ACC EMAG #1 2020

#1 2020

EMAG

COVID-19 TIPS FOR CHURCHES

quarterly publication for acc leaders

TAKING CHURCH ONLINE

EMBRACING A

DIGITAL CHURCH

HEALTH & WELLBEING WHY YOU NEED A MENTOR HEALTHY SLEEP

CYBER SECURITY FOR CHURCHES

COMMUNITY

ACTION DURING COVID-19

FUTURE CHURCH

6 WAYS CHURCH WILL OPERATE IN 20 YEARS

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SIDE

Cover photo: iStock

IN

SIGNS OF THE TIMES Wayne Alcorn looks at the signs of the times and how church leaders need to know what to do DOING CHURCH ONLINE Taking Church to the people

COVID-19 TIPS FOR CHURCHES Strategic & Simple - Brad Bonhomme Filter your Feed - Joel Chelliah

EMBRACING A DIGITAL CHURCH COVID-19 may have changed the way we live for the moment, yet churches everywhere have gathered in unity through prayer and online ministry. This edition shares some innovative ideas to connect with people and love our communities.

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Be Servant Leaders - Joel A’Bell

LOCAL CHURCH: TAKING CHURCH ONLINE Three main things to get a video online from 4BMedia UTILISE ALL YOUR DIGITAL OPTIONS

ENGAGE ONLINE Innovative ideas from local ACC churches CONGREGATIONS: PRAYER CONNECTION COVID-19 Call to Prayer How to pray and what to pray

FEED YOUR CONGREGATIONS Resources for your congregation COMMUNITY: INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES VULNERABLE LOVING OUR NEIGHBOURS Ideas from local ACC churches COMMUNITY ACTION IN COVID-19 As unemployment takes its toll in tough economic times, Rosie Kendall, CEO of C.A.P. looks at opportunities for churches in communities. :KIDS MINISTRY:

Q&A ANDY KIRK Interview with ACCKids leader Andy Kirk on his insights into ministering to kids.

YOUTH MINISTRY: ENGAGING TEENS Ways to connect with high schoolers in isolation

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FUTURE CHURCH Futurist Mal Fletcher looks at 6 ways the Church will look different in 20 years’ time in 2040.

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NEWS

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Youth Alive’s No Ordinary Life 2020 ACC Bushfire Relief Efforts

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GOD AT WORK IN EAST GIPPSLAND Shannon & Bec Riley share their church has helped their community in the midst of drought and bushfires.

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REDRESS URGENCY Loss of charity status considered for churches who don’t sign up to National Redress Scheme

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TRAVEL

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ACC PASTORS TOUR TO ISRAEL Three ACC State Presidents share their highlights and the impact of visiting the land where Jesus lived.

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

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WHY YOU NEED A MENTOR Keith Farmer and Tim Hanna on the importance of mentoring for ministry leaders

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HEALTHY SLEEP Ruth Limkin asks if sleep is a stewardship issue, and provides three ingredients for a healthy sleep life.

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PROTECTION

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CYBER SECURITY How to protect your church against cyber-based crimes

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NEW RELEASES A good time to read - new books available for online orders

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SIGNS OF THE TIMES

KNOWING WHAT TO DO A

BY WAYNE ALCORN

huge shout out and thank you to every pastor and church that has embraced technology and is reaching people in their homes with the hope of Jesus. It has been a steep learning curve for many of us in ministry, but it has been incredible to see so much faith and enthusiasm as people gather online to worship the Lord in living rooms all over the world.

now we need to be like the men of Issachar and know what to do.

It is in these dark days, we are starting to understand that we have much more in common with our fellow man than many of us realised. We are seeing a universal language emerge, that is using words are like: • TOGETHER. We are suddenly much more aware of our need of each other. Even though social restrictions are demanded across society at this time, there is greater intentionality to connect and support our ‘neighbours’.

We continue to pray for a miracle, as we face the COVID-19 pandemic, and an imminent economic crisis. People around the world are facing isolation, desperation and uncertainty about the future. More than ever, they need more connection,especially with their local church.

Online services and other digital platforms, such as social media, are proving helpful ministry tools in this space.

• HUMANITY. Modern man has been lured into a false sense of security, believing that science and technology will deliver us a degree of invincibility.

Now, in a moment, we are all aware of our mortality.

God has His people standing as a beacon of hope and agents of love and kindness at this time.

It’s time for the Church to shine even brighter.

Whilst we may not be able to gather in buildings, we can gather in unity online and be the Church to our communities.

• KINDNESS. A pandemic like this has the potential to bring out the best in people. We are discovering that small things do make a big difference, and simple acts of kindness bring hope.

Remembering the resurrection of Jesus is a reminder of the new life He gives – through the kindness of loving God who ‘so loved the world that He gave His only Son’ that we may face the future with hope.

In the Old Testament, there was a group of people who stood out for one reason.. The men of Issachar “understood the times and knew what Israel should do”(1 Chronicles 12:32). For us today, we know what is going on – there is a flood of information from every source about COVID-19;

Because of Him, we have hope.

Wayne Alcorn is the ACC National President. He pastors the multicampus Hope Centre in Brisbane together with his wife, Lyn. 3

DOING CHURCH

ONLINE

I BELIEVE THAT CONGREGATIONS NEED TO HEAR THE VOICE OF THEIR SHEPHERD AT THIS TIME – WAYNE ALCORN

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NEWS

TAKING CHURCH TO THE PEOPLE On Sunday 22 March, pastors and churches were ready for a new challenge: bringing church online to their congregations.

Instead of people coming to them, the Church went to the people.

“The Church is not closed – WE are the Church!” has been the message to congregations everywhere.

While televised or livestreamed church services are not a new thing, it was a bold new step for many churches who only had a matter of days to prepare how they would minister to their congregations online.

“I firmly believe that people need to hear the voice of their shepherd at this time,” said Pastor Wayne Alcorn, ACC National President. “There are many outstanding Christian programs being broadcast out there, and there is no shortage of opportunity to tap into faith-filled content;

however I believe it’s important for every pastor to have the ability to speak into their church community in these unusual days.”

Thanks to the expertise of tech-savvy production teams, households all over Australia and beyond were transformed as everyone joined services in their living rooms.

Grateful “We’re really grateful to those behind the scenes who are skilled in digital technology and production,” said Wayne Alcorn. “It’s been amazing to see how churches have adapted to use digital technology to connect with our people.”

“It’s also wonderful to see how congregations are leaning in, worshipping, giving and connecting online, as well as many people making decisions for Jesus.”

STILL EXPLORING ONLINE CHURCH OPTIONS? 5 THINGS NEEDED FOR ONLINE CHURCH:

3 EXCELLENT RESOURCES

See page 7

• TAKING CHURCH ONLINE Free resource for churches by 4B Media

1. Worship 2. Prayer

• 3 WAYS TO STAY ENGAGED WITH YOUR CHURCH ONLINE SoulSound Studios

3. Message/Teaching 4. Giving options 5. Response and Follow up

• CHURCH ONLINE PLATFORM Free record your own service

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3 TIPS FOR YOUR SERVICE 1.Get creative in your visual delivery 2. Keep it less than one hour 3. Mix up your runsheet – don’t be too predictable

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ONLINE GIVING: TITHE.LY is highly recommended as an online giving platform.

KIDS MINISTRY Visit ACCkids.org.au for resources SMALL GROUP MEETINGS Check out Zoom, or use Skype as an option

COVID-19 TIPS FOR CHURCHES

FILTER YOUR FEED JOEL CHELLIAH (Centrepoint)

STRATEGIC AND SIMPLE BRAD BONHOMME (Horizon Church) Don’t add complexity! Keep things strategic and simple. At Horizon we quickly adopted a simple three-pronged strategy to keep the church connected: 1. Systematic Pastoral Care (via phone & technology) 2. Strong Online presence (seek assistance or ‘piggy back’ another church if you’re unable to provide this) 3. Sensitively approach the practical needs of the vulnerable in your church & community (identified through your Care system).

In the space of two days we strongly mobilised around these three pillars as a staff and volunteer team and we will continue to work in these three ways for as long as required – they become your ‘game plan’. They bring focus to your team and assurance to your church.

To support this, you must also quickly mobilise a simple strategy in the organisational area of your church. Attend to the finance (slim down, seek help, encouraging regular tithes and offerings). Include and inform your Board regularly of the measures taken. Study the requirements and direction given by the government regarding restrictions closely and adapt accordingly. Stay strongly engaged in daily decisions as things will need to adjust and flex incrementally to ensure that your church remains strong.

And pray without ceasing (1 Thess 5:17). Strategy is essential, but this must be navigated with the Holy Spirit. We must, as pastors, commit to daily, unceasing prayer to be able to provide the spiritual leadership that this unprecedented event demands.

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In a world where we have access to 24 hour news, constant global updates and a billion opinions at the touch of our fingertips, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the barrage of bad news.

One of the things that I have had to do to protect my soul in this season, is to diligently ‘filter my feed’.

Paul’s encouragement to the Philippians was to fix their thoughts only on what is “authentic and real, honorable and admirable, beautiful and respectful, pure and holy, merciful and kind. And on every glorious work of God…” (Phil 4:8 Passion translation).

The apostle was not asking believers to be ignorant of what was happening around them but rather to be deliberate about what they allowed their minds to meditate on. He understood that what we consumed would quickly affect our thinking and our thinking colours our emotions and our emotions impact our behaviour.

For peace to reign within, one must limit their exposure to the things that steal our peace.

NOT SURE WHAT IS THE BEST DIGITAL OPTION FOR YOUR CHURCH? 4B MEDIA HAS ADVICE TO ASSIST LOCAL CHURCHES

TAKING CHURCH ONLINE WHEN YOUR GOAL IS TO GET A VIDEO ONLINE, HERE ARE 3 MAIN THINGS YOU NEED TO CONSIDER: 1. What do I need to capture good video and audio?

2. How do I put it online?

3. How do I get it to the people I want to connect with?

BE SERVANT LEADERS JOEL A’BELL (RVTLS Church) What we should be as church leaders in this time is ‘early adopters’ – this is how the role of the Church can help the government in their role.

Instead of being told what to do and asked to comply, let’s lean in with a servant attitude - to help our communities and our nation. Stay ahead so the government can rely on us as churches.

This is not a retreat for us, and there is no reason to shrink back.

Technology allows us to connect in new ways. Let’s ask God for His wisdom in this new season to get even more creative so that ‘church’ becomes way more than Sunday!

