VISION MISSION VALUES
TO SEE LIVES TRANSFORMED BY JESUS IN SCHOOLS
STUDENTS LEADING STUDENTS TO JESUS IN SCHOOLS
Jesus Centred
With a mission focus
Relational
Building genuine relationships to engage, equip and encourage
Creative
Connecting in relevant and dynamic ways
Passionate
Demonstrating a vibrant energy and joy
WITH JUST ONE Seed
In the spring of 2002, a seed-sized idea led a youth minister, Peter Carolane, and a small group of Christians to establish a schools’ ministry committed to supporting students in their faith and sharing God's love in schools across Melbourne. It started with one Lunchtime Group and then two ... three and then ... more! Schools saw our passion, innovation and ability to convey the gospel in creative ways; and so our Schools Presentations, known initially as 'Mustard Live', were launched.
Twenty one years later, Mustard has expanded throughout Victoria and into Tasmania and South Australia. The legacy continues: of empowering Lunchtime Groups to explore Jesus with their peers; of presenting Jesus to large groups of students with music, drama, testimonies and fun; of partnering with churches and individuals who believe in the power of youth and are willing to invest in them as leaders. Consider the impact: tens of thousands of students have heard the good news of Jesus! The seeds that have been sown continue to take root and God's kingdom continues to grow. And so the next chapter begins as Mustard impacts this generation, one school at a time. Indeed, the future looks bright!
Long may it continue to host many in its branches!
MATTHEW 13:31-32
Jesus told them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches."
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20 students reached each year states active lunchtime groups seminar & chapel programs each year
VIC
Ballarat Christian College
Ballarat High School
Balwyn High
Bendigo Senior Secondary College
Brentwood Secondary College
Box Hill High School
Camberwell Girls Grammar
Camberwell Grammar School
Camberwell High School
Carey Baptist Grammar
Creek Street Christian College
East Doncaster Secondary College
Donvale Christian College
Eltham High
Girton Grammar Bendigo
Glen Waverley Secondary College
Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar (2 groups)
Ivanhoe Grammar
Heathdale Christian College
John Monash Science School
Kilvington Grammar School
King's College, Warrnambool
Koonung Secondary College
Lakeside College
Luther College
MacRobertson Girls' High School
Melbourne High School
Mentone Girls Grammar School
Mount Clear Secondary College
Officer Secondary College
Presbyterian Ladies College (2 groups)
Scotch College
St Helena Secondary College
St Pauls' Anglican School
Strathcona Girls (2 groups)
Trinity Grammar (2 groups)
Upper Yarra Secondary College
Waverley Christian College Narre
Warren (3 groups)
Waverley Christian College, Wantirna
Wesley College - Glen Waverley
West Footscray High
SA
Adelaide High School
Cedar College (2 groups)
Endeavour College
Glenunga International School (2 groups)
Norwood International High School
St Peter's Girls' School
The Heights School
QLD
Calvary Christian College
Livingstone Christian College
TAS
Australian Christian College
Calvin Christian School
Geneva Christian College
Hobart College
Launceston Church Grammar School
Launceston College
Leighland Christian School
Northern Christian College
Southern Christian College
St Mary's College
St Michael's Collegiate School
The Hutchins School
COMING OF AGE Mustard's 21
by CEO, Lara Ruddle
A twenty-first birthday is considered a special “coming of age” event that is to be celebrated in style. It harks back to the prestigious milestone that declares one a new member of adult society, where one is now deemed mature enough to drink and vote. Whilst the age for such responsibilities is now 18 years old in Australia, the tradition of 21st birthdays continue.
However, the origins actually go back much further, where the twenty first birthday in the UK represented the culmination of 14 years of training to become a knight. At the age of 21, a knight was ready to be unleashed into the big wide world to fight with bravery and chivalry. As we’ve been thinking about Mustard’s 21st birthday and our “coming of age” so to speak, we have been looking back at where many of those people who were involved in Mustard or lunchtime groups in the early days are now. Peter Carolane, who started Mustard is now leading a two campus church in the north where there is a real need for vibrant churches. Many others have gone into
full time ministry with a heart for strong discipleship and evangelism. Others are involved in not for profits or working in jobs where they are helping others whilst also serving in their local church. It has been encouraging to see how Mustard has provided an early training ground for these people as they go on to lead and live out their faith in the wider world.
It also struck me that whilst these people have gone on to do some amazing things, they also did some extraordinary things when they were younger, just like many of the Bible characters.
It’s sometimes easy to overlook that some of the people we consider to be the Heroes of the Faith were actually teenagers. David is thought to have been about 16 years old at the time he killed Goliath with just a sling shot and a tremendous confidence that God would give him victory. This was after he’d killed lions and bears as a shepherd boy. Esther was probably about 14 when she became queen and used her wit to
save God’s people and Mary, who found favour with God and gave birth to Jesus was probably only 12 or 13 years old.
However, one of my favourite young people in the Bible isn’t even named, but she had a huge impact. This young girl was an Israelite who was the servant in the household of the great army commander Naaman. We read in 2 Kings that Naaman’s army has swooped in and captured the Israelites and this young girl has been made a slave. You can imagine how she must have felt. She’s been ripped from her family and her home. She’s living in a foreign country where they speak a different language, have a different culture, and worship a God she doesn’t know.
I wonder how we might respond in that situation? You think it would be pretty reasonable to be angry, bitter, upset. When you find out that Namaan, the man that led the army to defeat your people is sick with leprosy, one would think that it would be totally justifiable to pray that he would die. But what does this young girl do instead. She knows that God can heal Namaan and so she tells his wife that he should visit Elisha. Naaman in his desperation goes to Elisha and after following his instructions is totally freed of his leprosy. How does Naaman respond – he says: “Now I know that there is no God in all the world except in Israel!”
Join with me to pray God’s calling and reassurance over our students in the words of Jeremiah, which he spoke at 17 years old:
The word of the Lord came to me, saying,
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”
“Alas, Sovereign Lord,” I said, “I do not know how to speak; I am too young.”
But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am too young.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you.”
(Jeremiah 1: 4-7)
Thank you for your partnership in supporting these students as they live out their faith now and into the future.
So this little slave girl who has every reason to treat this army commander like an enemy demonstrates extraordinary compassion and shows him the way to encounter the only true God.
