live A Baptist resource for women on a mission January - February 2018 ¡ $3.50
Come Adore Him
live in this issue columns 3 5 5 6 8
Global Mission » Friends for Life » Praying the Issue » A Window on Africa » New Dreams » Dream Big Reaching My Nation
9 » O Come Let Us Adore Him 10 » Room To Pray Bible Study 13 » Spiritual Resolutions
17 19 19 20
Women’s Ministries » Executive Director Highlights 2017 » 2017 Life Memberships » We Remember » CBWOQ’s Women’s Conference
features 15 Follow the Lion in the Trees
“Lucy woke out of the deepest sleep . . . ”
16 Re-Solutioning
O come let us adore Him!
Cover: Art and photo by Diane McBeth
2
Connecting Several weeks ago one of this magazine’s promoters suggested I share what I’d just told her. “Really?” I asked. “Yes,” she said. “It will encourage us.” Here goes. In August 2014 I added the task of managing live magazine subscriptions to my overall stewardship of live magazine. Despite the administrative fumbles I’ve made since then, I enjoy this work. As I review and update renewals, I pray for churches, their live magazine promoters and the women whose names I read and edit. I know that each name represents a woman who cares deeply about mission and about the work of Baptist Women. As I update renewals I always pause at those D markings in the Code column. That means that woman has passed away. I change her status to inactive and give thanks to God for her life and witness. I pray for each promoter; for her creativity, wisdom and ability to share about live magazine with passion and relevance. I give thanks for her ministry on behalf of Baptist Women. This magazine would not exist without her work and diligence. live magazine is more than a magazine; it’s a ministry. As we begin this new year, I invite you to dream big dreams with me for live magazine: for promoters in churches where this ministry has lain dormant or never existed; for more new and returning subscribers; for insights into how to promote this magazine well to semiretired and retired professionals, busy moms and young adults. I would love to see 100 subscribers added to our database in 2018. Thank you for choosing to spend time with Baptist Women by reading this magazine and thank you for promoting and sharing it within your communities. RJ
live • January - February 2018
VOLUME 91, NUMBER 1 live (formerly The Link & Visitor) began as The Canadian Missionary Link (1878) and Baptist Visitor (1890). Published bi-monthly by Canadian Baptist Women of Ontario and Quebec 5 International Blvd., Etobicoke, ON M9W 6H3 416-620-2954 Fax 416-622-2308 bwoq@baptist.ca www.baptistwomen.com Executive director Diane McBeth Editor and communications director Renée James 416-651-8967 rsejames@gmail.com Art director Donna Lee Pancorvo of GEPM Group Inc. (www.gepmgroup.com) Contributors Nicolette Beharie, Linda Ellsworth, Laura Matthews, TaNikka Sheppard, Sandi Smoker, Morgan Wolf Circulation and subscriptions Subscriptions 416-620-2954 bwoq@baptist.ca Subscriptions Individual: $20* (direct or through promoters) US & overseas: $39 All currency in $C unless otherwise noted. The publication of comments, opinions, or advertising does not necessarily imply CBWOQ agreement or endorsement. All material is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in print or on websites without permission. Advertising inquiries and freelance submissions should be addressed to the editor. Member, Canadian Church Press. ISSN 2293-5096. Canada Post Customer Number 1008592. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) for our publishing activities.
*includes HST Funded by the Government of Canada
global globalmission mission
Photo credit: CBM
FRIENDS for Life Interview by Nicolette Beharie
Women making scarves in Kenya
Canadian Baptist Ministries (CBM) self-help groups are a key component of the Urban Ministries Program in Eastleigh, an impoverished area of Nairobi, Kenya. CBM field staff Erica Kenny shares more about the work and ministry of this program—an outreach for Muslim refugee women. Why did you initiate self-help groups in Eastleigh, Nairobi? In 2008, we started exploring a self-help group approach to address the issues faced by Somali refugee women living in this area. We had a few failed attempts in the beginning. But when local Muslim leaders accepted the concept, doors began to open. In our first year, we went from 20 women to 200 in the self-help groups. In the past nine years, more than 1,000 women have become members of self-help groups.
Photo credit: CBM
Why do women join the self-help groups? First, the self-help groups provide a safe venue for women to gather together and build friendships. As they spend more time together and build trust, the women in these groups really become sisters. Second, women in this community have limited roles in decisionmaking and struggle to access social institutions. The women recognize that they are stronger together, and through the self-help groups, their voices can be heard by local authorities. Third, the self-help groups provide training, savings support and
live • January - February 2018
3
global mission micro-enterprise development. Through the groups, members save money together and often pool their resources to start small businesses. This helps to improve their household income and the welfare of their families. Can you describe what life is like for most women who attend the groups? Life is a struggle. Most of the families living in Eastleigh do not have the rights or protections of Kenyan citizens. The majority of these families rely on remittances (which they receive from family abroad) that cover their rent and basic food. There is a lot of mistrust and fear. The women are cautious of police and groups in the community that would prey on their vulnerability. How are you addressing the needs of these women through the work of CBM and its local partners? Through simple things like reusable ceramic water filters, Canadian Baptists are making a dramatic impact. The distribution of water filters is reducing preventable waterborne illnesses among these women and their families. Last year, 31 vulnerable children were able to attend school through the support of CBM. This has made a huge impact, especially for girls. CBM is also advocating for universal access to education for both girls and boys. Through livelihood training, many of the women have also
4
pooled their resources to start businesses like the Iftin* scarves initiative and the Mashahla Henna art enterprises that are providing income to vulnerable families. How do you see God at work in the lives of these women? We are seeing new hope and joy among women and children who had been discouraged and ready to give up. We see bonds of love and trust being formed between Christians and Muslims. We see
prayers being answered and people becoming more eager to talk about spiritual matters. *Iftin means light in Somali. The Iftin Women’s Empowerment Group consists of impoverished women who participate in self-help groups in Eastleigh. The women work hand-in-hand to make unique scarves for a brighter future for themselves and their children. When you purchase a scarf, the proceeds go to support the women of Eastleigh. Visit 323collective.org to learn more.
Priorities for the CBM Urban Ministries Program in Kenya Water Filters – C$6,400 (One water filter costs C$80) Erica hopes to distribute 80 filters (one per family) to new women in the self-help groups who have come out to six group meetings and demonstrated their commitment. Each July, Erica and her team distribute the water filters and train women on the importance of keeping the filters clean. Typically, each filter should only be used for a year. As a result, these filters are also needed to replace existing ones. School Fees – C$10,240 (Support one child for C$320) Literacy breeds hope. There are 32 vulnerable primary school children—of active selfhelp group members—who need assistance with school fees. This includes the cost of their tuition, exams and administration fees. Livelihood Training – C$18,680 CBM displayed stunning tie-dyed scarves at our April 2017 conference. Each scarf was knotted, dipped and dyed by women from a self-help group. Hairdressing classes, tailoring school and lessons in grinding wheat have also been offered or are in the works. Program Coordinator and Community Facilitators – C$25,650 Working alongside Erica, this three-member team extends the impact of CBM’s presence on the ground.
