ACC EMag #3 2020

#3 2020

EMAG

quarterly publication for acc leaders

The

posture of

Biblical Justice France for JESUS

Post-Covid

perspectives

Mental

Health

Issue

A JOURNEY through

SUICIDE

Suicidal Ideation is not a Death Wish

MILLENNIALS AND THE

CHURCH

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NAIDOC WEEK

8–15 November

SIDE

Cover photo: iStock

MENTAL HEALTH ISSUE Mental Health has always been of great concern but the Covid pandemic has escalated the number of cases, in particular, the increase in suicide. This edition looks at how the Church can help in this area of great need.

IN

EDITORIAL

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Prayer & Care by Wayne Alcorn NEWS Honouring our ‘Generals’: George Forbes & John Lewis Back in Church: @accsnapshot Virtual Gatherings: Online events International News Productive Covid Season ‘I see a University’: Stephen Fogarty PERSPECTIVES Questions about the Post-Covid Church by Joel A’Bell

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The Impact of Covid19 on Churches by Graeme Kirkwood Missions in a Post-Covid World by Alun Davies

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INDIGENOUS Cultural Safety & Indigenous Training NAIDOC Week 2020 by Will & Sandra Dumas

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MENTAL HEALTH FOCUS

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Night Seasons by Brad Bonhomme SUICIDE A Journey Through Suicide by Kayla Stoecklein

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Suicide Prevention Training by Rebecca Loundar

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Suicidal Ideation is not a Death Wish by Robi Sonderegger

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INTERVIEW Mental Health Care: Ruth Limkin speaks to Peter Hayton

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MILLENNIALS Dis-Connection: Young Adults Drifting from Church life

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Millennials and the Church by Benjamin Windle

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CHURCH PLANTING France For Jesus: Peter & Mariela Demetriou’s journey

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JUSTICE The Posture of Biblical Justice by Kirsty Emery & Jacqueline Grey

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FAMILY Heaven’s Highway or Hell on Wheels? by Daryl J Potts

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ENCOURAGEMENT Desert Blooms by Alison Bonhomme

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RESOURCES New Releases

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Prayer & Care

BY WAYNE ALCORN

W

e’ve heard a lot over recent months about the tragic effects COVID-19 is having upon the physical and mental wellbeing of many people, and the devastating blow it is having upon the economy.

CARE FOR OTHERS We are seeing how this season is affecting the mental health of many Australians, our young in particular, so let’s keep encouraging each other at this time.

A POSTURE OF PRAYER

There’s no doubt Covid has rocked every generation on the planet; however, I have become aware that young adults seem to be struggling more with their faith and involvement with church in these times. Isolation and loneliness are major factors when social activities are limited, and its easy to start drifting away.

What is important is that we retain a posture of prayer in these days. I have a conviction in my heart that prayer changes things… and that we need to rise again to the challenge of praying fervently in Jesus’ name. As we press in to the spiritual, I believe we will see things change in the natural. Let’s keep fighting this Coronavirus on our knees.

I encourage you to give attention to the young adults in your world. Check in on them regularly, remind them of their value and include them so they are actively being involved in church life. Take the time to get in touch with anyone you know who is doing it tough. It can make the world of difference to them to know they are not alone.

KEEPING OUR EYES ON JESUS Where we keep our focus in these times is so crucial to our wellbeing. What we behold, we become. By keeping our eyes on the Lord, we build faith, rather than letting our eyes drop to everything happening around us, which breeds fear.

SELF CARE Finally, may I encourage you to continue to maintain all the important disciplines to maintain strength and vitality in your body, soul and spirit.

One thing we all need to be mindful of is the impact of a lot of screen time. The Covid pandemic has meant we’re all on our digital devices more than usual, using whatever platform we can to connect with people. There is no doubt that this has been a great convenience and blessing that’s enabled us to keep ministering.

However, it’s worth considering how social media may be changing our focus and how we lead people. I’d recommend reading the article by Carey Nieuwhof identifying five challenges with being a local pastor/leader in the age of social media. Click here to read article

Take some time out this week to...

• Relax by doing something you enjoy • Do some physical exercise • Share your burdens with someone you trust • Make sure you get adequate sleep and rest • Spend some personal time in the presence of the Lord We are praying for you. Stay strong and vigilant in these days.

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

HONOURING OUR ‘GENERALS’ On 22nd August, two much loved ACC ‘generals’ entered eternity, both leaving incredible legacies of their faithful service and leadership, and an inspiration for us today to lay down our lives to build the Kingdom.

GEORGE FORBES

JOHN LEWIS

1932- 2020

1942- 2020

The ACC family honours the life and service of Pastor George Forbes who spear-headed the AOG missions arm for almost three decades and established the solid foundation for our missions work today.

One of the great leaders of our movement, Pastor John Lewis, served on the State and National Executives, and chaired the board of the Bible College, to pave the way for Alphacrucis in the new millennium.

Born again and Spirit-filled in 1949, George immediately sensed and obeyed God’s call into full-time ministry. Following Bible college training, he served seven churches over 20 years in pastoral leadership together with his wife, Nancy.

Born in England, John gave his life to the Lord at the age of nine. The Lewis family immigrated to Australia in 1951 and eventually settled in Melbourne He worked as a plumber and completed teacher’s college, before marrying Val Doubikin in 1964. He served as youth pastor at Richmond Temple and travelled around Victoria, preaching.

He was then recruited by Pastor CL Greenwood in 1969 as Secretary-Treasurer of Foreign Missions for the Assemblies of God in Australia, and was handed a ‘shoebox of files and information’ on missions.

This turning point expanded in 1973, when the Assemblies of God in Australia appointed him General Director of World Missions. Over the next decades, George served the fellowship, growing an ever-expanding team until there were more than 150 adults in the missionary team, serving full time in over 30 countries.

In 1972, John and Val relocated to Calvary Temple, Townsville with their young family to join the youth team. They went on to plant the Ingham church and establish The Ark café, inspired by The Cross & the Switchblade.

In 1976 John was invited to become Senior Pastor of the Stafford AOG in Brisbane. The church grew rapidly under his leadership as Northside Christian Family church (today Nexus Church) and established Northside Christian College in 1985.

Together with Val, he led Northside for 31 years.

One striking example was the Assemblies of God of Papua New Guinea, which grew to consist of more churches and members than ACC Australia, as, under George’s guidance, the number of missionaries was reduced so the focus could be shifted to unreached peoples. With a seemingly indefatigable passion and global vision, he inspired leaders, raised finances and led this dynamic mission for thirty years, finally retiring in 1999.

George is internationally recognised as a missions mobiliser and strategist, and an inspirational communicator of missions, always drawing attention to the ‘gospel-deprived’ the unreached people groups. A competent storyteller, he drew on a wealth of knowledge and skillfully communicated God’s heart for the world, orally, and through his well-researched writings, which earned him a number of degrees. Most significantly however, he catalysed generations of leaders to commit their lives for Jesus Christ and His Cause in the earth!

John served the movement in numerous leadership levels; he served on the Queensland State Executive as State President, and served on the National Executive for over 20 years, and was elected as the National Vice President in 1997.

In 1999, he became chair of the board of the Southern Cross Bible College (later renamed Alphacrucis College) which he served for nine years.

After retiring from day to day ministry, John & Val continued to minister in local churches and heading up the ACC Pastors Emeritus as national leaders.

In 2020, John was diagnosed John with Mesothelioma and valiantly fought in faith until he passed away into eternity on 21 August 2020.

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NEWS

Back in Church

With Covid restrictions slowly beginning to ease, there has been great joy and celebration as churches start to open their doors and return to services in person. @accsnapshot shared some of the moments in local churches around Australia.

Follow @accsnaphot on Instagram

HAPPY SUNDAY - whatever your church experience - online, in person or a combination of both. @kingdomcitycarriers

Welcome back to @lifeandlegacychurch in Brisbane Psalm 100:2 Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into his presence with singing!

Keeping everyone COVID safe in South Australia @influencersmountbarker Adelaide Hills.

Elbow bumps are the new hugs. @_risechurch in Lightsview, Adelaide. For those not able to meet in person, sending virtual hugs and elbow bumps today.

As restrictions eased in Western Australia, most churches are meeting again in person. Socially distanced worship @everlife.church in North Perth.

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NEWS

Virtual gatherings With restrictions on travel and large gatherings, ministries took an innovative approach making this the year of the virtual conference.

VIRTUAL PANASIA 2020 29,330+ views

KIDSHAPER VIRTUAL CONFERENCE Over 1,000 Kids leaders

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT VIRTUAL SUMMIT Enlarging Community focus

Field workers, mission partners and pastors from around the world came together for PanAsia 2020 in the first week of August.

The virtual gathering saw people tuning in from their loungerooms, home offices and kitchens to hear from the ACCI team, guest speakers and our amazing field workers.

Making use of Facebook, YouTube and Instagram, the five days of PanAsia saw a mix of pre-recorded devotions, sermons and field worker updates, along with live prayer sessions and informal coffee chats conducted over Zoom.

Even with the online format, there was a real sense of community and family togetherness – something many found encouraging in these tumultuous times.

Field workers and church partners alike were also thrilled to have found a new way of staying connected with the work that is being done around the world and each other.

Engagement across the three platforms was high throughout the five days, with a huge 29,330+ views recorded on Facebook alone.

Want to see for yourself?

Click here to view our pre-recorded PanAsia content, including all the threeminute field worker updates.

Kidshaper 2020 looked different this year but what wasn’t lost was the connection and lean in from 1,000 Kids pastors and leaders around Australia and beyond who linked in for the Kidshaper Virtual Conference.

ACC National President Wayne Alcorn and Justin Edge, the children’s pastor from Life.Church, joined Andy & Christie Kirk to encourage the Kids Pastors and Leaders around what we can do in this season.

Kidshaper is not conference without the annual song from Dave and Dan who did not disappoint with their ‘live, prerecorded’ item.

The second half of the online conference switched platforms with six incredible local ACCkids Team members hosting Electives on Zoom, with all delegates receiving the entire Media pack post conference.

The elective topics included: Changing the Success Matrix: Engaging the whole family; Think with the end in mind: Toy and Tech trends, along with Primary and Early Childhood Ministry.

If you missed the night you can go to our ACCkids website and access the content from the Resources page. www. acckids.org.au We look forward to 2021, to meet together in person, continue online expressions and together continue to grow in all things Kids Ministry.

Delegates from churches around the nation joined Paul Bartlett and the State Community Engagement Team, to discuss and share ideas on Church and community, particularly in the changing Covid world.

“We can’t do church the same way as it has been done before,” stated Paul Bartlett, acknowledging that Covid is enabling the Church to think differently about the way we reach people.

Paul went on to share seven points on finding new ways to “enlarge the place of our tent” from Isaiah 54:2.

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1. Build People Not Buildings 2. Emphasis on Neighbourhood 3. Flexibility and acting quickly 4. Partnership is greater than resource 5. Create a Discipleship Pathway 6. Mental Health is the new pandemic 7. Getting Qualified “The greatest danger for the Church is that we’re just hanging on so we can go back to what we used to do,” said Paul.

“Covid is forcing us to have conversations and can have an impact on us to change.”

As Dermot Cottuli shared, “Community involvement cannot be a one-off event. We have to build relationships that are ongoing and relational or it won’t last. It’s about serving people with no agendas or strings attached but simply that “we’re here to serve”.

UWS Watch Party Over 40,000 people reached

UNITED WE STAND (UWS) is usually hosted in 100 or so locations around Australia, but this year had a multi-faceted approach due to Covid restrictions.

To cater for every state, Youth Alive launched Australia’s Biggest Watch Party, viewed by groups of youth ministries together; individual youth ministries; connect groups; house parties, and of course, those who had to go solo (yes that was you, Victoria!)

Everyone absolutely raved about the Watch Party held on Friday 14 August.