When I think of this slave girl, I think of so many of our student leaders out there today. The school ground often seems like a foreign land where lots of other gods are being worshipped and yet there are so many Christian students who are boldly sharing their faith, inviting their peers along to lunchtime groups where they can hear about Jesus. One boy recently asked his school if he could have a classroom to run a lunchtime group and when the teacher said no, he thought he’d just organise an informal discussion on the oval. When the teacher found out, he was given a detention. Other students have encountered similar difficulties persuading staff that they should be allowed to run a group. Yet these students are persevering because they know how awesome our God is and like the servant girl they want others to know him too. I’m excited that at Mustard we can help students to navigate school opposition and empower and train them to lead lunchtime groups where they can encourage the other Christians and provide the hope of the gospel to their peers. I love the story of Michael on page 19 who found a relationship with Jesus through his lunchtime group and is now leading the group.
2024, Visiting Strathcona Girls Grammar School's Lunchtime Group
Photos: Early days of Mustard
RAMON RAUX, Class of 2012
Caulfield Grammar School (Wheelers Hill) Lunchtime Group leader
Current occupation:
Campus Pastor and Youth and Young Adults Director
Ministry involved in now:
Church, Youth and Young Adults ministry
ALEX SHEELY, Class of 2015
Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar School Lunchtime Group Leader
Current occupation:
Dance Teacher and Student Support Coordinator at Mustard
Ministry involved in now:
Youth Group Department Leader at Darebin Presbyterian Church
VANESSA LEE, Class of 2022
The Mac.Robertson Girls' High School Lunchtime Group Leader
Current occupation:
Studying Speech Pathology at La Trobe, Math Tutor and Music Teacher
Ministry involved in now:
Kids, Youth and Worship Ministry and part of a new church plant soon! I’m also involved in the Christian Union at my university.
MARTINE WILSON, Class of 1998
Mustard’s second ever staff-member (Lunchtime Group Coordinator)
Current occupation:
Oceania Regional Director and Growth Manager at Generosity Path
Ministry involved in now:
Empowering Christians to be generous with their resources and serving wherever I can to see kids and adults at Darebin Presbyterian Church grow in their love for Jesus.
JOANNA McLEAN, Class of 2022
Girton Grammar School Lunchtime Group Leader
Current occupation:
My main occupation is following Jesus! Also Studying a Bachelor of Health Science/Masters of Physiotherapy at Charles Darwin University.
Ministry involved in now:
Sharing about faith at university! Also joined the church worship team and the university CDU Christians group. Went on a gap year mission to South Africa with OM.
SARAH PHUN, Class of
2019
Vermont Secondary College Lunchtime Group Leader
Current occupation:
Owner of a Social Media Agency and Design Coordinator at Mustard
Ministry involved in now:
Served as a Youth Leader for the past 4 years and also led the Graphics team at my church
JOSH HEADEY, Class of 2018
Box Hill High School Lunchtime Group Leader
Current occupation:
Engineering student at RMIT and Youth Group Administrator
Ministry involved in now:
Year 11 and 12s Youth Group Leader. I also run 'Drop in Blackburn', which is an after-school ministry for Blackburn High School students
RACHEL McCONELL, Class of 2018
Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar School Lunchtime Group Leader
Current occupation:
Secondary Teacher and Children’s and Youth ministry Intern
Ministry involved in now:
As a teacher at a christian school, I am loving being able to share freely about Jesus with my students.
PETER CAROLANE, Class of 1993
Founder of Mustard
Current occupation:
Senior Minister at Merri Creek Anglican Church
Ministry involved in now:
Everything associated with running a church, with a strong vision to see youth ministry grow and thrive .
BRUACH COLLITON, Class of 1998
Mustard Live Presenter and Lunchtime Group Leader - Camberwell Grammar and Scotch College
Current occupation:
Partnerships Manager Anglican Overseas Aid, Owner of The Rox Coffee Roasters and Councillor (past Mayor) for Southern Grampians Shire.
Ministry involved in now:
Church Planter of Banquet Church
groups in the North 7 groups in the South 12 schools 5
TASMANIA
These past 12 months have been massive for Mustard in Tasmania. With many school connections, leadership days and seminars, Mustard Tas has been growing roots into the Tasmanian school culture, allowing Mustard to continually expand its reach.
I am in awe of God’s work across the many lunchtime groups in Tasmania. I have been inspired by the group at Launceston College, which is the biggest public College in the State with over 1400 Year 11 and 12 students. After speaking at my church youth group, a small group of three students joined together to start the first-ever lunchtime group. Over the past 14 months, this group has grown to the stage where over thirty students are attending weekly. Many of these students have never had the opportunity to learn about Christianity and I see this as a beautiful outpouring of Mustard’s vision “to see students leading students to Jesus”.
BY TOBY VERHAEGH Tasmanian Student Support Coordinator
strengthen existing lunchtime groups and enable new student leaders to have confidence when they start out. One of the ways that Mustard does this is through the provision of bible study resources which are provided through the Mustard Hub Web-App. These resources have been well-used by the Tassie groups and I am excited that
"It has been so encouraging to see students on fire for their faith and keen to lead in their schools."
Mustard is in the process of expanding the topics on offer.
It has been exciting to see the handover of leadership within groups so that they can continue after senior students graduate. This means that every year there are new students to disciple and encourage in their leadership.
at their school. I have spoken at the Multiply Conference hosted at Door of Hope Christian Church, the Anglican Leaders in Training (LIT) Youth Conference as well as local combined church events across Launceston for youth and youth leaders. Events like these spread the message that students can stand up for their faith at school and make an impact by encouraging their friends to come and learn about Jesus in a lunchtime group. It’s great that I can share with students that they don’t have to do it alone, but that Mustard is with them to support them along the way.
God has been at work using Mustard to
I love sharing the heart of Mustard at youth events to inspire more students to consider starting a lunchtime group
It has been encouraging to build our engagement with schools and become known for our quality seminars and chapel services that explore relevant topics from a Christian perspective. Sharon, our National Schools Program Director and I have enjoyed presenting for the past two years at Southern Christian College. This is an opportunity to impact and teach our next generation of leaders to lead as Jesus does and to have some fun together in the process!
I’ve also enjoyed being a part of chapel services at St Michael’s Collegiate School and Geneva Christian College.
It was with heavy hearts that we said goodbye to Nicole Mayall last year, as she moved to NSW to live closer to her now fiancé. Nicole pioneered Mustard in our little state of Tasmania and started to build a culture that saw the value of lunchtime groups in both state and private schools. I am honoured to keep walking in the path that she has paved and I am praying that God will place it on someone’s heart to be the new Student Support Coordinator in southern Tasmania so we will have a state team again.