The figures above represent approximate costs.
live • January - February 2018
global mission
global mission
GivingTuesday
November 28, 2017
Thank you for your donations to SKILD, Lebanon, on Giving Tuesday and Thank You Wednesday. Together we raised $600. This will help special needs children to have access to the assessments and ongoing therapies they need to live full lives.
Praying the issue Pray for: • CBM global field staff Erica Kenny (pages 3-4) • The women of Eastleigh and their families who are being given hope and a future through the Urban Ministries program (pages 3-4) • The new administrative team for Baptist Women of North America (page 7) • Diane McBeth, Baptist Women staff and volunteer leaders (pages 17-18) • Baptist Women’s April 2018 conference (pages 20-23)
A WINDOW on Africa As Baptist Women of North America (formerly NABWU), we are invited to pray with intention and focus for the Baptist Women’s Union of Africa (BWUA). Here are the latest prayer requests from BWUA president Marthe Nguimè Ekollo. 1. Pray against insecurity due to terrorist groups: • Boko Haram in Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad • Al-Shabab in Kenya, Somalia, Ethiopia 2. Pray for peaceful transition in Marthe Nguimè Ekollo the Church. May elderly women reach out to the younger generation through true relational connection, mentorship and support. 3. Pray for peace, unity and reconciliation among Baptist women in all regions. 4. Pray for peaceful elections in 2018. 5. Pray for political stability in Africa. Ask God to raise God-fearing leaders. 6. Pray for women pastors as they encounter gender-based challenges in ministry. 7. Pray for economic growth to ensure financial breakthrough. 8. Pray for Marthe, BWUA’s president: • May God make His vision clear so that her leadership among Baptist Women of Africa is effective. • Ask God to give her a teachable heart; ready to admit wrongdoing, willing to receive positive criticism and always relying on God. • May God grant her protection and good health as she travels to attend meetings. 11. Pray for the BWUA officers: May they function according to the Lord’s agenda and not their own. Pray for Zimbabwe “The justice of God is what we’re praying for in this country.” Remember the people of Zimbabwe as the country moves forward in a climate of political unrest. Pray for peace and comfort.
live• January • January- February - February2018 2018 live
55
global mission
New Dreams Celebrating Baptist Women of North America Last October, over 250 Baptist women from the United States and across Canada gathered in Toronto for worship, workshops and a chance to network with their Baptist sisters. The event was New Dreams, the 14 th quinquennial Assembly held by the North American Baptist Women’s Union (NABWU). While history was made on several fronts during Assembly, of particular note is the organization’s name change. Effective immediately, the North American Baptist Women’s Union (NABWU) will now be called Baptist Women of North America. O Canada! A Canadian thread wove through all the proceedings. The TC3 children’s choir opened Assembly with energetic spirituals and songs at Friday night’s opening session. Attendees learned about Canada through a great “documentary,” took part in a quiz show, waved Canadian flags and ate dozens of shortbreads, shaped like maple leaves. Canadian leaders from
6
coast to coast led worship; delivered keynote addresses or gave reports; facilitated or sat on panels; delivered a groundbreaking musical; created and built the onstage décor. And in everyone’s registration packet: a one-of-a-kind pot holder created and quilted by Nonnie Hutchinson and many of the ladies from Whitby Baptist Church. New Dreams! Reflections from plenary speakers on the theme verses of Isaiah 43:19 TaNikka Sheppard – Friday night You are the dream! Stop looking around yourself for others who may be the dreamers who dream big. Stop discounting yourself. Dream on! You will have to be a little “crazy” to follow God’s holy, so dream on. Even when you experience delay, doubt, doubters, dream on! God doesn’t show everything and He only shows what He wants us to focus on. Dream big! Dream so big that you have to include people who are different from you. Dream so big that you have to include God. And you can’t start a dream from on high; you’ve got to get down on your knees. You have to humble yourself and learn from people whom you think can’t teach you anything.
live • January - February 2018
Breathe life into the dream. Like a girl breathing into her pinwheel to get it moving, you must breathe life into your dream. And when you breathe life, you share life . . . with others. Dr. Rhonda Britton – Saturday night Dr. Britton taught from the life of Joseph, the dreamer: If you have a dream and you don’t know if it’s from God, ask: “Is this going against the norm? Is it cray-cray [crazy]? “ If it is, it’s probably from God. Dreamers have a way of threatening people: Joseph’s brothers sought to kill him. God is using dreamers who are open; using their imagination, faith and reliance on Scripture, to Each Assembly registrant received a handmade, quilted Canada hot pad made by Nonie Hutchinson, Mair Greaves and friends.
global mission bring glory to Him because they reach far outside themselves to places where it’s only God who brings their dreams to fruition. Allow God to show you His dream(s) for you! Can you dream big enough to be at the top of your profession, in a vocation that satisfies your soul, even if that means a step back? That step back is a supernatural step forward. Dreams will take you through difficult days. And when you’re in those difficult days, can you dream big enough to help others’ dreams come to fruition while you wait?. Don’t let your jealousy, fear or doubts get in the way of others’ dreams.