We managed to keep everyone riveted to the screen for a full 50 minutes with a huge variety of segments from games and pranks; a song collaboration where youth groups from all over the country contributed; a School’s Rev lead prayer from students in every state; incredible worship from our Youth Alive Band, and one of the best presentations we’ve seen of the Gospel, by Nathan Finochio.

The live stream reached over 40,000 young people and the most exciting thing from this year was the partnership with Alpha who provided resource for young people to access themselves. Although it’s hard to ascertain exactly how many

HOW ACCKIDS CAN SERVE YOUR LOCAL CHURCH 1. MENTOR PROGRAM If your church is looking to expand your influence and knowledge in kids ministry then the ACCkids Mentor Program will provide you with great support. https://acckids.org.au/mentor/ 2. ACCKIDS ACADEMY As your young leaders consider Study options for 2021 then maybe they can consider the ACCkids Academy that is running Nation wide in conjunction with the Youth Alive Academy https://acckids.org.au/academy/ 3. LEADERSHIP PODCAST Each week a new Leadership Podcast drops to keep you current and up to date with all things Kids Ministry and Leadership. Click here 7

young people responded to the Gospel, based on other years it is estimated around 10%, which would be 4,000.

More youth ministries than ever before are actively using the incredible Alpha resource to further disciple the new-tofaith young people in their youth groups.

More than 200 registered to host a course.

A huge thank you to every single youth pastor and leader who always continue to see and outwork the vision to reach as many young people with the gospel of Jesus Christ.

– Cameron and Renee Bennett

PERSPECTIVES

Questions about the

The impact of Cov

Post-Covid Church

By Joel A’Bell There is a lot of discussion about what the Church will look like post Covid e.g. What will stay the same? What will change? What did we put too much of an emphasis on?

Whatever comes next must be met with prayer and searching the scriptures for God’s intent, more than our own, for His church. It could be that we have enjoyed how much it has become about us. Some Christian leaders get to enjoy a lifestyle unfamiliar to many pastors, and many congregations are tantalised by a consumer program model.

“For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 14:17 NLT) God’s kingdom must consume us as a greater priority than our buildings and programs. Buildings only serve to house what God is doing in the lives of people. Beware of the urgency to rush back to church when God is doing something unprecedented amongst His people. His glory is deepening in the hearts of people. God is moving amongst His scattered Church and what will result is a stronger gathered church in the days to come.

Ezekiel describes two variants of God’s glory either side of the valley of dry bones. One is where the glory has departed the temple, as they knew it. The other is a picture of God’s glory in a new temple with a river that flows out and makes the Dead Sea live again. Probably a picture of God pouring out His Spirit on the day of Pentecost and birthing His kingdom in us, the new church.

So before we rush back to our buildings, let’s take some time to calibrate what Jesus is saying to His Church.

By Graeme It is now over six months in since most countries announced some form of voluntary or compulsory restrictions. The COVID19 measures are taking effect in various ways in various nations and many countries are now facing a re-emergence of the virus. This is prompting governments of various Countries and States to react differently and at times, contradictory to each other.

The following key items have been noted: • Countries that are allowing churches to return to worship have restrictions that are more severe than restrictions in other places of public assembly such as clubs and hotels. There is considerable discussion about the ethics and spiritual nature of this perspective.

• Generally, churches where tithing and sacrificial giving has been methodically taught has left them is a stronger financial position.

• Sacrificial giving in Miracle offerings has not dropped as much as first expected. In Australia churches are reporting a drop of between 10% and 20% .

• Other dedicated giving such as Missions giving is being severely affected. Some have experienced a reduction of over 50%. This is causing some re-alignment of internal spending so that Missions support is being paid from general Tithes and Offerings.

• Return to ‘normal services’ Most Australian capital cities are yet to resume large group physical attendance whereas New Zealand and the USA have been back for several weeks.

Our preliminary data is showing that churches are not returning to pre COVID attendance levels. However, the shortfall in physical in-service attendance is offset by an “equal to” or “greater” increase in online in New Zealand and Australia.

• What have we learned about the way we lead?

• What have we learned about the way we consume?

• What does it really mean to love thy neighbour?

Home Church... it’s captured my heart. I really think God is wanting to do something new everywhere. @joelabell #rvtls

• What does the ideal disciple look like?

• Is worship just the songs we sing or many obedient steps in a long direction toward Christ likeness?

What the global Church does next could be the difference between a world who sees church as normal or a humanity who gasps at the authenticity of heaven in our lives as we endeavour to live the simple (but powerful) message of God’s saving grace through the love of Jesus.

Joel A’Bell is senior pastor of RVTLS church and member of the National Executive.

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Missions

in a Post-Covid World

vid19 on churches

By Alun Davies

Kirkwood

Many of us are feeling frustrated, uncertain and uncomfortable about what’s happening in the world right now. We want to know when things will return to normal. When borders will open up. When a COVID vaccine will be available...

The statistical data we have collected for New Zealand is that between 9% and 22% have not returned and attended physical services. In the USA, statistics from three mega churches are that they are 65%, 50% and 45% down on regular attendance. The New Zealand model would be more applicable in Australia

Yet, missions have always operated and thrived in environments of uncertainty. Our missionaries know what it is to live with uncertainty and to have to constantly adapt to their environments.

Missionaries also have a history of going into places of great need, where hope is in short supply. A lot like what we’re facing right now.

• Missing congregation demographic. We have been able to identify in the limited data available some key groupings who are not willing or able to return. These are • Aged or infirm especially with respiratory illnesses. This grouping is self-explanatory and it is likely to be foundered on medical advice and risk mitigation • Previous experience in a pan or epidemic. We have had a number of reports of smaller groupings not returning because they have been through a pan or epidemic previously, and see the risk as unacceptable without a antidote or vaccine being available.

• Millennials. The common acceptance is those born in the 1980s to the early 2000s, so this would be the 20s to 40s age group. The earlier ages could be impacted as the result of university attendance no longer a possibility and they have returned to their originating location. Those who are older mid 30s (say) are the puzzle. We have had individual reports from Senior Leaders of a reticence due to “fear of ” exposure for their children, to the “selfish generation”, to the new habits have now been formed and that at home, on the couch, watch “Church on TV” is now the norm.

These are the people you want in your corner when you’re faced with a global crisis. Because they operate with a long-term view, can deliver effective solutions with limited resources, and are able to build strong cross-cultural partnerships. Most importantly, they are willing to work hard to bring about new opportunities in the midst of adversity to give hope to those who need it.

While 56% of our missionaries are currently back in Australia, 44% are still overseas and 100% of their national teams, workers and partners continue to actively work in their ministries and projects.

What’s more, many of our field workers have pivoted their work to respond to the needs their communities are facing because of COVID-19. Five teams, in particular, have made a dramatic difference in the areas of food relief and/ or hygiene training and support – including AOG World Relief in Vietnam, the River Team in Thailand, Sepheo in Lesotho, the Atkinsons in Sri Lanka, and the Harts in Africa.

Collectively, they’ve delivered food aid to 72,713 people, shared COVID-19 hygiene messages with 12,855 people and provided hygiene essentials to 49,908 people since the crisis began.

Graeme Kirkwood is the director of Global Church Solutions

Borders might have closed and life as we know it may have dramatically changed but our missionaries and their national teams have adapted and will continue to adapt – just as they have through natural disasters, economic crises and the persistent challenges of poverty and systemic injustice.

Churches throughout our movement can still rely on ACC missionaries and their national partners to be an access point for missions. Just as they always have.

And for those seeking a future in missions – either short or long term – the opportunities will come again. When borders start to reopen, those who are willing to go – even without a guarantee of a quick return – will make the sacrifice that many have made before. The missionary spirit continues.

Alun Davies is the director of ACCI Missions & Relief.

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INTERNATIONAL

New regulations

for Church Missions ACNC External Conduct Standards Risk Management for Churches

By Chad Irons

For a typical ACNC registered, Australian church, there has never been any additional regulations, standards or restrictions around how they approach operating their overseas missions activities.

The introduction of the External Conduct Standards (ECS) in July 2019 has meant that for the first time, churches are now faced with reviewing their overseas missions program in the light of a set of external standards.

These standards apply to every registered charity that is operating outside Australia, or working with a third party operating outside Australia, no matter how small.

The ACNC does not prescribe what a charity must do to meet these External Conduct Standards. Each church will need to decide what is appropriate based on the circumstances of their own overseas missions’ program. The ACNC guidance materials advocate for charities to take a risk-based approach in regard to their overseas activities.

This means you need to first identify and understand those risks, before you can evaluate and document an appropriate response.

ACCI has developed a template Overseas Operations Policy for an ACC Church Board to modify and adopt as part of their strategy for managing their ECS risk and compliance. This risk management approach is framed within this template policy, along with guidance on how to assess the missions organisations that you are partnering with.

‘GOD doesn’t go on Lockdown’ Update from Narel and Alison Atkinson, Sri Lanka 2020 hasn’t turned out the way Narel and Alison planned but like all ACCI field workers scattered across the globe, they’ve made the most of a difficult situation and used it for God’s glory. “[Lockdown] was a real shock,” Alison says. “Our world changed and we didn’t like it and we were very restricted but that didn’t stop us doing what God gave us opportunities to do.”

NEXT STEPS:

One of these opportunities was to reach out to 380 pastors whom the couple help train, disciple and mentor throughout Sri Lanka, and provide them and their families with dry ration packs and seeds for vegetable gardens. They also provided the same assistance to another 45 pastors in Sri Lanka, as well as 175 struggling families – including those connected to their HelpKids Education Centre.

1. Review the template Overseas Operations Policy – Review, modify and adopt as part of your churches policies (alongside your ACC Child Protection Policy).

2. Review your existing Overseas Missions Program partners – Use this policy to review and assess their existing level of compliance and filter any new missions partners through this same policy process.

3. Conduct risk assessments – Identity those partners with high risk concerns, conduct appropriate risk assessments and explore your risk management and mitigation options. Note that any non- ACNC registered overseas missions partner will be high risk.

4. Renew or conclude your overseas missions partners - As ECS non-compliance can have a direct, negative impact on your entire churches charitable status; your churches governing board should be part of this risk review and decision making process.

Next, they sent home education packs to families associated with HelpKids, which have enabled the children to keep up with their learning while under lockdown.

“We’re disappointed that our teams are not coming this year but we know that God hasn’t changed. He’s the same yesterday, today, forever and we know that He’s good,” Alison says.

“We thank God that God doesn’t go on lockdown; if God goes on lockdown, we’re in trouble!” Narel says. “But He’s always ever faithful and ever present to help us.”

Chad Irons is the general manager of ACCI Missions & Relief.

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1DAY

Give one day’s salary to help ACCI reach families and communities in need Now in its 11th year, 1Day continues to change the lives of individuals, families and communities around the world.

Amidst the devastating impacts of the COVID-19 crisis in 2020, your support is needed more than ever.

This year, your generous 1Day donations will: • Support church leaders and field workers to continue finding creative ways to engage those around them with the good news of the Gospel.

• Provide food and other essential support to families who are in need due to lockdown restrictions.

• Provide health and hygiene supplies and training to at-risk communities.

• Support field workers to keep reaching out to communities experiencing poverty and injustice.

Will you join us in running a 1Day Campaign this year?

1DAY funds help Mozambique 1Day and ACCI Field Worker, Katrina Condesse, are working with a network of 16 churches in Mozambique to help them reopen in compliance with government CovidSafe requirements. This is an urgent need, as online services are not possible due to both financial and technical issues.

There are 16 CovidSafe requirements for churches to meet, however two have proven to be most challenging - a thermometer to check everyone before entering the service and access to on site bathroom facilities.

For 11 churches, purchasing a simple thermometer wasn’t possible. Thanks to 1Day, all of those pastors now have one! .

