ACC25 CONFERENCE EDITION
Hope in Him Alone • Our First Love • A High Call • An Accurate Picture of God • Leaders Are Followers • Jesus – My Miracle-worker • The Power & Beauty of Communion • Faith & Hope: The Purpose of our Dream • Fully Focused on Him Alone
Chairman of the WAGF Dominic Yeo met with the ACC National Executive in Melbourne in February.
Kidshaper National Tour was held across five states in March 2025
JANUARY - MARCH 2025
Univers getaway in February 2025 with Christian 1st and 2nd year University students in Queensland.
For The Youth Con for youth pastors and leaders was hosted by Youth Alive QLD in March 2025.
After a courageous battle with cancer, ACCI's longest serving field worker, Ross Winchester, graduated to eternity on 27th January 2025.
Prior to his passing, the President of Alphacrucis University College, Prof Stephen Fogarty, awarded Ross with a Doctor of Philosophy by the Alphacrucis University College Council. Ross had been working on his doctoral research for several years and continued to do so when diagnosed with cancer.
"It is an honour to be able to acknowledge the significant contribution that Dr Ross Winchester has made to our movement," said Stephen. " We had hoped to award the doctorate at our 2025 Graduation ceremony and were also looking forward to Ross being the Graduation speaker. However, he has now graduated to heaven."
Ross was the longest serving ACC missionary who engaged in effective ministry in Thailand and China for over 40 years.
His thesis was entitled Leadership Development for Pentecostal Pastors in Northern Thailand: A Proposal for an In-Service Leadership Development Model. Ross's research highlights a gap in leadership development for Pentecostal pastors in Northern Thailand, emphasising the need for an in-service leadership development program.
The study proposes a contextualised training program to address practical challenges, foster spiritual growth, and support long-term local church leadership in Thailand and beyond.
Dr Ross Winchester
College graduate - twice!
"It is a delight to be able to call him a graduate of our college – twice!" stated Stephen. "Dr Ross Winchester’s life epitomised the ethos and mission of our college. Ross attended the college, then named Commonwealth Bible College, from 1979 to 1981 when located in Katoomba, NSW.
"He committed his life to Christ at an open-air rally run by college students. Apparently, he was the only convert at the rally. But what a convert he was."
Ross Winchester's heart for discipling the nations lives on as a powerful legacy.
"Ross was a man full of faith and lived his life for Jesus," stated ACC National president, Wayne Alcorn. "Even in his final weeks, he was sharing the gospel, working out ways to help the Karen people in Myanmar, and cracking jokes from his hospital bed. He was greatly loved and will be missed by many."
What makes Pentecostal worship
Pentecostal? Is worship more than a song? Worship was the theme of the recent Society for Pentecostal Studies (SPS) annual meeting at Northwest University, Seattle, USA during 13-15 March, 2025. Ten doctoral students and faculty from Alphacrucis University College were presenters at the meeting.
Established in 1971, SPS is the largest and most prestigious gathering of Pentecostal scholars in the world. It provides an opportunity for AC researchers to collaborate and network with other Pentecostal scholars from around the globe. Building the research profile of AC is central to our university vision. However, AC’s research also builds the ACC as it propels us forward as a movement in new ways of thinking and doing.
At SPS meetings, scholars present for about 20 minutes (in the form of a paper, or essay) their current research to peers. Each presentation is followed by a Q & A and usually about ten minutes of robust discussion. The goal is to help one another improve and develop their ideas.
Presentations from our AC scholars were well received. These included:
• Dr Jon Newton on the sovereignty of God
• Dr Daniela Rizzo’s research on "All Creatures of Earth, Come Praise the Lord!”
• Jennifer Furness’s presentation on “Reinvigorating the Heart of Worship”
• Dr John Griffiths speaking on the Holy Spirit in Luke and Acts
• Dr Jacqueline Grey’s presentation on "She Dances: Miriam and Worship as Prophetic Action," which is part of her upcoming book on Women Prophets in the Bible.
