MISSIONS 2024
HE SAID TO THEM, ‘GO INTO ALL THE WORLD AND PREACH THE GOSPEL TO ALL CREATION.
Mark 16:15
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MISSIONS 2024
Dear Church,
It’s that time of year again— Missions season is upon us! March holds a special place in our hearts as we spotlight the incredible endeavours and projects of the missionaries and organisations we are privileged to support.
At Horizon Church, our fervent desire is to be a life-giving community, overflowing with love by spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ to every corner of our world. Together, we extend our gaze beyond the confines, reaching out into the streets, our neighborhoods, and the nations. We forge partnerships with reputable organisations meeting people right where they are, showing God’s love by offering practical assistance.
We invite you to immerse yourself in this brochure, exploring
our Missions programs and the remarkable individuals and ministries we support! May you seek the Lord’s guidance as you discern how you can join with us in advancing these vital initiatives. And mark your calendars for Sunday, March 17, as we come together as a unified church family, across all locations, to receive our Miracle Missions Offering.
Mark 16:15: “He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.’”
With love and gratitude, Pastors
Brad & Ali
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BIRTHDAY
The Horizon “Birthday in a Box” initiative has flourished since it’s 2021 launch. Birthed from the desire for children to know that they are seen and loved, our boxes are filled to the brim with generous, age-appropriate gifts, ‘instant birthday party’ supplies, as well as a selection of necessities such as socks, toiletries and school supplies. Since its inception, we have provided hundreds of Birthday boxes to support children in various high-need situations such as emergency housing and hospitals, at no cost to these families.
Local businesses have stepped up to contribute to filling these boxes, and together with your generosity, we collaborate with respected local organisations to distribute them to those in our community. Our collective goal is to make a meaningful difference in
the lives of children and families facing hardship. To date, we have partnered with multiple agencies, including Deadly Connections Community & Justice Services, Project Youth, Henry Dodd House, and Woolooware High School. We recently extended our reach into Western Australia with the distribution our first delivery of Birthday boxes to Busselton Youth Services.
It’s encouraging to see demand surpassing our current supply levels and in 2024, we aim to expand our capacity and seek partnerships with additional businesses to meet these growing needs. Together, we aspire to foster the growth of this ministry nationwide as we demonstrate God’s love in a very practical and joyful way to children and teenagers on their birthday.
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IN A BOX
For You created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
Psalms 139:13-14
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Founded in 2001, Destiny Rescue’s work has now grown into a worldwide organisation dedicated to rescuing children from sexual exploitation and trafficking, and helping them stay free. They serve to help amplify the voices of both those who are enslaved and have been freed from abuse.
Highly trained agents work with local law enforcement to raid establishments where children are being sexually exploited, They then commence a pathway to freedom programme so each child can live the Destiny that God has for them. These raids not only free children, but can also lead to the arrest of traffickers and the closing down of an establishment. As of September 2023, Destiny Rescue have rescued 2,765 individuals and they have outworked 172 rescue initiatives resulting in 177 arrests.
Horizon Church’s generosity has helped to bring freedom and hope to children who were trapped in the darkest circumstances and our ongoing support ensures the continuation of this deeply life transforming work.
DESTINY RESCUE
2,765 RESCUED
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NOONGAR TRANSLATION BIBLE SOCIETY
Over the past 4 years, Horizon Church has partnered with the Bible Society Australia, the key publisher of Indigenous Bibles in Australia, and Noongar translators to restore their language through Bible translation projects. Noongar people are coming together to learn and revive their heart language and engage in Bible translation work. Noongar is one of 110 critically endangered Aboriginal languages and rescuing their diminishing language has been an emotional journey for the Noongar people of southwest Western Australia.
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TRANSLATION
IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS
Successful launch of ‘Jesus is Born’ Christmas Bible storybook in Bunbury, WA. The ‘Jesus is Born’ children’s Bible storybook was distributed to children and families in Bunbury as part of the Bunbury Aboriginal Christian Fellowship Church Community Christmas Celebrations.
IN THE NEXT 12 MONTHS
As for 2024, while the translators in Bunbury have begun doing some work in Genesis, the goal is to continue the work on the translation of Matthew. They have finished a little book called “Jesus Calms the Storm”, which is the same format as the Christmas book completed in late 2022.
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SEPHEO
Josh & Belinda Groves
Maseru Lesotho (Southern Africa)
“Poverty is not an identity. Every child has a purpose.”
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Josh & Belinda Groves founded Sepheo, an organisation that works with children living and begging on the streets in Maseru, the capital city of Lesotho, a country in Southern Africa.
Over the last 10 years, Sepheo has completely changed the look of the streets of Lesotho. They used to be filled with hundreds of homeless children, digging through bins and begging during the day, then huddled around small fires at night, often taking drugs. Today, the streets are bare.
Sepheo has recently built an Early Childhood Care and Development Centre in response to toddlers being left alone during the day while their mums went to find much
needed work. The mother’s were faced with an unthinkable choice. The answer was to provide free childcare so solo mothers could work and young mums could return to school while their babies were well cared for.