I am encouraged by the support of Bishop Richard Condie, Kim Beales,
Dorothy Roberts and many other church leaders across the denominations, as well as faithful Christians like Timothy Dunn, Kate Barnett and Elizabeth Poland who believe in the vision of Mustard to grow God’s kingdom through the youth in our state. I look forward to continuing to work with them and many others to help shape Mustard in a local Tasmanian context.
Events Mustard Tasmania has been a part of in the past year
• Multiply Disciplemaking Conference
• Anglican Leaders In Training Camp
• Northern Tasmanian Baptist combined Youth night
• Leadership training day –Southern Christian College
• St Michael's Collegiate School Chapel Service
• Geneva Christian College Chapel Service
AUSTRALIA SOUTH
Mustard SA continues to grow! We feel blessed to be accompanied by so many faithful Christians, who have a vision for Jesus to be known in our schools and are willing to put arms and legs to make it happen.
It has been a joy to empower and encourage students to lead lunchtime groups and to see their confidence grow over the past year. We now have groups in an Anglican school, a Baptist School, Lutheran schools and in a number of public schools. The leaders themselves come from a broad range of denominations. We’ve been inspired by the stories of:
• a group that has grown exponentially, because its members keep inviting new people, who keep coming back;
• a group persevering when they were no longer allowed access to a classroom and deciding to meet on the school lawns;
• a group whose focus is on outreach, as they know this is the
BY JACQUI MAYNARD & BETHANY PILLAY
only place where the majority of their friends will ever hear about Jesus;
• a student who has decided that if they are to be remembered for one thing, it is to be for their love of Jesus; and
• a state school group who led an Easter promotion where for two weeks the message of Easter was screened across the school, and a video was shared with every staff member and student. This resulted in several new students attending their Mustard lunchtime group the following week, and two teachers decided to take their children to Easter events for the first time and asked for a children’s Bible!
This is just a sample of the wonderful ways God is working in our schools. It’s quite remarkable to reflect on the fact that all these initiatives are being instigated and led by teenagers. What an incredible ministry Mustard has, guiding, mentoring and leading
these young people of faith. It is a privilege to be involved!
We were pleased to host our first weekend retreat for several of these student leaders. Faith, our National Student Movement Director joined us and further equipped the students in their leadership based on 1 Timothy. It was great to see the camaraderie the students developed over the weekend as they had fun together and encouraged each other to live out their faith boldly at school (the swimming pool was a real hit!).
We love to visit youth groups and speak at camps and conferences to inspire more students to consider starting a lunchtime group where they can offer the hope of Jesus to their peers, who would otherwise have no way of hearing the good news.
One of the highlights of the past two years has been our involvement in the Not Ashamed Conference. It was inspiring seeing over 250 students come together, motivated to live out their faith at school (see page 12).
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5 Lunchtime Groups Schools Churches, Camps & Conferences
7
In July of 2023, we held our inaugural Christmas in July fundraiser. We had over 60 people from seven different denominations gather and enjoy a 3-course Christmas meal, complete with Christmas quizzes and carols.
The Mustard lunchtime group leaders (with some spectacular support) prepared and served this dinner extravaganza which was especially impressive as this was the first time any of them had prepared a roast!
made their attendance, prayer and financial support that night even more precious to us.
Our Walk the Way event was another
"It’s quite remarkable to reflect on the fact that all these initiatives are being instigated and led by teenagers. What an incredible ministry Mustard has..."
Many guests were unaware of the work of Mustard in SA, so it was a great opportunity to share the encouraging stories coming out of our lunchtime groups. We are always conscious of busy people are, and how many wonderful causes people support, which
great time of fellowship as sixteen of us gathered to walk 10 km of the Linear Walk from the Entertainment Centre down to Seaview raising money for Mustard. We were so proud of the amount we raised and the fun the attendees had getting to know each other on the walk and on playgrounds along the way.
We are grateful to Josh Taylor from Lego Masters and LifeFM Radio who donated the prize of a visit to the school that raised the most money. The students were super excited to have their first experience of being interviewed on the radio! We also appreciated partnering with Wirraway Homestead Campsite who donated another prize.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. Know that your prayers and finances are changing the shape of our schools, and the futures of those who attend them. We so value you and look forward to continuing on this amazing adventure to grow God’s kingdom.
TASStudent Story
I am
JAKEB HARRIS
a Year 12 student at Launceston College, Tasmania. I started a Mustard Lunchtime Group with two friends. Now we have up to 40 students coming along each week.
I heard about Mustard two years ago when Nicole Mayall visited our youth group one night. I thought lunchtime groups sounded like a great idea, especially for public schools, where there is no teaching about God, but I didn’t think much more about it at the time.
The following year, my girlfriend and I decided that we really wanted to start a bible study at Launceston College, the state school we were moving to. [In Tasmania most high schools finish at Year 10 and Colleges are for Years 11 and 12 students.] We talked to Toby and some of our friends at church and with their help, we started our Mustard group at the start of term two last year. Three of us are the leaders. We invited 10 Christian friends and we started by getting together, hanging out and talking about Jesus.
But word soon spread, and we started to have around 40 people each week. It was amazing. Praise God! This was when we decided to run the Youth Alpha course as half of the people attending didn’t know who Jesus was. We are having great chats about Jesus and planting lots of seeds in these students' lives.
We are focused on building deeper relationships and having quality time in fellowship. Through Mustard, I have learnt to be a strong leader, communicating effectively to a large number of students and encouraging people to contribute with their gifts for the benefit of the whole group. I have learnt that just like the mustard seed, something small can become something great when God is at the centre.
SA NOT ASHAMEDof the gospel
"...over 250 students from across 10 schools [came] along to learn, worship, and pray together."
This year, we partnered again with Cedar College to present the Not Ashamed Conference to the students of South Australia. Through our growing relationship with numerous schools, we saw attendance nearly double, with over 250 students from across 10 schools come along to learn, worship, and pray together. It was particularly exciting that we were able to invite state school students to join this year and a highlight was when various students intentionally gathered around their state school peers and prayed for them.
We presented a workshop on what it looks like to start a Christian group in your school and how we, at Mustard, are here to help. From this, we’ve started a number of conversations with students, and we cannot wait to see how God continues to work through them. Overall, Not Ashamed was a real testimony of the unity of faith across schools throughout Adelaide.
BY JACQUI MAYNARD & BETHANY PILLAY
SAStudent Story
What does Adelaide High School’s Mustard group look like? What do you do each week?
Adelaide High’s Mustard group is small group of committed students.
Each week we have a snack to share and we talk about school or as an icebreaker we play the Ungame, (which isn’t a game but rather a set of cards with questions on them). I answer questions other members have about God, the Bible and Christianity - really anything they are wondering that is related to Jesus.