• Micheline Facey speaking on connections between war and worship in Joshua 22
Recent publications by AC faculty were also promoted in panel discussions:
• Dr Jacqueline Grey’s co-authored book Introduction to Biblical Interpretation (Baker Academic, 2024) included a constructive review presented by Ps Anne Bakker.
•Dr Jon Newton’s Pentecostal Commentary on Revelation
The SPS meeting also included plenary sessions, panel discussion, meals and worship time together. The women’s caucus meeting, led by Jacqui Grey, provides space to encourage emerging and current women scholars.
However, what sets SPS apart from other academic conferences is that this group is committed to the gospel of Jesus Christ, building the Church, and promoting Pentecostal values. These commitments are shared by the AC faculty.
If you want to read more about Pentecostal worship, see a recent free article Worship: A Pentecostal Perspective by Jacqueline Grey in the Australasian Pentecostal Studies journal or visit aps-journal.com
Thank you to the ACC Movement. Your support for ACCI’s Peninsula Asia Flood Appeal has brought essential supplies – and hope – to some of the people most affected.
ACCI launched the appeal in October 2024 in response to the devastating loss of life and property following Cyclone Yagi.
'Cyclone Yagi was the most powerful storm in Asia during 2024 and the largest to hit southeast Asia in decades,' explains ACCI Director John Hunt. 'It triggered floods and landslides in Vietnam, Myanmar, Thailand and surrounding nations. Then, a few months later, Thailand experienced a second wave of flooding following days of torrential rain.
'Our partners on the ground sprang into action straight away, and thanks to the generosity of Australian churches and individuals, we were able to raise $34,255 to support these efforts.
'Thank you to everyone who gave generously to this appeal!'
Erik and Mariaana Klar provided food, drinking water, bedding, clothes and essential household items to people in two districts – one in the north and the other in the south. "We went to areas the government could not reach," the couple report. "This brought special opportunities to connect with the once closed communities." Support benefited 1,850 adults and 2,360 children across the two districts.
Enoch and Summer Kenway purchased a water tank, pump and high-pressure hose, and hired a truck, which they used to clean mud out of flooded homes. They also provided people with towels, bedding and mattresses.
Rob and Daeng Garnsey purchased two portable generators, which they used in conjunction with water pumps to clear flooded properties, and to power tools for building and roofing repairs. They also purchased household essentials for several local families.
Pastor Khaing Min distributed food, kitchen utensils, hygiene supplies, medicine, clothing, bedding and mosquito nets to those who’d been displaced or impacted by flooding. Support reached 2,300 people, across 12 villages.
Michael and Rhianon Walls delivered a training course on emotional first aid and mental health for 30 nurses. The training supports nurses to care for patients’ emotional and mental health during times of emergency, as well as their own.
At the end of April 2009, Wayne & Lyn Alcorn stood on the platform at the Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre as the newly elected National President of the Australian Christian Churches. Sixteen years on, Wayne & Lyn share the insights and wisdom of their journey as they prepare to hand the baton on to the next generation of national leadership.
Let's talk about the ACC Movement. What stands out about the past 16 years?
Wayne: The faithfulness of God is over-arching. The world may have changed but He hasn't changed. Nor has our mandate. The Movement has stayed true to its call in a rapidly changing world. While it is reported that the Church in the western world is in decline, we have continued to flourish, contrary to cultural changes, secular trends, and other challenges. We have stayed on course and seen the Kingdom advance. Our Movement has doubled in size during this time, for which we are grateful.
Lyn: I love that we are a generational movement where everyone is welcomed to the table – young, old, and those in-between. There is space for everyone.
What stands out for me is the unity of our churches; and how everyone has come together in agreement. Friendships have been forged as we've stood together even in tough seasons.
How have you navigated the external and internal changes here in Australia and across the globe?
Wayne: The key is to know which things God is changing and which things society is changing. Knowing who the author of the change is, helps. In 1 Chronicles 12:32, it speaks of the sons of Issachar as 'men who understood the signs of the times'. It's important to have our eyes and ears open to know what God is doing in these times.