In 2023, the contributions from Horizon Church made it possible to buy school shoes for 20 students at Sepheo School who are engaged in education, rehabilitation, and family restoration programs. The award of school shoes is always received with such joy, and comes at a time when children have settled in to school life, are attending well and are showing signs of transformation.
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RED FROGS
JOHN HERBERT FOR THE NATIONS
For the Nations is a ministry aimed to equip, encourage and raise up future church planters to accelerate the spread of the gospel on the earth .John and his wife Debbie have two boys, and as a family they are passionate about seeing a generation touched by the power of God and equipped to reach the world
for Jesus. Over the past 25 years, John has led Youth and Young Adult Ministries, pioneered Bible Colleges and planted international churches. He carries a unique ability to understand culture and has an authentic and relational approach to discipleship, bringing the power and presence of God wherever he ministers.
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Red Frogs is a chaplaincy organization founded in the Gold Coast of Australia, where it was established in 1997. Since its expansion nationwide in 2001, Red Frogs has been a safety net for students and young adults. With a dedicated team of over 1500 volunteers, Red Frogs provides direct relief, safety, and support to young people during the Schoolies/Leavers week across 14 locations in Australia and Bali. This includes the South West of WA, where our Dunsborough and Busselton campuses are located.
Every year thousands of Western Australian High School graduates descend upon the Margaret River Region to celebrate the end of school. This annual ‘Leavers’ event presents a unique opportunity to practically love and minister to young people as they
launch into adulthood. Partnering with Red Frogs, our Horizon Dunsborough community is able to provide judgementfree connection and support. The loving presence of the church is felt not only by the school leavers, but also by the broader community in the region.
In 2023, Horizon was part of the response team to critical events, such as an incident where a school leaver was hit by a car in Dunsborough. A notification was circulated on the prayer chain managed by HZ Dunsborough. Additionally, a team of young adults provided assistance to the affected individuals and established meaningful connections. Looking ahead to 2024, we aim to expand this support and team to better serve these young people.
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MISSIONARIES
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MISSIONARIES
ROB & RHONDA
INDONESIA
Robert and Rhonda are among some of our most experienced overseas workers, having lived amongst Islamic peoples for over 30 years. Robert and Rhonda’s ministry emphasis is for strong indigenous leadership and ownership of vision.
They support a National Team that is committed to seeing communities transformed for the better, as well as lives reflecting Christ. Robert graduated with a Doctorate from an Islamic University in Indonesia, whilst Rhonda has facilitated the Flourish program throughout Indonesia, training numerous facilitators.
The Indonesian Flourish program continues to be implemented in a variety of contexts for women, including rural Muslim villages to Government Office workers, as well as conservative Muslim groups and for non-Muslims. Despite the diversity, there is a common message communicated; that women have a Godgiven value and purpose.
Robert coordinates a Bible Translation project tailored for the average Muslim, faithful to the original text. He believes easily understood scripture is crucial for a thriving faith community.
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ROGER & REBECCA HEAD
SOUTHERN EUROPE
Roger and Rebecca Head are specialist field workers with ACC International Missions and Relief. They work to connect Australian churches with grassroots ministries in Southern Europe, fostering partnerships, expanding existing programs, and developing new pathways for reaching more people with the love of Jesus. Southern Europe, once the centre for great seafaring empires, is now a region with high unemployment and widespread poverty. Though many people are culturally religious, few attend church and even fewer have personally experienced the life-changing power of God. This mission field is ripe for harvest!
Roger is a much loved part of Horizon Church, faithfully serving for almost a decade on our Board. He and Rebecca (an experienced leader in the social services sector) are passionate about God impacting lives and seeing communities transformed.
2023 saw the establishment of a very much needed Scholarship program with the National AOG Bible College of Portugal. Roger and Bec will return to Southern Europe this year, continuing to meet with national pentecostal leaders, expanding the scholarship program and further extending their reach beyond Portugal and into Spain.
MISSIONARIES
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LAURA POPE
MIDDLE EAST
Since arriving in the Middle East, Laura has had the opportunity to participate in a comprehensive training program. This program encompasses learning Arabic, understanding the local culture, and grasping team dynamics. Moreover, Laura engages in practicing listening prayer and is learning how to minister, pray, and share the good news of Jesus Christ in a manner accessible to those from Islamic backgrounds.
Laura is part of an eight-person team comprising of foreigners who are all new to Jordan and to full-time ministry. Adjusting to numerous cultural practices and attending 20 hours of Arabic classes per week are among their ongoing challenges. Nonetheless, they benefit from the guidance and support of experienced and compassionate leaders who offer regular instruction and supervision.
This spiritual support and specialized training are vital in establishing a solid foundation for long-term, effective, and spirit-led work among Muslims in the Middle East. Together with her new team, Laura finds that abiding and surrendering have become central themes as they navigate the challenges of serving in the region. Upon completing the initial training, Laura will join a team to serve in another country within the Middle East.
