Emag no2 2017

#2 2017

EMAG

quarterly publication for acc leaders

HONOURING HONOURING

GODLY LEADERSHIP POLITICISING

JESUS

FAITH + BELIEF IN AUSTRALIA 1

STANDING FOR

JUSTICE

SIDE

IN

GROWTH & HEALTH

This edition of ACC EMAG celebrates census reports of growth and health of the ACC movement, in the context of the research data on faith and belief in Australia.

BLAZING A TRAIL FOR KIDS. Peter Blase has spent over four years to create animated Bible stories for children all over the world.

STANDING FOR JUSTICE. Lyn Alcorn shares her passion to start a conversation about justice in the church.

WORSHIP CHANGES EVERYTHING. Darlene Zschech takes a look at the goal of our worship - Jesus..

FAITH + BELIEF IN AUSTRALIA. Report by McCrindle Research on Australian’s perceptions of the Church and Jesus.

POLITICISING JESUS. Nathanael Wood shares on the two subjects that polarise so many people - religion and politics.

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A L P H AC R U C I S C O L L E G E

TI V E LEADE RSHIP AND STRY REQUIRES G OOD GOVERNANCE

NCHING GOVERNANCE TRAINING:

ship between ACC National, Alphacrucis College, and ACS Financial.

LEADERS AND GOVERNANCE. Ian Jagelman from Alphacrucis discusses the necessity of governance for modern day church leaders.

BUILDING STRONGER COMMUNITIES. Paul Bartlett shares four things that help transform your church in the local community.

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comprises ten approximately one hour video modules, with leading experts ncial, and Prolegis Lawyers. You will receive a certificate on completion.

g for individuals, churches, and other organisations of all sizes.

an option with the ACS Titus Governance Software Package www.titusgovernance.com MORE INFORMATION: AC.EDU.AU

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NEWS NEW RELEASES

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2017 DIARY

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TAKE A LOOK AT A GROWING CHURCH

BY WAYNE ALCORN

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hat a great few days we had together at the ACC17 National Conference on the Gold Coast. We received so much positive feedback and it truly was an exceptional conference that exceeded all our expectations. A big thank you to all those who came and were part of it. And to those of you who weren’t able to make it there – we missed you!

One of the highlights of the conference was when we honoured the three former national leaders of our movement. It was a special moment when I stood alongside Ralph Read, Andrew Evans and Brian Houston who have steered our movement over five decades of our 80 year history. We have come a long way and God has been good to us.

I am pleased to report that as a movement we have continued to show consistent growth and now represent over 350,000 constituents. With over 7% growth per annum since 2011, we are on target to be over half a million people in the next five years. Our growth certainly bucks the trend revealed in the results of Australian 2016 Census, which has tracked a decline in Christianity over the years. It has been encouraging to see that media reports have acknowledged that the Pentecostal church stands out, particularly drawing young people to our congregations.

On another level, the data reveals we still have much work to do. In another report released in May, McCrindle Research revealed some interesting facts regarding Faith and Belief among Australians, especially the perception of Christianity in our nation. That

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one in 29 Australians have never heard of Jesus compels us to keep our focus on the Great Commission.

In light of these stats, our vision as a movement for the next five years will continue to make growth and health a priority for our movement, as well as missions, emerging leaders and the specialised areas of ministry by our departments.

May I take the opportunity to thank each one of our pastors and leaders, and their families for faithfully serving the Lord and building His kingdom in our nation and beyond.

We continue to pray for God’s favour and blessing over all that you do to connect people to Jesus.

Regards,

WAYNE ALCORN ACC NATIONAL PRESIDENT

ACC NATIONAL CONFERENCE 2017

Brian Houston prays for the National Executive at the close of ACC17

ACC17 Conference Photos by Nathan Roser 4

ACC17 was a great celebration of who we are as a movement, with the speakers all home grown ACC pastors, who brought such timely and significant messages. Over its 80 year history, we can praise God that Australia has produced so many world class Kingdom leaders who are continuing to inspire and influence our nation and beyond. Take Another Look was a bold theme that explored and examined many facets of ministry, including the challenges that face the Church of the future.

ACC17 NIGHT RALLIES

Brian Houston - Opening night rally

Steve Kelly - Wednesday night rally

Wayne Alcorn - Closing night rally

Honouring four national leaders - Wayne Alcorn, Ralph Read, Andrew Evans and Brian Houston:

ACC National Executive members on stage during the Business session..

Joel A’Bell looks at Church with Darlene Zschech, Robert Fergusson and Joel Cave.

Panel discussion on women in ministry chaired by Alun Davies.

WEDNESDAY SESSIONS

Another look at missions – Rebecca Nhep, Chad Irons and ACCI director, Alun Davies.

THURSDAY SESSIONS

James Macpherson - taking a look at the society we live in.

The audio and video downloads of the ACC17 conference sessions can be purchased online: ACC.VHX.TV 5

NEWS

INDIGENOUS

ACCKIDS

CHECK OUT WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING ACROSS THE ACC WITH THE RECENT INSTAGRAM POSTS

NATIONAL

STATES

SAFER CHURCHES

RANGERS WOMEN

BAPTISMS

COMMUNITY

HONOUR

YOUTH

POST YOUR ACC PICS JOIN THE MANY ACC MINISTRIES WHO POST THEIR ACTIVITIES ON SOCIAL MEDIA @ACCSNAPSHOT #ACCSNAPSHOT

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HONOURING DOUG MOODY

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ne of the ACC’s longest serving pastors, Doug Moody, passed away in May at the wonderful age of 105.