While leading the ACC, you’ve pastored a growing multi-site church in Brisbane. How different is pastoring a congregation to pastoring pastors?
Wayne: Look at this way: Local pastors pastor sheep; Movement leaders pastor shepherds. There is a difference between how you talk to sheep and how you talk to shepherds; knowing the needs of sheep and the needs of shepherds. When you're leading shepherds, you are in the trenches with them. What I love about our Movement is that we are still led by >
people who pastor their own church, as challenging, stretching and demanding as it is.
Back in 2009 you said that you hoped that your leadership would contribute 'a call to cohesion around our important values. When our era is done, I want to look back and say, “Great friends did great things together”' Do you think you have achieved this?
Wayne: I do. Though I didn't imagine my season of national leadership would last 16 years, I am grateful for the friendships we forged within our ACC Family as we have served God together. They span states and regions all across the nation and beyond. Like the Anzac spirit of mateship, it is good to know there are mates who have your back when we are in a spiritual battle or facing challenges.
I remember pastor Alun Davies once asked me why I put my hand up for the National leadership. I replied that I honestly believed that we could forge an even stronger expression of 'Family' in our Movement.
Lyn: We truly are a big Family. I'm thankful for the amazing men and women who have served alongside us, in every season. During this leadership journey, we have loved making a lot of new friends all across the country. We've celebrated the good times together, and we've comforted and prayed for those in times of sadness.
I think of how we supported each other and our communities in the midst of the bushfires, floods and drought, and of course, the global pandemic. I love seeing how the Church steps forward and really shines in the dark times.
Like any family, there are times of rejoicing and times of weeping. How hard has it been to confront pastors whose behaviour and lifestyles have fallen short of Christian leadership?
Wayne: I’ve never enjoyed that part of leadership, but it goes with the territory. I've been the person every State President had to call to share the devastating news of a leadership failure. So I have seen the consequences of these failures. This affects their own life, their family and their future; and many others who are hurt in the process.
It breaks my heart because I don’t believe anyone wakes up and decides they want to fail. I’m glad we’ve got processes and people in place to deal with situations that are gracious and efficient. It is always our intention to help people move forward. I thank God that He forgives and He restores. Our primary goal is any leader that fails is firstly restored to Jesus, and their family. We then walk the journey to see if future ministry is ever possible.
Lyn: I'm aware Wayne has dealt with some heavy situations, but he hasn't brought every thing that he is dealing home with him. I know that I am not graced for some of the things that he is, and there is information that isn't good for my soul. I like to see people as they are for myself, not what I've heard about them. My caution to a wife or husband in leadership is to be wise about 'stuff' and never push your spouse for too much information.
Wayne: May I add a perspective here – that way less than 1% of pastors fall. There are thousands of good men and women out there doing incredible work for Jesus. Just as no-one ever gets excited about the thousands of planes
that successfully take off and land every day, people can become so focussed on the one that doesn't. There are those who take delight in people's failures, like the Pharisees of Jesus' time. We cannot forget that we're all flawed human beings, saved by grace.
In the last decade we’ve done so much to build safer churches and ensure leaders are healthy, in their ministry roles, their homes and their soul.
Lyn: Yes, extra strong foundations have been built into our Movement in the past ten years. Having checks and balances with welfare, mental
health and mentoring speaks volumes about the commitment of the ACC to our pastors. There has been a lot of effort that goes into putting these processes in place that help leaders be accountable, and give them a safe space to voice their personal struggles.
Wayne: People can forget that pastors are human too. We have worked hard to establish a culture to prevent disasters. I feel concerned when leaders aren’t visible in spaces where they have accountability; for instance, those who never appear at regional and state events. There is safety when you are in a place
where you can be honest and vulnerable. 1 John 1:7 says ' But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.'
Lyn: It's important for leaders not to draw back in the tough seasons. The hardest time to go to a State or National Conference is when you aren’t going well. But it is a safe place and a time where ministers can be ministered to. Those are 'Family' gatherings, where pastors can be pastored by those who understand ministry life.