Dream big . . . with God In mid-October, I experienced a full four days of AWESOME at the New Dreams Assembly. It was a time rife with connection, learning and engagement; starting with a call to dream big and act upon those dreams God has put in our hearts. During the three days leading up to New Dreams, I was completing my final week of a year-long mentorship program called Uptick. Initiated by the previous administration team who had partnered with the Spence Network (part of the Baptist General Association of Virginia), this program brought together and invested in 10 young female kingdom leaders. In late fall last year, I was privileged to receive the invitation to be a part of this spectacular program, and I’m glad I said yes! Each month we met online for a “huddle” where we learned more about building healthy disciples, while also meeting in person three times throughout the year to network and see God’s Kingdom in action. At New Dreams, some Uptick members had the opportunity to lead creative prayer times with an older sister from NABWU and some of us spoke from the podium—some giving a keynote talk and others leading workshops. Our sister, TaNikka Sheppard who was part of my Uptick cohort, was voted in as BWNA’s new president—and she has and will be an incredible blessing to the organization! What remains in my heart are TaNikka’s closing words to us all. She left us with a “Dream Kit” and enclosed in this kit were three items: 1. a candy—to remember to savour each moment God has given us in our journey. 2. a rock—to remember our Lord as our Rock! To be rooted in prayer and to be women who pray to the Rock of Ages without ceasing. 3. a mini-flashlight—we are the light if we allow Christ’s light to shine through us. Simple. Powerful. True. I pray these words will continue to quicken my own steps towards action and that they will encourage you in similar ways! Laura Matthews
CBWOQ’s Laura Matthews says Thank You on behalf of the Uptick group
live • January - February 2018
7
global mission
Dream big Greetings to CBWOQ from TaNikka Sheppard, new president of BWNA Some of the prayer stations in the prayer room CBWOQ created and hosted at New Dreams
It is my profound privilege and honour to be the newly-elected president of Baptist Women of North America (BWNA). I am grateful for this opportunity to serve alongside the wonderful members of the new admin team of BWNA. BWNA represents and supports over four million Baptist women in the United States and Canada by providing networking, resourcing and leadership development opportunities and experiences that help them live out kingdom life, especially in areas that serve the vulnerable. We are also blessed to represent the North American region within the Baptist World Alliance Women’s Department, which is globally devoted to help women grow to their full potential, unite in Christ, and work towards justice and reconciliation. As I think about the awesome work that has been accomplished by previous presidents and administrations of the North American Baptist Women’s Union, I am both humbled and determined to build upon the legacy that they have so wonderfully established. We had such a wonderful time at the New Dreams Assembly last October and I pray that all of the attendees were inspired to Dream Big and discover new and amazing ways that God will use them to change the world. I am so thankful for Canadian Baptist Women of Ontario and Quebec for being such gracious hosts. Overall, I am praying that God will use our time in leadership to broaden the horizons of BWNA and the women of North America. We are praying for new opportunities to empower women of all ages to expand their networking base, strengthen their leadership, and discover new resourcing opportunities in ways that honour God and help others. TaNikka Sheppard
Four of the newly-elected executive of BWNA. L to R: LaKeeyna Cooper, TaNikka Sheppard, Renée James and Jemell Moriah
8
live • January - February 2018
reaching my nation
O Come Let Us Adore Him Encountering God Through Prayer Monique Tatsu orchestrated the prayer workshop/ event held at First Baptist Church, Chatham, on LOVE DAY. She opened the event with a powerful invitation to adore Jesus in everyday ways. Though this wasn’t her goal, Monique’s message unpacked the heart and vision behind Baptist Women’s Room To Pray initiative and we’re delighted to share an edited version of her message with you. How many times have we sung the words: “O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant! O come let us adore Him . . . “ But the question here today is “How do we adore Him?” What do you think of when I say “praise and worship?” Is “church” the first thing that comes to mind? It used to for me. But when we stop and think about it, praise and worship are not just “church” words; they are words about intimacy and action. Our goal with this workshop today is to show how we may adore Jesus in everyday ways, in every situation of our day. We want to make adoring Him as simple as breathing. Jesus told the woman of Samaria that the time had come when worship was not a matter of location, but was to be done in spirit and in truth (John 4:2324). Sometimes it is hard to adore Him in our day-to-day lives when hardship after hardship comes upon us: emotional troubles, medical or financial burdens, a loved one’s death. Somehow
doubt creeps in and this changes the way we see God and we forget to line up what we’re feeling and seeing with what His Word says about Him. What are some of the things I’ve learned about God and about myself as I’ve studied and explored what it means to come and adore Him? Adoration is about breath prayer Breath prayer will be one of the prayer stations we have the joy of doing today. My first step was learning to “inhale” adoration and to breathe it, in everyday language, into my everyday aches and pains. I started with one phrase from the Bible that would resonate with what was happening in my life at that time. I’d write the word or verse down but most of the times I just entered notes in my phone. I invited His Word into my head and heart. If I didn’t have a specific circumstance stirring me toward a specific characteristic of God, I would just search the Psalms. I knew when I had landed on the verse I needed to pray. So will you. It was this way of adoring God—practicing, trying it out, seeing what it looked like in my life—that led me to this place of knowing Him better. God wants to be known by us. Close your eyes just for a moment. If you’ve ever held
live • January - February 2018
9
reaching my nation a baby in your arms, you felt connected with her as you felt her heartbeat against yours, heard her sounds, learned her smells. That is how God wants to know you. Adoration is about saying God’s Word back to Him I learned to take small moments in my day to say His Word back to Him. I started getting into the habit of calling Him by name, using His words from the Bible. These days, I sometimes think back to the place in my journey where I thought I knew how to be a good Christian, live a good life and be kind to others. Oh what I had been missing! We must never stop learning and growing in our faith and prayer life. The more we explore and adore HIM the stronger we get. As I prepared for this message, I recalled what happened to my fears as I began on this journey of adoration. When a fire loses oxygen it goes out. Your fears, heartaches and doubts lose oxygen whenever you bring
Him your adoration; whenever you bring Him glory. This is what happened to me. Adoration is about surrender As I practised breath prayers I began to see God more clearly. I saw that the pain I was feeling wasn’t from my problems but instead it was from trying to do it on my own. There is a prayer station here today that encourages you to surrender all to Jesus, to adore Him and to give Him all your fears, doubts and burdens. It can take time though. Sometimes, instead of leading us up and out of those very fears, big and small, God lets us live them. He gives us over to them. Because it’s in this giving over that we find the perfect love that frees us from them. Forever. So many weeks and months this year brought me more and more of what I saw as crisis. I wondered what was next around the corner but as I went through these crises I found myself growing closer to the Lord. In
those months, the Monique who is so inclined to doubt . . . started to know more peace. And so, as I walked in new places, I saw how both the fear and the peace have all been part of HIS perfect plan. He allowed me to go through the tough times and in turn drew my heart closer and closer to Him. What also began to grow in those difficult times were the testimonies. Things that were once negatives began to be positives. I was able to share my praises with others. Adoration is about exploration The Father loves to be explored. He wants us to know Him better. And when we do so, we learn to know ourselves better. I learned that it is easy to underestimate the power that our knowing HIM has in moving His heart. We underestimate the power that our moving His heart has on our lives. I pray today, through your personal experience at each station, that you will encounter God.
Room To Pray Words and images from nine months of prayer Last April, Baptist Women launched Room To Pray, a special focus on prayer that emerged out of our biannual theme Come Thirsty | Drink Deeply.