Doug received his credential in 1938 and pioneered and pastored in a number of our churches,. He also served on the Queensland AOG State Executive. He pastored in locations such as Yungaburra, Halifax, Bundaberg, Normanton, Mackay, Charters Towers, Gympie and Pine Rivers.

The ACC family salutes a true hero and amazing servant of God!

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AC HONOURS CYRIL & EVELYN

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n extraordinary moment at the ACC National Conference celebrating the Alphacrucis Distinguished Alumni Award recipients, Cyril and Evelyn Westbrook. They served God and the people of Papua New Guinea for decades with faith and compassion. Today, at almost 90, both remain full of fire for the Kingdom.

This couple are heroes in faith and purpose, and their words of wisdom are “It’s not complicated - just make yourself available to God”. [3 May 2017]

FREE RESOURCE FROM ACC INDIGENOUS INITIATIVE

round 200 delegates visited the National Indigenous stand at this year’s National ACC Conference which was exciting and interactive. Our theme was to highlight the beauty and cultural diversity of Indigenous Australia and its peoples. We where also thrilled to be able to place in the hands of everyone we spoke to a free Indigenous Resource kit sponsored by Australians Together.

This is available from the newly launched ACC Indigenous website. Check it out: www.acc.org.au/indigenous/

www.acc.org.au/indigenous/

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Blazing a trail for kids PETER BLASE was standing in an African village surrounded by youth and children when God spoke to him about creating tools to help local leaders reach children. Since then he has dedicated the past four years to creating a series of animated bible stories that communicate the Gospel to kids.

“Five years ago, at 3am, God downloaded the smallest microcosm of his heart for children around the world. It was like having emergency defibrillators placed on my spirit,” recalls Peter. “I jolted to life and jumped out of bed, wide awake and praying in tongues.”

stories from the New Testament about living a Holy Spirit-filled life. We have also produced an 18-minute movie of the life of Jesus which ends with an invitation to follow Christ.”

Reaching the children of the world Peter has always had the heart of an evangelist and is now embracing a missions focus. The Encounter Series is available with English narration, yet it is possible to record the stories in any language to reach children from different nationalities.

At that time, Peter and his wife Julie were pastoring the local ACC church they planted in 2008, but he knew instinctively that he was facing a new season that involved his heart to reach young people for Christ.

“My desire is to reach millions of children and their parents with ‘Encounter Series’ through media technologies which have rapidly advanced beyond borders,” states Peter. “Our aim is to translate our films into local languages and then begin training leaders to use the Encounter Series for both outreach and discipleship in local regions. In some counties, our film may be the only media in their native tongue.”

Peter spent 15 years as youth leader at Liberty Fellowship, and assisted with leading Youth Alive and travelling as a youth evangelist. He also spent five years with the Queensland Bible Society, producing publications and distributing them in local schools. It was during this time Peter and Julie planted ‘Good News Company’ church in Logan.

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Stop motion animation In 2012, Peter stepped out in faith to follow the vision God had given him and started the ministry of ‘iblaze International’ while Julie continued to pastor the church. Through a series of divine connections, he embarked on his idea to capture kids’ hearts for Jesus through animated film.

To find out more about ‘iblaze International’ or purchase the Encounter Series of DVDs and studies, visit: www.iblaze.org .

The Digital Encounter Movie is available to download for free as an outreach tool.

To contact Peter regarding ministry opportunities in your church, email: peter@iblaze.org

“I chose to make several short stories using an animation technique called stop motion,” explains Peter. “This is where you physically create the landscapes and characters, and photograph them; then you slightly move each model, then photograph them again. You repeat this process one shot at a time until finally all the images come together and make a story.”

Four years on, he has produced 140,000 pictures after 2,000 hours of modelling and storytelling, with the help of more than 200 volunteers. The result is a series of 45 episodes, each between five and seven minutes, that share the Gospel message from Genesis to Revelation.

“There are 20 stories from the Old Testament that highlight the nature of God the Father, and 15 stories from the Gospels about Jesus the Son of God” says Peter. “Then there are 10

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‘My desire is to reach millions of children...’

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– PETER BLASE

‘We need to lead the charge in teaching true Biblical justice

STANDING Over three years ago LYN ALCORN felt prompted to start a conversation about justice among the women in their church.

Now in its third year, Hope Centre’s She Stands For Justice conference has become an annual event that addresses the harsh realities of poverty and injustice in our world today. It all started with a desire to start a conversation about justice and the role we all can play in bringing it about on earth.

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e; helping people to understand the heart of God...’ – LYN ALCORN

FOR JUSTICE by lyn alcorn

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few years about I was given a copy of ‘The Poverty and Justice Bible’ which highlights every passage related to poverty or justice in bright orange. As I flicked through the pages from front to back, all I saw was bright orange. I was confronted with this truth: that justice is at the heart of who God is, and if it matters to Him, it must matter to us as followers of Jesus.

‘She Stands For Justice’ is a conference to start conversations, provoke thoughts and spark new ideas into how we can administer justice on the earth in Jesus’ name. I don’t profess to have all the answers, but neither can I sit silently as injustice spreads across the earth… and that’s how ‘She Stands For Justice’ was birthed, with the thought: Let’s start a conversation.

Over the last two years we’ve covered the injustices of sexualisation in society, global poverty and even human trafficking here in urban Australia – sometimes we often associate with third world countries. As we unravel these issues, we explore ways we can be the answer to these issues.

