name (optional), Offering
Family News and Prayer
Congratulations to Naomi and Danny Du Mortier on the recent birth of their daughter, Briella Maria Mae. We share in the joy with you and your family throughout this time. May God bless Briella’s life.
We pray God’s richest blessings over Alexis Hulcombe as she leaves to attend a short-term Bible course at Capernwray in the north of England. We pray that God would anoint Alexis and continue to guide and affirm His plans for her life.
Simon Ward is grateful for the prayer support of his church family as he recovers from surgery which took place on Friday. Please pray for a good recovery and outcome for Simon. We ask that the Lord would draw so near to him throughout this time.
Thank you for praying for Sheryl Lambert who had knee surgery on Friday. We pray that her recovery and rehabilitation would go well and that both Sheryl and David would know the peace and strengthening of God.
John Rhule remains in hospital but is making some progress. John and Robyn are so grateful for the prayer support of his church family. Please continue to pray for wisdom for the medical team caring for John, and ask that the Lord would bring healing, peace and restoration.
We praise God that Lyn Williams is doing better this week and is back on the ward after being very unwell in ICU following surgical complications. Please continue to pray that the Lord would bring healing and restoration to Lyn and do a mighty healing and sustaining work in her life.
Thank you for your prayers for Charlie Whitehead. Charlie has begun using a wheelchair and his wounds are continuing to heal for which we express our gratitude to the Lord. Please continue to pray for daily strengthening for Charlie. Al would especially value prayer as along with his care for Charlie, he has also been caring for his mum who has been in ICU following emergency surgery this week.
Nola and Des Dargusch would appreciate your prayers as they continue to await a nursing home placement. Nola has been in hospital waiting for six months. We pray for the Lord’s sovereign provision of a placement and that the Lord would prepare the way ahead for this precious couple.
Please keep others who are undergoing and recovering from various oncology treatments in your prayers: Peter Caitens, Lorraine Wood, Alan Pattison, Keith Schwegmann, Alison Foster, Karen Roper, Owen Nichols and Vicki Williams.
Two people in our church would love to come in person to a service on Sunday and require a lift to and from church. If you are in the area and can help with this would be a great blessing.
A lady with a walker in Taigum, Sunday 10am service, contact Jenny 0409 265 393
A lady in Everton Park, contact 0480 594 431
Classifieds
Job Opportunity
Administrative Asst to CEO. A well established aesthetic business, also specialising in high-quality medical and aesthetic equipment is seeking a reliable member to join the team. Experience in Beauty Industry experience would be a plus. Phone 0411 862 362 during office hours
Room for Rent - Bracken Ridge
Gated community. $310 per week. Own bathroom, garage space, newly furnished. Includes electricity & internet (not water). Has air conditioning, pool and backyard. SMS only to Madeleine: 0429 000 838
Accommodation Required
Single mum and her 10-year-old son are needing accommodation by the end of the month. Looking for a long-term or short-term room/place to rent near Albany Creek. Please contact Leila on 0410 569 177 if you can help.
Accountant Available
I am an experienced accountant, available for bookkeeping and accounts payable services. If you need assistance, please feel free to contact me: 0410 569 177, Rostami.elt88@yahoo.com
Chair Giveaway
Medical manual recliner chair, blue vinyl, has removable tray table for meals. Ph 0422 238 686
Accommodation Available - Aspley
3-bedroom villa to share. Would suit clean, mature person (nonsmoker) Available large, unfurnished bedroom with ensuite. Has aircon, fans (Wi-Fi included in rent) $240 per week. Has pool in secure village and car accommodation in private courtyard in front of villa. Close to shops, public transport, all amenities. References required. Contact Brenda 0439 331 643
Positions Available - Genesis Christian College
Genesis Christian College has the following positions available for suitably experienced applicants: Director of Library & Digital Learning Services, IT Helpdesk Trainee and Relief Teachers and Teacher Aids (Primary and Secondary). Head to www.genesis.qld.edu.au for more information and to apply.
Positions Available - SuperPharmacyPlus
Mobility Customer Service Staff Member - to assist customers with mobility aids, collaborate with health professionals, and provide exceptional service. Working 4-5 days weekly with flexible scheduling, you'll help improve customers' mobility and independence. Knowledge of mobility aids preferred, but training provided. eCommerce Fulfillment Team Member - to play a crucial role in managing online orders, customer service, and stock management. This position requires a blend of technical skills, customer service aptitude, and a strong commitment to operational efficiency. Contact Roy at roy.p@superpharmacyplus.com.au to apply.
Accommodation Required
Small Christian family seeking a rental home anywhere between Everton Park and Petrie. Mum and Dad are both professionals who work full-time in secure jobs. We have one child - a 10-year-old son. Please contact Chris on 0468558517 or chriswoodrowfacebook@gmail.com if you have something available.
Accommodation Required
One bedroom in Christian home preferred; happy to pay around $240. Katherine 0412 331 001
Prayer Points
The next day the great crowd that had come for the festival heard that Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem. They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, “Hosanna!”
“Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”
“Blessed is the king of Israel!”
Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, as it is written: “Do not be afraid, Daughter Zion; see, your king is coming, seated on a donkey’s colt.”
(John 12:12-15).
Praise and Thanks
Read John 1:1-18.
Spend some time thanking our Heavenly Father for Jesus who became flesh for us. Dwell on the reality of the gift of forgiveness and life in Jesus.
For the love we receive from our Father that can be passed onto others
Prayer for our local community to hear the Good News.
Pray that many from the community will meet at churches for Easter this year. Ask for conversations in schools and work places that will present good opportunities to share Christ.
Pray for the services at Bridgeman that Jesus' name would be greatly proclaimed Pray now for other wider events this Easter and for other churches as they prepare for Easter also.
Pray that many will give their lives to Jesus this Easter
Continue to ask for a heart for the lost and a boldness to speak, ‘Break our heart Lord, for what breaks Yours…’.
Pray for a greater sense of urgency and passion to pray for and love our community.
Ask God to give you a boldness to share the Good News with those He brings across your path.
Pray for our hearts to be filled with compassion.
Sermon Notes
SUNDAY AM
8am & 10am
Guest: Charles Price
WEDNESDAY
Inspire Service | 9:30am
This week - 16 April | Guest: Charles Price
SUNDAY PM 4pm & 5:30pm
Guest: Charles Price
PRAYER MEETINGS THIS WEEK
MONDAY, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY AND FRIDAY PRAYER On break for school holidays.
SUNDAY
4pm – 5pm James Stevenson – Revival Prayer (ON-SITE - Bridgecare Centre) 4:45pm – 5.30pm Stuart Campbell (HYBRID - Meeting Room One)
*HYBRID meetings take place in the A1 Prayer room and via Zoom For more information visit: www.bridgeman.org.au/prayer
Bridgeman Baptist Community Church
www.bridgeman.org.au
“To Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus. Amen.”