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mber

Nove

30

Opportunity to sign up to Redress is coming to a close Applications to opt in via ACS Mutual will cease on November 30 2020.

Time for your church/organisation to opt into the National Redress Scheme through ACS Mutual is now extremely limited.

The ACC Movement has taken a firm stance in supporting this important initiative, and its expectation that all ACC affiliated organisations should do likewise.

The Australian Government has warned that organisations who may have claims lodged against them, and who do not sign up to the scheme, may be publicly named and potentially have restrictions placed on their charitable status or other financial sanctions imposed.

Now is the time for your organisation to join with thousands of others to take a stand against historical institutional child sexual abuse, and pave a way for survivors to have their stories told and move to a path of healing and restoration.

Signing up to the National Redress Scheme through ACS Mutual covers you for any claims made against you, including the facilitation of a direct personal response.

Contact ACS Financial on

1800 531 463

click the link below to read more about the Scheme National Redress Scheme Update

The content on this site reflect some of the commercial aspects and potential risks/obligations for both individuals and organisations.

The content is given as a guide only and does not represent definitive statements or legal views in any way shape or form.

12 aspects of, or pertaining to, this content and any related matter.

You are advised to seek your own professional advice on all or any ACS Financial Pty Ltd (ACN 062 448 122) (AFSL 247388) * Subject to a retention amount

NEWS

Productive Covid season ACC pastors and churches have made the most of the Covid restrictions – renovating and upgrading their facilities, or writing books..

Follow @accsnaphot on Instagram Liberty Church Whitsundays pastor @olwynharris published three new books in 2020.

@oasis_church behind the scenes. Honouring John Weegenaar and the people who serve behind the scenes in ways that make a big difference!

@meadowbrookchristianchurch weeks away from opening their brand new Logan Community Care Food Co-op building - pouring concrete for paths.

Renovations at @lighthouse_online in time for inperson gatherings - painting in the foyer, new walls, carpet and some finishing touches.

Grace Christian Church in Hobart is looking forward to seeing what their entranceway will look like once it’s finished.

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See page 46

EARLY ENTRY TO AC

YOU ARE MORE THAN YOUR ATAR To every year 12 student taking their exams this year, AC wishes them all the best.

For students considering Business, Counseling, Ministry, or Teaching as a career and a calling, AC is offering early entry and alternative pathways for 2021.

LIMITED NUMBER OF SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

“Class of year 12, you need to know that you are not alone, that you are more than an ATAR, and that we are here to help you realise your dreams.”

Stephen Fogarty President of Alphacrucis College WEBINAR FOR YEAR 11 & 12 STUDENTS, PARENTS AND CAREERS ADVISORS 14 EARLY ENTRY AND RVSP AT STUDY.AC.EDU.AU/ATAR

INDIGENOUS

Cultural Safety & Indigenous Training Biyang Yukukl, meaning Father God’s Heart, was founded by Pastor Will Dumas over thirty years ago, with a vision to change Indigenous lives and make a real impact as the Church socially and politically.

Biyang Yukul has seen a positive intake of churches seeking cultural safety & awareness training which include Church of Christ, Australian Hillsong Church, non-denominational schools and Pentecostal Churches.

Seeing multiple denominations come on board has proven the cultural shift already taking place to identify the much-needed education required across the board.

Today the Biyang Yukukl enterprise is making huge waves and creating long term partnerships with Christian, Indigenous and non-Indigenous organisations who want to be a part of this movement towards everlasting impact within First Nation communities.

Biyang Yukul was established to provide church specific workshops and consultation and provide an extra layer of support to bible colleges whilst providing facts and insights into our history, which God gave First Nation people in Australia.

The family partnership has established content that is effective for all people, and can specifically target the heart of the Church, to better understand Indigenous people, our political and social battles and cultural practices.

Sinead Dumas, daughter-in-law of Will & Sandra, has a Master of International Relations and an independent consulting business. Biyang Yukukl enables her to join her love for her people, profession and faith into one.

Since May 2020, there has been a huge outcry to seek justice for Black and First Nation people across the globe. Australia has seen its own uptake of protests, with thousands marching to bring awareness of Indigenous deaths in police custody.

“We feel it is our duty as Christian First Nation people to make headway during these very confronting times,” said Sinead.

“Since then, we have seen a shift in the need for churches to be more culturally safe for their Indigenous members and staff. Many denominations and churches have approached Biyang Yukul to provide Cultural Safety Workshops, to be a part of the solution and bringing hope to our communities.”

Biyang Yukul Workshops A selection of five Workshops ranging from 4–6 hours long can be tailored to suit the needs of your church or organisation. The Workshop topics include: 1. Leadership Training (our most content heavy workshop) 2. The Bible and First Nation People 3. Understanding Cultural Practice, Social Justice & Aboriginal History 4. Culture and the Church 5. Indigenous Communication 6. Tailored Indigenous Consultation (which can include hybrid workshops).

To find out more about Biyang Yukul, visit the website or email biyangyukul@gmail.com

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NAIDOC WEEK IN YOUR CHURCH

diarise

8–15 November 2020

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NAIDOC WEEK

WHAT A NAIDOC SERVICE LOOKS LIKE:

8 – 15 November 2020

• Open in Prayer: by Senior Minister

The National NAIDOC Committee has announced that this year NAIDOC Week will be held from 8–15 November 2020, after it was cancelled in July due to Covid19. This week is a significant time for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and a great opportunity for churches to celebrate the Indigenous people of the nation.

Pastors Will & Sandra Dumas, who lead the ACC Indigenous Committee, are encouraging ACC churches to celebrate NAIDOC Week as part of their community and include this on their annual calendar of events.

“NAIDOC Week is one of the best opportunities to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island culture, talent and resilience,” says Will. “Momentum is building as a growing number of churches are reaching into their communities to embrace the Indigenous culture.”

“This is an opportunity for our churches to host a NAIDOC Service and celebrate the rich history, diverse cultures and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in your local community,” Will explains. “It’s an open door of evangelism, reconciliation and true togetherness that is waiting for you and your church to create and make your very own.”

Hope Centre is one of the churches that is actively involved in NAIDOC Week every year. “We’re never going to reach people or see healing in our land unless we intentionally engage,” says ACC National President Wayne Alcorn. “There is a lot of pain amongst our Indigenous people. By celebrating NAIDOC week and serving our Indigenous brothers and sisters, we open the door to healing.”

Why celebrate NAIDOC in your community?

Sandra Dumas points out, “It is a God initiative that brings healing and wholeness as NAIDOC was birthed out of deep pain.”

“There was a time in our nation where being an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person was despised and looked down on,” explains Sandra. “Meanwhile in our churches, we were taught that all people are equal and God was not partial. It was here that a cry went up to God – like the children of Israel cried out to God. This very cry united the Church, who with justice and righteousness, established the day of mourning which we know today as the NAIDOC week of celebrations. This birthed a movement of unity in our nation, the Church stood arm in arm with their Indigenous brothers and sisters.”

“As the psalmist says, ‘You, God, have turned my mourning into dancing,’ ” Sandra continues. “It’s time to move forward, to learn and acknowledge the past, to bring healing in Jesus’ Name into these wounds that have crippled our Indigenous people and communities.”

Will encourages Senior Pastors to recognise the benefits of celebrating NAIDOC. “Let’s celebrate NAIDOC TOGETHER in our communities,” he says, “bringing hope, bringing joy, bringing acceptance and acknowledge with the celebration of our Indigenous peoples. Let’s take this opportunity to create a together future.”

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• Welcome: by Community Elder or Acknowledgement to the Land & People • Item: Could be a Dance, Music or Song or a Video clip • Acknowledge local Indigenous role models or a talk on the local community’s history

HOW TO CELEBRATE NAIDOC WEEK 1. Join in with your local community events (many communities have sports days, community marches, concerts and honouring events).

2.Volunteer at community events or ask your local community how you can help.

3. Put on a community event, e.g. NAIDOC Sunday Service, BBQ dinner or lunch, Community Morning Tea, etc.

4. Invite a local Indigenous guest Speaker to your church or community event.

5. Invite an Indigenous Sports Person/Role Model as a guest to your event.

NAIDOC WEEK FACT FILE • NAIDOC week is usually celebrated annually in the full first week of July.

• NAIDOC stands for ‘National Aboriginal and Islanders Day of Observance Committee’.

• The week began in the 1957 when Aboriginal organisations, state and federal governments and a number of church groups came together to support its formation.

• The roots of NAIDOC can be traced back to the 1920s and the 1938 Day of Mourning march and conference, which highlighted the plight and mistreatment of Indigenous Australians and called for the intervention of justice and equality.

• It’s a week when Australia comes together and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures and communities and recognises the valuable contributions that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people make to our country.

• Churches across the country have a great opportunity to share with our communities during NAIDOC week and help to support community events, celebrate culture and build valuable relationships.

• The NAIDOC 2020 theme is ‘Always Was, Always Will Be.’ which recognises Indigenous people have occupied and cared for this continent for thousands of years.

More info and inspiration: www.naidoc.org.au

INSPIRATION

Night

Seasons

By Brad Bonhomme

“Even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will like the day, for darkness is as light to you.” (Psalm 139:12)

shine

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H

ow many times do you think you’ve heard the word ‘unprecedented’ this year? I’ve probably heard it used over 100 times and still counting!

Though this word has been overused, it’s an accurate description of this season. 2020 has been characterised by unforeseen events and many unknowns. In fact, it has been one of the most difficult seasons of ministry that I can remember.

As we lead through uncertainty, as pastoral leaders we have had to learn to be highly flexible and fluid. Intentional planning, scheduling and strategising have had a marginal impact, even for the most seasoned leader.

How do we lead in a changing season?

How do we plan ahead when Government requirements seem to be revised almost weekly?

As pastors, we are anchored by clarity. Clear reference points provide a platform of stability, positioning us to be prepared for what’s next. There’s been no reference point in navigating through the Coronavirus pandemic. Instead, it has been a moving target causing many leaders to feel disorientated.

Drawing parallels with Biblical experience, this current season reminds me of the wilderness wanderings. The people of God faced great uncertainty and the absence of a clear vision.

To them, their wanderings appeared to be a waste of time, something to endure. Yet, God was up to something great! Their experience teaches us that no time is ever wasted in Him. The book of Exodus reveals how God led His people through uncertainty: “By day the Lord went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so that they could travel by day or night. He took not away the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place in front of the people.” (Exodus 13:21-22)

‘Clouds and darkness would seem to be the things most opposite to the unutterable brightness of His most glorious nature; but even clouds and darkness are pressed into His service and made His ministers.’ - Pulpit Commentary Rest assured that even in the dark, God knows what He is doing.

He knows the best play and the best way! He knows how to get you from now to next!

Through Uncharted Territory As pastors, we have the guidance of God’s Spirit through the desert plains of life.

Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”

(Isaiah 30:21) This has been a huge lesson for our church team as we’ve walked through uncharted territory. Humbly serving the Prime Minister of Australia and his family has brought both great excitement and pressure. Alison and I have hosted worldrenowned international guests yet have also had to work with the intensity of ongoing media scrutiny.

Our ‘nights’ were filled trepidation, joy and…more trepidation.

In it all, the night season has taught us to follow Him with intent and a determined resolve.

Through to The Promised Land We may not know what comes next. What we do know, is that God has promised to be with us and guide us to the promised land. He is our defender, leader and assurance.

“He took not away the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place in front of the people” (Exodus 13:22) There is no part of life from which He withdraws Himself.

Remain faithful and keep following Jesus, our Great Shepherd.

“Who among you fears the LORD? Who obeys the voice of His Servant? Who walks in darkness and has no light? Let him trust in the name of the LORD and rely upon his God.” (Isaiah 50:10) You are called by God to be an effective leader. God has designed you in such a way that enables you to do the work He has called you to. The familiar adage still remains true: “The will of God will never lead us where the grace of God cannot sustain us and enable us.”