At our most recent conference we produced a booklet called ‘The Small Change, Big Change Book’, highlighting businesses that advocate justice. Many people feel overwhelmed by injustice and don’t know how to play their part in seeing justice administered in our world.

Our aim was for the booklet to show these women that administering justice in our world can start through our smallest consumer changes, which can make a big difference in this world. Our prize give-aways and gifts for speakers came from some of these companies, and we used them to showcase some regular

household items we can all purchase.

It is so important that we address true Biblical justice as Christians. Sometimes social justice is looked upon as a current trend or buzz word, and I’ve met people who don’t want to be associated with social justice ‘hype’. I’ve also met people who think social justice is for angry or cynical people. We need to lead the charge in teaching true Biblical justice; helping people to understand the heart of God, the work of Jesus and the advocacy of the Holy Spirit.

I strongly believe that true Biblical justice must have an individual and community response. We are created by community (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) for community – and if are made in His triune image, then our outworking of justice cannot just be as an individual; it must be as a community of Christ’s folllowers.

I want women to come away from this conference knowing they can make a difference, with a healthy Biblical worldview of justice. I want women to ‘go there’ – to discover uncomfortable truths we cannot ignore. My hope is also for them to be aware of the fact that justice is messy at times – over overwhelming – but we can all start somewhere in making a difference for someone.

My strong desire for this conference is that women go back to their local churches and plan something together, within their own community. We are clear and intentional on encouraging women to take their ideas back to their own senior leadership teams and to submit them to the covering and mandate of their local church.

As our world continues to face complex issues of injustice that drives people into 11

crippling fear, I can see this conference reminding people that justice must be outworked in God’s love. I can see entire communities looking to churches for answers in how to bring justice to our world.

It all starts, not with professing to know everything, but to be willing to ask questions… to start a conversation.

This year’s conference focuses on the stories behind those who have championed justice in their world.

We are so excited to have Justine Flynn, the co-founder of Thank You, share the amazing story of changing the world with a water bottle and then expanding to the influential group Thank You now is across the globe. Hannah Yeo is the Speaker of the House for Malaysia. She is a young, Christian woman in a predominantly Islamic, male dominated government. She has a story that needs to be heard. I think hearing people’s stories is a great way to open our hearts to different ways of bringing justice to our world – and most importantly, encourage women that no matter what our background, experience or age, we can all play our part. ............................................................ .

Lyn Alcorn and her husband Wayne are the senior pastors of Hope Centre. www.hopecentre.com

SHE STANDS FOR JUSTICE Saturday 26 August 2017 www.hopecentre.com/events/women

‘We built Jesus a throne in the middle of the dirt’ –

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DARLENE ZSCHECH

WORSHIP CHANGES EVERYTHING by darlene zschech ‘FOR I HAVE COME DOWN FROM HEAVEN TO DO THE WILL OF GOD WHO SENT ME, NOT TO DO MY OWN WILL.’ (John 6:38)

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’ll never forget sitting in South African dirt with a beautiful four-year-old boy in an orphanage in Johannesburg. It seemed nothing could reach his lonely little heart–not toys or games or treats. Not even the crazy young musicians traveling with us, who lavished attention and smiles on him, could find ways to connect. His eyes were glazed over. He would not speak or respond to our efforts.

As we drew near to God, He drew near to us. That’s the promise of worshipping God. There is no other name like the name of Jesus to heal our wounds, calm our fears, walk with us through suffering, and to even hold an aching fouryear-old tenderly in His arms. The boy’s heart was opened to the love of Jesus, and he experienced what a Samaritan woman did centuries earlier. He drew from a well that could never be taken from him and would never run dry.

Is it possible to give up on life and hope and others at age four? I cannot bear to think about what he had already endured at such a young age.

I can honestly say, during twelve months of cancer treatments, I may not have been able to lead worship through music, but the mission of my life as a worshipper did not change one bit. As I sat in doctor’s waiting rooms and lay in hospital beds during treatments and recovery, the call to take Jesus to every sacred place I set my foot still burned in me, just like leading people to His glorious courts through praise does. Truthful worship changes everything... always has and always will.

So there in the dirt I simply sat down and started singing “Jesus Loves Me”. It only took moments for his beautiful, tear-filled eyes to look up, and all I can say is that our hearts connected. I sang, and we stared deep into each other’s heart. He lifted his hand and touched my cheek with his finger. We built Jesus a throne in the middle of the dirt and worshipped together.

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No matter what churches and temples and cathedrals you’ve visited, I promise you, none was as grand as the sanctuary I worshipped in that morning. Built by the Father himself, it was a place of spirit and truth.

Darlene Zschech and her husband Mark are the pastors of Hope UC on the NSW central coast. www.hopeuc.com

www.hopeuc.com/conference

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www.accimissions.org.au/panasia2017

PANASIA CONFERENCE

31 JULY – 3 AUGUST 2017

MEET OUR ACCI WORLD CHANGERS IN PHUKET

The PanAsia Conference is the missions conference on the missions field. It is now a global event for missionaries, aspiring missionaries and anyone passionate about justice, giving you a comprehensive view on all that is happening in the world of ACCI Missions & Relief. At the Conference you’ll hear from our inspiring Field Workers based across the globe, ACCI team members and Australian and international pastors.

You will be inspired, you will be challenged, and you’ll come away equipped to change the world!

This event is growing in popularity year after year - don’t miss out on what is sure to be one of the most powerful and inspiring weeks of the year.

