On March 4, 2023, Julene Raymond organised and led a service of worship and praise to recognise and celebrate women in the church. Alongside choir singing and special musical items, many shared the inspirational stories of women who impacted the world for good – ranging from Hellen Keller to Anne Askew, an Englishwoman born in 1520 and martyred for her faith at the age of 28.
For our main message, Paula Rykers gave a sermonette on the influence of godly mothers, speaking of Jochebed, mother of Moses. While motherhood was the main theme, Julene ensured the celebration of all women, including single and childless women who mentor and encourage others; she also recognised the efforts of men who take on maternal roles.
Then the following Sabbath, March 11, services began early at 9:00am with the baptism of Fiona Miller and Indie-Anna Rykers at Sunset Cove, Lake Victoria, Paynesville. It was sunny, the lake was tranquil, and at one point, during Fiona’s baptism, two beautiful black swans swam serenely past in the background.
Fiona is a young mother of two girls, who serves the church in many ways, one being a Sabbath School facilitator. Indie-Anna is a mature 10-and-a-half-year-old who has been involved in Sabbath School and church, even at times leading out in children’s stories on her own.
While Pastor Rian van Deventer lead out the baptisms, his daughter, Carrissa, accompanied him with hymns. We then returned to the church in Bairnsdale and continued with Sabbath School and the main service, which was also taken by Pastor Rian.
During the service Fiona and Indie-Anna affirmed their understanding of joining with Christ and the church, and were welcomed into fellowship with baptismal certificates, gifts of flowers and Bibles. A fellowship lunch followed, enjoyed by church members and visitors alike.
Finally, On March 25, a large group of people attended a special concert at Bairnsdale Church themed after “The Great Rescue.” With orchestral and choir music, special items, and a story we were taken through the last events of Christ’s life.
The cross and then the resurrection moved our hearts as we remembered how Jesus came to show us the way of life and save all who accept His gracious rescue. The joyous occasion ended with Pastor Rian making a beautiful call for all to personally know our risen Saviour and be ready when He returns to take us home.
Bairnsdale Church is vibrant and growing, with several non-church members, volunteers at the ADRA Food Bank and Opportunity Centre, and the Gems ’n Jams Op Shop, often attending services and others taking studies with Pastor van Deventer.
Written by Judith Walker (Bairnsdale SDA Church)