Through Both Day & Night The people of God had to learn to travel by day and by night.

Most leaders can lead during the visibility of the day. However, the journey towards destiny requires us to also be mobile through the night. As a leader, to continue to move forward, you will have to learn to lead and be led in both settings.

At night, things are unclear. It requires us to seek God’s face for clarity to take the next step. Night seasons often remove our reliance on practical experience, causing us to listen to His voice ‘through the intricacies of darkness.’

“Even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.”

(Psalm 139:12)

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Brad Bonhomme is the senior pastor of Horizon Church and a member of the ACC National Executive.

A JOURNEY through

SUICIDE

– Kayla Stoecklein

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Image: Instagram Kayla Stoecklein

Mental illness came rushing into our world at full speed, and before we could even catch our breath, he was gone. How did we go from living our dream life to living our worst nightmare?

Pastor’s wife, Kayla Stoecklein, lost her husband to suicide in August 2018. She shares an intimate account of his harrowing battle with mental illness and her journey to ultimately overcome the stigma of suicide in her book, Fear Gone Wild.

T

he day Andrew died will forever be etched into my mind: August 25, 2018, the darkest day of my life. The day everything changed. The day my old life died and a different, unwanted life began.

This new life terrified me to my core. It was a life I didn’t want to live alone, a life I hadn’t signed up for. I wanted my old life back. I wanted my guy back. I wanted to wake up from this horrific nightmare.

The next morning, the news of Andrew’s passing was announced at our church, and I made my own announcement on Instagram to update my friends who were praying and to protect and honour my guy. Suicide wouldn’t get the last word.

“Last night, the love of my life, the father of my children, and the pastor of our incredible church took his last breath and went to be with Jesus. It wasn’t the miracle I was hoping for, but he is now in heaven with his dad, free of pain, free of depression and anxiety.

He was an amazing husband. He truly made me better, made me feel like the most beautiful girl in the world, and he loved me so deeply. We fit so well together; we were one. He was an amazing daddy; his three boys are going to miss him so much. He had such a unique and special relationship with each of them. He was an incredibly gifted teacher, communicator, and pastor. He was special, one of a kind, and will be missed by thousands of people all around the world.

Instagram Kayla Stoecklein

underlying mental illness. If someone had a heart condition and experienced a heart attack, we wouldn’t say that person “committed a heart attack”. Dying by suicide is the same, and I believe died by suicide is the best phrase to use. It clearly sends the message that the death was caused by a mental condition, not a decision.

Please pray for me and the boys. I don’t know how I am going to face this. I am completely heartbroken, lost and empty. Never in a million years would I have imagined this would be the end of his story.

This change in language might seem small or insignificant, but its not. Our words matter. Our words carry weight; our words have consequences. Our words have the power to speak life or evoke pain and shame over someone. When we pay attention to the words we use to describe mental health issues, we fling the door wide open for our loved ones to finally feel brave enough to speak up, step out, raise their hands, and say, “I need help”.

If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or actions, please tell someone. Please make sure you’re not alone, and please call a friend or family member before you make that irreversible decision. You are loved and valued more than you know! #godsgotthis As I look back on the words I shared that day, there is one word that stands out boldly to me: decision. It’s a word I have been grappling with since the day of Andrew’s suicide. I have a very difficult time believing his suicide was a decision, and I would rather categorise it as a tragic accident.

If we want to save lives and break the stigma, we have to choose our words wisely. Our words should reflect the truth that people matter; they matter to God, and they matter to us.

Every single life is valuable, and every single life is worth fighting for. >

I have determined that the word decision and committed are actually wrong words to attach to suicide. The words committed suicide heap shame and blame onto the shoulders of the person who died. The word committed is one we attach to phrases like “committed a sin” or “committed murder” or “committed a crime”. It ignores the fact that suicide is often the result of

If we want to save lives and break the stigma, we have to choose our words wisely. Our words should reflect the truth that people matter. – Kayla Stoecklein 21

When his mind was fit and strong, he would have never predicted his life would come to a sudden and tragic end by suicide at only thirty years old.

– Kayla Stoecklein

Image: Instagram Kayla Stoecklein

FEAR GONE WILD Because we all need to hear this message. We all need to be better equipped and educated when it comes to mental health.

I want you to know my Andrew for who he was. The man I fell madly in love with. This is the healthy Andrew I wanted to grow old with, the man I chose to live out my forever with. When his mind was fit and strong, he would have never predicted his life would come to a sudden and tragic end by suicide at only thirty years old.

Today, right now, this moment matters. I believe God wants to meet us right where we are. In this book, you may not find all of the answers you are looking for, but you will find a friend who understands your pain and an even greater Friend who calls you by name. One way or another, we will find our way again as we journey through the unexpected wilderness – not alone, but together.

But it did. Mental illness came rushing into our world at full speed, and before we could even catch our breath, he was gone. How did we go from living our dream life to living our worst nightmare? There is so much I would do differently if I could do it all over again, and if Andrew were here. I’m confident he would do the same.

Taken from Fear Gone Wild by Kayla Stoecklein Copyright © 2020

by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission of Thomas Nelson. www. thomasnelson.com.

I’ve come to hate parts of the story I share in my book. I would never have chosen them. Maybe you, too, are living in a reality you never saw coming. If you are walking alongside someone who is struggling with mental illness, then the words in this book are for you.

FEAR GONE WILD A Story of Mental Illness, Suicide and Hope through Loss

By Kayla Stoecklein

If you are facing a mental health diagnosis you never saw coming, then the words in this book are for you.

If you’ve lost someone to suicide, then the words in this book are for you.

If you have never been touched by the pain of mental illness and know absolutely nothing about it, then the words in this book are still for you.

Available from www.amazon.com www.koorong.com

Why? 22

SUICIDE Prevention Training

By Rebecca Loundar FACT FILE

WARNING SIGNS

• Suicide is mostly preventable but is the leading cause of death for young Australians aged between 15 and 24.

• Most people don’t want to die; they just want their pain to stop.

• Suicide is an important issue for the Church and community to engage with

Their words communicate: • Hopelessness or feeling trapped • No sense of purpose • No reason for living • Worthlessness

WHY DO PEOPLE CONSIDER SUICIDE? Range of risk factors: • Feel isolated and alone • Don’t see a way out of their distress and pain, and think suicide is the only way • Feeling overwhelmed by: - Loss (e.g. friendship, job) - Mental health issues - Situations or circumstances (e.g. relationship, moved from family) - Suicide by someone they know or a celebrity

What you might observe: • Change in behaviour or modd, sich as depression, irritability, anger, withdrawal • Talking, texting, posting about sicide/ death, even if it seems to be a joke • Risk taking behaviours • Looking for means to kill themselves • Saying goodbye or giving away possessions • Losing interest in things they previously enjoyed • Sometimes a sudden positive mood after a period of being down can indicate the person has made the decision to take their own life, and feels a sense of relief

WHAT DO THE WARNING SIGNS MEAN? • A cry for help • Feeling completely overwhelmed and they don’t know how to cope/manage • Scared by these thoughts and feelings and what they might do • May not want to die, but so overwhlemed they don’t know how to respond • We need to take every risk or potential risk seriously

GET HELP

Professional Support: Doctor, Psychologist, Counsellor Helplines: for phone and online support • Lifeline 13 11 14 • Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 Response Apps - Beyond Now Wellbeing Apps - Headspace - Smiling Mind Pastoral Care

TRAINING • Become more equipped and empowered to act in a conversation about wellbeing and suicide, and coming alongside someone who is dealing with this issue • Understanding how you can be supported as you support someone • Alphacrucis is adding a range of new counseling courses for 2021 -check ac.edu.au for more info. “

Dr Rebecca Loundar is the program director and senior lecturer for Social Science programs at Alphacrucis college, 23

MENTAL HEALTH

Suicidal Ideation is not a Death Wish

By Robi Sonderegger

F

ollowing one of the most spectacular showdowns in antiquity (recorded in 1 Kings 18), word got back to Queen Jezebel that Elijah had completely exposed the fertility god, Baal, and the mother goddess, Asherah, as fraudulent. He had challenged all 950 prophets that ate at the Queen’s table to a heavyweight title fight on Mt Carmel.

Not only did the Queen’s ‘fertility prophets’ prove impotent, the God of Israel deliver a great knockout punch – sending fire from heaven in a demonstration of His absolute authority. To add insult to injury, the crowds seized the charlatan prophets and put them to death. Upon hearing this news, Queen Jezebel sent a message to Elijah inferring, “If you’re not dead by this time tomorrow, then may it be done to me what I intend to do to you”. So, Elijah ran for his life into the wilderness.

It’s interesting to note that many leaders, just like Elijah, can seemingly take on the world… perusing incredible ministry exploits. Yet, they can also get knocked for a six when faced with personal peril. Elijah’s faith was so bold and his courage so fierce that he brazenly walked into this world heavyweight title fight – with the ‘bookie odds’ down at the local TAB stacked against him 950 to 1. Yet, upon hearing that a ‘WANTED Deador-Alive” poster has been distributed, calling for the capture or execution of Elijah, he became so unnerved that he ended up collapsing under a juniper tree asking God to take his life.

The Final Straw If you’re a Ministry leader, you know this story well. Not just because you have studied it, but because you have lived it. For example, you preach one of the most anointed sermons ever, yet it’s misconstrued and critiqued 24

in a hostile Facebook chat. Sound familiar? Or perhaps your flawless reputation of upstanding character and integrity is undone by a moment of ‘moral’ mismanagement (there but the Grace of God go we all).

Maybe it’s been years of investing your life’s blood, sweat and tears into the local congregation, only to go on long service leave and have a Coup d’état be staged for the church’s leadership!!!

Or how about this… the funds are raised, the land is purchased, the engineering designs are signed off on, and then the building of a new sanctuary is blocked by one council member who is ‘hell bent’ on delaying or frustrating the approval process.

Why is it that touching heaven can so easily be followed by a crash landing back down to earth? Why is it that the camel’s back has the capacity to shoulder such incredible weight,

but the it’s the addition of one final straw that breaks the camel’s back?

Under Pressure The reason why is quite simple and can best be explained by the physics of pressure. The illustration I’ll often give on stage is when a hand is wrapped around a raw egg, is almost impossible to break. But a single point of mild pressure applied on the side of an egg can easily penetrate it. If we focus our attention on one single problem, ruminate on it all day and dream about it all night, it’s enough to break us.

Unless we are able to disperse the pressure, the accumulation of many small things (resulting in fatigue and exhaustion) or the anticipation of overwhelming stress to come (anguish fuelled by fear) can bring us undone.

Even Jesus reached that point in the Garden of Gethsemane – knowing all that was about to come. Matthew 26:38 records Jesus as saying, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death.”

It’s not that Jesus or Elijah had a death wish, but rather, this is the expression typically given when you quite simply don’t know how to go on. But thank God, when a person gets to the end of their rope, God goes ahead and ties himself into that rope to catch, support and encourage them through our dark times.

If you have ever been at a place where you have emotionally bottomed-out, be encouraged to know Jesus knows what you’re going through, and as such, He can gently lay you down in green pastures and by still waters to refresh and restore your soul, and then lead you along the right paths of righteousness for His names’ sake. In fact, that’s exactly what He did for Elijah. The angel of the Lord woke him and said, “get up and eat”, having prepared fresh bread baked on the hot coals and a jug of water.

logically, rationally and clearly as it should, don’t give it the boot, give it a reboot it.

Don’t just ‘take’ a sabbath, learn to take His light and easy fitting yoke upon you.

A sabbath is not a momentary pause before stepping back into the fray; a sabbath is not just something you ‘take’.

A sabbath is (a) something you prepare for (rest requires organisation and discipline),; (b) something you observe (rest is set apart as Holy); and (c) something to enter into (entering into God’s rest).