10
Why this focus on prayer? We learned that our conferences had inspired some of you to begin leading your communities to pray using prayer stations. We heard about some Baptist sisters in Ontario planning all-day prayer workshops using prayer stations. Women wanted to pray.
live • January - February 2018
And so, Room To Pray called women to set up interactive prayer spaces in their communities to celebrate LOVE DAY and World Day of Prayer last November. We also invited women to set up these spaces or rooms at their events.
reaching my nation What happened? • Some of you set up prayer rooms for LOVE DAY and World Day of Prayer and decided to set them up for Association fall events as well. • From our Facebook group and flurry of prayer room photos posted after November 6 we knew that World Day of Prayer received new impetus. • Women were exposed to the resources we posted online: links, blogs, Facebook Live chats and more. • We shared stories and an eightpage Room To Pray guide in the September/October issue of live magazine—to positive feedback. • Baptist Women was invited to set up interactive prayer rooms at several CBOQ events. This led to a number of pastors and church leaders who saw or heard about the initiative. • Baptist Women was invited to set up the interactive prayer room at BWNA’s New Dreams Assembly, to speak about the Room To Pray concept during a plenary session at the Assembly and to distribute over 200 Room To Pray guides from live magazine. All across North America, women are taking the Room To Pray idea back to their organizations. What’s next? We’ll continue Room To Pray in 2018, offering even more resources, ideas on how to keep a prayer room going for longer periods of time, live magazine prayer room guides and more.
First Baptist Church, Simcoe “Room To Pray was wonderful. Fifteen women braved trying something new, from all ages, and were truly blessed. One woman thanked me for asking her to help set up the room, which got her there even though she had to work half the day, and she said the room was so Spirit-filled, and beautifully quiet as each woman took her time at each table. They want to do another sometime.” Laura MaGuire, First Baptist Church, Simcoe
LOVE DAY and World Day of Prayer First Baptist Church, Wallaceburg Taking Prayer Into Your Mission Field The event was called A Prayer Walk and was held November 4 and 6 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. It involved a number of prayer stations set up on the ground floor of our building. People could sign up for a specific time. They were greeted at the door and signed in, then they started the walk. The first station was in the sanctuary followed by four stations in the Fellowship Room, which exited into the kitchen. From the kitchen, people then proceeded into the next room for the last station. As people exited that room and crossed the gym to the door going into the narthex, they were met by a station that challenged them: “You are now entering your mission field” and given pieces of paper on which were written suggestions of small deeds of love. The whole project was designed by Kae Bushey and followed the ideas presented at our meetings with other Baptist Women and articles published in live magazine. Kae provided the ideas for decorating and preparation and did most of the work on these, but was assisted by the ladies of our Baptist Women’s Fellowship who used their October meeting to help prepare the materials for some of the backdrops and table decorations. As someone who walked through the stations, I was deeply impressed by the careful thought and preparation that had gone into the whole project. It was good to be directed to special areas of concern and to be focused on that area at each station. Each person was able to spend as much time as they needed at each place and to do something practical that would focus the attention on that particular theme. Those who attended had favourable comments and hopefully, it has inspired many of us to “dig deeper” in our prayer life. Barb Myers
live • January - February 2018
11
reaching my nation
Middlesex-Lambton-Huron Day Apart, First Baptist Church, Strathroy Prayer Room as Workshop Middlesex-Lambton-Huron Association of Baptist Women’s Day Apart was held at First Baptist, Strathroy, on Saturday, November 4, and Nancy Gosnek and I set up an interactive prayer room. The room was offered as a workshop for about 40 minutes during the morning and again in the afternoon so that half the group could attend each time. About 40 attended the day and most women visited the 11 prayer stations. The theme was Come Thirsty, Drink Deeply and we also included a World Day of Prayer station overviewing all the Continental Union prayer requests. We decided to replicate some of the stations from the Baptist Women’s Conference in Mississauga last April. Then we were both so impressed by the prayer room at BWNA’s New Dreams Assembly that we wanted to include some of those ideas as well, and so the room became a combination along with this year’s Baptist Women’s World Day of Prayer requests. The resources shared by Baptist Women on Facebook and in live magazine were most helpful too. It was amazing to see how God pulled it all together. Nancy and I, as part of the Executive for our Association Baptist Women, volunteered to set up an interactive prayer room. We invited Karen Tucker to share her preparations for the London World Day of Prayer as well, so that the whole Association of Baptist Women could pray and contribute to the World Day of Prayer projects. We needed to contact Kae Bushey in Wallaceburg to learn how she prepared the flower buds to open up in the water at the Mississauga conference. We enjoyed using several scarves made by refugee women in Kenya for table drapes. Nancy and I also used what was available at First Baptist Strathroy. The women appeared to spend time praying at most of the stations. They were intrigued by the paper buds blooming; they enjoyed braiding the yarn as they prayed for women in their community; they wrote their burdens on paper notes and left them at the cross; they reflected on various Bible translations, devotional books and a booklet outlining many different ways to pray. I was again able to share six of these stations at our World Day of Prayer on November 6 at Westview Baptist Church when the Baptist Women of London joined together to pray. Women there also took time to interact with the stations, some praying rather than having refreshments before our formal group prayer meeting. I continued to receive many appreciative comments from our Association women the following week at our Missionfest gathering. It was a creative, rewarding experience to work together to make these prayer prompts for our women. Charlene Root
12
live • January - February 2018
bible study
Spiritual Resolutions The glow of Christmas is over. But is it really? In 2018, how can we enter into this joy—the joy of knowing the God who came to us in our deepest need—moment by moment? We live our lives in stories. The Old Testament is comprised of volumes of the lifestories of God’s chosen people, the Jews. In fact, God had a great deal to say to the prophet Jeremiah, who in turn had a great deal to say to the Israelites in captivity in Babylon under King Nebuchadnezzar. Is our Father speaking the same story to us today?
BigStockPhotos.com
by Linda Ellsworth Linda is the member care coordinator for Christian Camping International, Canada.