We went online as most churches did. Don’t be afraid. Let’s use this time to find ways to keep people connected and Let’s see the Church in action in our streets, and loving our neighbours who are most vulnerable.

1. What do I need to capture good video and audio?

Regardless of the camera, whether it be a smartphone, or a broadcast camera, the principles of what make an image look good are the same.

Lighting: - Key light - Back light - Fill light And why not throw in some lighting in the background on some objects you want to highlight :-) Audio: With your audio, you want to remember to use a good mic, and be in an area with as little ‘echo’ as possible. (i.e. a concrete room compared with a carpeted living room) Check the 4BMedia website for how to light a subject well, and record great sounding audio on a budget!

2. How do I put it online?

There are multiple ways to stream or upload your videos – YOUTUBE LIVE, FACEBOOK LIVE, and INSTAGRAM LIVE, ZOOM or SKYPE. There are also paid Streaming platforms if you are looking for a more robust and stable delivery platforms.The important thing to remember, is that whatever platform you use to get your video out there, you want to make sure the audio is at the correct volume level.

If you are using metering in an editing software, you want to be around -3db to -1db.

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Getting your Video and Audio from the camera to a computer can seem a bit tricky, but here are a few things that may help you.

• Blackmagic Web Presenter works really well for turning an SDI or HDMI video signal, tricking your computer into thinking it is a 720p webcam, and you can link it straight into your streaming software.

• Magewell USD Capture HDMI, which takes your HDMI signal and puts into your computer via USB 3.0.

There are many other options for this, but in regards to getting started on a budget, these options will help get you started.

3. How do I get it to the people I want to connect with?

The final step after you capture your video (with good lighting, good framing, and good audio metering around -3 to -1db), you need to send it to people.

YOUTUBE LIVE is a great platform for this, as well as FACEBOOK LIVE. If you are looking for a more immersive environment, if you are a Pastor and looking to connect with your church family, then the Churchonline.org platform is a great start. It is free, and robust, and has great features such as live chats, live prayer, and slide rotations, and it takes a direct link from YOUTUBE LIVE. Visit 4B Media for more information on online resources.

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UTILISE ALL YOUR DIGITAL OPTIONS

ENGAGE ONLINE ENCOURAGE ZOOM CHATS WITH GROUPS IN YOUR CHURCH

... and build connection by reposting Zoom meetings with staff and small groups.

We find ourselves in a time of unprecedented challenges, but we have before us unprecedented opportunities to communicate and connect people to Jesus.

Communication is vital and it makes sense to use all the digital avenues available.

• WEBSITE Start with your website. Your home page is where people will find out how they can connect with you in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis.

Make sure you have clear links to your online church services,and how people can get in touch with you. Remember to keep your website up-to-date.

• EMAIL Email is still considered the best way to communicate a lot of important information to a targeted audience. The reach of your email will depend on how up-to-date your database is. You may want to include a link on your website to encourage people to sign up for email updates.

Remember to keep your emails personal, and you don’t have to use a lot of graphics.

TIP:

Get your

young people • SOCIAL MEDIA involved!

Social Media is a great way to connect with people beyond the walls of the church on a daily basis. There is a range of creative digital platforms that can be used to encourage and engage people; so post often, go live, share stories, and include prompting questions and comments.

SET FUN AND CREATIVE CHALLENGES FOR YOUR CONGREGATION. A great way to connect with people is to get them to respond to a question or a challenge, then post the pics afterwards!

Planetshakers Church encouraged their congregation to engage with them on social media, asking them to take a photo with family or friends while watching church online, then tag the church.

HAVE A BIT OF FUN!

BE ACCESSIBLE FOR CONNECTION

Don’t forget a bit of humour every now and then breaks the ice, lightens the day and makes people smile.

Sean Stanton shares a mix of great spiritual encouragement, with random fun posts!

Centrepoint (above) introduced their online chaplains ready to engage and Public Church Brisbane (below) is using social media for prayer

Follow @accsnapshot for daily inspiration of how other ACC pastors and churches are engaging through social media.

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NEWS

NATIONAL CALL TO PRAYER FOR AUSTRALIAN CHRISTIANS ACC National President, Wayne Alcorn, called for a National Prayer initiative for the Church to stand united in prayer that launched on 19 March.

This initiative has been supported by national church leaders from all denominations and ministries across the country who united together in a call to Australian Christians to pray in response to the Coronavirus pandemic.

Prayer changes things “The Church is standing in the gap as COVID19 Virus causes chaos in every sphere of society, and fear has gripped the hearts and minds of people everywhere,” said Wayne Alcorn. “Current predictions of worldwide organisations such as W.H.O. are dire, should this pandemic not be stopped. We believe prayer changes things.”

Unity across churches He said that he has been greatly encouraged by the unity and overwhelming support of every expression of the Australian Church, as well as spreading beyond the borders to oter nations.

The National Call to Prayer is supported by the heads of Church denominations and Christian ministries.

“We have simply asked all Christians to set their alarms to pray at 19h00 each day, no matter what their time zone,” explained Pastor Wayne Alcorn. “1900 is simply an effective numerical reminder and connection to COVID19.”

As individuals and families begin to pray every day, a National Day of Prayer for the nations amidst COVID-19 was held on Sunday, 29 March 2020, followed by a month of Sundays of united prayer, including the Easter services.

With public gatherings suspended, most churches have embraced technology and holding services online.

“People are praying wherever they are, during this season,” said Wayne Alcorn. “We, the Church of Jesus Christ, will stand united in prayer until we see this pandemic stopped.”

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HOW TO PRAY: Start in the middle and work your way out

More resources, social media graphics and information on prayer, visit christiansunited.online

CONNECT THROUGH

PRAYER

HOW TO PRAY & WHAT TO PRAY God’s people are asking two important questions regarding prayer in response to the COVID-19 pandemic: How to pray and What to pray.

HOW TO PRAY How we pray never changes. The simple instruction Jesus gave is, “When you pray, say: ‘Father, hallowed be Your name’ (Luke 11:2).

Prayer always begins with centring our heart upon the Father in loving adoration, worship, and thankfulness. It is important that in this unprecedented time to not act or pray out of fear. One antidote to this is to abandon our hearts to the wonder of Jesus in moments of personal devotion and love. He is still ‘beautiful beyond description’ (Ps 27:4) and in His presence is fulness of joy! (Psalm 16:11).

So still your heart, learn to connect with the Father’s presence in your life, and be encouraged to ‘keep yourselves in God’s love’ (Jude v21). One simple tool we can use is a playlist of praise and worship songs that help us connect our heart to His. He will inhabit your praise and the Holy Spirit will inspire your prayers.

WHAT TO PRAY What to pray doesn’t really change either because we are commissioned to bring heaven to earth. Jesus went on to instruct us to pray, ‘Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven’ (Luke 11:2; Matthew 6:10).

One of our highest privileges as believers is to ‘stand in the gap’ and partner with God through prayer that His goodness, glory, and power would be manifest in the earth. We are called to pray bold, faith-filled prayers that seek to bring heavenly solutions to earthly challenges and trials.

At this time, let’s pray...

• For our leaders in government to have expert information available to them, wisdom with that information, and courage to make the decisions that need to be made.

• For all those in the medical fraternity working with infected people and those who are working towards a vaccine for the Coronavirus.

• For the spread of the Coronavirus to stop and the ‘curve to be flattened’.

• For healing for those already infected with the virus and for an increase of healing and the miraculous in our nation and around the world.

• That God’s people – the Church –would be salt and light in their community and neighbourhood, and that we would make the most of every kingdom opportunity.

• For peace to pervade our society and for people’s mental and emotional wellbeing.

• For family life to prosper.

Finally, join the National and Global Call to stop and pray at 1900 (7pm in your time zone) and pray for 19 minutes.

‘THE PRAYER OF A RIGHTEOUS PERSON IS POWERFUL AND EFFECTIVE’ (James 5:16) 11

HOST MIDWEEK ONLINE PRAYER MEETINGS

On Tuesdays and Thursdays, Centro Church hosts prayer meetings on Instagram Live at 7pm with John & Francine Hunt.

PRAY FOR OUR MISSIONARIES

Here are just a few of our ACCI heroes that are back in Australia due to the Covid19 pandemic (due to Government advice or other reasons).

Although they are home, they are by no means resting - each of them have significant work taking place on the field in their absence.

Pray for them and the teams that they continue to lead from afar. Pray for those who are currently in self-isolation that they will remain in good health.

We pray that you’ll be able to continue to support them to do the work they have been called to!

FEED YOUR

CONGREGATION SHARE FAITH-FILLED POSTS, DEVOTIONS & STUDIES

Online Devotions is a great way to bring the Word mid-week.

Faith CC (left) and Planetshakers (right) are bringing daily devotions via Youtube and Facebook.

Mark Varughese reminded people to ‘Talk to God. He’s not affected by the virus. He’s closer than your think’

MOBILISE FOR ONLINE EVANGELISM

UPSKILL THROUGH STUDY Mobilise your people to evangelism through presenting Alpha online. This could be one of the greatest times of harvest the Church has seen, though it is possibly the most unusual. Are you and your church set up for it?

Alpha Online is one way for churches to evangelise and disciple new Christians through the COVID-19 season. alpha.org.au/online to access a digital copy of the Complete Guide to AlphaOnline, training videos, tips and tricks and more

PROMOTE CHRISTIAN MEDIA INSTEAD OF SECULAR TV SHOWS ...and support your local Christian radio station!

ASK FOR IDEAS

Australian Christian Channel, RightNow Media, Hillsong Channel – there’s a wealth of Christian content available to every believer at home.

Get your congregation to engage and share their creative ideas with everyone while in isolation. Bright Church posted this request on their social media: “What stay at home activities are you enjoying at the moment? Perhaps it’ll inspire someone else. Comment below”.

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Stuck at home? Turn self-isolation into self-improvement – make the best of this time to develop yourself. Start something new with Alphacrucis College. Due to an increased demand for our online courses, a special April intake has been launched. Start your 100% online study for a wide range of courses on April 6th.

LOVING OUR

NEIGHBOURS HERE TO SERVE This is the time to be the hands and feet of Jesus in our communities. With so many isolated and vulnerable, let’s find creative ways to reach out and bring hope, encouragement and practical support to those in need. While churches are closed for gatherings, encourage your congregation to see how they can actively ‘love’ the people in their street or suburb.

INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES VULNERABLE COVID-19 poses a particular risk in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who already experience a significant burden of chronic disease including respiratory conditions.