You have an enormous capacity and grace to carry leadership, but what has stretched and challenged you on this 16 year leadership journey?
Wayne: We faced some significant 'giants' at the start of my national leadership, which required a very intentional strategic restructure of the way we managed things going forward. That was a particularly tough time that involved working with professionals, such as lawyers and accountants.
I was smart enough to know I couldn't fix it myself, so I got the smartest professionals we could find and put them in the room. I am immensely grateful for the gifted Kingdom people in strategic roles behind the scenes that steered us through that challenging time. It paved the way for the renewal of some of our boards. Today we are living in the benefits of the incredible work done at that extremely stressful time.
I am so thankful for the members of the National Executive team in those first six years of leadership who took ownership and stood
together to turn things around. This was incredibly important to build our health and resilience as a leadership team. The hard work back then has set us up for the future.
We have done a lot of work in areas that weren't fun, but they were necessary – from renewing the way we managed finances to combing through our policies and procedures after the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse in 2014. Those were gruelling times, but it was critical. Today we are stronger for doing the due diligence and committing to build safer churches.
I’ve loved working with every National Executive team who sat at the table across the past 16 years. Our legacy is the robust healthy movement you see today.
How do you keep your spirit strong when you carry so much on your shoulders?
Wayne: We need to remember we are Christians before we’re leaders. We never stop being a child of God. What that means is never forgetting our personal disciplines of worship and devotion. A good friend who spoke at our 2011 National Conference, Steve Murrell, says, 'Champions are made through what they do in the unseen areas of their life.' It involves the same old familiar rhythms– the Word, prayer, worship, fellowship.
Another key is to surround yourself with people of faith. Lyn is our Life Group leader. Our group is made up of those in a similar season who have done the hard yards in life and ministry. I value this as a safe space where we can to be ourselves and everyone can share openly.
For me personally, in tough times I like to check out off the treadmill, and get away to pray.
Lyn: I am similar to Wayne. I like to get away and walk and pray to recharge my spirit. Having good people in your life also builds you up, especially those you can trust and who can speak into your life.
Wayne: We are all three-part beings and these are inseparable: body, soul and spirit. Each of them benefits the other areas.
Did you know you can reboot your life by simply taking control of one of them? I had a revelation a few years ago when Psalm 23 came alive to me. David wrote how the Shepherd 'restores my soul’, how He 'leads me beside still waters'; and 'makes me lie down in green pastures'. These practices in life help maintain a freshness. It means taking responsibility for every part of your being, looking after your physical body and never losing the wonder of nature and creation.
Let's talk about the Alcorn family in this leadership season. In 2009, your two sons were 22 and 18 when you took on the role of National President. Today they are both married with families of their own. How has your family been part of this journey with you?
Lyn: We’ve always taken the family on the journey from since they were small, from the early days when Wayne was leading Youth Alive. Then when we took on Glad Tidings church in August 2000, they were a part of it all and the excitement of the new adventure. They've grown with the church as it became Brisbane City Church and then rebranded to be Hope Centre in 2013.
Wayne: Family that stands together in faith is a great blessing: 'But as for me and my household, we’ll serve the Lord.' (Joshua 24:15)
One of the positive decisions we made as a family is to maintain a healthy separation of family life from church and Movement matters. When we’re together, we aim to focus just on family, not on ministry. We made the commitment, years ago, to keep our boy out of any negative 'church stuff'..
Lyn has been phenomenal – as have my sons. They understood and accepted the call of God on my life. They released me (and us) into what we’ve been called to do. They have never complained, even when I missed important events in their lives. They have always cheered us on.
Lyn: WWe’ve made up for the birthdays and celebrations that were missed. They have grown in their own faith and love of the church. I love that even our little grandkids are excited to go to State or National Conferences, to see and hang out with new friends.
You are a strong team together. Lyn, when you committed your life to Jesus and married Wayne, did you imagine that the journey of your life would look like this?