Affirm the Past Read Jeremiah chapter 32 In the first half of this chapter, what does God asks Jeremiah to do? _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ Considering the location of the purchase, why is this a seemingly odd request? _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ How did Jeremiah confirm his faith in chapter 32, verse 17? _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ How did Jeremiah affirm the past in verses 18-23? _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ How did God affirm Israel’s past in verses 30–35? _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ Israel exhibited a repeating pattern of departing from the Lord, and returning to Him in sorrow and repentance. As we recall the times when we have fallen short of God’s mark, we acknowledge our sin and our shortcomings. Yet we can also rejoice in the lessons learned, the wisdom gained, and the boundless depths of mercy shown us by the Father. In affirming your past, reflect on some lessons learned and
wisdom gained from the Father’s merciful dealing with you. _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ Like all of us at times in our lives, Jeremiah experienced doubt . . . questioning the Lord’s request. Explain. (verses 24-25) _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ Affirming the past can also be an exhilarating review of our walk with the Father, and of His faithfulness to us. Read Psalm 91 List all the evidence of the faithfulness of God that gave the Psalmist cause to rejoice. _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ In affirming your past, list the faithfulness demonstrated by God that gives you cause to rejoice. _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ Assess the Present Despite his belief that there was nothing too hard for God, Jeremiah looked at the immediate circumstances. As he assessed the present conditions as he saw them, what was his reaction to God’s request? _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ Was his assessment accurate?
live • January - February 2018
13
bible study Why/why not? _________________________ _________________________ Read Psalm 73 What was Asaph’s original assessment of his present circumstances? _________________________ _________________________ Look again at Psalm 73, and list the similarities in Asaph’s “present” to our present day. _________________________ _________________________ What issues in your “present” may cause you to derail in your faith? _________________________ _________________________ What changed Asaph’s approach to his circumstances? _________________________ _________________________ As a result, what was Asaph’s decision in his circumstances? (verse 28) _________________________ _________________________ What can change your approach to your circumstances? _________________________ _________________________ In response to Jeremiah’s doubtful assessment of the present, God reminded him of his own words of faith. (Jeremiah 32: 27) _________________________ _________________________ The immediate “present” God projected for Israel was not a pleasant one, due to their past performance. Explain (Jeremiah 32:28-35). _________________________ _________________________
14
Read I Thessalonians, chapters 1-3 Paul learned to not only live in the present, but to find joy in it. Assess what caused Paul to find such joy amid difficult circumstances. _________________________ _________________________ Assess your situation today. List all the things that cause you joy on a daily basis. _________________________ _________________________ What is the root source of your joy? _________________________ _________________________ Approach the Future (with confidence and hope) Return to the book of Jeremiah and read chapters 32:36 to 33:13, 6-12. Despite their wandering past, and difficult present, what was God’s message of promise to Israel? _________________________ _________________________ Picture yourself as an Israelite, living in captivity in Babylon, miles from home and all that is familiar. How would you respond to God’s promises in the letter sent by Jeremiah? _________________________ _________________________ On May 14, 1948, David BenGurion, the head of the Jewish Agency, proclaimed the establishment of the State of Israel. U.S. President Harry S. Truman recognized the new nation on the same day.
live • January - February 2018
Read Psalm 46 List the wonderful statements of promise cited in this Psalm. _________________________ _________________________ Read Revelation 22 List the wonderful statements of promise cited in this final chapter of God’s love letter to us. _________________________ _________________________ Read John 14: 12-18 God the Son left us with the most amazing assurance for the future. How do Jesus’ words speak into your life? _________________________ _________________________ As we approach the future, which is one minute from now, one day from now, one week from now, one year from now, we can do so with patience, with confidence, and with hope in the One who said to Israel, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon me and go and pray to me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek me and find me, when you search for me with all your heart. I will be found by you, says the Lord, and I will bring you back from your captivity . . .” (Jeremiah 29: 11-14a).
feature article
Follow the Lion in the Trees “Lucy woke out of the deepest sleep you can imagine, with the feeling that the voice she liked best in the world had been calling her name.” (C.S Lewis, Prince Caspian) I fell down a YouTube rabbit hole the other day—as one does—and I found myself watching clips from The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Then— as YouTube autoplay inevitably encourages—I watched excerpts from Prince Caspian, in which the children return to Narnia and find it changed. More than 1,000 years have passed. Their royal palace at Cair Paravel is in ruins. The trees and many of the animals have ceased to speak and enemies riddle the land. Naturally, the children conclude that as kings and queens of Narnia they were drawn back to put things to right, but they have arrived far from the action and at a desperate hour. As they trek uncertainly through the muchchanged terrain, Lucy begins to see Aslan from afar. She knows that he is beckoning her to follow him. She tells the others but they don’t really believe her; not able to see him themselves. And they are in a hurry after all. There are pressing matters at hand; and no one wants to waste an important moment chasing a child’s wishful thinking. If it really were the great Lion, they reasoned, surely he would show himself clearly to everyone.
From the mundane to the desperate, there are always more pressing matters at hand than to follow the Holy Spirit on a wild goose chase. There are commitments that take up space at the edge of your thoughts. There are phone calls and texts that require answers. There are children who’ve lost a solitary sock and can’t be depended on to find it. There are meals to be made and eaten. The neverending accumulation of papers that buries countertops like snowfall. Taskmaster clocks that always run too fast. And so often we— like the Pevensie siblings— ignore Lucy’s Aslan sightings and head off in a different direction. A more logical, expedient one. Certainly—we reason—if Jesus had something pressing for us, He would clearly demonstrate it so that there was no chance of mistake. It wouldn’t be a far-off beckoning or a faint voice that wakes you in the middle of the night. Except that, deep down, we know that actually, this is the case. God cloaks Himself in the world and it is the glory of kings to seek Him out. One of the most profound details of Lewis’ allegory is that
it isn’t until Peter, Edmund and Susan have followed blindly for a while that they begin to catch sight of the Lion for themselves. He treads along on silent feline paws, so that only Lucy’s surety is their guide. Their faith, faltering and irritable as it may be, eventually gives way to sight. They see his shadow first and then finally the Lion is revealed. No matter whatever else hangs about our necks and tangles up our actions, the Lion of Judah beckons us to follow Him on the secret path that no one knows. What looks like a distracting sidetrack, isn’t. What appears unrelated to present circumstances is actually the wisdom for which we’ve been hungering. What looks like wishful thinking is the Saviour for whom we’ve been longing.. It doesn’t matter if no one else follows. It doesn’t matter if we feel foolish because we can’t see as clearly as someone else. It doesn’t matter if we can only make out His shadow for now. What matters is that we follow where He goes. As Jesus reminded Martha of Bethany: only one thing is necessary and it will never be taken away. by Morgan Wolf Morgan is a writer from Calgary, Alberta. She blogs about her faith and writing at www. anothergratuituousmdash. blogspot.ca
live • January - February 2018
15
feature article
Re-solutioning O come let us adore Him! BigStockPhoto.com
Since the start of the modern era, the clarion call of progress and improvement, growth and increase, has reached almost evangelical proportions. We benefit from industrial innovations every day as indicated by the wide variety of food on our tables, reliable shelter and clean drinking water. But is perpetual improvement what God has in mind? I’ve been thinking about the tradition of New Year’s resolutions and wondering about the motivation, process Jesus calls. the and, all too often, the disappointing outcome. We analyze behaviour we don’t want and respond by modifying our actions toward doing better. Perhaps you recognize the pattern: analyze, identify, strategize, modify, monitor, slip, by Sandi Smoker Sandi is the former president of Women In Focus (the women’s ministry arm of Canadian Baptists of Western Canada). She volunteers as a counsellor and course facilitator at South Island Centre for Counselling and Training in Victoria, BC.