Registration: Adults: $180

Children: $50 (up to 17 years of age)

Accommodation: Novotel Phuket Resort welcomes you to book directly through their website to secure PanAsia rates.

Booking Period: From now until 8th July, 2017 (offer extended) More info: www.accimissions.org.au/panasia2017

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www.accimissions.org.au/oneday

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One in 29 Australians have never heard of Jesus

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FAITH + BELIEF IN AUSTRALIA A survey of 1,024 Australians shows that religion in Australia is not dead., according to the Faith and Belief in Australia Report by McCrindle Research.

Two in three identify with a religion or spirituality More than two in three Australians (68%) follow a religion or have spiritual beliefs. Of those that do, almost half (47%) remain committed to the religion of their upbringing. The number of Australians who do not identify with a religion or spiritual belief, however, is on the rise with almost one in three (32%) not identifying with a religion. This study replicated the ABS Census question, but added in an option for ‘spiritual but not religious’.

This had a response rate of 14% among Australians nationally, and the Christianity grouping was 45% (down from 61% in the 2011 Census).

More than half of Australians (52%) are open to changing their religious views given the right circumstances and evidence.

Younger Australians are more open to changing their current religious views than older generations.

Religion and spirituality a popular topic of conversation When gathering with friends, more than half of Australians (55%) often or occasionally talk about religion or spirituality.

Generation Z (65%) are the most comfortable talking the topic, while the Baby Boomers are the least with 51% never talking about it with their friends.

A genuine faith the greatest attraction to a religion or spirituality Observing people with genuine faith is the greatest attraction to investigating spirituality. Second is experiencing personal trauma or a significant life change. On the inverse, the top repellent to Australians investigating is public figures or celebrities who are examples of that faith. This is followed by miraculous stories of healings or supernatural occurrences.

Perceptions of Christianity Australians most value Christian organisations for their work with those in need, specifically looking after people who are homeless, offering financial assistance/food relief programs and providing disaster relief (74%, 72% and 69% respectively). 8% of Australian adults (1.5 million) do not know any Christians, while for Generation Y this is almost one in ten. One in 29 Australians have never heard of Jesus.

READ THE FULL REPORT

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RELIGION IN AUSTRALIA Results of the 2016 Australian Census, collected every five years, were released at the end of June 2017. Religious beliefs are an important aspect of many people’s lives. Information about the religious affiliation of Australians has been collected since the first Census in 1911, although this is now an optional question in the Census.

TYPE OF RELIGION Reflecting the historical influence of European migration to Australia, Christianity was the most common religion reported in 2016 (52%). Islam (2.6%) and Buddhism (2.4%) were the next most common religions reported.

The majority of Australians in 2016 (60%) reported they had a religion. The most commonly reported religious affiliations were Christian denominations. However, the proportion of people reporting a Christian religion has decreased from almost threequarters (74%) of Australians in 1991 to just over half in 2016 (52%).

Despite most Australians continuing to report a religion, almost one-third (30%) reported that they did not have a religion in 2016. This has increased from 13% of Australians in 1991.

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION OVER TIME - 1966, 1991, 2016 Infographic showing proportion reporting Christian, Other religions and No religion in 1966, 1991 and 2016.

For more information see Religion in Australia: www.abs.gov.au

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JESUS FIRST

THE LIFE AND LEADERSHIP OF ANDREW EVANS

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believe that Denise’s choice of the title, Jesus First, captures well my lifelong commitment to the scripture, Matthew 6:33 (NKJ), “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you.” As a young man, this revelation started me on a spiritual journey of discovery resulting in the 12 biblical principles for success in life and leadership. The author has wrapped my story around these principles, which I believe can work for any person or ministry, as they are based firmly on the Word of God. I applied these principles to all areas, including: making a decision about my personal life; seeking to build a large church that, at one stage, was the largest in Australia, with over 25,000 people making a decision to follow Christ; leading a Commonwealth Executive team which saw the Assemblies of God in Australia open, on average, one new church in the nation every 11 days for 20 consecutive years; overseeing the planting of hundreds of churches overseas; and establishing a new political party with eight members in four states to promote families and stop many evil laws being passed.

I trust that as you read this book, my journey will inspire you to find the truth of Christ’s promise in John 10:10 (NKJ), “I have come that they may have life and that they may have it more abundantly.”

For years I have sought God for His keys to revival. One day the Holy Spirit spoke to me and said that revival was in the body. As I meditated on this thought, I began to realise that if every Christian in our churches could find the role that he has been called to, by Jesus Christ, and successfully do it, the Church would become so powerful that nothing could stop its advancements.

When Jesus ascended into heaven He left his disciples with a vision to preach the Gospel. By the power of the Holy Spirit they turned their world upside down and changed society forever.

May God give us the grace to reach out in faith and change this nation.

Excerpted from Jesus First – The Life and Leadership of Andrew Evans by Assoc. Prof. Denise Austin. Copyright © 2017

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Can others be truly Christian, and think differently to me?

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politicising

JESUS by nathanael wood

There are two subjects that you discuss at your own peril – religion and politics – and definitely not at the same time! Perhaps this would be possible however, if our approach were a little more magnanimous.

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t’s been said, that we don’t see the world as it is, but as we are.

In other words, what we see is distorted by who we are. We all have an outlook on life, or thoughts about the world – and this is referred to as, a worldview. This assimilated or integrated view of the world is acquired by a lifetime of influences and experiences. Like many, my creed, or my faith – and most definitely my interpretation of it – has framed my thoughts about the world.

the endings, sayings and outcomes of all the various parables and gospel accounts? Probably not. Therefore, I must reluctantly concede, I’m unable to confidently claim that I always get right – what Jesus would do.