Lyn: It's interesting that God put two total opposites together. Wayne clearly had a strong leadership call of God on his life, and before we got engaged, he made it clear this would be our life when he proposed.
So I always knew Wayne was passionate about his walk with God, and I knew he was a person who had values and principles that he lived by. Whatever he did, he rose to the top. I knew he would be great leader and that would shape the course of our life.
Wayne: Ultimately the heart of great leadership is to serve. We have a saying in our church that you cannot lead by what you will not serve. Lyn has a great capacity to ‘lead from behind’. She sets a phenomenal example of servant leadership, and is always there, whether it's inspiring our women to stand for justice, or getting stuck into the community Help Days. She keeps getting stronger every year.
Is there any wisdom you would like to share with the next generation of leaders in our Movement?
Wayne: Firstly, never forget our ‘why'. Why are we doing this? It’s the Great Commission of Jesus! It is not about 'career opportunities' – it's about making disciples of the nations. No matter what happens, don't ever lose that conviction.
Secondly, I'd encourage younger leaders to honour the past but also chart an exciting future. Don't despise our foundations, because those who don't honour the past don't have reference points for the journey ahead. You are not locked to a style of a certain era. Some things will change, but others will not.
Lyn: I'd say that to know the difference between a ministry and a career is important. This isn't a job – it has to be a calling. Don't be in it for the wrong reasons.
And secondly, don't try to be someone you are not. Be your authentic self – stand out as honest, truthful people.
You don’t have to live up to someone else's expectation. People will love you for who you are and who God created you to be.
Wayne: There was no social media when I started in leadership. It has added a lot of pressure on people to put up façades and present the karaoke version of someone else. The reason why God calls the Church the 'body of Christ' is that every part is important. We need to be great at being ourselves!
What are you looking forward to in the next season of life and ministry?
Wayne: II’m looking forward to be able to serve others without people's perceptions of me due to a title. I hope the next era creates more margin for us as a couple, to invest in the things that I value: my family and our local church.
I am also looking forward to having time to attend my grandkids’ soccer games, and just being the pastor of a local church for a while. I actually don’t know what it is like to pastor a church without a second hat. For the 25 years that I have pastored Hope Centre, I have carried the responsibility of our Movement; whether it is State or National level. I finally get to find out what it’s like to be a local church pastor!
Having a few less meetings will enable me to spend time helping leaders and ministering to men. The book I wrote –My Father's Son – has been a trigger for opening doors to men's ministry. I started off ministering to youth; now I find I am ministering to their fathers.
Lyn: My hope is that Wayne is busy enough to keep himself occupied, because it would be a total waste if he sat around at home without being able to pass on all that wisdom and experience to others. I hope we can use our time to come alongside and mentor other younger leaders. They often find out the hard way when they hit a snag. We'd love to share our wisdom and insights before they find themselves in the midst of those challenges.
Is there any final thing you'd like to add?
Wayne: We're grateful to the Lord and for the incredible people we've had an opportunity to serve Him with.
On behalf of the ACC Family, we'd like to thank and honour Pastors Wayne & Lyn Alcorn for their incredible 16 years of leadership of the Movement, including the additional ten years on the National Executive team from 1999 to 2009.
Their unwavering commitment, vision and passion to lead a movement of leaders through natural disasters, political changes and a global pandemic has resulted in building healthy churches, inspiring leaders and winning souls... simply because they know the heart of God is that people matter. The fruit of their season remains as a legacy and foundation for every local church and pastor to continue building on.
We thank the Alcorn family, Hope Centre church, and the collective wisdom, unity and strength of former and current members of the National Executive team, who have served and stood alongside Wayne & Lyn in their 16 year service.
At this time, we also honour and thank Mark & Jemima Varughese, and Ally & Steve Cawthorn who were elected to the National Executive in 2021 and have served wholeheartedly for the past four years. We extend our thanks to their families and churches for releasing them to contribute their wisdom and counsel to the significant season of strength and health of the ACC Movement.