The Coronavirus pandemic has great potential to wreak havoc in these vulnerable communities, especially those living in remote and very remote areas.

Around 50% of Aboriginal Australians and Torres Strait Islanders live with one of the major chronic diseases such as cardiovascular (heart) disease, kidney disease or cancer.

Almost one-quarter have two or more of these chronic conditions.

These risks are compounded by overcrowding which is worse in remote settings, which face significant challenges in containing and responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. With health services already at capacity, the workforce is already reliant on fly-in-fly-out staff, including many from New Zealand which has imposed quarantine restrictions.

Most Indigenous communities have been closed and no outsiders are allowed in, particularly in the Northern Territory communities where no access permits are being granted.

Please include us in your prayers, as we do all we can to protect our most vulnerable in our communities including our Elders, who are the keepers of knowledge and stories, and the backbones of our communities.

– Will & Sandra Dumas, ACC Indigenous Forum

MAKE CONTACT A phonecall, a text or a note is a good starting point..

SENIORS Those over 70 are among the most vulnerable and at risk.

Assist in co-ordinating shopping for those who fear going out, or collecting medical perscriptions from the pharmacy.

Consider how you can help with technological support to keep them connected.

MEALS & SUPPLIES Many families find themselves in unexpected circumstances.

Support local charities’ foodbanks or arrange to make up and drop off your own care parcels.

LOCAL BUSINESS Support your business people in the marketplace at this time.

Remind people to pray for them and shop online buying vouchers to use at a later date. Buying From the Bush will help those in drought or bushfire-stricken areas.

HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS Start a support group for those in the medical/health profession – those on the frontline of the COVID-19 crisis. A daily prayer and encouragement (done in a closed and discreet manner) can really strengthen them. Perhaps drop off a meal to support their families at this time.

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Father’s House shared a template of a note “I’m here if you need me...”

Horizon Church’s Pantry Project involves providing simple pantry packs to those needing assistance.

The COVID-19 crisis is hitting families hard as unemployment takes its toll in tough economic times. ROSIE KENDALL, CEO of Christians Against Poverty (CAP), looks at opportunities for the Church in their communities during these desperate times.

COMMUNITY

ACTION IN COVID-19

BY ROSIE KENDALL

H

umans are fundamentally relational beings, dependent and incomplete by design; no one can be who they truly are in isolation.

How will the COVID-19 restrictions affect Australian society? A society where, leading into the pandemic, the average Aussie moved every six years, 40 percent of marriages ended in divorce and busyness was a virtue. As everything is forced to a halt and we’re contained geographically, the Church has an immense opportunity to help alter the fabric of our society both during the pandemic and as we eventually emerge.

For the first time in living memory, churches’ doors are closed. It’s a challenge that many pastors likely didn’t think their congregations would have to face, but for the foreseeable future, all regular gathering has come to a halt. On the other hand, the Church is also called to serve the poor and protect the vulnerable, to etch out a place for them.

The Bible says, “Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.” (Psalm 82:3-4) So how does the Church help restore community and provide for the vulnerable without a physical place to do so?

“Enlarge the place of your tent, stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes.” (Isaiah 54:2) 14

CHURCHES MOBILSING THEIR PEOPLE

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Churches have already started to provide some examples of what this could look like.

A church who partners with Christians Against Poverty (CAP) in the NSW Hunter Region wrote to their young adults::

As individuals scattered around towns and cities, together we can reach many people by encouraging and arranging for church members to: • Go the local shops for those who can’t or are scared to.

“As young adults, most of us are the healthiest, more able and mobile in our community at this time. In contrast we have many people in our church who are vulnerable, isolated and need extra support over the coming weeks. With many ministries and events altered or postponed, many of us who normally serve at church, are now available to help in other ways.”

• Pray for neighbours (leave a note in their letterbox telling them you are a Christian and offer to pray).

• Donate money and items to foodbanks and charities caring for the vulnerable. By giving instead of hoarding, we demonstrate that it is God who we trust.

The church encouraged healthy members to get creative in how they reach out an help their community with things such as; creating care packages and kids craft packs and delivering them, cooking meals for the regular attendees of their Community Care outreach program; making checkin phone calls, leading games and fun activities for isolated families and children; and setting up technology for older people so they don’t miss out on online church.

• Regularly check-in with isolated people over the phone.

• Keep giving blood, as the need will increase and potential donors decrease.

• Display gratitude to service workers (e.g. mail carrier, supermarket assistant) as they are likely feeling overrun and encounter a lot of stressed out people.

Of course, all these activities have to consider and adhere to healthy and safe precautions, as the church pulls out all stops to ensure no one is left isolated!

• Offer to help single parents by dropping off a meal, a box of diapers or puzzles for the kids.

ECONOMIC STRAIN ON FAMILIES Already, heartbreaking stories are emerging of families struggling through the crisis. However there are also stories of how churches are continuing to support them, through the CAP Debt Centres and CAP Money courses.

• Buy a gift card from a local small business to redeem at a later date (stock up some for Christmas presents).

• Send an encouraging text message to any of your friends who are medical professionals, and offer to help their partner or family.

One family –a mum, dad and four kids aged one through to nine – has lost their income due to the COVID-19 crisis. They reached out to CAP who was able to put their debt repayments on a hold, bringing relief and gratitude:

• Pray!

These are a few practical ways Christians to show love to our communities. Sadly, the reality is many Australians are going to face economic crisis.

Your church can work with CAP who will equip you with practical tools for helping people through that financial hard times and give them the tools to achieve financial wellbeing. Our communities need the hope of Jesus more than ever and now is a time for the Church to step out and reach people that are feeling hopeless

“It is such a blessing that we did reach out when we did. If we didn’t have you now, it would be devastating.”

What a joy it is to be able to provide for people in their season of need. Even as advice and measures keep changing, there are ways the Church can help people practically.

WHAT A JOY IT IS TO BE ABLE TO PROVIDE FOR PEOPLE IN THEIR SEASON OF NEED. EVEN AS ADVICE AND MEASURES KEEP CHANGING, THERE ARE WAYS THE CHURCH CAN HELP PEOPLE PRACTICALLY.

A. W. Tozer put it this way: “A frightened world needs a fearless church.” As Jesus said, the world would know His disciples by their love.

Rosie Kendall is the CEO of CAP Australia. Find out more about what your church can do to help people through the life-changing hope through CAP programs: https:// www.capaust.org/Get-Involved 15

KIDS MINISTRY ANDY KIRK has been involved in Kids Ministry for over 20 years.

He has led the national ACCKids ministry for the past decade. ACC EMag spoke to him about his observations and experiences in the past two decades.

Q&A

AndyKirk Q: How did you become involved in Kids Ministry?

ANDY: I was standing at a funeral of a school friend as an 18 year old. In the previous six months, I had lost three close friends: one in a car crash due to drink driving, another to a drug overdose and now a third – an unsolved murder on the Gold Coast. It was in that moment that I felt quite helpless, listening to the stories. I had been a Christian only three years and I had the thought that I would be to focus on the next generation so they wouldn’t experience what I had. So I started a Kids Club on a Friday afternoon in my little church and within 12 months, we were seeing over 100 community kids come every week.

Q: What do you think are some of the pros and cons of digital media among kids?

ANDY: Some of the dangers around overuse of personal digital media are quite alarming. I remember having my first phone at 17 and the only game available was ’Snake’. Now there are over 900,000 apps available to download.

Children today don’t remember a time without devices and are immersed in the Digital Age, whereas we were slowly introduced to these devices.

Today adults receive an average of 50 notifications per day, while teenagers receive 200.

The constant distractions of these notifications not only distracts but produces ‘hits’ of Dopamine which builds a sense of need and reward system in the brains. This in excess can create a dependancy that is not healthy.

Our job is to help families know the challenges whilst not being fearful of technology that is not only staying but progressing. The need to talk about values and character whilst also adding practical boundaries is a great conversation for churches to be exploring with families.

Q: What kind of changes have you seen in local churches’ Kids ministry in the past 20 years?

ANDY: The first is the use of digital media. I remember the introduction of a video curriculum in the mid 2000s which has now become the standard. Back then, it was during the real shift from Sunday School to Kids Church so the use of worship videos and curriculum taught on a screen really played a huge part in this.

I think on a whole this has been positive. The excellence and professionalism in Kids Ministry is now what we have become used to and expect in the adult service. That said though, I am seeing a trend to have a lot more live teaching again and a huge emphasis and focus on small group connection.

Q: You are a parent, as well as a Kids pastor, so have you noticed a greater need to focus on helping parents navigate this digital age, that is relatively new to all generations?

ANDY: Yes, as both a parent and a Kids Pastor, this concern is there and growing. The way we have addressed it in our home is to get educated and implement strategies, but it also now is a concern we are taking to the local church by 16

>

Andy & Christie Kirk and their family 17

CHAPLAINS ON CALL

KIDS MINISTRY Q&A WITH ANDY KIRK (continued)

way of a Digital Media Seminar to educate and resource families. We really recommend churches looking into finding some resources for their church families.

Chaplaincy Australia is committed to abiding by all the recommendations outlined by the Government and Medical authorities to control the spread of this virus amongst the broader community.

All of our staff and chaplains are urged to follow all recommendations regarding social distancing and safe hygiene practices.

We are encouraged regarding the opportunities that present themselves in this season. In the midst of this confusion and turmoil we remember that the Lord is with us and He is the one who calms the storm.

This is an hour like none that has happened before and we need to be ready to respond to it. We can find an answer in the midst of this confusion “the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.” (Luke 12:12) This is an hour of wisdom - we need to be wise in what we do and what we say. We need to follow recommendations and work with our communities to stop the spread of this virus. We need to speak carefully and gently to those who are afraid and demonstrate by the way that we walk that Jesus can be trusted and that His life brings support and comfort.

This is an hour of opportunity - people are facing periods of isolation and a breakdown in their normal connections. This is an opportunity to reach out beyond our normal limits and to find points of connection in ways that we have previously not attained. Digital platforms, video calls, phones, text messages and social media are all opportunities for us. Seek to share life and hope with those who are afraid and let them know that they are not alone.

This is an hour of comfort - one of the most powerful traits of a good Chaplain is knowing when to speak and what to say. Let the Holy Spirit lead you to the words - remember the comfort that He comforts you with and comfort others in the same way (2 Cor 1:3) - it is an easy thought but powerful when it is freely given!