The public policy space throughout our fractured society is highly contentious and fairly acrimonious. People with passionately held positions, understandably arguing in favour of their own worldview. This often maligned discourse is fraught, divisive and undignified. However if we’re going to invoke a principled position, may it be in the way we advocate and argue our point of view. Let us, on either side of any debate (or even spirited disagreement) be more inclined to be both thoughtful and respectful.

Laying claim to a ‘Christian’ worldview sounds a little audacious.

Am I really claiming to think just like Jesus? This also leads to subsequent questions that ignorantly assume that Jesus is not – apolitical or non-partisan, like – is my political persuasion and associated ideologies affiliated and synonymous with His? Are His social bents, and voting intentions even, conveniently just like mine?

Jesus did not join a political faction nor did He choose to involve Himself in the politics of the day. (This doesn’t mean though, that those who identify as Christian are therefore exempt or excused – quite the contrary.) But if there is no clear blueprint though – do I categorically know what Jesus would do in response to every social, environmental and economic issue confronting our world? Certainly not. Life to many is black and white, (or more appropriately blue, red and green!) but often times, despite your political colour, we’re all finding our bearings in the unchartered sea of grey.

So, do I think just like Jesus, or do I presume that Jesus thinks just like me? It’s been said, God created man in His own image then man returned the favour. Curiously, has Jesus become in my mind, simply the reflection of me and my politics?

In society, the moral high ground is seemingly a crowded space.

People espousing heartfelt opinions concerning the big issues of the day – whether they’re endorsed by pop-culture or frowned upon and deemed politically-incorrect. If only, ‘common ground’ in society proved to be as popular.

There are big issues that our world is desperately grappling with, that require uncommon, vehement-composure from men and women of faith. I must, where there is disagreement or difference of opinion, summons the wisdom, understanding and patience to engage graciously and honourably. I must also deal with my own political and social prejudices in order to constructively discuss and debate – committed to ‘playing the ball and not the person’. I’m not always wrong – but unlike Jesus, I’m not always right either!

Am I the only one motivated by love and compassion? Is justice something I exclusively understand and desire? Is everybody who disagrees with me obviously, morally bankrupt or socially inferior? Can others be truly Christian, and think differently to me?

What Would Jesus Do? Well, Jesus boldly claimed to be obedient to the Father in word and deed – so this clearly determined what He did. The WWJD campaign was an attempt to help followers appropriately frame Jesus-like behaviour and conversation. WWJD is certainly noble, and a thought-provoking question, with virtuous intent. However, are all my subsequent conclusions infallible or flawless? I often think about how refreshingly unpredictable Jesus proved to be in various situations. It makes me think, would I have predicted

So, let us, without politicising Jesus and polarising people, exchange points of view robustly but magnanimously.

Nathanel Wood serves at Hillsong Church as NSW State Leader.

He has been an ACC pastor for the past 18 years.

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as churches have grown, the task has become too large for one group or meeting

leaders & governance by ian jagelman

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on’t you just love terms like ‘governance’?

In the history of churches this function was normally found in groups called ‘Elders’ or ‘Boards’. The issues covered in an ‘elders’ meeting are very broad and tiring. It could include difficult pastoral matters, financial budgets, staff appointments, mission policies et al.

Over the past few years I have become linked to an association who founded what is called ‘Systems Leadership Theory’. They have written a book of that name which includes ‘building positive organisations. Don’t we all desire to be able to describe our churches ‘positive churches’?

Embedded in their model is the role of ‘myths’ and the dangers they can be. It is the notion that organisations have levels of leadership and those who lead at a particular level have their overview as to why certain discussions have been made.

As churches have grown, the task has become too large for one group or meeting so that the redesigning of structures has been necessary.

The roles of ‘board’, ‘Senior Pastor’, Executive Team’ and ‘Finance Board’ all need clear role descriptions and policies need to be established to clarify where authority boundaries exist.

So often information is passed down from level to level as to ‘what’ is going to be changed but are not told ‘why’. In leading in governance there are frequently many ‘myths’ as to why one person was appointed over another. The model also speaks of universal values which will be used by those at each level as to whether they will accept and support discussions from above.

The designing of these structures, roles and policies have become complex and training is often required for people long assuming that the task simply requires prayer and personal experience. We all know the complexity of new cars, new ovens and new phones. We want the instruments but get annoyed when we have to ask for help.

Well led governance needs to build into processes and policies values worthy of Christian leadership. It is so easy to blame leaders at lower levels when the danger comes from above when governance decisions occur.

Instructions like the ‘Charity Commission’ and ‘The Australian Taxation Office’, plus government required commissions have flagged the need for us to take seriously our responsibilities once we accept these roles.

Let us become the leaders of integrity spoken of King David in Psalms 78:72

Ignorance is no longer an excuse nor can people be appointed because of loyalty rather than competence.

‘So he shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart, and guided them with his skillful hands.’

Governance is all about responsibility and wisdom. It is about knowledge (and the lack of it) and doing what is needed so that the Church and Christianity is respected and trustworthy.

We all have read the newspapers and watched with horror at the stories of the abuse of children.

Dr Ian Jagelman is the Director of Leadership Studies at Alphacrucis, Parramatta.

