We all have an identity—not just the one printed on our licence or passport, but the roles we live out, the names we answer to, and the callings we grow into. For many of us involved in Boys’ Brigade, it’s about stretching your BB identity—growing from supporter to volunteer, from helper to leader, and discovering unexpected joy in each new role.
There are so many different identities we take on in life—some chosen, some given, some surprising.
Each one carries a story. A role. A responsibility.
And sometimes, a stretch.
I’m a BB Mum. A BB Wife. A BB Employee. And now, a BB Leader.
Over the years, my BB identity has stretched, grown, and deepened. Has yours?
It all began about 20 years ago when my boys first joined BB. I loved being on the sidelines—watching them grow under the wings of leaders who mentored and encouraged them in their faith and friendships. I saw firsthand the power of a Boys Only ministry and how it shaped the way they responded to devotions, played games, and interacted with their BB “brothers.”
Stretching my BB identity as Mum and Wife
I was the driver, the admin helper, the form collector. I ferried carloads of boys to BB each week and supported the group however I could. Though my boys have now grown up, my BB Mum role continues—my daughter is now a BB helper for the Juniors, and I’m encouraging her on from the sidelines.
I supported my husband’s call to lead. We’ve always seen our ministries as a team effort—each of us stepping into what God has called us to do, whether individually or side by side. Sometimes that means waving him off from the sidelines when he’s off camping or canoeing with the boys—and I’m perfectly happy to enjoy a quiet weekend at home while he serves in his element. I also see the enjoyment he gets out of seeing the boys stretching their BB identities as they step up into leadership roles in the group.
Stretching my BB identity as Employee
I’m blessed to work for BBQLD—a ministry I deeply believe in. I’ve seen the difference a Boys Only ministry makes. Watching from the sidelines, I saw how boys behave differently when they’re just with other boys. Sure, girls can do what boys do—but they do it differently. Not necessarily less, just not as rough, loud, or boisterous. BB gives boys a space to be themselves, and I’m proud to help BBQLD support Companies in doing what they do best.
Stretching your BB identity as a Leader
Then came the stretch I never saw coming.
I did what I said I’d never do—I became a BB Leader.
Why? Because there was a need. Our Company had no leader for the 5–7-year-old Anchor Boys. Without someone stepping up, those boys would miss out on something special. I was available. God nudged me out of my comfort zone. And I said yes.
As someone who doesn’t naturally gravitate toward face-to-face work with kids, I’m amazed at God’s generosity in giving me what I need to be the leader they need. I never would’ve said that hanging out with a bunch of five-year-old tornados would be fun—but it is!
Their energy is contagious. Their questions are hilarious. And their hearts are wide open.
Week after week, I find myself laughing, learning, and leaning into the unexpected joy of leading these little ones. It’s been a privilege to watch them discover what it means to be part of BB—learning routines, building friendships, and growing in their understanding of the Bible. God knew what I didn’t: that this stretch would be a blessing.
Being a BB Family
As a family, my husband, daughter, and I give our time each week to a ministry we believe changes lives. We hold fast to the BB Object:
“The advancement of Christ’s Kingdom among boys and the promotion of habits of Obedience, Reverence, Discipline, Self-Respect and all that tends towards true Christian manliness.”
We look back with gratitude—and forward with hope—as we see the transformation in boys’ lives.
So I ask you, BB Dad’s and Mums, BB Church members, new to BB adults
Are you ready to stretch your BB identity?
If you’re feeling that nudge, why not take the next step?
📩 Reach out to your local Group Leader or contact us at bbqld.org.au
🧭 Contact a local group and ask if you can come and see what BB is all about (blue card required)
You might be surprised where God leads you—and how He equips you along the way.
by Cathy Ballantine