Jesus says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Rest isn’t just something you do. Rest is a state of being and a way of living. When you understand Sabbath, well ‘rested’ is who you become. It’s when you have been refreshed and well rested that you can have transformational encounters with God. Elijah travels another 40 days into the wilderness, bound for Mt Horeb (otherwise known as Mt Sanai), which is the last place God revealed himself to mankind – when delivering the Ten Commandments to Moses).

You can anticipate the scene is being set for showdown 2.0. When Moses encountered God, there was wind, earthquake and fire. But this time round, God was in none of those things. Rather, what followed was a soft small still voice… a whisper that asked Elijah ‘what on earth he was doing here’.

Enter into His rest

Elijah’s response is particularly interesting. He replied, “I have been very zealous for the Lord God Almighty.

The Israelites have rejected your covenant, torn down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword.

I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too.” (1 Kings 19:14; NIV). This response is what I like to call ‘3 simple steps to self-destruction’.

A sabbath is required to restore one’s mind, mood and emotions. Sabbath is like the reset button we hold down for five seconds when our smart device is playing up. When your neural smart device (aka your brain) is not thinking as

Whether or not we are aware of it, all too often, this is exactly what you and I do when feeling overwhelmed. Firstly, we declare our own righteousness and point out how hard we’ve been working.

3 Steps to Self-Destruction

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Secondly, we blame everyone else for the circumstance we find ourselves in.

And thirdly, we develop a victim mindset as we nurse, curse and rehearse all the bad things. But when we are humble enough to allow God to give us a ‘checkup from the neck up’, we can experience transformation through the renewing of our mind.

The story ends by God highlighting how inaccurate Elijah’s catastrophic thinking had become. With a little course correction and realignment, Elijah is redeployed back into the ministry. In fact, Elijah is sent back the very same way he came… back past the place where he asked God to take his life.

Ironically, death was the one thing Elijah was ultimately denied… not just in that moment, but in perpetuity.

So, when next you feel like you might be ‘done’ with ministry, just know, God is not ‘done’ with you. Just like faith, we all have a measure of hope. So, feeling hopeless, from time to time, is not that same as having no hope. It simply means you have less hope. To have ‘no hope’ means life is already over. It’s impossible to have no hope and still be breathing.

With this in mind, so long as you still have breath in your lungs, you have hope. And if you plan for, observe and enter into God’s rest, even though you may walk through the valley of the shadow of death, there’s no need to panic. He’s with you, for you, comforting you, preparing you, anointing you and providing for you. “Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.…” (Psalm 23:6).

Dr Robi Sonderegger is an internationally recognised Clinical Psychologist, known for taking psychology from the frontline to the home front™. Dr Robi has worked with corporations, governments, churches, universities/ schools and humanitarian agencies in more than 25 countries.

INTERVIEW

MENTAL HEALTH CARE Ruth Limkin interviews psychologist Peter Hayton on navigating challenge and caring for mental health for pastors..

T

he difficultly of navigating through the pandemic continues, with many impacts on churches and pastors, including mental health. Ruth Limkin interviewed Peter Hayton, a senior psychologist who has been practicing for over 20 years who is the Clinical Director of The Banyans Health and Wellness. Peter has also been a missionary and pastor, so understands the context in which pastors live and work.

Ruth Limkin: Thank you for taking the time to talk with me about mental wellbeing and pastors.You have pastored and also worked with pastors in your private practice over the last 20 years. Is there anything at this season in time, particularly with COVID, that you’re really noticing about pastors’ mental health?

Peter Hayton: It’s a very new existence for pastors and any time we do something new, it increases stress. The effect on each person, as to what and how this season may affect them, will vary, according to how much other stress and agitation they’re carrying. I notice that some pastors are doing quite well and reinventing ways of doing church and feeling quite energized about that.

Others are not doing so well and feeling a little like things are falling apart. There are mild mental health issues presenting

in many people. I’m sure that there are also pastors, who are people just like anybody else, who may be experiencing more moderate to severe mental health issues as well.

Ruth: When you’re talking to pastors about looking after their mental health, have you noticed that there are barriers in either understanding or feeling comfortable talking about mental health?

Peter: Yes, on occasions. When I first trained as a psychologist 25 years ago, there was a little bit of apprehension about the whole idea of psychology in the Christian context. I think that’s still there, and not just in the Christian context but across the wider community.

For example, when you take a concept like suicide, people aren’t really even sure - in any realm - as to whether it’s something that we can talk about. They wonder, “If I talk about it, is that going to make it worse?” There’s a lot of fear and apprehension in the community.

Ruth: Are you noticing people experiencing thoughts of suicide?

Peter: This year, there is more space for people to think thoughts that could be considered suicidal thoughts. We call it suicide ideation, which is where someone realises that they are experiencing thought about suicide or harming themselves. This can happen to pastors, just as much as to anybody else. Like any other thought, those thoughts are not 26

something that we have to hide away from. There are many thoughts that come to us, and we don’t have to hide away from them. Instead, we can bring them into the light. This includes when pastors have people in their church come to them to talk about self-harm or suicidal thoughts. We don’t have to hide away from these thoughts. Pastors are able to acknowledge them and help connect that person to the right kind of help and support.

Ruth: Can you explain what you are referring to when you mention selfharming?

Peter: There’s generally two forms of self-harming: what we call non-suicidal self-harming and suicidal self-harming.

Sometimes, suicidal self-harming can be experimentation, where people may be experimenting around the idea of ‘doing something to harm myself to threaten my life’. There is non-suicidal self-harming, which is a releasing of emotional pain but in the absence of any suicidal ideation or thoughts.

Ruth: Going back to what we were talking about earlier about the stress occurring. What are some of the stresses that you’re finding people are experiencing?

Peter: Change is a stress. Pastors, like many other professionals, have really busy lives. When you’re living a busy life, you don’t always know how to cope with a slowdown. Certainly, I’ve noticed

Psychologist Peter Hayton with Ruth Limkin.

This year, there is more space for people to think thoughts that could be considered suicidal thoughts. We call it suicide ideation. – Peter Hayton there are people in ministry who had to slow down because of the COVID situation, and they have felt a bit guilty about that. They’re out and doing really great things with their family on Sundays where they would normally be working on a Sunday, and unfortunately some report feeling that they should hide that away. Some feel an expectation to demonstrate that Sunday is still really busy. The reality is that it was Wednesday

which was really busy and hard because that’s when they recorded the service.

We often feel the expectation of others and that’s not always an easy thing for pastors (or anyone) to manage.

Ruth: So how do you manage that?

Sometimes those expectations of others are real; sometimes we project how other people feel it. Regardless, you’re still managing the pressure of those expectations. What are some 27

good ways that people can learn to manage that?

Peter: Pastors need to have some people in their life they can be real with.

It may be people they’re in ministry with and understand, or people that have been in ministry previously that they have good connections with.

Ruth: I am very aware that the pastors who read this will be in such a variety of situations across the nation. People

>

One of the things I get concerned about in this step back out of COVID into church, is that there is an expectation of replicating the previous season. This needs to be reshaped. – Peter Hayton

are having very different experiences at the moment. Thinking about those people who’ve gone back to in-person services, they might have some really conflicting emotions around them because they’re really excited that they’re back at services, but then, not everyone’s coming back or life has a different rhythm again. How should they process all of that?

Peter: When you are in a season of uncertainty, part of the processing is to put good boundaries around. One of the things I get concerned about in this step back out of COVID into church, is that there is an expectation of replicating the previous season. This needs to be reshaped. This isn’t just for pastors, but it’s also for key members on our ministry teams. I recommend that pastors look at their personal energy flows, as well as the energy flows with their team, when they’re making decisions about how what church looks like in this in-between season. That boundary really important to consider.

Ruth: Can you just talk a little bit more about that personal energy flows that you were talking about? What should pastors be aware of for that?

Peter: Well, given we are human, and not God, we exist in one place at one time, and I think that’s a really great limitation that God put on us! Effectively, we can do one thing at one time. The other thing we can’t manufacture is more hours in the day, or more minutes in the hour, so that provides a really great guidance. And so, therefore, what does a new schedule mean for my energy flow? How do I then create the emotional space to be able to manage this new schedule?

Ruth: We are meant to care for ourselves, not live for ourselves, and I’m a big fan of being intentional and proactive around our health. What are some good practices that you think would be seen in the life of someone who is attending to their mental health and honouring the way God has designed us? For example, I have an appointment with my psychologist every six months that I book in, in advance. It always seems that God orchestrates that to be at just the right time I can do with some help processing illness or various challenges!

Should everyone be catching up with a psychologist?

Peter: These days, and it’s been highlighted by the Royal Commission into child sexual abuse, it’s pretty essential that a pastor has a supervisory kind of relationship. When I say supervisory, I don’t mean a line manager but professional and personal supervision and mentoring. It could also be a psychologist, who’s used to spending time with others and helping them reflect and see different things.

Some denominations are really charging ahead in this area. I know The Uniting Church have been doing it for a long time. The Catholics have gotten really serious about it. The Presbyterians are getting more serious about it. In the ACC, I believe it’s really strongly encouraged and I notice there’s a lot of really great examples being set. You see a lot of the top leadership around the country who are participating in this and talking about it openly, which is really good.

Ruth: Peter, thank you so much for your time.

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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NEXT STEPS: • Take a personal inventory of what is causing you stress in this season and reflect on some different boundaries that may be helpful • Consider making intentional appointments with a mentor or professional supervisor such as a psychologist on a quarterly or six monthly basis.

• If you are feeling in distress, please see your GP or call Lifeline: 13 11 14

‘I SEE A UNIVERSITY’ T he world’s major marathons, including the arduous and tempestuous Boston Marathon, were all cancelled this year. Like many who qualified, Prof.

Stephen Fogarty, President of Alphacrucis College (AC), had been training hard.

health, fitness, and the art of endurance. The staff launch took place over a Zoom staff party earlier this year with #RUNWITHME baseball caps sent to each staff member to inspire the runner within.

Stephen will complete the full 42.195 kms and will commence in the early hours of the morning at the iconic Sydney Opera House and conclude at AC headquarters in Parramatta on 10 November 2020. “This will certainly be a celebration run. What a year we’ve all had! We will collectively be running to celebrate, hopefully, the end of confinement in addition to fundraising for our University vision.”

“I spend my whole life basically running!” he says in jest.

“This year was going to be my 20th Marathon, running 42.195 kms. 20 marathons by 2020.”

For the last 20 years, Stephen has been at the forefront of its quest to become a Christian University, a legacy long inspired by his predecessor, the late Ps David Cartledge.

Australia’s universities exert a powerful influence on culture and society as they educate and train future leaders. Alphacrucis College educates students within the framework of a Christian worldview, with a strong reputation for uniquely combining academic expertise and Christian spirituality.

“My personal mission as President of AC, is to enlist the philanthropic support of those who want to leave a vital legacy for future generations. #RUNWITHME is essentially running this journey with AC.” DONATE at: stephenfogarty.com/run-with-me

Each year, Stephen dedicates the entire fundraising efforts of these marathons to the AC University vision.

“I see that people with passion can change the world for better”, says Stephen. “I see our alumni all over the globe impacting neighborhoods, cities and nations. I see a University.”

Despite the global pandemic, Stephen and his team are unwavering in completing his 2020 goal and have created their own version of the marathon run. In fact, all AC staff and campuses Australia-wide, as well as online students all over the world, will be joining him in a solidarity ‘fun run’.

AC are particularly focused on the theme of ‘Wellbeing’ tis semester, with all AC students to tie in the ‘run with me’ campaign, hosting a series of events that touch on mental 29

S I D CONNEC MILLENNIALS DRIFTING FROM CHURCH LIFE

It’s a concerning stat for any church leader: Nearly twothirds of 18–29-year-olds in the USA who grew up in church have withdrawn from church involvement as an adult after having been active as a child or teen.