16
re-commit, slip, re-commit, adjust expectations, forget, remember, criticize, lose hope, despair, full recapitulation. So goes the journey of re-solutioning. By Easter, we’re feeling especially grateful for redemption! I wonder about the seasonal context of scriptural narratives. Was it New Year’s Day, for example, when the rich young ruler approached Jesus? The man’s question carries overtones of the re-solutioning mindset. The man asks what he must do to inherit eternal life: in essence, how can he do better. Jesus lists the last six commandments and the man indicates he’s kept them all. At this point, Jesus gives him the opportunity to save face, to admit that he has not kept the first four—those that address idolatry and God’s preeminent place in his heart. Jesus sees the man’s desire toward re-solution and loves him. He encourages him to let go of all his strivings and the things that appear to offer security, status and comfort. He says simply, let go and follow me. Come, adore. Jesus calls the man, not to more actions toward improvement, but to the God who made him. Jeremiah’s prophetic voice might as well be
live • January - February 2018
calling from the wilderness of our modern and postmodern times: This is what the Lord says: “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. The next line is especially heartbreaking. “But you said, ‘We will not walk in it.’” The young man stands at the crossroads. Jesus calls him to abandon all else for the love of God. The man responds, “I will not walk in it.” Jesus is the Ancient Path, the Good Way, the Prince of Peace and the Hope of Glory. The answer to all our re-solutioning lies in adoration. If you’re thinking, like the onlooker Peter, that there’s no way in the world a resolution that size is keepable, notice Jesus’ final words to the man. “With people it is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.” We come and adore Jesus because He has made us for Himself and we will find no rest until we rest in Him (Augustine). We seek Him and love Him because He first seeks us out and loves us.
executive director’s report
Executive Director Highlights Our sincere thank you for your time, support, and generosity this year. You have been generous and it is bearing fruit. Our goal is to help you have an intimate connection to mission. We have supported OasisDufferin Community Centre for many years. This year, in addition to their food bank and other support programs: • up to 13 women and teens participated in Bible study; • eight women participated in a support group; • seven women received personal counselling. Given the trauma of many new Canadians, we consider this an investment in the future. Thanks to those of you who contributed to the Dorothy Neal New Initiatives Fund. In 2017 we supported a refugee program through Gilmour Baptist Church, a girls program at Oneida Baptist Church and a teen crisis centre in South Africa. The Farmtown Canada program we supported for three years has also received grants from Baptist Women of North America and Baptist World Alliance. Now they
2017
are coordinating with their local Children’s Aid, and expanding their horse therapy program to include teen girls emerging from sex trafficking. Farmtown’s director, Kelly Franklin, recently told me: “Grants from Baptist Women boosted us to the next level.” Many small, but effective ministries struggle to find initial funders. We are privileged to be able to help in this role. For 2018 we have already approved a comingof-age program for teen girls in the high-priority Jane-Finch area of Toronto that is being run through Lisle Memorial Baptist Church. This year we sent another $80,000 to Canadian Baptist Ministries. It supported Integral Mission projects in Bolivia, advocacy and education for disabled children in Lebanon and women’s self-help groups in Kenya. You can read more about the Kenya work in this issue of live magazine. I’ve received a number of documents on our history and I am struck by how much of this kind of work was done by the first Baptist Women missionaries who went out. They formed women’s self-help
groups in India, trained Bible Women to teach from village to village, and founded schools and hospitals. In a 1931 letter, Eleanor Simmonds writes of her joy at helping in the girls school; but also her sorrow about child marriage and girl babies sold in the bazaar for 16 rupees. Baptist Women have been speaking out against human trafficking for a long time. Our goal is to facilitate authentic experience of God. We have been excited to see so many of you responding to God through the Room To Pray initiative. In 2018, we plan to provide you with even more resources. As usual, the Spring Conference was a high point of the year. We were excited to see more youth involvement.
live live• •January January- -February February2018 2018
17 17
executive director’s report At our 2018 conference, one of the plenary speakers is a young woman and there will be two workshops led by young women as well. Over the past few years, we have also worked hard to provide a solid organizational base that can be a foundation for future generations of Baptist Women. We have done a review of our financial systems and investments, redesigned our website (thank you Renée James), and created a new database (special thanks to Andrea Cambridge for all her work on this.) Laura Matthews has streamlined many of the office processes (as well as speaking very effectively at events) and we are grateful
to Elaine Liu for faithfully volunteering. Thanks also to so many of you who minister so faithfully in other areas. Finally, Baptist Women of North America (formerly NABWU) has a new executive and our own Renée James was elected vice president in charge of communications. Don’t worry, that is a part time volunteer position and she will continue working with us. As a staff and board we had a number of
chances to connect with you via retreats, events and speaking in churches. We hope to do even more of that in 2018.