As Wayne Alcorn commented in 2009 after being elected National President, When our era is done, I want to look back and say, “Great friends did great things!”' Indeed they have, by the grace and anointing of God on their lives.
What has been significant for you about serving on the ACC National Executive?
The most significant part for me was meeting dedicated, faithful and faith-filled pastors who have answered the call to serve people and pastor churches around our nation.
What has being part of the National leadership team involved?
It has been a privilege to sacrifice time to be part of a team that is stewarding what God is doing in thousands of lives across our movement.
Any final words you’d like to share?
The real heroes of the movement are the local pastors all over the country. Keep believing for more. Encourage one another. We are all on the same team. Australia shall be saved.
What has personally been significant about serving on the ACC National Executive?
It has been an honour to serve the Movement as part of the National Executive. What has been significant for me has been seeing the commitment of the movement to ensure women are empowered to lead and are specifically provided opportunities to step into governance positions both within the church and beyond.
How did you find being part of the National leadership team?
At first, the task of being part of the national team was daunting, to say the least! However, I quickly realised that I was part of an encouraging and empowering group of peers who were all genuinely focused on the health and strength of every church in the movement. Pastor Wayne is passionate about leading as a collaborative team and so ensured everyone had a shared focus, as well as the opportunity to contribute to the leadership of various initiatives. Therefore, while the task felt significant, the environment created in the team ensured we were inspired by the opportunities and not overwhelmed by the weight of what was required.
What was your specific portfolio on the National Executive?
My involvement was primarily focused on providing opportunities for women who felt a call to governance to connect with one another and be equipped and empowered to pursue such opportunity. When I began on the National Executive four years ago, there were six women in executive positions across the states throughout Australia. Now, there are ten which is absolutely incredible! In addition to that, we have a female chair of the Chaplaincy Australia board and Youth Alive board, as well as many other women serving on other boards across the country.
Any final words you’d like to share?
I would like to thank the movement for the opportunity to service at this level and I look forward to seeing how the next chapter unfolds. I absolutely know that the ACC is going to go from strength to strength and I can’t wait to continue to play a part in its ongoing health and growth.
By John Hunt
Life is a journey, and the only way to reach the end is by keeping our gaze fixed – on Him alone.
Hebrews 1:1 tells us that in the past, God spoke in many ways, but now we have the clearest revelation—Him alone. Through Jesus, God has spoken. Jesus did not come merely to communicate about God but to bring us into a personal relationship with Him—a relationship that engages every aspect of our being. From now to eternity, there is no fuller expression of God than Him alone.
In Matthew 23:34, Jesus declares that He is the one who sent the prophets, sages, and teachers. He doesn’t simply identify as one among them but as the one who sends.
In Luke 10:18, He says, 'I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven'. He has been there from the beginning, overseeing every turn of history.
N.T. Wright once wrote: “How can you live with the terrifying thought that the hurricane has become human, that fire has become flesh, that life itself became life and walked in our midst? Christianity either means this, or it means nothing. Either He is a fraud, or there is no one else worthy of worship but Him alone.
Hebrews 2:1 warns us: 'We must pay the most careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away.'
This means we must be fiercely captivated by the Gospel of grace, obsessed with Him alone. Think of the old way of sealing a letter. You would melt wax, press a seal into it, and the wax would take on the image of the seal. But if the wax was too hard, the seal would either break it or leave only a shallow imprint.
In the same way, if we try to receive God’s glory through our own efforts—by obeying laws or striving to do things for Him—we will either become prideful and insecure or feel crushed under the weight of it all. Instead, we must behold His grace and let it melt us.
If we do not pay careful attention to Him alone, we will either drift into legalism or burn out completely.
I look forward to our time together at the ACC25 National conference, where we can turn our hearts and minds fully to Him alone.
John Hunt is the ACC Vice President and Director of ACCI.
By Ben Naitoko
The Apostle Paul writes in 1 Timothy 1:1, 'Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the commandment of God our Savior and the Lord Jesus Christ, our hope,…'
What the Apostle Paul is indicating here is that there are some things we can have hope for, purely because of Jesus Christ alone.