This 2019 data from the American-based Barna Research group was followed up at the end of February 2020, revealing that church attendance for Millennials dropped nine percentage points. It appears many young people remain attached to the faith in which they were raised, but this fades once they move away from their parents.

Over six months on, add Covid into the equation, with the restrictions that forced churches to go online, and the gradual disconnect from church by young adults could be potentially higher.

ACC National President, Wayne Alcorn, observed, “There’s no doubt Covid has rocked every generation on the planet; however, I have become aware that young adults seem to be struggling more with their faith and involvement with church in these times.”

He identified isolation and loneliness are major factors when social activities are limited, and it’s easy to start drifting away.

“My encouragement to church leaders is to give attention to the young adults in their world,” he said. “Check in on them regularly, remind them of their value and include them so they are actively being involved in church life.”

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Give attention to the young adults in your world – Wayne Alcorn

CTION

YOUNG ADULTS ON THE OUTSKIRTS

By Amelia Dingle Millennials have been called “the loneliest generation” following a 2019 survey (YouGov) and life in the midst of Covid restrictions is expected to intensify the anxiety and loneliness already felt by young adults.

I recently had coffee with an old friend, Lily*, who has served in church for many years.

It had been a while since we saw each other face to face.

Earlier this year, along with so many people, her work and study schedule changed. This meant she was unable to attend Zoom calls with her small group, resulting in a disconnection that was out of her control. Now, as restrictions begin to lift, she is feeling more isolated seeing her friends post about all of the fun things they’ve moved on to do without her.

“I can’t take another Zoom call” Other friends are battling screen fatigue. This is the frustrating reality for many young adults who are working and studying online this year. Countless hours concentrating on a screen, and sitting through endless video meetings and lectures take their toll.

By the time small group comes around, no one can face another Zoom call. In this challenging season, many young adults like Lily are finding themselves on the outskirts.

Compounding this, watching pastors and worship leaders connecting and having fun together on streamed youth and young adult services can be like salt to a wound for those on the other side of the screen. What used to be a place of connection is now another aspect of their former social life that they are watching from the outside.

Shopping online has increased substantially during Covid as a necessity, but you don’t see racks of clothing like you would in a store. It can feel like second best, not being able to pick something straight off the rack and try it on. Instead, when brands took shopping online, they reimagined the experience for the new medium. Now we scroll through well laid-out pages of clothing and when we see something we like, we can click through to see images from every angle and endless details about the piece.

When COVID-19 restrictions first hit, churches responded the best they could, recreating services online using the same format as we would in the room. Now months in, is it time for us to reimagine?

ACC pastor, Michael Murphy, put it plainly, “Somewhere we replaced ‘becoming the church’ with ‘coming to church’”.

Church isn’t a building, staff or service. When all the formality is peeled away, young people are simply craving genuine connection.

Let’s commission the church to be the church; to forge genuine connection with people and represent heaven. *Identity changed for privacy reasons

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MILLENNIALS AND THE

CHURCH

By Benjamin Windle

T

By 2030, Millennials will represent 75% of the global workforce.

Will they represent 75% of your church? – Benjamin Windle

he shift created by Millennials is not about creating change for the sake of change. Not only is Christianity (in the broader sense) on the decline, but it is perceived as irrelevant. Millennials have little, if any, connection to traditional religion and the Church. For many, attending church is a peripheral activity unrelated to their daily lives.

Let’s look at some recent news articles and studies. The numbers are astonishing.

An Epidemic? Why Millennials Are Abandoning the Church “CBN News recently reported on the growth of the “None” movement. “Nones” are people identifying themselves as having no religious affiliation. Many believe there is a God but have lost the desire to be affiliated with a religion.”

Why Millennials are really leaving religion (it’s not just politics, folks) “The number of Americans ages 18-29 who have no religious affiliation has nearly quadrupled in the last 30 years.”

If you zoom in on the younger generations, you’ll find that their affinity towards attending church is in rapid freefall. It is no longer viable to say of your church, “Well, we have timeless principles...” because soon enough you’ll look around and say “... and we have no one under 40.”

The Decline of Religious Affiliation Among Young Adults “Today, nearly four in ten (39%) young adults (ages 18-29) are religiously unaffiliated—three times the unaffiliated rate (13%) among seniors (ages 65 and older). While previous generations were also more likely to be religiously unaffiliated in their twenties, young adults today are nearly four times as likely as young adults a generation ago to identify as religiously unaffiliated.”

The numbers paint an important picture. Churches that are successful with Millennials exist. But they are holes in the shoebox letting in rays of light. We can be encouraged by them and learn from them. But on the broader landscape of generational trends, they are anomalies and do not constitute a pattern.

Five Reasons Millennials Are Leaving the Church “Tragically, many churches seem to repel them, despite their best efforts. According to Barna Group, 6 in 10 Millennials who grew up in church have dropped out at some point.”

And, my crucial point is, these few success stories can be so compelling that they can almost mask the degree of severity of the trend. Please note, it is the big trend that matters. Looking coldly in the face of the numbers is not fatalism or lack of faith—it is reality. Furthermore, when we understand the numbers, it gives rise to new answers and solutions.

59 Percent of Millennials Raised in a Church Have Dropped Out—And They’re Trying to Tell Us Why “35 percent of Millennials have an anti-church stance, believing the church does more harm than good.”

It is no longer viable to say of your church, “Well, we have timeless principles...” because soon enough you’ll look around and say “...and we have no-one under 40”.

Millennials leaving church in droves, CNN study finds “In the meantime, almost every major branch of Christianity in the United States has lost a significant number of members, Pew found, mainly because Millennials are leaving the fold. More than one-third of Millennials now say they are unaffiliated with any faith, up 10 percentage points since 2007. The alacrity of their exodus surprises even seasoned experts.”

Benjamin Windle is the Pastor of Lifeplace Church in Brisbane, and his extensive resources on Millennials and Gen Z can be found at www. benjaminwindle.com 32

Millennials can grow your church and change the world. Benjamin Windle’s white paper on ‘8 Innovations to leading Millennials’ provides great insights for every church leader.

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LibertĂŠ Church in Strasbourg, France gathers in the historic and iconic Temple Neuf in the heart of the city for their weekly services.

FRAN FOR J 34

Aussie church planters, Peter & Mariela Demetriou share the journey of the past seven years to win France for Jesus.

NCE JESUS 35

‘I am believing for revival in our nation... despite the hardest few months, we’re seeing a new spiritual hunger.’ – Peter Demetriou

I

n 2013, Aussie family, Peter and Mariela Demetriou and their two daughters took the giant leap of faith and moved with 154 boxes from Sydney to be part of a church planting team to Strasbourg in France.

They moved into a local Methodist hall, then into the smaller chapel space of Temple Neuf - and are now in the main grand salle of the iconic Temple Neuf building, for weekly Saturday evening services.

The genesis of Liberté! Church in Strasbourg began with a strong apostolic call to Europe of over 20+ years before.

Peter with his Greek-Cypriot background, and Chilean-born Mariela, both had Europe burning in their hearts since their teenage days. When Peter proposed to Mariela in Paris in the late 1990s, he vowed that they would one day return to the City of Light and Western Europe to live.

Temple Neuf is a historical Protestant institution in Strasbourg. The cathedralstyle church is where John Calvin planted the first French speaking congregation to French refugees. Today Liberté! Church collaborates with the local Lutheran Pastor who allows them to use this extraordinary venue, in the heart of the city.

Centrally located in Europe, Strasbourg is only a brief TGV ride away from Paris, a bicycle ride away from neighbouring Germany, and a quick train trip from Switzerland and Luxembourg, as well as a scenic car ride away from the best coffee in Milan and Venice.

“We really have taken the time to get to know café and restaurant owners and have developed great relationships with the locals here,” said Mariela. “We have had the opportunity to run some of our outreach events at their café’s, and there is definitely an openness and an intrigue.

We have lived here for seven years now, and through the favour of God, we really have built trust through community.”

Strasbourg is a secular city of particular influence, being the seat of a number of European institutions and bodies including the European Parliament - where Peter has been invited to monthly prayer breakfasts in his pastoral capacity. Whilst the strict laws of separation between Church and State in France apply across the nation, Strasbourg’s population was mainly Protestant after the Reformation, therefore the Alsace is unique to the rest of France in that it has a prime evangelistic opportunity to get a gospelcentred program into schools.

“We are literally standing on a city of gold. There is so much opportunity for impact and for the gospel to reach these places in Europe!” said Peter.

Growth of Liberté! Church Peter and Mariela quickly outgrew their lounge room where they started Liberté!

- a bilingual French/English church - with about 40 French people at the time who became an integral part of the core team.

Peter and Mariela live in the centre of the city and walk or cycle everywhere.

Five years on, they have experienced amazing victories and incredible moments with combined worship and prophetic nights with other churches in the city in efforts to build camaraderie, unity and encouragement between churches.

They have taken their worship team to be a blessing into the small villages of their region, with Worship Concert’s and encouragement to the local congregations. They have a dedicated Prison ministry team with two monthly Worship Services – one for the men and one for the women, led by our Prison chaplain, including running Alpha prison services.

Each Tuesday morning, they also have a team who prepare breakfast in a disadvantaged area of the city, that is typically seen as the hub for human trafficking and illegal immigrants.

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Peter and Mariela’s long-term vision is to create an ‘Apostolic Hub and Training Centre’ that cultivates current and future leaders/ pioneers in the heart of France.

This in effect resonates with the vast Protestant history of Strasbourg, a city well known for its hospitality where reformers would visit Strasbourg to seek respite and for a recalibration of vision.

Covid19 impact The Grand-Est region was one of the worst hit areas of France for Covid-19 with approximately 30,000 deaths across France. Peter and Mariela both contracted the virus end of February, after attending a civil wedding of less than 20 people. Peter battled the virus for over six weeks with a terrible cough and secondary lung infection, with the overwhelming fatigue and body aches; Mariela is still dealing with lingering aftereffects of ailments and inflammation in random parts of her body due to Covid.

“It was a scary time for us both. There were zero testing kits in France, or any masks during those scary weeks and months,” said Mariela. “We got rejected at the hospital labs after presenting with a script from the Doctor to get tested for Covid. They said to us quite frankly, ‘Unless your husband arrives in an ambulance [or basically dying], we will not test him.’ That was mildly good news, we guessed it wasn’t so bad if he didn’t need to be in hospital.

“We had no access for blood testing labs, to receive physio or decent medical attention. No one could test our lungs or breathing to see if we were getting any better until weeks after.

“Our 14-year daughter was running out each day to get our groceries, we couldn’t even shop online as the stores were not equipped for the mass e-commerce onslaught,” said Mariela. “So, we prayed, took communion daily, and desperately sought the prayers of close friends and family. We had a 1km radius

restriction of where we could go, and had to fill out daily permission slips to go to the pharmacy or the grocery store with infinite queues.

Our region had make-shift hospitals created by the army in the carpark of Mulhouse [an hour or so away from us] which was not coping. The constant onslaught of dealing with grief from people in our community who had lost family members or loved ones, and the continual ambulance sirens that echoed the streets, it really was all so heavy…

“Our fervent prayers as a church was incredibly unifying for us all, and immensely strengthening,” said Peter. “Even trying to explain to our friends’ back home what we were going through sounded like a movie. It was a very surreal three months and quite honestly, if it wasn’t for Jesus and His amazing kindness over us, I am not sure how we would have gotten through this.

The Demetriou’s eldest daughter remained in Sydney to complete her HSC this year and the thought of not knowing when they can see her again is really hard.

“Now borders are closed in Australia, and oneway flight is almost 5,000 euros, so who knows when flights will be allowed to operate again by the Australian government from Europe,” said Mariela..