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Four ways to transform your church and build a stronger community engagement

BUILDING STRONG COMMUNITIES by paul bartlett

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CC Community Engagement are excited to have developed a method or a set of techniques that we believe helps find the hidden gold within people in our churches, and in our communities. We call this Building Strong Communities. The way we see it, your backyard is your whole community. It’s where you live, your home.

In basic terms, we look for what’s strong instead of what’s wrong, and we use what’s strong to help what’s not to become stronger. We believe the glass is always half full.

This will not fill your church overnight, but it will fill your community with Jesus.This journey is inconvenient. It is a complete change in thinking and it’s a constant struggle to renew your mind to think differently. But it works. Across ACC churches nationally, we are seeing great relationships being built and sustained from using these principles.

Building Strong Communities is life giving, and removes the power imbalance, the ‘us’ and ‘them’ division that we have found in churches for a long time - what has stopped us connecting with our community.

It is about people knowing you personally. It’s not a cold face, client-consumer relationship. The people in your community need to know you authentically. Share life together. This brings a whole level of complexity to life, but that’s what genuine community and relationship is – doing life together.

So how do we start? Here are four simple things which will transform your church into a community, authentically connecting and doing life together.

watching people, listening to conversations and meeting people.

Find the local neighbourhood/community centre and what is offered there. What does the community love and is there a way you can contribute? What are the major events each year that happen? Attend and contribute to them somehow.

2. What’s your passion?

There’s something about people who live in their strengths.

They’re interesting and people are attracted to them. Your passion will give you strength. Our capacity as humans is always growing, and if you’re passionate about what you’re doing, you’ll always find a way to make it happen.

Sometimes as pastors and leaders our world is church and family, and it’s all encompassing. But we all have our own interests, hobbies and passions. Part of your job to pursue them.

If you can connect in your community in an area you’re passionate about and interested in, you’ll enjoy it, you’ll build genuine and authentic relationships and it will be good for you.

Maybe it’s been so long since you’ve done something for yourself, you’re just not sure where you’d start. Think about it in terms of the gifts of the head, heart, and hands.

• Head = knowledge, information (What do you enjoy talking about?)

• Hand = practical skills (Things I know how to do and enjoy doing) • Heart = passion (What do you care deeply about? ) That’s where you need to connect.. That’s where you will build genuine relationships.

1. Get to know who’s in your community.

What springs to mind instantly when the name of your community is uttered? Take a moment to think about it and write it down. Then think about who or what are part of that, or connected to that centre.This is your starting place so connect with this in whatever way you can.

Maybe it’s attending an event, going to a place regularly, getting to know a specific group of people.. We guarantee whatever you have thought of it is because you are somewhat already connected to it and it will be natural for you to start there.

Buy local. Meet local business owners. Support them and talk to them. Build relationships–without an agenda. Don’t ask for support for your Community Care Initiative - just be a friend.

Discover the meeting places in your community, such as local cafes, beaches or parks. Spend time there intentionally

3. Learn to listen We are always on the go, be it on our phones, or working, or task oriented. Genuine relationships only work when people listen. We can only find the gold within people by listening to each other.

You will be amazed at what you learn about people when you pay attention to what they say. Helpful questions to ask are: • If you could snap your fingers and be doing anything, what would it be?

• What are your dreams?

• What do you enjoy doing?

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Left: Paul Bartlett with the ACC Community Engagement Giraffe Award, for those who stick their necks out for people in need.

• What makes you angry? Behind anger lies passion for a cause.

Everyone cares about something and we can learn what that is by listening to them.

Why do I believe this is important for churches to grasp?

People aren’t waking up on a Sunday wanting to go to church.

We just don’t seem relevant to people anymore.

Living this way means you live amongst people. You know them and they know you. You do life together.

Our communities need people who will be community builders, who will help others to see what is strong within them and figure out how to use what’s strong to fix what’s wrong. Imagine the potential if everyone who is defined as the problem, secured the power to help redefine the problem.

We believe the solutions to all the problems we face are found at grassroots in our communities. This has to start with a belief that we are not “rescuing” people. There is no them and us. There’s only us.

If reading this article has ignited a spark within you, maybe made you wonder if this is something you could do, if this is the answer to reconnecting your church back into the life of your community; or if you’re a bit stuck in where to go in engaging your community, we’d love to come alongside you and offer support. We offer coaching and training in Building Strong Communities.

4. Become a People Connector Once you do these three things, as you come across a wide range of people, you will be able to connect your assets in your community.

You’ll be able to connect Not For Profits with businesses that are like minded. For example, there might be a young person who is passionate about building that you could connect with a builder who’s looking for an apprentice.

When you come across someone is complaining, you can encourage them to be the answer, and be part of their community.

We don’t have to wait for the next government grant or the million dollar benefactor with his cheque book to turn up.

Everything you need is already in your community, and it’s up to you to find it. Your job is to connect the bits of the puzzle to see the whole picture.

When you know enough people, you will be so well known in the community that people will approach you and ask for your advice.

Everyone is made in the image of God., so therefore everyone has good qualities. We believe our communities cannot afford to have someone not sharing their gifts.

Look for common themes in your community: Where are the gaps? How could you work with what is already there to make it stronger? The question is NOT how do we help?

How do we save? How do we rescue? It is how do we add to or support what initiatives are already happening?

............................................................

Paul Bartlett is the National Director of the ACC Community Engagement.