This is an hour of restoration - recognise that this season might give you a little more time on your hands - you might not have to commute, you might have a couple of weeks off work, you might not be able to play sport or you might not be able to fulfil your chaplaincy duties - I want to encourage you to take the opportunity to be refreshed. We have all been busy with bushfires, floods and virus response. We are in a marathon, not a sprint. Remember your self-care and take the opportunity to be refreshed whenever you can. At the end of this crisis I know that we will emerge ready to serve in a new and powerful way.

– Ralph Estherby, Chaplaincy Australia

Q: How does ACCKids attempt to help facilitate and upskill Kids workers to adjust to the constantly changing environment that this generation of kids faces?

ANDY: ACCkids is always looking to train and upskill Kids pastors and leaders with the latest training on trends and issues in society. We will be addressing this specifically at Kidshaper Conference in August but if churches are wanting to know more about the Digital Media Seminars, they can contact us via the ACCKids website.

Q: ACCKids has developed a range of great digital resources for leaders. What are some of the latest resources and topics available?

ANDY: Our latest Leadership resource is our podcast called ‘Kids Ministry and Leadership Podcast’ and can be found on any podcast platform by searching name or ACCKIDS. In the podcast, we interview Kids pastors from all around the world and tackle a different topic each week. So far each person that has been interviewed has offered such valuable insights. This podcast is for all leaders at any stage, serving in any area of Kids Ministry and even most of the content translates right across all areas of church.

Along with our Monthly Mentor program and ACCkids Academy for a more formalised study option, there is plenty available to learn and upskill.

Q: How is ACCKids supporting families and kids ministries during the COVID-19 crisis?

ANDY: This is when digital technology is connecting families and churches in incredible ways and all our online support is available at the ACCKids website.

We have an interview on ‘How to have the conversation with Kids about COVID-19” and have created resources for churches on our main home page.

Our leadership Podcast now is aiming at topics in relation to leading during this time when people are unable to gather in person. There is another Families’ podcast through Calvary where we are tackling things like ‘‘Working at home with kids’.

All the details are on the website acckids.org.au

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YOUTH MINISTRY

ENGAGING TEENS Gen Z was born into a digital world, so connecting via a device is second nature to them. The challenge for high school students who are at home doing online schooling and spending more time on their screens in isolation means social interaction and engagement is essential.Youth pastors and leaders – consider creative ways to connect and inspire teenagers when they cannot meet face to face. Here’s a few from local ACC youth ministries.

DIGITAL SAFETY Ensure parental consent is given & online chats aren’t in public!

FUNNY MEMES

SOCIAL MEDIA CHALLENGES

Laughter is like medicine, and teens love a good meme.

Keep them smiling with new memes on your Instagram and get them creating their own.

Post a pic and ask them to ‘Caption This’, then repost the best ones

A great way to get youth using their creative skills while in isolation is to set challenges.

Tik Tok is the latest trend and the crazier the better.

Repost the favourites to generate enthusiasm.

Horizon Youth’s Tik Tok challenge to ‘make us laugh with your Tik-Tok skills’.

Calvary Youth launched their move to online services with a funny COVID19 meme!

YOUTH ONLINE As Youth Groups move online, generate excitement with posts throughout the week leading up to it. Encourage teens to repost and invite their friends.

Influencers Youth post, counting down to online youth service with all the links and times.

INSTASTORY

SMALL GROUP MIDWEEK Invite your teen discipleship groups to connect weekly for a social Zoom.

Include chat time, a short bible study and prayer time.

Great opportunity to interact ‘face to face’ online.

CELEBRATE INDIVIDUALS

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Do birthday ‘shout outs’ on social media to celebrate teenage birthdays or milestones.

Maybe arrange a surprise social ‘Zoom Party’ or drive-by cake delivery to make them feel special.

Engage with Instastory: “Ask a question” or having a Vote or a Quiz. creates interaction.

ONE ON ONE Don’t forget to connect one on one on a regular basis. Text, Whatsapp, FaceTime or even make a phonecall (with parental permission) to check in with each high school student. to see how they are coping.

FUTURE

CHURCH

BY MAL FLETCHER

6 WAYS THE CHURCH WILL LOOK DIFFERENT 20 YEARS FROM NOW

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2040

N

ever be afraid,’ wrote Corrie Ten Boom,’ to trust an unknown future to a known God.’ There is only One who can definitively predict the future. As both a futurist and a minister, I am especially conscious of this fact, especially in the face of COVID-19 and the challenges it brings.

Many churches are scrambling to update their digital capability. Leaders are doing their best to stay abreast and even get ahead of the information curve.

We can’t future-proof our lives and churches. ‘Wildcard events’ like particular forms of viral outbreak may continue to surprise us.Yet we can, to some degree, future-prepare.

God has blessed us with a capacity to identify some likely future developments, based on our culture’s present direction of travel.

We do this using curiosity, imagination, experience and a heart that recognises that all the earth is the Lord’s and he is vitally interested in every aspect of it (Psalm 24:1).

With that in mind, let’s make a short but strategic visit to the year 2040.

Let’s try to discover what opportunities and challenges the church will face - and what type of Christian and church will have the most influence.

1. IN TWO PLACES AT ONCE Welcome to 2040! The previous decade brought a revolution in church communications. Holographic projection has now largely replaced the use of video screens in services. Since the late 2010s, experiments in holography have allowed political candidates and entertainers to appear ‘live’ in more than one venue at a time.

In 2040, the power of this technology has improved as dramatically as its price has fallen. Speakers and worship leaders regularly appear in lifelike 3D, in events and churches spread across multiple cities, simultaneously.

Holographics are also used to provide simulated interviews with key figures in Christian history. Computer networks can intuit from a deceased leader’s writings, speeches and actions how they might respond to particular current problems. Humanoid machines, some built to look like the character they represent, can respond to people’s questions in lifelike ways, in real time.

The Church in 2040 also benefits from sociable media. In the first 20 years of this century, the world changed with the introduction of old-school social media. Today, the two-dimensionality of social media has been given a 3D update. Sociable media uses digitally produced avatars to represent individuals in the online space. It then brings these lifelike avatars together in a virtual space, using advanced haptic (3D touch) tools that fool the human senses.

In 2040 even the cheapest virtual reality (VR) systems emulate all of our senses, including taste and smell. The entire experience has become more holistic and ‘real’ than anything our parents could have imagined in the early days of VR. Using this technology, evangelists speak to crowds gathered in virtual spaces and see real-life spiritual transformation among their listeners.

Alpha-type courses are conducted across vast distances using the same technique – a huge boon for people living in remote areas.

Sociable media tools allow new opportunities for evangelism, too. However, people often benefit from training in how to use these technologies in a relational rather than ‘preachy’ way.

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IN 2040, GENERATION Z IS APPROACHING MIDDLE AGE. IT STILL RETAINS ITS PRAGMATIC, REFORMING ZEAL AND HAS BROUGHT ABOUT SIGNIFICANT CHANGES IN THE WORLDS OF POLITICS, ENVIRONMENTALISM, TECHNOLOGY AND

2. SUPPORTING CONSTANT TRANSITION In cities and local communities, automation has led to challenges with under-employment. Around 800 million jobs globally have been automated since 2020, not only in areas of skilled manual labour but in professions such as medicine, law, journalism and the arts.

Some of the world’s elite symphony orchestras regularly play music composed entirely by machines – a practice first seen in the 2010s. More than a few hit plays have been written by computer networks.

New technologies have, of course, given rise to new types of jobs. It has been that way throughout history, but in 2040, even where there are new jobs, people struggle to transition quickly enough from one profession to another.

Many middle-aged people have already changed their entire career several times.

Churches have taken up the challenge of providing transition training. Transition skills courses are taught to help people deal with the anxiety, apprehension and sense of loss often associated with career changes. These skills, along with strategic thinking and logic, are also taught in schools. Faith-based schools were among the first to introduce this type of teaching.

3. GLOBALLY MISSIONAL, ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE Despite the introduction of fully electric and hybrid long-haul aircraft, people in 2040 are still concerned about global travel. Yet they retain their God-given curiosity and are hungry to see the world.

As a result, a thriving virtual travel (VT) industry has emerged alongside the

IN 2040, THE POWER OF TECHNOLOGY HAS IMPROVED AS DRAMATICALLY AS ITS PRICE HAS FALLEN. SPEAKERS AND WORSHIP LEADERS REGULARLY APPEAR IN LIFELIKE 3D

traditional tourism sector. For a small cost, people can experience foreign sites via haptic virtual reality and holography. VT has also proven popular with authorities that oversee sites of global significance. In Israel, for example, the government and private enterprise are keen investors in VT software. They market virtual trips to the Holy Land.

Many churches use virtual travel to engage in mission trips, especially those that provide schooling and microenterprise training. Meanwhile, the authorised use of autonomous bots, which can fulfil complex objectives without human input, makes it easier for charities to send emergency supplies to areas ravaged by war and natural disasters. Of course debates continue to rage about autonomous robots used in theatres of war. The Evangelical and Pentecostal wings of the Church have had to become much more involved in complex ethical debates like these.

4. CASHLESS In 2040, few people have any great use for cash. In many nations, over the past 15 years, coins have been largely abolished.

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Paper money, though it is still favoured by the elderly and anti-cashless activists, is accepted only in certain stores – and then simply because the law insists upon it.

The rush to abandon cash has brought with it a rise in personal debt. Studies reveal that people are spending more, but thinking less before doing so. For all its messiness, cash has weight, which means people can more readily identify when their supply is running out.

Some Christians have helped to pioneer small but vocal ‘return-to-cash’ movements. Their goals are to reduce the personal data garnered by digital cash systems; to offer alternatives to cashlessness for people who are reducing their online footprint; and to shrink the incidence of so-called ‘digital debt’.

Many churches have joined with local governments and businesses to offer regional currencies, based on exchangeable tokens.

5. SLOW IS THE NEW COOL In a sharp departure from earlier cultural norms, people in 2040 largely look on fast-paced living as an anomaly. A onetime manic engagement with digital gadgets has given way to the pursuit of more relaxed and reflective lifestyles.

High levels of automation at home and in the workplace have helped some people achieve a more meditative approach to daily life.

While ‘intelligent’ machines undertake mundane tasks, people have more time for idea-generation or just plain daydreaming. Skills to enhance the latter are taught to primary school children, to increase their capacity for contentment

and innovation. Christian educators have been at the forefront of developing these courses.

Unfortunately not everyone has benefited from automation. Many churches run training programmes to reduce the rapidly widening technology gap, for people on low incomes.