Anna, how did your Mustard lunchtime group get started?
When I was in Year 9, I emailed the Pastoral Care Worker (South Australia’s title for chaplain) to see if there was a Christian group at our school. She said 'No, but there is a Year 12 who wants to start one.' So I connected with the Year 12 and we started a group.
It was so encouraging knowing there were other Christians in my school community even though it is a state school and we can’t learn about God. I took over leading the group to ensure this special space to discuss our faith could continue.
Mary, how did it feel taking over the group?
After Anna left things were very different.
I wasn't fully prepared for becoming the leader. Our Pastoral Care Worker also left the same year which meant the group didn't have access to a room anymore as they were locked and there was no staff supervision. This put a pause on the group, as we figured out what to do. We decided to try meeting outside on the oval. My friends have found this quite noisy so we are working out what else we can do.
I can see God working in our group. One of the girls who came last year recently came up to me as we were lining up for our next class and asked, “What's going to happen when Jesus comes back?” I was taken by surprise and tried to answer as non-weirdly as possible. While this girl only came for a few weeks, she was really excited to come, and got angry when I forgot to remind her. Then when I did invite her again another week, she said there was no way that she was going.
Although this girl has stopped coming, I can see the seed has been planted and her recent question shows she’s still thinking about it all. Through our group, she had the opportunity to hear about Jesus and that there is proof for him and that he loves her. So, I can see that our little club is doing something to spread God’s Word.
photo taken at 2023 student leader retreat
How have you benefited from your Mustard lunchtime group?
Anna: My favourite thing about the group was the friends that I made, that I am still close with, even after high school has ended.
These connections have led me to join a youth group where I have made so many Christian friends. Having grown up in a small church with only one other girl my age, this has impacted my life so much, and has meant that I can continue to grow in my faith with a group of people that encourage me.
What has been the greatest difficulty in running and growing the group?
Mary: The biggest difficulty in running the group has been trying to increase numbers whilst not being permitted to advertise. We aren’t allowed to be a formal club, so we can't promote it during assemblies or in classes like other groups can. Yet that hasn’t stopped us. We managed to put up a poster on the club board for a short time and someone came along as a result.
How has being part of Mustard helped you?
Taking over the group felt fine at first as it was pretty well set up by my sister. Yet getting
I am MARY TSAPALIARIS
a year 8 student at
Adelaide High School.
I
took over a Mustard Lunchtime Group after my older sister graduated.
further into the term, more responsibility was put on me and it became quite scary. But I reached out to Mustard for help and advice and I am now far more relaxed and more organised. They are always there when I need them, and I need them quite a bit!
“Mustard is always there when I need them, and I need them quite a bit!”
What would you say to someone in a public school thinking about starting a Mustard lunchtime group?
If you want to start a Mustard lunchtime group, just do it! Find one other person and a space to do it and start spreading the Gospel. I know you might think your impact is tiny but you are making a difference. Invite absolutely everyone to come, even if you think they are going to say no. Just remember God is on your side. You will face a lot of challenges, but Jesus will be with you through all of it. So, just start a group.
MUSTARD
STUDENT MOVEMENT
The Mustard Student Movement is a network of passionate and faithful Christian students committed to living out their faith and making a Kingdom impact in their high school communities.
written by Faith Battistella & Alex Sheely
HOW WE SUPPORT STUDENTS
Mustard Lunchtime Groups are student-led communities that gather on a weekly basis to explore faith in Jesus, encourage one another, and live out their faith by multiplying disciples in their schools.
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Groups
Nationally
Commissioning
Kickstart Meetings
Kickstart Meetings mark the beginning of a student's leadership journey. Here, they get to meet with our team and complete a Planning Canvas that helps them to consider everything they need to know about starting a Lunchtime Group.
Our Commissioning Services are a time to celebrate and pray for our Student Leaders as they serve as local missionaries in their schools. Churches often commission overseas missionaries, but in addition to this, we encourage churches to gather as a community and recognise students’ dedication and commitment to making Jesus known in their local context.
This is an opportunity for students to share with their church their experiences of living out their faith at school. The congregation is invited to support these youth through prayer and encouragement.
We mentor student leaders to provide specific support and encouragement for their individual faith journeys and lunchtime groups.
Student Leader Zoom Meetings
Twice a term, we host Zoom meetings to connect student leaders with each other. They have the opportunity to share their lunchtime group experiences and receive training on topics such as: goal setting, group dynamics, and reaching out to their school community.
The Mustard Hub
Our online Web-App is where students can access a variety of Bible study resources, training, and ideas from the whole Mustard community.
Student Leaders 92
Gatherings
We organise various gatherings that nurture and empower students in their faith and leadership journey. These gatherings provide rich opportunities for networking, skill-building, and growth in personal faith.
NEW resources
We're working to produce a series of new bible studies, along with Prayer Beach Balls and Icebreaker activity cards for lunchtime groups to use.
STORY Michael's
For by grace you have been saved through faith — Ephesians 2:8
Hi! I’m Michael, a Year 12 student at Scotch College and the leader of the Christian lunchtime group there. It gives me great pleasure to share some of my faith journey in this magazine. I wholeheartedly appreciate the support of those at Mustard, at my school, and at my local church — in that sense my story is one of privilege, one that is probably easier than most. But above all it is a story of grace from our Lord Jesus Christ.
For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost — Luke 19:10
I have grown up in a fairly secular home — there was a bit of Buddhism, and my grandmother was Christian, though at the time I didn’t understand who Jesus (pronounced “Yesu” in Mandarin) was. Up until high school the concept of God was not something I was interested in, and perhaps more than anything, redundant. But sheep can only wander so far without a Shepherd, and very soon I realised I was lost. I lost myself in a pressuring environment that chased after marks, status, worldly pleasures and pursuits, which was at best confusing and at worst, outright hostile. It was taking a toll on me. But from the darkness, there came a light.
For the word of God is alive and active — Hebrews 4:12
God’s calling came in the form of a casual invitation from a friend in Year 7 to go along to the Christian lunchtime group. In hindsight, it was the first step towards saving my life, and for that I am grateful. The lunchtime group was a place of interesting discussions and of ideas that seemed most pertinent to life. All the answers were explored by looking at the Bible. And that’s what kept me coming back, even through the challenges of Covid. It was the character of Christ: His wisdom, His righteousness, His mercy, His love, His perfection — that’s what attracted me. I could feel that what I was learning about Jesus was true.
One time in Year 9, a teacher challenged me by asking: “Are you a Christian?”