More info: www.acccommunityengagement.org.au Email: community.engagement@acc.org.au

‘Everything you need is already in your community, and it’s up to you to find it. ‘ – paul bartlett 25

For almost 20 years, the team at ACCI Relief has been empowering people and transforming communities in central Vietnam. Through providing training and support for children, families and whole communities, their goal is to break down the barriers that prevent people from participating in, and ultimately determining, their own development.

Empowering Local Communities

VIETNAM F

or this team, led by ACCI field workers Paul and Deb Hilton, and Kelvin and Rebekah Windsor, recognising the rights (or agency) of the people they are working with is more than just a part of what they do; it’s why they do it.

Vietnam, a one-party Communist state, has one of southeast Asia’s fastest growing economies and has its sights set on earning recognition as a ‘developed nation’ by 2020, yet the majority of the population in rural areas struggle with daily survival. ACCIR partners with more than 120 of these rural villages, journeying with them as they work towards a set of goals they have each identified as being vital to their own development. This process of community transformation begins with a Community Development Workshop, with key government and community leaders, as Paul explains: “It is these CDW intensives that are the foundation of all future project activities and it is it is during these workshops that … the community is empowered to discuss and establish plans that they can implement themselves to bring about the very changes they want to see in their area.

“Once communities identify their felt needs, prioritise which areas they want to address first and discuss existing and possible opportunities for resources, we are then able to connect with each community on possible project activities that we have available to them that could help them work towards their development goals.”

These project options include livestock

and agricultural training and/or seeds, revolving (monetary or animal) loan schemes, water and 40 sanitation training and infrastructure, medical training and equipment, life skills courses, and training on topics like road safety, disaster relief, financial planning and parenting, just to name a few.

Importantly, as well as workshopping ideas with leaders in the community, ACCIR takes time to meet with local people who aren’t in leadership positions to ensure their voices are also being reflected in decisions made. “This helps us ensure the regular members of the community are involved in the development process, with the decisions not only being made at ‘the top’,” Rebekah says.

When the time comes to get projects off the ground, community members are always part of the solution – through either partly funding costs and/or providing labour for any new resources.

“If we’re putting in clean water, for example, we might fund the installation of the equipment but community members would have to dig the trenches and provide the labour … and the government might have to print out some of the water, sanitation and health training materials,” Paul says.

This results in communities which not only feel a greater sense of pride and ownership of any new infrastructure or resources, but also local people who realise the role they have to play and the value they have within themselves.

More info: www.accirelief.org.au 26

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NEW RELEASES READ

READ

READ

EXCLUSIVE EXTRACT PAGE 19

GOLIATH MUST FALL Winning the battle against your giants

By Louie Giglio

Louis Giglio addresses the issue of ‘giants’ in our lives: areas of bondage - like rejection, anxiety, fear, anger and addiction - that keep our focus away from the glory of God. Louis helps readers to understand the sources of their giants, and to trust in Jesus to overcome them.

How do we overcome those battles in our lives that we always seem to be fighting?

We all have giants in our lives that creep in and take over. Giants like rejection, anxiety, fear, anger, and addiction. These adversaries establish a foothold, and before we know it we are tolerating something that is diminishing the glory of God in our lives and holding us back from the freedom that Jesus intends for us. So how do we break out of these patterns once and for all?

Put aside what you may think about the classic David vs. Goliath story. In Goliath Must Fall, Giglio shows us how to dwell on the size of our God, not the height of our giants. Once we understand the source of our giants, we can ensure that whatever our affliction is, it can, will, and must fall down with the power of Jesus.a www.koorong.com.au

JESUS FIRST: The life and leadership of Andrew Evans

By Denise A Austin

Andrew Evans is renowned as a prominent Australian Pentecostal church planter, missionary, denominational superintendent and politician.

Under his 30-year leadership, Paradise Assembly of God in Adelaide became one of the first and largest megachurches in Australia.

As General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God in Australia for an unrivalled 20 years, Evans instigated one of the most successful church planting drives in history and opened the way for global movements, such as Hillsong and PlanetShakers.

Defying traditional church-state demarcations, he then founded the Family First political party and served as a Legislative Councillor, holding the balance of power in the South Australian parliament.

This book ‘Jesus First:The life and leadership of Andrew Evans’ provides a detailed biography of this humble Christian statesman and the timeless principles that guided his leadership.

Email: info@ac.edu.au www.koorong.com.au 28

THINGS I’VE LEARNED SINCE I KNEW IT ALL

By Ivan & Pauline Herald Two hundred ministers from around the world bring their distilled wisdom in 99 key and often controversial issues of topics nobody told them about whilst they were in ministry training. They have contributed their concerns of issues that impacted negatively their early ministerial effectiveness. Learn from their transparency. Had they known they would have been saved a lot of grief and got a few more nights sleep.

The 99 essential issues are split up into seven key areas for successful ministry.

• Church Governance, Finance, Administration & Politics.

•Character, Ethics & Morality Issues.

• Conflict Management & Stress Issues.

• Personal Pastoral Concerns.

• Counselling & Working With People.

• Denominational Issues.

• Church Health Issues.

Every minister must focus on growth in his or her skills, abilities and maturity in his or her own character and ethical integrity. sense of humour. Your destiny in ministry is both in God’s and your own hands. Make the right choices, as effectively dealt with in ‘Things I’ve Learned Since I Knew It All.” Email ozfame@bigpond.com www.amazon.com

NEW SOUNDS LISTEN

‘I see the world in grace I see the world in gospel I see the world Your way And I’m walking in the light’ WONDER

Hillsong United ‘Wonder’ is the sixth studio album from Hillsong United, that features new songs including ‘Wonder’ and ‘Splinters and Stones’.