In line with the push for more reflection, church services often feature unaccompanied vocal worship and scripture recitation. Some congregations offer multiple options in their services and ‘virtual service’ menus, with meditative sessions existing alongside a more high-energy variety. The meditative approach attracts thousands of young people who, while they consider themselves highly spiritual, are not keen to align with institutional religion.

Sociologists have noted a significant move away from some faith movements that are now considered excessively corporate in their organisation, or overly consumerist in their approach to spirituality. Meanwhile, people are seeking to express a bold yet thoughtful Christianity at all levels of their lives, not just in activities once thought to be especially spiritual.

While still promoting the centrality of prayer and Bible study, churches are sponsoring courses in the theology of social enterprise, entrepreneurship and design. The emphasis is on celebrating the Lordship of Christ in every aspect of life.

6. GENERATIONALLY ADEPT In 2040, Generation Z is approaching middle age. It still retains its pragmatic, reforming zeal and has brought about significant changes in the worlds of

CHURCHES ARE SPONSORING COURSES IN THE THEOLOGY OF SOCIAL ENTERPRISE, ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND DESIGN. THE EMPHASIS IS ON CELEBRATING THE LORDSHIP OF CHRIST IN EVERY ASPECT OF LIFE. politics, environmentalism, technology and economics.

Members of this generation are now watching nervously as a new group of young adults emerges into leadership.

This cohort shows signs of being much more idealistic than Gen Z. In a throwback to their baby boomer forebears, these young people are not so much reform-minded as individualistic and inner-focused.

New religious awakenings have broken out among them in several nations simultaneously. For the most part, these movements have grown spontaneously and organically, without many recognised leaders. They are marked by a strong countercultural edge.

Meanwhile, the Church of 2040 is adjusting to the need to serve an increasingly older population base. Many church leaders now spend as much money on programmes for upper-middleaged and elderly constituents as their predecessors did for the young.

It is common now for churches to employ leaders with specialist training to work with the late-middle-aged and the elderly.

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Many people in these age-groups are leaving their home comforts to undertake long-term missions work abroad. Others are sensing a new call to set up social enterprises, to solve societal problems in profitable ways.

Challenges and opportunities In 2040, the world faces huge challenges and great opportunities.

As Christians, we know that technology is not destiny. Our present and future will not be defined by the technologies we develop, but how we choose to use them.

Our lives are in God’s hands. We must commit ourselves to plan as if Christ may not return for a hundred years - for no man knows the day or the hour. But we will live as if He might return today!

Mal Fletcher is a futurist, media commentator and Christian minister. He is the founder/chairman of 2030Plus, a Londonbased international think tank (2030Plus.com).

This article was originally published by Premier Christianity, the UK’s leading Christian magazine. For more information visit premierchristianity.com

APRIL 6 I N TA K E F O R M I N I S T R Y AND THEOLOGY APRIL 27 I N TA K E F O R E D U C AT I O N J U L / A U G I N TA K E FOR ALL COURSES A P P LY N O W

NOW FA

...CONFIDENCE IN WH AND ASSURAN WHAT WE DO

HEBREWS

Now is the time to upskill.

Now is the time to prepare for the next season.

Now is the time to get ahead of the curve.

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All AC courses are online, so in this season, turn the challenges of self-isolation into an opportunity for self-improvement.

A L S C I E N C E B U S I N E S S L E A D E25 R S H I P M U S I C A C . E D U . A U

NEWS

ONGOING BUSHFIRE SUPPORT

CLICK HERE to donate to the ACCI Bushfire Appeal

YOUTH ALIVE’S NO ORDINARY LIFE 2020 When you have been in the room, and seen what we have seen, a few short sentences really can’t do it justice. It was a huge faith step to move Youth Alive’s ‘NO ORDINARY LIFE’ to the Convention Centre on the Gold Coast in January but it was a game changer.

With 3,000 youth and young adults gathered together, we intentionally pursued an atmosphere of faith where they encountered a life changing few days with God! The message was strong right throughout that God is awakening a young generation to their God call. On the final night we opened the front for a response to those who feel called to full time ministry and almost two thirds came forward! What an opportunity we have to disciple and champion these young people in our local churches!

– Cameron Bennett,Youth Alive National Leader

RESPONSE TO THE CALL TO FULL TIME MINISTRY – ALMOST TWO THIRDS OF THE YOUTH ALIVE DELEGATES CAME FORWARD

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ACCI has raised more than $900,000 for bushfire relief and recovery efforts through the support of churches and individuals throughout Australia.

Funds have been distributed in the form of grants to churches in fire affected areas and have so far provided emergency food, water and clothing, as well as generators, chainsaws, water pumps, farm equipment and livestock feed.

These grants will continue to be available, as pastors and leaders identify new needs and support people in their churches and communities to rebuild lost homes and livelihoods.

In partnership with Chaplaincy Australia, ACCI will also be providing short-term chaplains to bushfire affected areas and helping churches run community workshops around grief, loss and suicide prevention.

Donations are still welcome and will help ACCI support these churches and communities into the future.

ACC BUSHFIRE RELIEF EFFORTS After such a sombre start to the new year, as catastrophic conditions caused bushfires to escalate across Australia, it has been so uplifting to hear the many reports of how the ACC family has stepped up to help, support and care for those in desperate situations.

These unprecedented fires, compounded by the ongoing drought over the past decade, have been utterly devastating to our nation, yet in the midst of it, light always shines brighter in darkness.

Rebuilding what has been lost will take a long time, but we bring a message of hope that no-one needs to face the future alone.

To everyone who has put their hand up to help – from those physically fighting the fires, to others running evacuation centres, to many sending emergency supplies and making meals, to our chaplains who come alongside those in grief and trauma, and to the thousands who have prayed fervently and taken up donations for much needed finance to help those in communities who have lost everything ... THANK YOU SO MUCH for your love, kindness and generosity.

SCHOOL KIDS RAISE FUNDS

Brisbane Christian College hosted a free dress day on Tuesday, 19 February on all three campuses, to support individuals and families who weren affected by bushfires. Students came dressed in red and yellow to raise a College free dress record of over $2350 donated to ACCI Bushfire Relief. Thank you to all the students and teachers for their efforts.

Thank you FIREFIGHTERS

ACC pastor Peter Smith leads a local volunteer fire brigade in Tasmania, and was deployed to help fight fires interstate.

One of our amazing chaplains, Syd Miller, who has been helping communities on the south coast of NSW, assisted 80 year old Arthur with a generator, as his home was saved but had no electricity and water for10 days. His daughter wrote to say thank you: “It has restored my faith and my dad’s in the fact that there are good hearted people out there willing to above and beyond.”

CHAPLAINS

ACC pastor Jeremy Fernando, senior pastor of Sapphire Life church, and ambulance chaplain, supporting local communities on the NSW south coast.

EMERGENCY RELIEF

Local ACC churches everywhere across our nation, responding to appeals from providing meals, managing emergency collections, and taking up offerings.

CLICK HERE to read the ACC Bushfire Report (January 2020)

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BUSHFIRE UPDATE

GOD AT WORK IN EAST GIPPSLAND

SHANNON AND BEC RILEY, the senior pastors of Riviera|cc –The People’s Church, have seen large parts of their community in east Gippsland devastated by fire and members of their church lose property, pasture and their belongings. As their people have rallied together to make meals, deliver livestock feed, visit those in crisis and open their doors to people in need, Shannon and Bec share how they have also seen the love of God shine through in the most unforgettable way.

WE’VE BEEN ABLE TO HELP OUR COMMUNITY IN SO MANY PRACTICAL WAYS AND HAVE OUR ANSWER BE ‘YES’ ALL THE TIME.

Shannon and Bec Riley with daughter Maya, meeting a farmer who has just received feed from Riviera|CC. 28

Providing feed for a local farmer

The response to doing this has been incredible. Farmers are telling us that the feed we’re delivering is ‘pure gold’ and just what they need to survive. They’re also completely amazed it was a church which thought of it!

Social, emotional and spiritual support Our attention is now moving to the ongoing social, emotional and spiritual support of our community. Men and women who have lost everything continue to devote themselves to the care of those around them, including family and friends; our new initiatives are an opportunity to give back to those who often give the most, so they can have their emotional ‘tanks’ refilled.

We are also providing ongoing support through parenting and marriage courses, as well as referral to emergency services and counselling/psychology services. The task of restoring our community will fall on those who live in it and it is important that our fathers, mothers, sons and daughters know that they are not forgotten but valuable and vital to its wellbeing.

God at work What has been amazing is that with the support of our people, and of churches right across Australia, we’ve been able to help our community in so many practical ways and have our answer be ‘yes’ all the time. We’ve been blown away by the support and the level of assistance we’ve been able to provide because of the faithfulness of God’s people.

We can also see how even amongst the pain of this disaster, God has used it for His purpose and to reveal His promises.

Before we arrived at Riviera|cc, it had been prophesied that our church would be a lighthouse to the region. Not only that but at our induction as senior pastors, our national president, Pastor Wayne Alcorn, prophesied that we would pastor our region.

These are promises that we are starting to see God fulfil.

The reach our church has had in recent months is nothing short of miraculous. People who may otherwise have never stepped foot inside a church have experienced the love of Christ, as His Church has been the hands and feet of Jesus and helped them in their time of need. We are not for one moment glad the bushfires came but we can see how God has brought about His love and grace amongst the tragedy. And we have discovered purpose and promise in these difficult times.

‘

‘

Initial Response That first week, after the fires, was all about constantly calling people in our church to see if they were safe and what support they needed. We supplied generators, food, water and toiletries, and helped arrange billeting with other members of our church. We also opened our church facilities to the public as a safe place for people to have a coffee and a meal, and have someone to talk to.

During this time, we had volunteers cooking hundreds of meals in our industrial kitchen and we also made our land available for the storing of property, vehicles, caravans and livestock. In the following weeks, as all of those activities continued, our church also became a central place for people to meet each day to go out and do property recovery.”

What’s next?

We then started strategising about the missing gaps – asking ‘where is there no assistance so we can step in and help with that?’ We talked to the people who had been affected – people out on farms, as well as the mayor and people of influence – and we realised feeding livestock, with specific fodder other than hay, was an issue that no one was addressing.

Farmers were telling us that they couldn’t feed their animals because their paddocks had been destroyed by fire. Without support, they would have been forced to euthanise them or sell them at rock-bottom prices to the abattoirs, which were taking advantage of the situation.

We realised that it wasn’t just about feeding livestock but about seeing farms survive. We thought, if we can get farmers through this, we can get families through this and the broader community through this.