u Bright Sisters meeting in Kariobangi Photo courtesy CBM
Bernice’s Picks . . . BAPTIST WOMEN SUNDAY
because there’s more • celebrate Baptist Women Sunday • make a difference • download slide show and announcements in January
Half the Church: Recapturing God’s global vision for women, by Carolyn Custis James Highly recommended at the NABWU Conference. This book reminds us that women are usually more than half the church and contribute a significant role in the church. $18.99 Why Keep Praying: When You Don’t See Results, by Robert Morris This book has been rated five stars. To be read and given to people who are ready to give up or have given up. Solid reasons why we need to persevere in prayer.. On sale for $10
All titles available from ReadOn Bookstore 5 International Blvd. Etobicoke, ON M9W 6H3 Tel: 416-620-2934 Fax: 416-234-8840 E-mail: books@readon.ca www.readon.ca
18 18
live • January- February - February2018 2018 live • January
women’s ministries
2017 Life Memberships Circle Life Recipient
Lorna Coles Hathe Barrow Susan Potter Dominion Life Recipient
Elaine Tapp Louella Holland Mareta Smith Anne Wrightson Heather Mantle Rhoda Hill Ellen Branscombe
Presented by Orillia Women, First Baptist, Orillia Orillia Women, First Baptist, Orillia Orillia Women, First Baptist, Orillia
Presented by Wallaceburg Baptist, Wallaceburg Kiselo Mission Circle, Niagara Falls Immanuel Baptist, Fenelon Falls First Baptist, Orillia Grace Baptist, Windsor Yorkminster Park Baptist, Toronto Yorkminster Park Baptist, Toronto
Baptist Women at Elim September 14-16, 2018
Drea m in g God ’s Drea ms Speaker: Rev. Denise Gillard Early Bird Registration $95 (after May 31, $105) Balance Due August 15, 2018 Shared $150, Private $175 Commuter rate with meals $165 Saturday only with meals $90 $10 Late Fee after August 15, 2018 Registrar: Cheryl King 1966 Delaney Dr., Mississauga, ON L5J 3L1 905-823-9175 • cherylking@rogers.com Make cheques payable to Baptist Women at Elim
A History Moment The years 1929 - 1933 were marked by ferment in India, unrest in South America and anxiety at home. The serious financial situation in 1933 forced cuts in the overseas work budgets for 1934. The need for funds was so great that the Board asked the Circles to collect old gold, discarded jewellery, which could be sold for money. The “Treasure Hunt” was held during the summer of 1933 and by fall $150 had been realized. From Step by Step: A Chronological History Baptist Women’s Missionary Societies of Ontario and Quebec prior to Amalgamation. 1876 - 1953
We REMEMBER These gifts in memory or in honour of family, friends and others you value will continue to bring good from their lives. Thank you. In Memory of Jean Montgomery, Selkirk Andrea Hare, Port Dover Harry Forrest, Hagersville June Moore, Markham Lillian Spence, Delhi Mildred Little, Owen Sound We acknowledge and appreciate the gift from the estate of Connie Cullen. A bequest to Baptist Women in your will is a powerful gift. It provides the means for you to make a huge difference in the lives of vulnerable women, youth and children at risk. It also makes a huge difference in the future of our ministry. For more information, please contact Diane McBeth at 416-620-2954.
live • January - February 2018
19
CBWOQ’s Women’s Conference Friday, April 27 - Saturday, April 28, 2018
Come Thirsty | Drink Deeply . . . because there’s more Mississauga Chinese Baptist Church 5220 Creekbank Road, Mississauga, ON L4W 1X1
SCHEDULE (subject to change) Friday April 27 6 p.m. Registration opens | prayer room opens 7 p.m. Plenary Session (Terry Long) Saturday April 28 8:45 a.m. Registration | coffee/tea time| prayer room open 9:30 a.m. Plenary Session (Meghan Matthews) + Workshop Session 1 noon Lunch (catered) 1:15 p.m. Annual General Meeting 2 p.m. Refreshments | Workshop Session 2 | Extended Plenary Worship 5 p.m. Conference ends Nursery open during plenary sessions and workshops only. This is a scent-free conference. Please do not wear perfumed lotion, oils or scents while at our conference. Thank you for helping us accommodate those with allergies. Direction to venue Driving (from 401): 401 East or West • Exit Dixie Road—head south • East (left) onto Matheson Blvd. E • South (right) onto Creekbank Road, one block • Church is on the right • Front entrance is at the rear of the building Public Transportation Options (from Toronto) • TTC/MiWay: • Take Line 2 (Bloor/Danforth line) to Islington subway station • At Islington station, take 109 Northbound to Renforth Station West Platform 1 • At Renforth Station West, take 7 southbound • Exit at Creekbank Road at Sismet Road (church is on southwest corner) • 109 and 7 buses are operated by Mississauga Transit (MiWay); extra fare may be required
20
live • January - February 2018
New! Visit a CBOQ Church on Sunday April 29 Two area churches would love to welcome any Baptist Women at their Sunday service following our conference. Stay over Saturday evening and join us at one of these churches: 1. Mississauga Chinese Baptist Church Visit our conference host church, MCBC! Catch their English service at 9:30 a.m. in the same place our plenary sessions are held. 2. Kingsway Baptist Church 41 Birchview Blvd, Etobicoke, ON M8X 1H7 | Service starts: 10 a.m. Visit the home church of one of our keynote speakers, Meghan Matthews, and enjoy vibrant worship and fellowship in west Toronto. PLENARY SPEAKERS Friday night: Terry Long is a graduate of London Baptist Seminary. She was an active Baptist minister’s wife in the Toronto area for 18 years and has also worked 25 years in radiology, (B.R.E, M.R.T.(R)). Now living in Ottawa, Terry founded Quiet Pools five years ago. Quiet Pools is a Christian contemplative ministry of rest and reflection for women leaders. Saturday morning: Meghan Matthews is a passionate follower of Jesus, committed to the building of His kingdom. Meghan works with CBOQ’s Next Generation Ministries and can often be found hanging with Kingsway Youth where she is a small group leader. WORSHIP LEADER Dr. Melissa Davis returns! She is an active concert soloist, music professor, choral conductor, worship leader, vocal instructor and clinician. Dr. Davis currently serves as the director of the Music and Worship Arts Department at Tyndale University College and Seminary.
live • January - February 2018
Hotel
Hilton Garden Inn Toronto Airport West/Mississauga 1870 Matheson Blvd Mississauga Phone: 905-361-6300 From Venue: -15 min walk ] 2 min drive Sandman Signature Mississauga Hotel 5400 Dixie Road Mississauga Hotel Phone: 905-238-0159 From Venue: -17 min walk | 3 min drive
SAT APR 28: Date/Amount of 10 rooms rooms reserved
FRI APRIL 27: 20 rooms
SAT APR 28: 15 rooms
FRI APRIL 27: 20 rooms
SAT APR 28: 23 rooms
Date/Amount of rooms reserved FRI APR 27: 50 rooms
Room Type(s) Available
-2 Queen Beds with sofa bed
-2 Queen Beds -ask hotel re. alternatives
-2 Queen Beds -2 Double Beds -1 King Bed
Room Type(s) Available
$121.00 (+ tax) Up to 4 adults/room Price is fixed whether 1 or 4 adults stay, so make use of this great deal and split the cost! Approx $30/night/person if 4 people share—great value! $109.00 (+ tax) Up to 4 adults/room (ask hotel if more can be included) Price $$/Room Another incredible deal—book early to ensure this rate and consider sharing rooms to bring down the price!
Queen or Double: $99.00 (+ tax) 1 King Bed: $99.00 (+ tax) 2 adults/room $10 extra/person Up to 4 adults/room
Price $$/Room
-Parking -Shuttle to and from airport (must book ahead) Perks -Indoor swimming pool with slide -Right beside a 24/7 Denny’s restaurant for meals
-Parking -Breakfast -Shuttle to and from conference -Shuttle to and from airport (must book ahead) -Accessible -Parking -25% off voucher for breakfast per person at hotel restaurant -WIFI -Gorgeous indoor swimming and whirlpool
Perks
Canadian Baptist Women of Ontario and Quebec CODE: QON
Use this code/link/name when making your reservation CODE: 3099068 OR Canadian Baptist Women of Ontario and Quebec
Book By: Mon Mar 19, 2018 CODE: 170266 Block of rooms reserved are released on Tues Mar Book By/Release Date Use this 20 2018 code/link/name when making your Enjoy this great deal reservation with some fun perks— excellent value for your money. Book early!