“Have we lost the wonder?”asks Joel Houston, frontman for the band that has sold over 2 million albums sold to date.

Explaining intrinsically what it means further, Houston continues, “The hope, the imagination to dream, to believe, the tenderness to listen and lead first with mercy, the grace to empathise, the courage to trust, the fearlessness to love without pretense or condition. To see beyond the facts without dismissing them. To respond beyond the fear without reciprocating it. To sing beyond the noise, without adding to it. This is the challenge, and this is what worship— if worship can be summed up as an expression of art and music and story— is ultimately designed to do. To elevate the conversation, re-awaken the soul to something other, and lift our eyes to the wonder of a superlative truth.”

available on itunes, spotify and gooleplay www.hillsong.com/music

LISTEN

GOOD GOOD FATHER ELevation Worship

‘So that people far from God will be raised to life in Christ. ‘That was the vision of Elevation Church when it began in 2006 with a group of eight families led by Pastor Steven Furtick. Over the years that followed, that vision has remained the same as the church has grown to several locations throughout the Charlotte, NC area, with multiple extension sites around the U.S. and Canada.

From the beginning, Pastor Steven had a vision for Elevation Worship to write and record songs that reflect the church’s journey, experiences, and needs. The music released by Elevation Worship is characterised by a guitar-driven, versatile sound, and lyrics that reflect the “heart of the house”. The albums range from studio sessions that correspond with certain seasons in the church, to live recordings that reflect special nights of worship.

Worship Pastor Wade Joye says, “We have seen God do the impossible in our church time and time again, and we consider it such an honor to give voice through these songs to the great things He has done. Our prayer is that all who hear this music will be inspired to believe that the Lord can do the same in their own lives and churches.”

Good Good Father features 30 live praise and worship songs from Elevation Church.

available www.koorong.com.au

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LISTEN

‘The Church should be the biggest party on the planet’ – Russell Evans LEGACY PART 1: Alive Again Planetsha https://static4.

For centuries, words and instruments have painted pictures of adoration to God that have echoed off the walls of cathedrals or filled the air of secret home churches. Yet, much like the people singing those sacred lyrics, the idea of worship and its musical sound have been on a journey.

Planetshakers Band has been forging new frontiers, pushing the boundaries of what modern worship sounds and looks like, and we have found a unique voice for conveying praise and love to God. Building on a legacy of innovation, our approach has resonated with a global audience, packing out arenas around the world.

With the release of Legacy – Part 1: Alive Again, recorded in Manila, Philippines and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, we expand our sound even further. As Planetshakers Senior Pastor, Russell Evans, sums up the vibe, “The Church should be the biggest party on the planet”.

available on itunes and gooleplay

A C C U M U L A T O R

ACHIEVE YOUR FINANCIAL GOALS SOONER WHILE SUPPORTING THE ACC MOVEMENT THROUGH ACCUMULATOR

T

hrough the ACC’s own investment product ACCumulator, ACS Financial has been able to meet the demands for funding from our ACC churches with millions of dollars over recent years for their operations and property needs,, whilst also providing investors with very competitive investment returns and being able to invest in the ACC movement.

For more than 15 years, ACCumulator has provided investors with the opportunity to achieve some of the best rates and terms on their funds in the marketplace.

The investor profile of our clients include: • Churches • Individuals • Self-managed super funds • Schools • Businesses By encouraging members of our movement to consider investing their funds in ACCumulator, together, we will be able to continue to meet the high demand ACS Financial is witnessing from our clients and provide them with funding opportunities that support and grow the work of our churches, schools and ministries.

The more funds we have invested in ACCumulator, the stronger we will be able to grow our movement.

So take another look and contact our Investment Officer, Lyndal Cowan on 1800 646 777 or click on the link below to take you to our investor guide. Together we can directly resource the growth of ACC churches to purchase, build or expand their operations. http://www.acsfinancial.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/ACS-ACCumulator-Investor-Guide-032017.pdf

TESTIMONIAL: “We have invested with ACS Accumulator as we consider it to benefit not only us by obtaining an above market interest rate but it also affords finance to ACS which can be invested in other Christian endeavours. We have been unable to achieve comparable interest rates at any other financial institute. We have always received excellent personal service without delays and the staff have always been very polite and accommodating.”

– Vicki Martin, Northwest Church Inc, Tamworth

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http://www.acsfinancial.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/ACS-ACCumulator-Investor-Guide-032017.pdf

http://www.acsfinancial.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/ACS-ACCumulator-Investor-Guide-032017.pdf 31

2017 DIARY JULY PANASIA MISSIONS CONFERENCE 31 July - 3 August 2017 Novotel Phuket Resort, Thailand www.accimissions.org.au/panasia2017

www.accimissions.org.au/panasia2017 www.accimissions.org.au/panasia2017

AUGUST KIDSHAPER CONFERENCE 15 – 17 August 2017 Gold Coast www.acckids.org.au/kidshaper17

www.acckids.org.au/kidshaper17

UNITED WE STAND 18 August 2017 Australiawide www.youthalive.com.au

SEPTEMBER INDIGENOUS CONFERENCE 7 – 9 September 2017 Melbourne www.ganggalah.com www.ganggalah.com

MARCH 2018 COLOUR WOMENS CONFERENCE 1: 15–17 March 2: 19–21 March 2018 The Theatre at ICC, Darling Harbour Sydney www.colourconference.com/sydney

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