Volunteers packing donated items 29

Emergency workers and community members sharing a meal together at Riviera|CC

NEWS

LOSS OF CHARITY STATUS CONSIDERED FOR CHURCHES WHO DON’T SIGN UP TO NATIONAL REDRESS SCHEME The Federal Government has announced that they will consider using “all available levers to pressure non-participating institutions to join [the Redress Scheme] as a matter of urgency”, according to the Minister for Families and Social Services, Anne Ruston.

National Redress Scheme released publicly on 6 February 2020.

Local churches and institutions are required to sign up by the 30 June 2020 deadline. This means ACC churches have until 31 May 2020 to complete their application through ACS Mutual.

“At a recent meeting with state and territory ministers, we all agreed it is unacceptable that institutions with redress liability have not yet joined the Scheme,” she said.

For more information to ‘opt in’, please contact ACSF on (03) 9811 9844.

Suggestions to penalise those who fail to opt in include seeing churches, schools, sports clubs and orphanages have the suspension of tax concessions and charitable status, should they not sign up.

CLICK HERE to read Media Release ‘National Redress Scheme committed to greater accountability and transparency’ (6 Feb 2020) CLICK HERE to read Sydney Morning Herald articles ‘Big stick’ approach to force organisations to join sex abuse redress scheme (18 Feb 2020)

ACC local churches who have opted in through ACS Mutual were included among the list of 162 non-government institutions participating in the 30

Q: What is the National Redress Scheme?

The National Redress Scheme has been created in response to recommendations by the Royal Commission into Institutional responses to child sexual abuse after listening to cases of over 8,000 people about the abuse they experienced as children.

HAVE YOU SIGNED UP TO REDRESS YET? “Opting in to the Redress Scheme through ACS Mutual provides protection and covers you for any payments of redress made under the Scheme* as well as costs of facilitating a direct personal response...”

The National Redress Scheme acknowledges the fact that many children were sexually abused in Australian institutions and aims to recognise and alleviate the impact of past institutional child sexual abuse; and to provide justice for the survivors of that abuse.

Q: Why Do We Need To Be Part Of It? In a community, we are all responsible for the safety and protection of the vulnerable and no one is immune from risk. We often hear the words “It won’t happen to us, we have checks, systems and practices in place” or “We are a family church, it can’t happen.”

Unfortunately, we also hear: “We didn’t think it could happen to us! What do we do? We had no idea this could happen – how could we be liable?”

Q: How Are Churches & Schools Able To be A Part Of It? The ACS Mutual Participating Group has commenced an ‘Onboarding’ process as prescribed by the rules of the Redress Scheme.

The deadline is 31 May 2020

LEARN MORE www.acsfinancial.com.au

1800 531 463

ABN: 91 460 778 961 | AFSL/ACL: 247 388

31 * Subject to a retention amount

In practice, this is a process that involves a formal acknowledgement of your Church or School agreeing to be part of the Redress Scheme as an associate of the ACS Mutual Participating Group. It’s important to note that after 31 May 2020 the window of opportunity will be closed for good.

Q: What If I Still Have Questions?

Your ACS Mutual Service team is happy to answer any questions you may have and assist in any way possible to ensure this very important national initiative is successfully rolled out to our members.

Please do not hesitate to contact us on: 1800 531 465 if you have questions or concerns about opting in to the National Redress Scheme via ACS Mutual.

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NEW ACW LEADER JULIA A’BELL The National Executive is pleased to announce the appointment of Julia A’Bell as the new ACC National Women’s Director. She will give leadership to ACC State Women’s leaders and come alongside to support them as they serve the many incredible female pastors and leaders in the ACC movement. We celebrate the continual rising of credentialed female pastors in our movement and are excited to see what this next season brings, under Julia’s direction.

W

OMEN ARE WONDERFUL!

I’m always astounded by the potential I find in every woman I encounter. I was sitting with Michelle Fredericks (QLD/ NT ACW leader) in a cafe in January and marvelled at her resilience and passion for the Church. Michelle is a uniquely talented woman that God is obviously using to love people in the world around her.

Women are resourceful, intelligent, relational, strategic, creative, thoughtful, caring and abound in gift and talent.

(Truly, these words by no means exhaust how fabulous women are). I’ve experienced all these things and more from the women I have encountered within and around our movement.

I see an era of women rising up from within our movement that influence and change the social dynamic in every sphere and season they find themselves.

Leah James is one of our ACW girls who attends and serves in her local ACC church on Sunday. She’s an incredible wife and mum. On Monday

onwards she works full time in the Media sphere. Whatever sphere our ACC girls find themselves, my prayer is that they know the support and celebration of their local church and their movement.

I see women powerful in the prophetic and gracious in leadership environments that will bring godly perspective, wisdom and change.

I see women with the Word of God in their mouths, wielding the Word of God in their hands with authenticity and love that crosses the widest of divides.

I see women in board rooms, classrooms and art rooms alike, bringing feminine perspective and demonstrating the multi-facets of our powerful, present and all-knowing God. This decade will see a new empowering of women within the Church, as equal, unique and called.

Australian Christian Women will gather in various ways and formats as local churches express the feminine half in their unique ways, and as our beautiful states around Australia gather in unity.

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I am a woman born and raised in this wide brown land called Australia who is passionate about cheering on every woman to be who God has created her to be. I pray it would be said about this decade within the ACC, “we realised the potential of every women, we released her to be everything God created her to be, we broke down mindsets that isolated her from certain circles and we saw Jesus glorified because of what took place.”

I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the women of the Australian Christian Churches, ACC local churches, our state and nation as the Australian Christian Women’s national leader!

By God’s wildly amazing grace I am believing to see God work whatever He has on His heart through His perfectly diverse looking Church, at this time in our history.

Grateful and expectant, Julia A’Bell National ACW Leader

TRAVIEL

ACC PASTORS TOUR TO ISRAEL In January 2020, Pastor Wayne & Lyn Alcorn hosted a small group of ACC pastors on an eight day tour of Israel, coordinated by Keshet Journeys. ACC EMAG asked three of our State Presidents about their highlights and the impact of visiting the land where Jesus lived.

34

PAUL & ANNETTE BARTLETT NSW/ACT STATE PRESIDENT

JOEL & SHARON CHELLIAH WA STATE PRESIDENT

JOHN & FRANCINE HUNT QLD/NT STATE PRESIDENT

Q. WHAT DID YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT THE ACC PASTORS TOUR OF ISRAEL? PAUL BARTLETT: Being able to walk around where Jesus and the Disciples walked, really gave context to things we have read and taught on over the years.

It was also great to connect with the team we travelled with.

JOEL CHELLIAH: Israel is a fascinating nation to tour. We had so many special

moments on our journey and it was a privilege experiencing it with such amazing leaders.

JOHN HUNT: Some time ago now we did a tour of New York’s famous movie sites. That was interesting but it’s nothing compared to touring the

Holy Land and seeing sites that you have preached about for over 35 years.

Context is everything and understanding the geographical context of the movements of biblical characters gives a new depth and excitement to the understanding of Scripture.

Q. WAS THERE A SPECIFIC PLACE THAT YOU HAD A SPECIAL SPIRITUAL MOMENT OR REVELATION? PAUL BARTLETT: We were standing where the Sermon on the Mount was spoken by Jesus, just to recognise that this was one of places that Jesus spoke with and sat with the Disciples, it was also particularly significant as I had spent the last 12 months speaking from Matthew 5 where I had received fresh revelation. When we visited Shiloh and saw the temple where the ark of the covenant (presence of God) was for 369 years, it reminded me that God is not in things he is in people.

JOEL CHELLIAH: My personal highlight was the historical site for the Sermon on the Mount. There was something so special about being close to where Jesus preached his life changing message. Reading this powerful piece of scripture, overlooking the Sea of Galilee and experiencing the sights and sounds of the location, impacted me deeply.

FRANCINE HUNT: One of the many highlights was going to the mountain overlooking the Sea of Galilee where

Jesus prayed. Our group found some personal space while we were there and spent time in reflection, it was so peaceful just thinking about the fact that we were in the region where Jesus had been was quite moving.

JOHN HUNT: I was struck by how compact the old city of Jerusalem’s and by the superstitious of many visiting the places and monuments, they where hoping to find some residue of His presence. He is not there He is risen..

Q. WHAT DID GOING TO ISRAEL AND WALKING WHERE JESUS LIVED MEAN TO YOU AS A PASTOR? PAUL BARTLETT: It emphasised the physicality of Jesus’ life - even though Jesus was God, He walked out a very human life on earth, which helps us realise that Jesus does relate to our humanity.

JOEL CHELLIAH: I feel like the scriptures have come alive to me in a new way. I am so grateful that we had

the opportunity to do this and would definitely recommend putting a trip to Israel on the bucket list.

JOHN HUNT: You always get more from an experience when you enjoy it with friends. The team that traveled together clicked so well. In the begging we didn’t all know each other well, by the end we were all good friends.

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FRANCINE HUNT: My trip to Israel has impacted my life! Our guides were terrific, their knowledge of the bible and the way they lined up scripture with the places we went really brought it alive.

For more information on tours to Israel, visit: keshetjourneys.com

MENTORING

WHY

YOU NEED A

MENTOR DON’T BE IMPRESSED WITH CHARISMA, LOOK FOR CHARACTER. WHO PREACHERS ARE IS THE MAIN THING, NOT WHAT THEY SAY. – JESUS [MATT 7:15-20 (MSG)]

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THE IMPORTANTANCE OF MENTORING FOR MINISTRY LEADERS

BY KEITH FARMER & TIM HANNA

I

t is interesting that secular mentoring has become increasingly more prominent and valued within our society. Those of us in Christian ministry know that this is not a new trend, because there are many biblical examples about mentoring – the most predominant one being Jesus with His disciples.

The Sermon on the Mount, in Matthew chapters 5 to 7, is when Jesus taught on the Kingdom spirit and character that embraces purity of heart and a higher way of living.

We cannot ignore the fact that mentoring is one of the strong foundations of healthy, sustainable Christian leadership.

In John chapters 13-17, we read the final emphasis of Jesus to his discples before the they entered a new phase of ministry accompanied by the Holy Spirit.

If you think about a building, it’s foundations are generally unseen and unheralded but are of crucial importance. It is the same for foundations for sustainable and healthy ministry leadership. Christian maturity is the essence of leadership, and if mentoring is important in leadership development., then we all need a mentor.

The truth is that mentoring is essentially about discipling, and discipleship is simply about helping people to become mature in Christ.

It is significantly achieved through relationship.