At this stage, I still hadn’t made up my mind. So he asked: “What aspect of Christianity stands out to you? Or, why would you want to become a Christian?”
And I said: “Because Christians are good people.”
Of course Christians are more than that, but I had yet to realise this.
So for several years, I would go every Monday to the lunchtime group, hear about God, think about him now and again; then I would go on, distracted, with life. At some point I began reading the gospels for myself. At the same time, I was going through a rough patch. I started leaning more and more on his word, which provided me with comfort. It was only then that I realised I needed Jesus in my life. He was the only one who I could depend on, who seemed to be able to make sense of life. Before I sought words on a page and a doctrine of philosophy, but I came to understand that now I could have a living relationship with God. And that’s how everything really took off. His words came alive in my heart.
For to the one who has, more will be given... Mark 4:25
At the start of Year 11, I offered to become a co-leader of the lunchtime group. I was still very much in the infancy of my faith so naturally I was daunted by the task ahead. But as a leader, I came to work closely with Mustard. I’m a shy person. Therefore, for a long time my faith was limited to a very few select people. For me, Mustard was the gateway to the wider Christian community. When I mustered the courage to attend the Mustard event at PLC, I was drawn into a much larger, welcoming community. I was scared to talk to people, but I made one new friend and we prayed together with Faith (the Student Movement Director from Mustard) for God to reveal himself to me. Being with other Christians is awesome, and these events have definitely made me more confident about my faith and about sharing it.
Scotch College Lunchtime Group
I will say that the biggest personal benefit of leading a lunchtime group and interacting with other Christians is that it challenges your convictions. So often we’re content with how we live our lives without thinking about how God wants us to live them. I have begun actively trying to implement his word into my life. I started wrestling with my actions and my thoughts, my goals and my values, and I have had to constantly deny myself because I wasn’t satisfied with who I was before. And that’s hard. It’s difficult. It takes effort and it takes responsibility, but I know that my pains will not be in vain, because Christ completes his work in me. (That’s right, I shamelessly borrowed lyrics from my favourite worship song.)
Writing this was a big challenge for me, but reflecting on my journey thus far has given me valuable insights, renewed my spirit, and made me appreciate just how much Christ has done for me.
"A friend in Year 7 [invited me] to go along to the Christian lunchtime group... It was the first step towards saving my life."
Our approach to empowering students to lead lunchtime groups in schools is built upon four essential pillars: Gather, Explore, Live, and Multiply. These pillars serve as the guiding principles that underpin our mission and shape the way we encourage students to run their groups.
GATHER EXPLORE
Gathering together is the foundational step in fostering community and connection within the school setting. It's about creating a safe and welcoming space where students can come together to share their experiences, questions, and faith journey. Through gathering, students not only find support and encouragement but also develop a sense of belonging and unity. It sets the stage for meaningful interactions and facilitates the exploration of faith in a supportive environment. One of the practical ways lunchtime groups “Gather” together is to have icebreaker activities that provide an opportunity for students to get to know each other and have fun.
Exploration is about creating opportunities for students to engage in discussion, ask questions, and seek understanding about what the Bible says and how it’s relevant to their lives. As Christian students come from a range of denominations, they are encouraged to share their different views on issues, but to focus on the core elements of the gospel. Students of all faith backgrounds are invited to attend lunchtime groups and discuss Christianity. Studies are designed to be accessible for non-Christians, but also provide Christians with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of their beliefs and how they can apply them to their everyday lives.
LIVE MULTIPLY
Living out one's faith is about putting beliefs into action and embodying Jesus’ call to show love, compassion and kindness. In the context of a lunchtime group, it involves empowering students to live authentically according to their faith principles, both within the group and in their interactions with others outside of it. Mustard encourages, supports and equips lunchtime groups to run outreach activities that are focused on blessing the school community (eg baking, notes of encouragement) or challenging them to consider Jesus more seriously (eg. God Q&A in the courtyard, handing out Bible verses with food).
Multiplication is about growing God’s kingdom by making disciples of Jesus. It involves building up the faith of Christian students and growing the number of members in the lunchtime groups through bold invitations. Mustard equips and empowers students to share their faith with others and invite them to join the community. Christian students are trained in different ways to share the gospel and their testimony and are encouraged to invite their peers to youth group and church.
Gatherings, VCYC
CONFERENCES & EVENTS
Mustard organises diverse events designed to support and empower student leaders on their faith and leadership journey. We partner with organisations to present workshops at conferences and camps such as CYC, STIR Conference, Teen Street, Teen Mission. Next term we will co-host a student conference 'Reason To Believe' with PLC. Other gatherings include the Inter-School Prayer Breakfast, "Walk The Way", an annual dinner, student holiday hangouts, and end-of-year celebrations, each designed to inspire, connect, and uplift our student leaders.
Victorian Christian Youth Convention
Mustard has had a longstanding relationship with VCYC and it’s clear why! Encouraging young people to own their faith and impact their world is at the heart of both organisations. It’s been wonderful to continue to work together this year, with Mustard running a workshop at their camp and an interview at their Term 1 One Night Event. In our interview, we spoke to Joe, one of our student leaders at Scotch College. It was such an encouragement to all the students at the event to hear how God has been at work in Joe, his school and his lunchtime group. The interview time also allowed us to highlight all the students who lead, or are involved in a lunchtime group at their school, and it was amazing to see how many were there that night, from so many different youth groups and schools.
Walk The Way FUNDRAISER
Last year, Mustard launched its new student fundraiser, 'Walk the Way' on 21 October 2023. In Melbourne, this event rallied students, parents and friends of Mustard for a relay challenge, where each team walked 1km laps along the Yarra and the ovals of Scotch College, with the goal of accumulating 100 kilometres. In the end, each team reached the goal and the 101 walkers raised an impressive $23,349 for Mustard’s lunchtime groups. The competitive spirit soared, with the following standout teams:
• "The Mighty Messis" covered the most kilometres (136kms)
• St Mark’s Camberwell Youth Group walked the latest (10.30pm)
• Scotch College’s lunchtime group raised the most money – they received a pizza lunch and icypoles as a reward.
It was so encouraging seeing students have fun together as they walked and talked and to see many parents and friends of Mustard get to know one another while being active.
We were extremely grateful to the generous “matching donations” from Milner + Huang, Morella Tyson and several individuals. A big thank you to everyone who participated and everyone who donated. We look forward to seeing you again in October!