Book By: Tues Mar 27, 2018 Block of rooms reserved are released on Wed , March 28 2018 Don’t delay—book now for a great deal! Book By: Wed March 14, 2018 Block of rooms reserved are released on Thurs March 15 2018. Get this awesome deal today—great value in a beautiful space! Don’t wait.
Book By/Release Date
CBWOQ Conference 2018 Hotel Packages | Come Thirsty. Drink Deeply . . . because there’s more | April 27 + 28, 2018
Comfort Inn Airport West 1500 Matheson Blvd @ Dixie. Mississauga Phone: 416-624-6900 From venue: -15 min walk | 2 min drive
21
Come Thirsty | Drink Deeply . . . because there’s more Workshop
Facilitator Workshop Description Authentic Experience of God (more ways to pursue God)
1. Essential Oils of the Bible 2. The Fragrance of Thankfulness 3. Pilgrimages of the Heart 4. Come Create, Come Receive 5. Deeper into Prayer
Jodie Rogers, women’s ministry leader at Mississauga City Baptist Church
an aromatic journey through the Bible | materials cost extra: $5
Terry Long, one of our plenary speakers
a workshop on thankfulness that involves the senses
Renée James, director of communication, CBWOQ
an interactive time of paying attention to God using different types of prayer
Meghan McIntosh, CBWOQ’s former Legacy for Ministry co-ordinator
a time to experience streams of living water using a variety of expressive arts experience prayer in our interactive prayer room | capped at 8 women per session
Intimate Connection to Mission . . . more ways to act 6. Connecting with Community 7. Investing in the Next Generation 8. The Spiritual Gift of Saying No 9. Human Trafficking, Exploitation and Slavery: a deeper look
Alison Latty, co-founder of the cafechurch network in the UK
a workshop on how to set up a cafechurch in your community
Karra Overholt and a dynamic group of high school girls
a workshop/Q&A session that focuses on youth culture, mentoring and engaging youth
Leanne Friesen, lead pastor of Mount Hamilton Baptist Church, Hamilton
a workshop where you’ll learn when and how to say “no” . . . following Jesus’ example
Christy Langschmidt, activist; founding member of the Toronto Counter Human Trafficking Network; chair of the board of Aurora House
a time to take a deeper look at these areas of injustice, while packaging welcome baskets for Aurora House
10. Storytime with Canadian Baptist Ministries (CBM) 11. Cultivating Spiritual Friendships
Rev. Anne Drost, CBM’s regional rep in Ontario and Quebec | Brenda Halk, CBM senior associate for strategic projects
an opportunity to hear stories about how God’s love is being poured out through women’s lives around the world
Diane McBeth, executive director of CBWOQ
a chance to explore how deep friendships and spiritual connections will transform your life and the life of your community
NEW!
Please support Aurora House by donating items for the house: diapers for sizes 6-12 months, garbage bags, recycling bags, sanitary pads, tampons, laptop computers. Items needed for welcome baskets will be published in our E-LINK newsletters and in the March/April issue of live magazine.
Come Thirsty | Drink Deeply . . . because there’s more Registration 2018 Name________________________________________________________________________________________________ Mailing Address _______________________________________________________________________________________ City ________________________________________________ Province_______________ Postal Code________________ Phone (____)_________________________________________ Church and City _________________________________________________________________________________________ Age: q Teen q 20s q 30s q 40s q 50s q 60s q 70s This is my first CBWOQ event q Yes q No q I will use the nursery. Number of children _____ ages __________. Nursery will only be open during workshops and plenary sessions and closed at all other times including breaks and lunch. q I wish to volunteer at this event. Please phone me with more information. Phone (___)____________________________. q Photo release: I agree to allow photos of me which may be taken at the event, to be used in all CBWOQ publications, and social media for the sole purpose of sharing about this conference with the Baptist community at large. q Please phone me to confirm receipt of this registration form and workshop choice. The program includes the brief transaction of annual business for Canadian Baptist Women of Ontario and Quebec. Voting privileges are open to women who are affiliated with a CBOQ church; subscribe to the CBWOQ purpose: “ to enable women to reach others for Christ;” register at least 10 days before the conference starts (Bylaw 4:26a and 37) and sign and date below. Please sign and date below only if you fulfill these requirements. Signature ______________________________ Date ____________________________
Workshops
There are 11 workshops offered during the conference. Each workshop is offered twice; once in the morning and again in the afternoon. Please select two options per time slot in case your first choices are full. Review your choices on page 21-22. Sessions are assigned on a first-come, first-serve basis and capped by room capacity. My workshop choices:
Morning:
1st choice # _____ 2nd choice #_____
Afternoon: 1st choice # _____ 2nd choice #_____
Payment Full payment with registration is appreciated. q Lunch ticket $15 (per catered hot lunch) | 1 per registrant $___________________ q Food allergies? Please note here: ____________________________________________________ q Contribution to bursary/event fund* $ ___________________ Receipt requested q Yes q No (Receipts issued upon request for donations of $20 or more) q Registration fee ($59 workshops, coffee breaks, event) $ 59 q Materials fee (Workshop #1) $5 $___________________ q I enclose a cheque payable to CBWOQ for $___________ If you would like to pay with credit card, please do not use this form, but visit www.baptistwomen.com to register and pay online. Bursary application forms can be found online at baptistwomen.com. Your application must be received by March 2, 2018. *This fund was established to encourage women to attend CBWOQ events and conventions. Guidelines and application forms are available from CBWOQ’s website: www.baptistwomen.com or the office at 416-620-2954. Cancellation Policy: If you cancel before April 1, 2018 your fees will be reimbursed minus $15 (retained for administrative costs). No refund after April 1.
LOVE DAY and World Day of Prayer at First Baptist Church, Wallaceburg. The last prayer station on the prayer walk (see page 11). Photo courtesy Kae Bushey
Has your address changed?
Send your old mailing label and your new address to: live Magazine Circulation Dept., 5 International Blvd., Etobicoke, ON M9W 6H3 PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NUMBER 40007159 REGISTRATION NUMBER R9703 RETURN UNDEliverABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: live MAGAZINE CIRCULATION DEPT. 5 INTERNATIONAL BLVD ETOBICOKE, ON M9W 6H3 bwoq@baptist.ca