Who you are vs What you do There is a vital difference between who you are and what you do. A Christian mentor to a leader is primarily focused on supporting and helping you with ‘who you are becoming’ rather than ‘what you achieving’ (which is what a coach does). Of course mentoring will inevitably involve some coaching but is primarily focused on helping Christian leaders to respond maturely and wisely to the circumstances of their ministry leadership role.

Two key passages in the Gospels indicate how much emphasis Jesus placed on who the disciples were becoming.

The Message translation says, “Don’t be impressed with charisma; look for character.

Who preachers are is the main thing, not what they say.” (Matt 7:15-20)

What you need in a Mentor Being supportive, guiding and encouraging are the key emphases of mentoring Christian leaders. The major outcome is Christian character formation, which is foundational for life, discipling and leadership, particularly during times of stress.

The key qualifications of a mentor of Christian leaders are :• a mature Christian who has had significant leadership experience • a person who is in ‘good shape’ generally i.e. loves God, family, church and people • a good listener with a pastoral heart • a passion for the well being of Christian leaders Mentors would normally have had, or be having, some equipping or training but this is subservient to the key mentoring factors of who the mentor is.

There are other supports which can be integrated with mentoring, such as Pastor to Pastor resources within a movement, Pastors Renewal Groups, Conferences providing inspiration and healing ministry, and availability of coaching resources.

A very good book for preparatory reading about Christian Mentoring is ‘Mentoring Matters’ by Rick Lewis.

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Mentoring works most effectively if it is encouraged by national leaders, and is safe and optional. Confidentiality is pivotal. Leaders should be able to choose who will be their mentor and any financial costs would normally be met by the ministry base of the leader i.e. the local church. It is also important that governance groups (such as board of elders) are encouraged to recognise that the ongoing health and sustainability of their pastoral leadership is a major factor in the effectiveness of the church’s ministry.

Two future articles in this series will address the key issues that mentors of Christian leaders should be addressing, as well as the major pressures being experienced by pastors presently in the Australian context.

Keith Farmer has a background in commece and psychology. He has been involved in local church ministries in NSW and Victoria and is passionate about helping Chirstian leaders.

Tim Hanna was senior pastor in three churches for over 30 years. He has been the CEO of Compassion Australia since 2010.

WELLBEING

HEALTHY

SLEEP 38

WHAT IF SLEEP IS A STEWARDSHIP ISSUE?

BY RUTH LIMKIN

P

astoring is rarely confined to office hours. Pre-marriage counselling, the youth leaders meeting, the final rehearsal with the creative team before Christmas, sitting with a family who have experienced separation or grief, late night wrestling of a thought into a coherent sermon – all of these contribute to a life that is full. It’s often joyfully embraced, fuelled by a sense of calling.

We know that serving God often requires sacrifice, but how do we find the balance between sacrifice and sabotage? How can we make sure that our habits and lifestyle don’t subvert what God wants to do through us?

In the previous ACC EMag, the first article in this series on pastor’s wellbeing, we looked at 1 Kings 18 and 19, and saw that after breakthrough prayer and signs and wonders, Elijah experience significant lows. God’s response was to send an angel to Elijah to have him rest and eat.

The question of rest – and sleep – is not an empty one. Did you know 40% of Australians are clinically sleep deprived.? The negative consequences of sleep deprivation are many, and include weight gain, compromised immune system, difficulty in thinking and concentrating, increased likelihood of anxiety or depression, increased chance of chronic disease including heart disease and diabetes, lowered libido, and increased risk of microsleeps when driving. It also makes you grumpy – and no one likes a grumpy pastor.

Sleep deprivation can sabotage what God wants to do in and through us. It may not be that we need to sleep more – although that may be true for you – but it’s likely that we need to sleep better.

Here are three key ingredients of a healthy sleep routine.

THREE KEY INGREDIENTS FOR A HEALTHY SLEEP LIFE sleep monitor. What was fascinating to me that participants didn’t note any subjective difference with their sleep in their sleep journal. Even though they physiologically lost sleep because of the caffeine, they didn’t consciously know it at first! To their own knowledge they were fast asleep, though they weren’t actually dipping into normal ranges of REM and deep sleep according to the sleep monitor.

You can also encourage better quality sleep by making sure your room is cool, dark and quiet. This may require some assistance from a fan, an eye mask or a white noise playlist.

1. A healthy sleep routine is sufficient True or false?

• The optimum number of regular sleeping hours for an adult is eight whole hours. True False • I can get by on just 5 to 6 hours of sleep a night.

True False Both are false. We all need different amounts of sleep, but extensive studies show that adults require 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night to be healthy. If you are regularly having less that seven hours of sleep per night, you are likely compromising your wellbeing and effectiveness without realising it.

Whatever it is for you, a healthy sleep routine ensures that you are getting sufficient sleeping hours every night.

3. A healthy sleep routine is the standard Your body thrives on routine. If you want to truly reap the benefits, a sufficient and sound night’s sleep needs to be the standard, not the exception.

Are there ways that you can make positive changes to your schedule and habits to ensure that you are not subverting God’s intention for you? Can you role model for people how to honour God’s design for their life?

2. A healthy sleep routine is sound It’s not just about being in bed – it’s about sleeping well. Various substances can disrupt our sleep.

For instance, there is a myth that alcohol helps us sleep. While it may make us drowsy and help us get to sleep, it actually disrupts sleep cycles, stealing our rest and sabotaging our productivity the next day.

I always thought that caffeine didn’t affect me and would be convinced that I could have a coffee right before bed with no ill-effects. It was a rude shock when I read Sleep Smarter by Shawn Stevenson.

He pointed to research led by Dr Christopher Drake, PhD, associate professor of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences at Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit. This study showed that when participants consumed caffeine six hours before bedtime, they had a measurable objective loss of one hour of sleep shown via

Next Steps There are plenty of great resources on sleep. At The Banyans, we recommend guests read Sleep Smarter

by Shawn Stevenson. It’s an easy read with 21 simple strategies towards a better night’s rest. I’d encourage you to buy this and look at ways you can improve your capacity to fulfil God’s call through learning how to sleep well.

Ruth Limkin is a credentialed pastor with the ACC, and is the founding CEO of The Banyans Health & Wellness, a multimodel residential health retreat.

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At Civic Australia, we focus on four main features of sustainable development. This comprises of; Economic, Human, Social and Environmental.

ECONOMIC - We are giving 2020 HSC

SOCIAL - Civic Australia donates to the Rapid Relief Team so they can continue to help and support communities in a time of need. These donations support drought stricken farmers and those affected by the bushfires.

students a chance to upskill and become qualified in their subject related industry.

We believe it’s only fair that young people get a chance to fulfill their dreams and gain workplace experience before they enter the workforce.

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PROTECTION

CYBER SECURITY

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR CHURCH AGAINST CYBER BASED CRIMES

T

he growth in cyber based crime is increasing, and is fast becoming a key risk for churches, charities and Not-For-Profits to be aware of.

Your organisation no doubt relies on email, online banking, social media platforms, apps and other software programs to manage the day to day operation of your ministry. It is time for churches to put cyber risks under the spotlight, be aware of the dangers and minimise the chance of becoming a victim of cyber-crime.

What is Cyber-crime?

Criminal activity carried out using a computer and/or the internet, with the goal of gaining unauthorised access to, or procuring digital information – primarily of a personal or financial nature. Before implementing strategies to counteract a cyber-attack, let’s first understand the different types of risks, and how they may affect your organisation.

Potential effects of a cyber-attack • Reputational damage • Possible breach of Privacy Laws • Malware shutting down your systems – disrupting business • Money being transferred to scammers Identity theft • Stealing of data including credit card information, banking details, personal or sensitive information Cyber criminals will often target organisations such as churches and NotFor-Profits because they tend to have limited resources, making them more vulnerable to attacks.

This, teamed with older computers which haven’t been regularly updated, a large proportion of volunteer staff who may not be well trained in information and data security processes, use of free software programs or cheap web hosting and lack of adequate resources to guard data and defend against cyber-attacks, make for easy targets.

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​Common forms of Cyber Crime SOCIAL ENGINEERING/ PHISHING EMAILS ​Social Engineering uses deception to manipulate individuals into providing confidential or personal information that may be used for fraudulent purposes.

A common example is where a person receives a phishing email which is a clever, authentic looking email aimed at tricking the individual into providing sensitive information or carrying out tasks through deceptive means.

It could include clicking on a malicious link or attachment, or a re-direction to a fake website which requires you to update your details and provide a password.

Quite often the email will look like it comes from a legitimate sender.

Claim Example: The church treasurer received an

email from the Senior Pastor, who was overseas on a mission trip at the time.

The email requested that they transfer $5000 urgently to his bank account as a situation had arisen where the additional funds were required.

The bank BSB and account details were provided in the email.

The email appeared to have come from the Pastor’s email address, the circumstances lined up with the fact that he was overseas at the time, and the request for additional funds was not entirely unreasonable in the situation.

Without any additional checks and balances, the funds were transferred, only to realise later that the Pastor’s email had been hacked, and funds transferred to a cyber-criminal.

S​ tatistics show that 23% of recipients open phishing emails and 11% click on attachments. ​How can I tell if an email is a phishing email? ​The message may contain a mismatched URL (hover your mouse over the top of the URL and you should see the actual hyperlinked address. If it is different from the address that is displayed it is probably fraudulent or malicious) The email claims to be sent from a senior executive of the business The content will have a degree of urgency about it The message may contain poor spelling or grammar The message asks for personal information (e.g. A password, credit card number or answer to a security question) In 2017 Australia faced over 10 million cyber-attacks.

Many of these attacks are directed at small businesses or not-for-profits, particularly because their security protocols and systems are less sophisticated than large corporates.

What to do if you receive a phishing email • Do not respond to the email.

• Do not click on any of links or attachments in the email.

• If you have an IT Department or Service Provider, forward the email to them to verify • Delete the email

• Block the sender and warn other recipients How to avoid becoming a victim of a phishing email or social engineering scam Check emailed invoices carefully to ensure that it is a legitimate request for payment. Verify the account directly with the provider (source contact details via a source other than those contained in the suspect email) Have clearly defined processes for verifying and paying accounts and invoices.

Look very carefully at requests to change banking details.

Always verify changes to payment details directly with the business or individual using contact numbers previously provided by the vendor/ supplier before the request to change was received.

Ensure that there is a review of all changes to banking records by a second person before a change is processed.

Never provide your organisations banking, financial or accounting details to unverified parties.

Train your staff to recognise scam emails.