In South Australia, the challenge was to walk 10kms of the stunning Linear Trail from Adelaide's Visual Park to Ozone Reserve at Henley Beach South. It was a wonderful morning of walking, great conversations, eating and having lots of fun. If there was a playground, we found it!
Glenunga International High School raised the most money, winning the prize of a visit from Radio LifeFM Roadies and Josh Taylor, Lego Masters finalist along with a pizza party. The students were interviewed by the radio station, which went to air a few days later. We were then blessed to receive an email from a lady who had been listening to the show and felt challenged to be more open about her faith, just like these students. Such a wonderful testimony to the work of Mustard not only impacting schools, but the communities beyond them.
Youth Alpha Walk The Way in South Australia
Student Leaders National Retreat
This year, we had the privilege of taking three of our Student Leaders to Youth Alpha's National Student Leaders Retreat in QLD. It proved to be an incredible opportunity for fostering stronger relationships, not only between Faith and these particular students but also among the students themselves. Witnessing three male student leaders, who had never crossed paths before, bond on the plane and forge lasting friendships was truly heartwarming. As they shared their faith journeys and innovative approaches to running lunchtime groups, they inspired one another and grew in their leadership. Stepping into the retreat amidst 150 student leaders from across Australia, accompanied by chaplains and youth pastors all dedicated to empowering student leaders, was both humbling and inspiring.
The retreat featured esteemed speakers, workshops utilising Mustard's Planning Canvas, uplifting worship nights, stirring testimonies from student leaders, and ample time for fellowship and relaxation by the beach. Mustard eagerly anticipates future partnerships with Alpha and looks forward to bringing more students along next year.
Look at page 34 to see all the gatherings Mustard has had the privilege of hosting and participating in since our last Seed magazine.
STUDENT STORIES
Bendigo Senior College
by Joshua Rankin
What made you want to take on leadership to run a lunchtime group?
I've always felt called by God to start a group at my school. For years I felt as though I wasn't ready or I didn't have the knowledge but I remember after I moved schools, I had this random moment where God was like, "I'm gonna prepare you, you just need to get it started."
I've always felt as though God has put spreading his love on my heart and I'm so glad that I've trusted him to work through me.
What do you love about your lunchtime group?
I love that whether we have 2 people or 10, we can always come around the word of God and have conversations that help us grasp a deeper understanding of God's love and his plans for us.
What is the hope you have for your lunchtime group?
My hope is to lead a revival in my school, my hope is that the group builds and we bring in non-Christians and Christians alike, my hope is that a legacy is left at the school, that even after I graduate the group still runs and continues to grow.
Box Hill High School
by Nathan Tan
What made you want to take on leadership to run a lunchtime group?
I wanted to lead a Christian group at my school because I believed that it would enable me to serve others, strengthen my faith, and spread God's love. Even though it might have been uncomfortable, I trusted that God would help me do a good job.
What do you love about your lunchtime group?
I love my lunchtime group because it’s a place where everyone, including non-Christians, can learn and talk about Jesus in a friendly way. We can ask questions and share our thoughts without worrying about being judged. Having a space where we can all learn from each other, grow together in faith, and even make new friends, is really special.
What is the hope you have for your lunchtime group?
I hope our lunchtime group can spark bold faith discussions throughout my school. I dream of Christian values spreading, bringing positivity and love everywhere. And most of all, I want to see friends finding faith and sharing their powerful stories, making a bigger impact than I ever could alone.
by Josephine Li and Olivia Hua
What made you want to take on leadership to run a lunchtime group?
I, Olivia, wanted to take on leadership to start our bible study lunchtime group because I felt God calling me to spread the word to others. I had been praying for the Lord to use me as a vessel for his works, and leading the Bible Study Club was definitely what he wanted me to do.
I, Josephine, wanted to take on leadership because I saw this as an opportunity for me to serve God even more. Since the lunchtime group is a progressive thing, I instantly felt God telling me to take on leadership so that I can serve him even more wholeheartedly, deepen our relationship and bring others to him as well.
What do you love about your lunchtime group?
We love the community we are able to build through having impactful bible study sessions and discussions. The topics of bible study evoke different perspectives of which we can bounce off each other and learn more about God. As well as this, we can deepen our relationship with God by connecting through scripture by learning more about Jesus’s character at the same time.
What is the hope you have for your lunchtime group?
The hope that we have for this lunchtime group is that it is a comfortable and safe environment for all to share their opinions and faith, with the end goal of students helping one another to build a closer relationship with God through bible study time.
Balwyn High School Presbyterian Ladies College (group 2)
by Jana Du Toit
What made you want to take on leadership to run a lunchtime group?
During my time in the group, I have met and formed friendships with people I never would’ve met otherwise. As Emma was graduating, I wanted to continue running the group so students would have a space to learn and explore Christianity. This year, I am proud to have the opportunity to lead with Jack and Joshua, with the support of our school chaplain, Jeff.
What do you love about your lunchtime group?
I love the community that we have been able to form through our lunchtime group: it feels amazing to be able to go there every fortnight and to know that it is a safe space where I can be myself, grow in my faith and connect with other like-minded individuals.
What is the hope you have for your lunchtime group?
Going into the future, I hope that our group can continue to be a safe space for students to learn more about what it means to be a Christian and that we will be able to reach and connect with more students in our school.
Why did you start an Instagram account for your lunchtime group?
We wanted to start an Instagram account to reach more people in our age demographic. It is an easy way for students at PLC who may be hesitant about coming along to access the bible studies we have been doing in our lunchtime group.
SCHOOLS' PROGRAMS
Mustard seminars and chapel services seek to engage students through a creative, informative and interactive format. Our aim is to reveal the heart of Jesus while creating a fun and engaging environment for every student!
written by Sharon Cunliffe
The pressure to fit in is not a new issue for young people.
However, the opportunity to compare their lives to an endless stream of people uploading only their most extraordinary moments is a pressure other generations never had to contend with.
A quick flick through social media and we're caught in the world of comparison. It's highlight reel after highlight reel of everybody else's best moments. We are invited to compare our just wokenup-still-in-trackies-hair-a-mess to the perfectly curated image of an "Instagram model” or the sculpted body of someone who has nothing better to do but spend 8 hours a day at the gym.
A 2022 Headspace National Youth Mental Health Survey found more than half of young people believe their mental health is getting worse, with 42% citing social media as the main reason for the decline.
Comparison turns self-worth into a rollercoaster of emotions. Only when we've done good enough to feel good enough can we ride the high of worthiness. But on days when we've made mistakes, the rolercoaster of comparison can leave us questioning our value and place in the world.