“But we also know we have the most incredible heavenly Father, who sees all, knows all and nothing catches Him by surprise – He has us in His loving hands. It was day by day, moment by moment, – allowing Him to just walk us through with hope in what felt like the valley of shadows.”

Liberté! Church was one of the first churches in the region to re-open their doors with strictly adhering to 30-page dossier of rules and regulations.

Meeting with masks, the hand sanitizers at every entrance, respecting the social distancing, everything to ensure zero physical contact.

“The air hugs are certainly something we don’t want to get to used to,” said Peter. “I have missed our physical gatherings as church so much, and I have seen a shift in people in our city – an openness, a new level of care for each other, it’s extraordinary.

I am believing for revival in our nation. Despite the hardest few months, God is sovereign, and we are seeing a new spiritual hunger emerge. The harvest is so ripe! Now bring on those workers…. France needs Jesus and we are here for it!”

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The Posture of

Biblical Justice

By Kirsty Emery and Jacqueline Grey

I

ways. It also includes valuing every person as made in the image of God, and respecting creation as belonging to God, not us (Genesis 1). Doing justice, then, is essentially aligning ourselves with God’s ways. So justice is God’s idea and God’s plan.

n our global pause, issues of injustice have come to the forefront as the tide has gone out on our busyness. What remains on the shore is the heartache of natural disasters, domestic violence, mental health, racism, human trafficking, corruption in politics, environmental issues and even the pandemic itself. In some ways we are united in our pursuit for justice; in other ways we are divided in the methods of justice.

Our young people especially may find it difficult to navigate the overwhelming sense of need in our world. There’s a physical and emotional investment required to process the collision of truth with personal world views. It can be tempting to shut down and simply become paralysed by the chaos of the world.

We see throughout the Old Testament God’s instructions for the people to live justly. One of the challenges we have today as we read these OT laws is how to outwork God’s justice and instructions in our own culture and time, especially in light of the cross of Jesus Christ. However, ingrained in the Old Testament law were requirements to care for the poor and vulnerable within their community, which were reinforced by Jesus (Luke 4:18-19). In fact, to oppress the poor is to show contempt for God (Proverbs 14:31). The prophets continually reinforced this message. One such well-known message comes from Micah 6:8, asking us what God wants us to do: to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?

What do we do with all this? How do we handle it?

To begin, we must ask: What does the Bible say about justice?

How did Jesus outwork justice? Let’s take a step back to look at the posture and spirit in which we best outwork justice as followers of Christ.

Fortunately, we have a model of what this looks like in Jesus Christ.

1. Biblical Justice Stands on the Right Foundation Social justice begins with God. The true foundation of justice is based on God’s character. In Psalm 97:2 it says that “righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne” (NRSV).

2. Biblical Justice Walks in the Footsteps of Jesus Jesus modelled a lifestyle of sacrificial service for others. He taught the disciples not to concern themselves—like the unbelievers do—with who is first, who is ruling, or who is most honoured. Instead, they were to concern themselves with humble service for others (Matt. 20:25-28, 23:11). Just prior to His crucifixion, Jesus demonstrated this posture by washing the feet of the disciples: a task normally assigned to servants or slaves (Jn 13:13-14). In fact, ‘the account of a superior voluntarily washing the feet of an inferior is without parallel in antiquity.’1 How does this relate to justice? This is the posture of justice.

Injustice occurs when both individuals and a society value selfinterest only.

Justice is part of the very nature of God. God is righteous, God is just –– it’s his essence. Deuteronomy 32:4b says: ‘He is a faithful God who does no wrong; how just and upright he is!’

(NRSV). Justice also comes from the heart of God. Jeremiah 9:24 says: “’I act with steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth, for in these things I delight,’ says the Lord” (NRSV).

Justice is about God’s order in the world. God has set an order to creation and the world we live in. That includes moral order—doing the right thing at the right time, based on God’s 38

Jesus also taught His disciples to love God with all their hearts, and to ‘love your neighbour as yourself ’ (Mark. 12:3031). Our world is obsessed with self-focus and self-interest.

Generally, we speak out when our own interests are harmed.

We fight if someone acts to harm us or our family. But what about our neighbours’ interests and welfare?

Another metaphor for the Church is of a building (1 Pt 2:5).

Building a solid structure takes time and care. While sometimes in the building process, we need to pull down old pieces of structure such as wrong thinking and practice, however the purpose is to build. This is important as some expressions and methods of social justice we see in the world today are about deconstruction only and miss the important step of construction. Other expressions may want to construct something that is not in alignment with God’s purposes for the world, which we must also be aware of. This does not mean that we simply reject their work, but that we be careful to ensure that our activity is ultimately building towards an expression of biblical justice.

It reminds us that God is not only concerned for us, but for others as well. God is love, and love reaches out to others.

God’s love does not dehumanise others or set them up in categories that undermine their value. This is most keenly expressed in the love of Christ who came to take away the sin of the world. Jesus did not act out of self-interest. He acted out of love. We can love because Christ first loved us and showed us the true meaning of love (1 John 4:7-21).

The work we do towards biblical justice is to advance God’s order in the world. The cornerstone of this project then is Jesus Christ and the gospel message. This is what we work towards and are building. It should result in lives transformed and communities reconciled. This requires dedication and resilience.

The work of biblical justice should not be treated like a fad or a sprint, but is a long walk following the footsteps of Jesus.

In fact, to love others is a command. This command is not about social revolution, but when we apply its message it is revolutionary. For us as Christians, we are called to follow in the footsteps of Christ by loving one another (John 13:35).

In this way, we witness to the world of Christ’s sacrificial love.

It requires us to unite as a community to demonstrate this revolutionary lifestyle.

Under the leadership of National President Wayne Alcorn, the ACC Indigenous Initiative led by Pastor Will and Sandra Dumas, represent community justice. This team exemplifyies the posture of biblical justice as they lead us in the mission of empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pastors and leaders, and to build the church in Australia. They model longterm, faithful service towards reconciliation in our communities.

3. Biblical Justice Builds Community The idea of pursuing justice together is very evident in the Bible. In fact, the greatest picture of ‘justice together’ is seen in the Triune nature of God Himself and the Gospel narrative: The Father, who so loved the world, He gave His Son. The Son, who gave His life to reconcile us to the Father; and the Holy Spirit with us for the continual inward transformation of our hearts into the likeness of Christ. We then seek the external transformation of our world through the togetherness of His Body: The Church.

There are many groups in our communities that work towards biblical justice and serving others, who also demonstrate sacrificial service for the benefit of others that points to Jesus Christ. We can’t do all things, but we can each do one thing. We may be limited by our current situation in what we can do, but we can do something. Rather than be overwhelmed by the needs and injustices, we can seek to do one thing that helps work towards biblical justice. It may be to pray, or give, or serve, or volunteer, or speak, or educate. May the Holy Spirit guide us as we consider our own work and how we can and do contribute to seeing God’s ways outworked here on earth.

A Hebrew audience thought as ‘we’ not ‘I’. Today, in a more individualistic society, it’s easy to pursue justice as ‘I’ but deep within our DNA is the pursuit of justice together. We see leanings toward community in collective social media responses, masses at protest gatherings, etc. People are moved by solidarity.

They are craving communal justice. This is because we are created for community. The most common metaphor for the Church is that of a body. In 1 Corinthians 12:27, Paul tells us that we are the body of Christ and each one a part of it. He then goes on to encourage the community to build up the body and care for all its parts.

Kirsty Emery is an ACC pastor at Hope Centre and serves in the ACC National President’s Office. Dr Jacqueline Grey serves as the Dean of Theology and Professor of Biblical Studies at Alphacrucis College.

1. John C. Thomas, Footwashing in John 13 and the Johannine Community (Sheffield: SAP, 1991), 187.

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Ministry families often bear the burden and cost of church leadership in silence. In his book ‘As For Me And My House’ by ACC Pastor Daryl Potts shares the research and insights from many ministry couples and their children.

Heaven’s Highway or Hell

on Wheels?

By Daryl J. Potts

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As I analysed the interview transcripts in my PhD research, I discovered the issues ministers and their spouses wrestled with were the same, whether the ministry couple was satisfied with their family’s spiritual outlook or not. In fact, overall, there seemed to be a greater awareness of these burdens and challenges amongst those who were satisfied with the children’s spiritual outlook and stated all their children were still attending church and following the Lord.

hile there are many benefits and blessings experienced by families who are engaged in ministry, there is also a challenging side

to ministry.

One particular spouse of a male minister I interviewed regarding her ministry/family journey, who was obviously hurting, said, “Ahhh, it was hell on wheels. Some of it was great and some of it was “Get me out of here.””

When pastors over-engage with their ministry responsibilities, it can result in pastors and their spouses not being as aware of the challenges their families encounter, which can in turn result in not giving their families the attention they deserve.

The realities of the challenges of ministry upon the family can often be a shock and in many cases, a disappointment in the lives of those that have entered without an awareness of the issues that ministry families are confronted with. Having an awareness of these challenges is paramount to enjoying a flourishing family life while fulfilling the call to ministry.

A key ingredient in the Triple ‘A’ Model of Ministry Function and Family Fulfillment is to have a resolute awareness of the burdens the ministry family experience in order to mitigate such burdens by giving attention to help the family flourish as they are engaged in ministry together.

I conducted some round-table discussions regarding the ministry/family journey amongst pastors and their spouses within the areas I was responsible for in our movement. I discovered that many pastors and their spouses thought they were the only families that wrestled with the burdens that ministry places upon their family lives, and that most other ministry families seemed to have an easy time. Many were relieved when they attended these round-table discussions to discover others also faced the same challenges. Realising that these challenges weren’t as unique and freakish as they thought, but were rather very normal for ministry families, lifted a heavy burden off many ministry couple’s shoulders.

The blurring of home and work boundaries is common in pastoral life. David and Vera Mace, in ‘What’s Happening to Clergy Marriages?’ discovered the major challenges clergy families are confronted with were: congregational expectations, the tyranny of time; regularity of time; regularity of moving geographically; and the battle of the budget.

Norman Blaike, in his research regarding Australian mainline church ministers entitled ‘The Plight of the Australian Clergy’, revealed that many of the factors associated with the Australian clergy occupational context have a bearing on the clergy’s marriage and family. Factors such as unrealistic expectations placed on the spouse and children of the clergy; disrupted routines; lone-parenting; lack of privacy, mobility

The purpose of this and the following chapter is to identify what these common burdens and challenges are in order to create an awareness of them, and to. Normalise them so ministry couples understand they are not alone or doing something wrong.

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Summary list of Church Related Issues of the Ministry/ Family Journey Time constraints Limited finances The difficulties of relocation Ministry demands Small-church challenges Unrealistic expectations Competing priorities Balance of ministry and family Church conflict

Three generations of the Potts family

and resettling family; loneliness, financial restrictions; and lack of time for leisure, were identified as some of the difficulties Australian clergy families encountered.

Cameron Lee and Jack Balswick, in their book ‘Life in a Glass House’ disrobe the responses of a group of clergy families who were asked to describe the greatest disadvantages of being in the ministry. Their answers came down to five road recurring themes: not enough family time together; high expectations; low pay; the difficulties of moving; and the lack of privacy.

Michael Morris and Priscilla Blanton’s research also revealed five challenging factors of ministry life: mobility; financial compensation; time demands and expectations; family boundaries; and social support.

These challenging factors from David and Vera Mace’s research in the 1960s, Blaikie’s research in the 1970s, Lee and Balswick’s research in the 1980s, and Morris and Blanton’s research in the 1990s regarding the burdens that ministry places upon the family appear to have similarities to the findings of my own research of ministry families from 2015/2016.

As the participants in my research discussed the issues that they wrestled with regarding their ministry/family journey, the most frequently emphasised ministry challenges that were identified will be described in detail in my book. Many issues that were described are ministry-related, and many are family-related. I have focused on the ministry-related issues.