JIM & JULIE PETERS
RURAL AUSTRALIA
Jim and his wife Julie are part of the team at Horizon Sydney South West. As a credentialled pastor, Jim has travelled to many regional areas in NSW & Victoria over the past year, encouraging pastors and ministering to their congregations. In recent journeys, Jim has witnessed healings, people receiving Christ as Saviour, and marriages and relationships restored through his ministry. One trip involved a 12 hour trek to Wilcannia, where there is no permanent pastor, and there have been difficulties in the church, accompanied by many social challenges in the town. Jim’s ministry in these country churches is effective and desperately needed. Please pray for these country churches where the encouragement and assistance is so greatly appreciated.
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HORIZON PROGRAMS
MEALS FOR MUMS
A little practical help can go a long way in seasons of major transition. Each week, Meals for Mums supports new parents and families in crisis with hot meals and pastoral visits. Through our Care Team, we provide hundreds of meals to people across Sydney who need extra love and support during challenging seasons.
KIDS MINISTRY
Horizon Kids Ministry is a vital part of our church community! Every Sunday across Australia, Horizon Kids minister to hundreds of children. In our NSW campuses, our Annual Ginormous Easter Egg Hunt provides an opportunity to bless and connect with hundreds of families in our local communities. Our hope is to expand our outreach efforts and spread the love of God to families across all our campuses.
YOUTH MINISTRY
Horizon Youth is a key connection within our communities, helping to embrace, encourage and empower teenagers in the areas of identity and purpose. Horizon Youth provides sponsorship for young people, including many at-risk youth, to be a part of a dynamic Winter Camp experience, which has a significant impact on young lives for years to come.
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HORIZON CAMPSITE
Set in the heartland of the WA tourism hotspot of Geographe Bay in the South West, is the new Horizon campsite. Established by the Australian Christian Churches in the 1980’s, it has been lovingly stewarded by the people of Abundant Life Church in Busselton, who have recently joined the Horizon Church family.
Providing low cost, beach front accommodation options of powered sites (for tents and caravans) and on-site vans, plus a dining hall and kitchen, this facility is used by churches, community groups and hundreds of families throughout the year, many who are disadvantaged or need a place of respite and care.
With thousands of people visiting the campsite each year, it presents a significant opportunity for us to reach the people of WA. Over the last few years on the campsite, many people have received Jesus, asked for prayer and have been baptised on the beach!
We are believing God for increased opportunities to show people the uncommon love of Jesus and connect them into one of our WA Campuses.
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HORIZON INDONESIA ROTE ISLAND
Matt and Nat Thistlewaite, along with their family, have witnessed the ongoing goodness of God in Horizon Indonesia over the past 12 months. This period has seen the establishment of Life Groups and sustained connection with the community on Rote Island. Following a time spent in Sydney with family and friends, they are now returning to Rote Island with faith for a fresh move of God.
One of the remarkable developments on Rote Island is the implementation of community programs. To support these initiatives, a community centre has been established. This centre facilitates
international students’ participation in quality education during local school hours, and offers after-school education and activities for both local and international students. These programs foster relationships and provide a space for children to learn, grow, and play together. Some of the programs include free English classes, environmental classes, beach clean-ups, hospitality classes, and community-driven projects and initiatives.
We continue to believe for God’s ongoing favour and blessings as Rote Island progresses from strength to strength.
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ONLINE CAMPUS
Horizon Online provides an opportunity for church community for many people across Australia and abroad who may not be able to engage in one of our physical locations. Our unique digital campus is an exciting channel for outreach and discipleship, which are our primary focuses as an online ministry. We are energised by the opportunity to connect with people in new and creative ways!
Many people who are exploring their faith will first reach out and engage with Horizon Church through an online platform, whether that is through our social media, our website or watching our online services. We are looking forward to all that God will continue to do through our Online Campus as the methods may change, but our message is the same: there is love and truth to be found only in the name of Jesus Christ.
HORIZON PERTH
Horizon Perth is currently in an exhilarating phase of growth, having recently launched our weekly services in February! The emerging community and teams are a testament to God’s grace and goodness in action. We are eagerly anticipating what God will continue to do as He strengthens our Perth Community.
One of the most promising opportunities for HZ Perth lies in outreach to the young adults of Curtin University. Situated just 7 minutes away from the largest university in WA, with over 58,000 students, we are actively planning to extend the uncommon love of Jesus to these university students. We have a special heart for international students who are navigating life in a new country and seeking a community to connect with, as well as for the thousands of local young adults who are in need of the hope found in Jesus.
We are excited to witness the unfolding testimonies that will become an integral part of HZ Perth’s journey!
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MIRACLE MISSIONS OFFERING
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SUNDAY 17TH MARCH 2024, ALL CAMPUSES
Miracle Missions Offering is our opportunity to share the love of God in dynamic and practical ways. Through your generous giving, His love continues to reach people throughout Australia and the world.
We believe that what we give together will impact lives powerfully.
Pray and ask God how you can contribute, prepare your gift and come ready to give in our Miracle Missions Offering*, Sunday 17th March 2024 (all services, all campuses).
*Please refer to the Miracle Missions Offering GIVE CARD for details of how to give.
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WWW.HZ.CHURCH 2024 MIRACLE MISSIONS OFFERING 17TH MARCH