THE MUSTARD MEASURING UP PROGRAM
The Mustard Measuring Up program discusses how young people can find their true value in a world of comparisons. Through the Parable of the Lost Sheep, Measuring Up, invites young people to experience the love of a good shepherd who loves them and values them beyond what they do, who would leave the nightynine to find those who have lost themselves in the discouraging world of comparison.
The Mustard Measuring Up program discusses how young people can find their true value in a world of comparisons. Through the Parable of the Lost Sheep, Measuring Up, invites young people to experience the love of a good shepherd who loves them and values them beyond what they do, who would leave the nightynine to find those who have lost themselves in the discouraging world of comparison.
After speaking to a Year 12 RE class a student came up at the end and said,
“I was just thinking about this today. I can't believe the timing. It was so relevant to me.”
It's rare that we get the opportunity to connect with students face-to-face after our presentations, but the Lord has a way of imprinting his presence and purpose on our chapel services.
“It really does feel like divine timing,”
a teacher told us after a chapel service in Bendigo. Over the weekend, one of the youth leaders from a local church had tragically lost their life.
THE MUSTARD CONNECTION PROGRAM
The Mustard Connection program that we presented encouraged students to consider how technology has impacted relationships and how they may be out of practice at face-to-face communication. It encouraged them to take risks, step out of their comfort zone and find true connection with people in real life. There was also an invitation to respond to a God who knows them, deeply cares for them and wants to be a part of our lives both now and into eternity.
In addition to regular chapel services in schools, it has been exciting to present various workshops and seminars on topics such as Uncommon Communities, Leadership and Community Service.
I was recently in Tasmania with Toby, our wonderful Tasmanian Student Support Coordinator, to run a full day Leadership Workshop for a group of Year 9s at Southern Christian College.
Using an array of thought-provoking activities and discussions, we explored the importance of clear communication, the role of delegation, facing conflict and examples of ordinary people who have made a big difference in the world. We emphasised the power of encouragement and the opportunity a leader has to draw out the strengths of their team.
COMMUNITY Service ACTIVITIES
One of the new innovations that we launched last year was facilitating Community Service activities for schools. Over three days, Carey Baptist Grammar and Camberwell Girls’ Grammar made:
• 216 egg and bacon pies for the Boorondara Community Outreach Centre (BCOC) food bank
• 421 biscuits for residents at Prague House (with a mental health disorder or acquired brain injury) and BCOC’s Christmas hampers
• 55 sewn hearts for a Prison Christmas service
• 12 fidget blankets for dementia patients at St Vincent’s Hospital
• 9 large wooden Christmas tree decorations for Prague House
• 35 personalised cards for Prague House residents; and
• Lots of piles of sorted clothes for St Hilary’s Hope Op Shop
In addition to these activities, some of the students joined the Retirees’ Music group at St Hilary’s, known as ‘Shameless’ and sang their hearts out to Elvis, the Beatles, ABBA and a couple of songs they had never heard of! Afterwards the girls prepared and served the musicians and members of Tom’s Shed morning tea – a beautiful display of cross generational connection.
"Mustard's ability to connect with young people and present them with a biblical model of servant leadership as demonstrated by Jesus is remarkable. This program inspires and equips students to use discipleship and servanthood to be a christ-like witness to the student body and the wider community.
Students are led through a process of plannning for their specific school community and come away with tangible plans, goals and ideas for how, as a leadership team, they might step out and be difference makers at their school.
"
- Leaora Adams-Bell Head of Pastoral Care at Southern Christian College
During our time together, we were able to share a message about Jesus’ love for the poor and the history of human rights stemming from Christianity. These programs represented the joy of Christian collaboration and partnership as we had Tom’s Shed teaching students woodwork and a plethora of volunteers from St Hilary’s teaching students how to sew and bake
and sharing about Christian organisations they were volunteering in. It was such an encouragement to be able to facilitate this through Mustard.
We look forward to continuing to work with schools to identify ways that we can speak into students’ lives with the hope and meaning that Jesus offers.
KINGDOM partnerships
We partner with local church communities and organisations to see young people activated into the missional call that God has for them in their schools.
Will your church or organisation partner with us?
There are so many opportunities for Mustard to grow, but the best way to do so is with churches and organisations that share our vision for youth ministry and adopt us as one of their mission partners. Not only do these partnerships provide us with ongoing financial security and prayer support, they enable us to reach more students who in turn can lead their peers to Jesus. Contact our CEO Lara Ruddle to discuss partnering with us. lara@mustard.org.au
One of the significant ways we are able to connect with churches is by our youth group visits! We enjoy visiting groups of all sizes and from different denominations and working together to support students as they live out their faith at school.
YOUTH NIGHTS, CAMPS & CONFERENCES
These nights give us an opportunity to talk about the vision and mission of Mustard with the youth and challenge them to consider starting a lunchtime group or initiate another activity to share the gospel with their peers. We encourage youth groups to consider an ongoing partnership with us so we can actively support students living out their faith at school, which we trust will result in new youth being invited to the youth group from local schools.
VIC
Youth Dimension Gravitate Camp
VCYC (Victorian Christian Youth Convention)
SUTS (Summer Under the Son Conference)
St Hilary's Youth Night
St John's Youth Camp
PLC Interschool Conference
NEW Collective
Lighthouse Youth
Christian Youth Camps
Churches of Christ State Conference
Canterbury Gardens Brethren Youth
Crossway Baptist Mission Event
Cantebury Presbyterian Youth
CrossCulture Church of Christ
City on a Hill (Geelong) Youth Night
SA
Not Ashamed Workshop
Bible Masterclass
VETA Retreat Weekend
SMG Chaplaincy Conference
Unley Pk Baptist Youth
TAS
Multiply Disciplemaking Conference
Anglican Leaders In Training Conference
Northern Tasmanian Baptist
combined Youth Night
20 YEAR DINNER Anniversary
It was both a delight and blessing to gather with around 140 like-minded friends of Mustard in August 2023 to celebrate, pray and thank God for all He has done to grow and sustain this ministry over the past 20 years!
There were plenty of laughs as we witnessed the changes in graphic design, technology and fashion from those early days. We heard from a diverse group of people who shared fond memories and prayed for Mustard:
• Past CEOs - Peter Carolane, Tim Clare and Brenton Killeen
• Past and present Board members
- Doug Crocket, Joy Linton, Elida Brereton and Neale Meredith; and
• Former and current students
Guests overwhelmingly agreed that our state school students, Talei and Chelsea were the most inspiring of our speakers.
Our mission of 'students leading students to Jesus' was highlighted when Chelsea shared she recently became a Christian after hearing the gospel through her friendship with Talei and her involvement in the Mustard Lunchtime Group at their high school! Praise God!