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Extract from ‘As For Me and My House’ by Daryl J. Potts published with permission.

Available from www. koorong.com or amazon. com

DESERT

BLOOMS

By Alison Bonhomme

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ENCOURAGEMENT

‘Imagine the wilderness whooping for joy, the desert’s unbridled happiness with its spring flowers. It will happen! The deserts will come alive with new growth budding and blooming, singing and celebrating with sheer delight.’(Isaiah 35:1-2 Voice)

A

few years ago, I was headed north, travelling along the ‘Indian Ocean Drive’ toward the Coral Coast of Western Australia to visit family. We had a five hour drive ahead, mostly along a dry stretch of highway with highlights of wheat fields, ocean glimpses and a lot of dry, orange Aussie outback dirt. The region was in the midst of a drought and so these arid desert areas were even drier and dustier than usual. We had been driving for about four hours when all of a sudden, out of nowhere, we captured a glimpse of the most stunning sight.

Wildflowers. And lots of them!

In the middle of this lifeless desert land was a living miracle. Beautiful desert blooms!

In the midst of the driest of seasons, where everything around seems dead, where the air you breathe feels like dust, and you just can’t catch your breath; it’s there that beauty is hiding in the ground. It’s in these moments that He’s doing a work within you that will create something beautiful.

Isaiah 61:3 tells us that He will “give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness” (NKJV).

Isn’t that just like our God? To give us beauty for ashes.

We love to focus on the coming beauty, but unless we have ashes to give Him; we don’t get the beauty. There’s an exchange that takes place when we hand the dirt and dust of our life over to Him. The brokenness, the disappointment, the lost opportunities, the pain, the heartache, the frustration; as Christians, we get to see these ashes of ours turned into a thing of beauty.

There’s no denying this is a tough season and many are in difficult circumstances, but we serve the God who makes “all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28 NKJV).

There is beauty coming, there is joy coming, there is a sound of praise coming!

I want to encourage you to see God in the midst of the desert and to be assured that there is beauty hidden in the ground. The desert by definition is a desolate, arid, uninhabited wasteland, ill-suited for human habitation. There’s no doubt it’s tough being in the desert. The extreme conditions make life in the desert uncomfortable and unenjoyable. As a result, it’s sometimes hard to sense God when you’re there.

I love what Louie Giglio says: “God is always seeking you. Every sunset, every clear blue sky, every ocean wave, the starry host of night. He blankets each day with the invitation, ‘I am here.’ ” Beauty blossoms, even in the desert and perhaps even in spite of it. In the midst of the restrictions and regulations, the disruption of schedules and plans, there’s an underlying sense of dry, desert desolation amongst many. If 2020 isn’t looking how you planned and perhaps you’re finding this season tough, be encouraged that it is just a season. This is not your forever.

This too will pass. And out of this season, lessons will be learned, faith will be strengthened and beauty will blossom.

Alison Bonhomme and her husband Brad are the Senior Pastors at Horizon Church. She has over a decade of professional experience in public and corporate health management, holds a Bachelor of Science (Health Sciences, Health & Safety) and postgraduate qualifications in Theology. .

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NEW RELEASES

FEAR GONE WILD

A Story of Mental Illness, Suicide and Hope through Loss

By Kayla Stoecklein A pastor’s wife’s shattering yet ultimately hopeful story of her husband’s death by suicide, her journey to understand mental illness, and the light she found in the darkness.

On August 25, 2018, Kayla Stoecklein lost her husband, Andrew--megachurch pastor of Inland Hills Church in Chino, California-to suicide. In the wake of the tragedy, she embarked on a brave journey to better understand his harrowing battle with mental illness and, ultimately, to overcome the stigma of suicide.

Fear Gone Wild is her intimate account of all that led to that tragic day, including her husband’s panic attacks and debilitating bouts of anxiety and depression. Despite their deep faith in God and the countless prayers of many believers, Andrew was never healed of his illness. Turning to Scripture for answers, she discovered that God uses wilderness experiences to prepare His children--including Jesus--for his greater purpose and to work miracles inside our souls.

With a clear-eyed acknowledgment of how misguided and misinformed she was about mental illness, Kayla Stoecklein shares her story in hopes that anyone walking through the wilderness of mental illness will be better equipped for the journey and will learn to put their hope in Jesus through it all.

Fear Gone Wild is available at www.koorong.com

AS FOR ME AND MY HOUSE

Keys to a Flourishing Family and a Fulfilled Ministry

By Daryl J. Potts The verse, Joshua 24:15, “As for me and my house we will serve the Lord,” has been the desire and declaration of ministry couples for centuries. Yet the heartache of many ministers and their spouses is the realization that even though they have ministered to many and have been instruments to strengthen people’s spiritual lives, the spiritual well-being of their own immediate family is not always where they would like it to be.

Many sadly observe members of their own family who no longer attend church, having turned away from the faith. For many ministers and spouses, both those presently in ministry and those starting out, there is a great desire to find keys to prevent their family members from falling away from the faith.

The heart of every pastoral couple is to function in their ministry and at the same time see their family flourish. In the light of the dearth of research regarding the ministry/family journey, this book investigates how ministers and their spouses perceive that their involvement in ministry affects their family lives. It further reveals the components that contribute toward the spiritual well-being of their family, while fulfilling their unique ministry responsibilities.

As For Me & My House is available at: www.koorong.com

Extract see page 20

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YOU ARE NEVER ALONE

Trust in the Miracle of God’s Presence

By Max Lucado In You Are Never Alone, pastor and New York Times bestselling author Max Lucado will show you that you’re stronger than you think because God is nearer than you know. You’ll be comforted by the living, loving, miracle-working God who doesn’t think twice about stepping into the thorny thickets of your world to lift you out.

The answer in the life-giving miracles in the Gospel of John is a resounding yes. Do you know them? Do you believe in a Jesus who has, not only power, but a passionate love for the weak and wounded of the world? Do you think he cares enough about you to find you in the lonely waiting rooms, rehab centers and convalescent homes of life?

We long for Someone who will meet us in the midst of life’s messes. We long to believe in a living, loving, miracle-working God who won’t think twice about stepping into the thorny thickets of our world and lift us out.

If this is your desire, take a good look at the words of John and the miracles of Christ and see if they don’t achieve their desired goal: “That you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in his name” (John. 20:31).

You Are Never Alone is available at: www.koorong.com

NEW RELEASES

READY. FIRE! AIM.

The outrageous adventure of saying ‘yes’ to God

By Mark Varughese Ready. Fire!...before aiming? That’s irresponsible advice if you’re holding a weapon but it is often the reality when following God on the journey of faith.

Using his story and the first fourteen years of Kingdomcity as a backdrop, Mark Varughese encourages every reader to embrace the adventure that comes with saying ‘Yes’ to God, without hesitation.

Mark and has wife, Jemima, have spearheaded the startling growth of Kingdomcity, a global multi-site church of over 30,000 people across ten countries.

In Ready. Fire! Aim, Mark recalls the profound burning-bush experience which triggered his move from Australia to Malaysia to start a church in early 2006, and the adventure that followed. He transparently shares his journey and the convictions that have underpinned it, to encourage and inspire you to take the risk that your dream may just need to become reality.

KINGDOM BUILDERS

How to live an ALL IN life that turns vision into reality

By Andrew Denton Step over the line and decide to live the greatest adventure of all, putting God first in every area of your life.

Living a life of generosity is not reserved for rich people. It’s the result of people who are “all in” for giving God permission to use them as a conduit of His blessing and provision.

Kingdom Builders know that they are alive for a purpose bigger than themselves—a purpose committed to building His Kingdom and turning church vision into a magnificent global and local reality.

Sharing from his own journey of living an ‘all in’ life, and telling the inspiring story of how Kingdom Builders first started within Hillsong Church, Andrew Denton will encourage and challenge you to take bold, wise steps of faith that will lead you on a path beyond your wildest dreams.

Kingdom Builders is available at www.koorong.com or hillsongstore.com.au/books/

Ready. Fire! Aim. is available at kingdomcity.com

HELP! I WORK WITH PEOPLE

Getting Good at Influence, Leadership and People Skills

By Chad Veach Leadership isn’t exclusive to corner offices and multimillion-dollar budgets-some of the best leaders are the mentors and technicians who are more comfortable behind the scenes. But what if being an effective leader isn’t just about having innovative ideas and high levels of productivity? What if becoming a great leader is more about prioritizing self-awareness and people skills than production and performance?

Help! I Work with People is not a book about leadership theory, but rather a handbook on how to connect with people and influence them for good.

With his signature transparent and relatable storytelling, Chad Veach uses modern research and biblical principles to encourage you to lean into your leadership potential regardless of your level of influence or experience. In short and easily digestible chapters, he addresses the three phases of becoming a quality leader: · learning to lead the hardest person you will ever be in charge of--yourself recognising the power of becoming a people person creating a culture and environment where the team›s shared vision can grow People are the most important part of life. Let’s learn how to lead as if we like each other.

Help! I Work with People is available at: www.amazon.com

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NEW RELEASES

KATHRYN KUHLMAN MIRACLE SERIES

HOMES OF HEALING SERIES

ALL OF MY BEST FRIENDS

The Kathryn Kuhlman Miracle Box Set is a captivating collection of three truly heart-warming essentials that will rejuvenate your faith; giving you a sense of hope that you may have never felt before.

ACC pastor, Olwyn Harris, has released three books this year in her new fiction series ‘Homes of Healing’: The Beach Cottage, Petrea Downs and The Writer’s Retreat.

In The Beach Cottage, heartbroken and downtrodden Eliza-Beth Perkins is facing the dire consequences of her choices and the possibility of life in the poorhouse. Then she, literally, runs into Jensen Harker. Jensen is facing his own heartbreak at the death of his wife and wants nothing more than to be left alone. As we follow their journey together, will we see them find the healing they both desperately need?

In Petrea Downs, Meg’s life has been turned upside-down, with her husband gone, trying to run Petrea Downs by herself, and disaster after disaster at every turn. Thankfully, her neighbour Everett Grossman is always there to help but is Everett really the hero he makes himself out to be?

In The Writer’s Retreat, romance writer, Tess, prides herself on letting her characters tell their own story. When she arrives at Rocky Creek B&B, the run-down stone cottage looks like the perfect place to write her book, and escape her past. Join her as she discovers her characters and explores their stories, and finds that God is intent on becoming part of her own story at the same time.

When Young & Free came together to write ‘All Of My Best Friends’ in late 2019, there were two strong themes that naturally emerged from within the hearts of the team - an unforced sense of togetherness and a clear purpose to serve the youth.

This collection of songs would hold even more significance as we entered into a brand-new decade with the reality of living out historic times together.

Recorded live from the 2020 Summer Camp in Sydney Australia, their prayer is that this record would rally a generation around bold devotion and tireless truth, capturing the rawness of youth at its passionate best.

(Boxed set)

The three wonderful books are titled I Believe in Miracles, Nothing Is Impossible with God and God Can Do It Again.

This collection of books allows you to experience the magnificent power of Kathryn’s miracle services.

Through the power of God Kathryn helped to heal people all over the world in what seemed hopeless situations, inspiring readers to believe that you too can be healed by the almighty power of God. The Kathryn Kuhlman Miracle Box is available at: www.koorong.com

By Olwyn Harris

The Home of Healing series is available at: www.koorong.com.

Follow @olwynharris on Instagram

By Hillsong Young + Free

Tracks 1 World Outside Your Window 2 Never Have I Ever 3 Best Friends 4 Indescribable 5 As I Am 6 Uncomplicated 7 New Thing 8 Need Your Love 9 Glimpse 10 Keep On 11 All My life 12 Everything I Could Want 13 Lord Send Revival 14 Best Friends (Studio) 15 Never Have I Ever (Studio)

Young + Free is available at www.koorong. com or hillsongstore.com.au/music/

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