MALWARE Software is used to disrupt computer or mobile operation, gather sensitive information or gain access to a computer.

Quite literally – Malware is MALicious softWARE. 10 tips to prevent a Malware attack 1. Install Anti-Virus/Malware software – this is a must have first step to keeping your computers virus free.

2. Keep Anti-Virus software up-to-date – once you have anti-virus software make sure you maintain it.

3. Run regular scans with your AntiVirus software – set your computers to run regular, scheduled scans (once a week is preferred) 4. Keep your operating system current – operating system developers are always issuing OS updates. Just as you would keep your anti-virus software up to date, so to with your operating system.

5. Secure your Network – Make sure computers that connect to files, printers or the Internet via a Wi-fi connection requires password access, 43

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

and that the password is strong. If you regularly have guests who may need to use your Wi-fi connection – provide a specific guest login which provides limited access, and a different password to your main connections.

Think before you click – don’t open email attachments from unknown sources, don’t click on links in unsolicited email, check URL links by hovering over the link to ensure it is taking you to a legitimate site.

Keep personal information safe – many hackers will employ social engineering tactics to gather your personal information. Gathering little snippets from various online accounts you may have will enable them to build a bigger picture and potentially steal your identity. Ensure privacy settings are set to high.

Avoid using open Wi-fi – if you can access it so easily, what can a trained hacker do with the same access?

Back up your files – back them up to an external hard-drive and keep it in a different location.

Use multiple strong passwords – Keep it easy to remember but difficult to guess.

CRYPTO LOCKER Crypto locker is malware which restricts access to computer files and demands payment in order to be removed and file access restored.

The most common method of infection is via emails with unknown attachments.

These emails can often appear to be from legitimate sources like your bank or workplace.

These types of malware attacks can cause serious damage to personal and business computers.

What to do if your computers are infected with a Crypto locker • Disconnect your machine from any others and from any external drives – you don’t want the ransomware to spread to other devices on your network • Use your phone or camera to take a photo of the ransom note that has appeared on your screen • Contact an expert who can determine if anti-virus or anti-malware software will be able to clean the ransomware from >

your machine, and potentially recover and restore back up files • File a Police report – this may be necessary if you intend on making an insurance claim or take legal action. It also assists authorities to keep track of new and emerging threats.

Implement a Cyber Security Checklist Following are some basic checks to help establish a Cyber Security Check List for your organisation.

• Keep all your software up to date.

When was it last updated?

• Install a reliable antivirus solution.

What do we have installed and is it appropriate for our needs?

• Enhance your security with a product that can block attacks antivirus cant detect.

• Use strong passwords and change them often. Can our system automatically prompt staff to update passwords?

Strong passwords often contain at least 8 characters and use a combination of special characters, numbers and some capital letters. An example would be something like: FrEte@3cyb29 • Activate and use two step verification where available. Two step verification

is the process of verifying your identity twice using different methods. The most popular method for two step verification is logging in using your email address and a password which then sends a unique code to your phone and only after entering the code correctly gives you access to what you’re trying to log into.

• Avoid oversharing information on social media. Does your organisation have a Social Media policy? When was it last reviewed and updated?

• Back up your data. Do it often. Back it up in several places. When was data last backed up? How often do you back up data? Where is data stored?

• Never open emails from unknown senders. Are your staff trained to recognise suspicious email communications? How is training implemented? When was last training/ refresher undertaken?

• Never download or open attachment sent from unknown senders.

• Keep financial information safe and don’t share with anyone. Who on your staff is authorised to access financial information online? Have they been provided with policies and procedures relating to safe processing of online

44

transactions? Are requests for changes to bank account details by suppliers checked directly with the supplier, by telephone, with a known contact before amending?

• Avoid untrusted websites and don’t click on suspicious banners or links.

• Adjust privacy and security settings in browsers and apps. When were privacy and security settings last reviewed? Learn the basics of cyber security and improve your protection.

Resources The increased frequency and sophistication of these types of cybercrimes highlights the need for all organisations and individuals to be more vigilant around all manner of online activity.

• Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) : • Australian Government’s Scamwatch • Stay Smart Online Alert Service ​ Insurance Options: Some of the products already offered by ACS Insurance Services, provide some limited cover for cyber-crimes.

More info: Contact ACSF 1800 531 451

NEW RELEASES

GREAT PICK FOR HOME IN ISOLATION

SAVING CHRISTIANITY?

The Danger Of Undermining Our Faith... and What You Can Do About It

By Michael Youssef A clear and frank exploration of the future of Christianity and whether it needs to be saved.

We live in confusing times. Our society has shifted on its moral axis, and many are asking whether Christianity needs to be reinvented-or even reimagined-in order to save it. With Newsweek declaring “The Decline and Fall of Christian America” on its cover and The Daily Beast questioning “Does Christianity Have a Future?” bloggers and Christian commentators are discussing whether we need a “new of kind of Christianity.”

In Saving Christianity? Dr. Michael Youssef explores this train of thought and its pitfalls.

He describes how similar discussions in Christianity’s recent past explored the very same question. Saving Christianity? will help you discern what is going on within the church while it reviews the essentials of the Christian faith as described in the Bible.

We dare not abandon this “mere faith,” as Dr. Youssef describes it, because it is the light for all humanity-and especially for those of us living in today’s chaotic times.

After reading Saving Christianity? you’ll have a renewed confidence in the future of the church and the central place it will occupy for generations to come.

RUN THE RACE!

Discover Your Purpose and Experience the Power of Being on God’s Winning Team

By Christine Caine In Run The Race! Christine Caine reminds readers that as Christians, they are born to win. Their purpose is to run in the divine race of life until the day they cross the finish line and hear the words of their father, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Based on her bestselling book Unstoppable, and using her own dramatic story, Christine shows how God rescued her from a life where she was unnamed, unwanted, and unqualified ... and how she overcame abuse, abandonment, and fears.

She encourages readers with the truth that they are assured of victory. Each person has a race to run in life. It’s a race with eternal implications. But life is sometimes difficult. The task seems to tough, the path too perilous, the race too rigorous.

In Run the Race!, readers are reminded that they know the outcome of the race before it begins, and that knowledge should revolutionise the way they run their race, the way they live their lives. She enthralls readers with stories and timeless principles that inspire people of faith to run the race of their life, receiving the baton of faith in sync with their winning team--the body of Christ. God has chosen them, prepared them and placed them on His team. They are unstoppable.

GOD’S HOSTAGE

A True Story of Persecution, Imprisonment, and Perseverance

By Andrew Brunson The incredible true story of one man’s imprisonment for the gospel; his brokenness, God’s faithfulness and his eventual freedom.

In 1993, Andrew Brunson was asked to travel to Turkey, the largest unevangelised country in the world, to serve as a missionary. Though hesitant because of the daunting and dangerous task that lay ahead, Andrew and his wife, Norine, believed this was God’s plan for them.

What followed was a string of threats and attacks, but also successes in starting new churches in a place where many people had never met a Christian. As their work with refugees from Syria, including Kurds, gained attention and suspicion, Andrew and Norine acknowledged the threat but accepted the risk, determining to stay unless God told them to leave.

In 2016, they were arrested. Though the State eventually released Norine, who remained in Turkey, Andrew was imprisoned. Accused of being a spy and being among the plotters of the attempted coup, he became a political pawn whose story soon became known around the world.

This is Andrew’s remarkable story of his imprisonment and journey of faith.

New releases can be ordered online from www.koorong.com or www.word.com.au 45

NEW RELEASES

LEADERSHIP PERSONALITY vs CHARACTER

IVAN HERALD David As A Leader: Studies In The Humanity Of Leadership

ACRES OF DIAMONDS

Discovering God’s Best Right Where You Are

By Jentezen Franklin Are you in a season of life where every search for direction, encouragement, or fulfillment seems to come up empty? You thought God had you in a place to thrive and grow, but you are ready to call it quits.

There has to be something better.

You don’t need a new garden; you just need to learn how to dig! In Acres of Diamonds, pastor and New York Times bestselling author Jentezen Franklin helps you discover the unfathomable riches Jesus Christ has for you. Rather than chase after a better life, you can celebrate the untold spiritual provision to be found even in the midst of spiritual deprivation.

Readers will learn to cherish where God has placed them as they uncover the hidden potential within their families, jobs, ministries, and communities . . . right where they are.

DANGEROUS PRAYERS Because Following Jesus Was Never Meant To Be Safe

By Craig Groeschel

New York Times best-selling author Lisa Do you ever wonder, “Why doesn’t God answer my prayers?” Do you wish you could see the evidence that prayer changes lives? Are you tired of playing it safe with your faith? In Dangerous Prayers, New York Times best-selling author Craig Groeschel helps you unlock your greatest potential and tackle your greatest fears by praying stronger, more passionate prayers that lead you into a deeper faith.

Prayer moves the heart of God - but some prayers move Him more than others. He wants more for us than a tepid faith and half-hearted routines at the dinner table. He’s called you to a life of courage, not comfort.

This book will show you how to pray the prayers that search your soul, break your habits, and send you to pursue the calling God has for you. But be warned: if you’re fine with settling for what’s easy, or you’re OK with staying on the sidelines, this book isn’t for you. You’ll be challenged.

You’ll be tested. You’ll be moved to take a long, hard look at your heart.

But you’ll be inspired, too.

You’ll be inspired to pray boldly. To pray powerfully. To pray with fire. You’ll see how you can trade ineffective prayers and lukewarm faith for raw, daring prayers that will push you to new levels of passion and fulfillment. You’ll discover the secret to overcome fears of loss, rejection, failure, and the unknown and welcome the

LEADERSHIP:

Personality vs Character

By Ivan Herald

‘Leadership: Personality vs Character.’ is a lifetime of work of Ivan Herald, Exec.

Director of OzFame, who wants to invest in ministry by giving his work on David entirely free to ministers and leaders (the only cost will be an office ‘administration cost’ of $20).

The 330 leadership studies of King David are broken up into 12 fascinating phases of King David’s life. It shares a ‘warts and all’ look at David, and his leadership abilities.

If you choose to get the studies the entire set will be sent as an electronic file. You can use the studies for personal development, or thought-promotion, or your leadership development within your church and ministry.

They are print-ready to be run off (A4 format). The studies are very userfriendly.

Contact: ozfame@bigpond.com to be sent a free ‘An Introduction Profile,’ and a sample of three of the studies.

330 electronic leadership studies of King David available for free to ACC pastors (only an admin fee of $20 required)

New releases can be ordered online from www.koorong.com or www.word.com.au 46