Guests all received an engraved “wooden spoon”, usually a symbol of being last on a sporting ladder, but in God’s kingdom we know that “the last shall be first.” Guests were encouraged each time they cooked with the spoon to pray for the students who have made sacrifices to boldly lead lunchtime groups in their schools.
Inter-school PRAYER BREAKFAST
It was incredible to see over 150 students and representatives from 15 schools come together to share their experiences and pray for each other, whilst being supported by a host of parents and friends of Mustard.
The student panel was a real inspiration as we heard about Nathan and Sarah's initiative to start lunchtime groups in their respective state schools, both of which rapidly grew to include 30 students, many of whom were unfamiliar with Jesus. Similarly, we saw Olivia's courage in establishing a second group at her school to reach a wider audience and we can praise God for Lachlan's journey from agnosticism to a personal faith in Jesus after joining his school's lunchtime group.
It was a joy to have our Chaplains stand up together and lead a prayer for our schools and students based on the Fruit of the Spirit. It is wonderful to be able to partner with them to grow faith in our schools.
The morning concluded with everyone choosing words to pray for the students which were formed into a Mustard tree representing the growing kingdom of God. Please continue to pray that our students have: boldness, courage, peace, passion, wisdom, love, hope and faithfulness!
MEET THE TEAM
Our
CHAIR
NEALE MEREDITH
Neale is the Principal and CEO of the Australian College of Ministries, and has previously served in ministry through local church, state and national leadership roles. Neale also has substantial experience as a senior executive and is a veteran in the Australian youth ministry sector – a rare and valuable combination that serves the governance of Mustard well.
BOARD MEMBER
ELIDA BRERETON
Elida is a long-serving board member of Mustard. She has had an impressive career as a teacher and principal, as well as a famed acting cameo role as the fictional Principal of Summer Heights High (it’s true!). Elida has served on the boards of Methodist Ladies’ College, Korus Connect and numerous other organisations.
BOARD
TREASURER
SAM STARKINS
Sam is the Business Manager for Bursty Advertising Services, a graduate of the Melbourne Business School, and certainly no stranger to the Mustard community. As both an inspiring Lunchtime Group leader and Mustard Schools’ Program volunteer over the years, Sam is still highly sought after as an authentic and engaging speaker for students at his old school.
BOARD MEMBER
SECRETARY JANELLE BROOKS
Janelle has a varied background in administration and governance. She is currently the Practice Manager in a counselling centre and has qualifications in human resources, business administration and pastoral care.
BOARD MEMBER JOHN ARBUCKLE ELIZABETH POLAND
John has been a school teacher for 30 years and is currently teaching Religious Education at Presbyterian Ladies' College. While John has taught a number of subjects over the years, he says his enduring passion is teaching RE and inspiring youth to follow Jesus in their own lives.
Elizabeth has extended experience in school-based ministry. She juggles pastoral ministry for a church on Hobart's Eastern Shore with work for the Anglican Diocese of Tasmania overseeing the development of youth ministry and assisting in the Anglican camping program.
VOLUNTEERS
Alyssa Reid
Amelie Gifford
Anthony Kynoch
Bella Lincke
Ben Stephenson
Cameron De Silva
Daniel So
Doug Crocket
Eden Barclay
Geoff Buchanan
Ian Wallbridge
Iona Easton
Isabella Mellado
Jacqui Reid
Josh Headey
Liam Jarrot
Luke Doblin
Matthias Poi
Oscar Cheung
Vanessa Lee
MEET THE TEAM
Our
STAFF
LARA RUDDLE
CEO
STUDENT MOVEMENT DIRECTOR
DESIGN COORDINATOR
JACQUI MAYNARD
SOUTH AUSTRALIAN DIRECTOR
ALEX SHEELY
STUDENT SUPPORT COORDINATOR
TOBY VERHAEGH
TASMANIAN STUDENT SUPPORT COORDINATOR
BETHANY PILLAY
SOUTH AUSTRALIAN STUDENT SUPPORT COORDINATOR
JACK HOLLOWAY
ACCOUNTS MANAGER
FAITH BATTISTELLA
SARAH PHUN
FINANCIAL REPORT
INCOME
EXPENSES
Throughout Mustard’s 21 year history, God has faithfully grown the ministry by providing through a number of income streams. Private donations have always been the most significant source, in which we are so grateful to our community of ‘Growers’ who have given over the years. We are also thankful to the churches that have faithfully supported us since we started and those who continue to support us generously. We are praying that each of these income streams would continue to increase, so that more students lives can be reached and transformed in schools across Australia.
Staffing costs are Mustard's main expense. Staff are key to how students are empowered and inspired... they train students on Zoom, at school, in conferences, camps and youth nights, mentor students one-on-one, present large group seminars and chapels to students...all this and so much more.
Grants have been instrumental for our launch into Tasmania and South Australia, for which we are extremely grateful, but we now need raise the funds to sustain this increased staff team.
You can be part of the mission
The Mustard family doesn’t just include our student leaders, Lunchtime Groups and staff team. It’s made up of gifted and generous supporters, volunteers and donors. Without them, we couldn’t do what we do.
Will you join with us to see students' lives transformed by Jesus?
Pray
If you’d like to join us in praying for students as they lead other students to Jesus, you can subscribe to our email updates or come along to our prayer gatherings. For more information, please visit:
mustard.org.au/pray
Give Volunteer
Our gracious God has provided for Mustard through the generous support of donors for many years. We have so many opportunities to grow and see even more students come to know Jesus. We’d value your support to see this happen. You can do this by donating online at:
mustard.org.au/donate
Leave a gift in your Will
We’re blessed to have a number of people who volunteer with us – but we’d love for more people to join us so that we can do even more for Jesus in schools. We need musicians and presenters for our chapel services and seminars. We also need mentors for our student leaders and administrative help in the office.
mustard.org.au/join
Another way to support our mission is to leave a gift in your Will (a bequest) to Mustard. You will be investing in the next generation of student leaders, and helping to take the gospel into more schools around Australia. Your bequest can be a fixed sum of money, a particular asset such as real estate, or a percentage of your estate.
We would love to hear from you if you have included Mustard in your Will. We would like to thank you personally for your generosity, and our CEO, Lara, would love to take you out for a coffee. Please contact: lara@mustard.org.au
Where are they now?
All supporters of Mustard, building God’s kingdom in different ways and playing in a band together in China!
Chris Helm, Pete Carolane, Tamas Wells and Kim Beales