In just over two weeks we will hold our first church meeting for 2022; Sunday 27 March from 11:30-1:00. At this meeting we will be making a decision that I believe will have significant implications for our community of faith in the years to come. Namely, to “rebrand” membership as partnership and to introduce a regular renewal of our commitment to be partners in gospel ministry as part of Gymea Baptist Church. On the surface, neither of these seem like that big of a deal.

However, as we have been exploring this idea as a leadership, incorporating feedback from many in the community of faith (thanks to those who took part in the survey and/or who have been part of our focus group), we have ended up with a model that places following Jesus at the centre of our life together.

I am really excited about the shape this has taken and believe that we will experience amazing things as we are a bit more intentional about following Jesus. You can read more about this – the background, the commitments of partners and to partners, and the next steps – as part of the papers for the AGM.

If you have questions, feedback, or other comments, please contact me prior to the meeting – marc.rader@gymeabaptist.org.au – I’m looking forward to this decision and to reporting on where we find ourselves as a community of faith at this point in the year.

Marc Rader | Senior Pastor