Many community and charity organisations have the word 'Hope' in their name. What they mean by this is that they exist to give people hope. However, there are some things that we can hope for that no organisation can give. There are some things we can only have hope for through our Lord Jesus Christ.
So here are five things that He Alone gives us hope for.
In Jeremiah 29:11, the Lord says, 'For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.'
God has a plan and purpose for our lives – He created us for a reason. The only way we get to find our what we’re created for is by having relationship with Him. One of the most satisfying aspects of being a pastor is seeing the transformation that occurs in people’s lives when they come to Christ. It is readily apparent that once they meet their creator they then find out what they’re created for.
The Apostle Peter wrote, 'Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.' (1 Peter 1:13)
We don’t rest our hope on our works – we rest our hope on His grace! That’s why we continue to preach the gospel – for it is the ONLY way for people to be saved. The only way to be made right with God for eternity is through Him Alone.
Sometimes in life and ministry we come up against situations that look hopeless, but in Christ we serve a miracle working God who can cause us to experience seemingly impossible breakthroughs and miracles.
Jesus promises us in Matthew 28:20, '…I am with you always until the end of the age.' His continual presence with us means that we have access to His miracle working power. Maybe you are currently in a situation that seems hopeless – you can invite the Lord to intervene in your situation because there is nothing too hard for Him.
'For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.' (John 3:16)
The fact that the Father sent His son Jesus Christ to save the world is evidence enough that He not only wants to save and redeem us, but also the seemingly difficult and resistant parts of our society. Maybe you are ministering in an area of society or the name that seems 'too hard' to reach, you can be rest assured that God wants to see your local community saved and redeemed for the glory of God.
'For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us.' (2 Corinthians 1:20)
This means that the promises of God are now available through our Lord Jesus Christ – through HIM ALONE.
Often we end up waiting for God’s promises to come to pass in our life longer than what we would like but that doesn’t mean they won’t eventually happen.
I believe that this will be a year of long awaited promises coming to pass. In Biblical numerology, the number 5 represents 'grace'. So 25 represents 'multiplied grace' –GRACE UPON GRACE, and I prophetically believe that this year will be a year of increased grace upon our lives and churches, with long awaited promises coming to pass.
So no matter how far away God’s promises for your life might seem – in Christ they are available and you can continue to hope and believe for them to come to pass!
Ben Naitoko is the ACC State President of Queensland & Northern Territory. He and his wife Trish are the senior pastors of Kings Church
By Ally Cawthorn
The world in which we live offers a myriad of distractions which vie for our attention, devotion and focus. While our intention may be to live for ‘Him Alone,’ it remains only an intention if we do not participate in regular practices and various disciplines which invite us to reflect on how our focus has been divided and our attention has been drawn away.
One such practice is the sacrament of communion or the ‘Lord’s Supper.’ In scripture, we see Jesus sharing this meal with the disciples regularly, although on the night before his betrayal he adds the instruction that when they share this meal from now on, they should 'do so in remembrance of me.' (1 Cor 11:26)
What a practical reminder this meal offers us individually and corporately to remember Him alone and the life He offers through this very practical expression of faith. As we partake of the elements of communion, we are invited to turn away from every distraction and be focused on Jesus. It is a sacrament that reminds us that we are –together - stewarding the revelation
of
Recently, I was struck afresh by the experience of grace this practice reflects. St Augustine in the 5th Century described a sacrament as ‘an outward and visible sign of an inward and invisible grace'.
As I contemplated that definition during communion, I found myself experiencing the unseen grace of God again. It felt like a renewed experience of salvation as my attention was focused on Him alone. I was reminded that His grace, or empowering presence is available to me amid every distraction or circumstance in which I may find myself.
The Orthodox speak of grace as being ‘uncreated,’ meaning it is an experience of God himself. It has always existed and continues to exist in the realm of the unseen, although it is experienced in our lived reality. Communion then, is a practical way to appropriate His grace, which is always available, always operating and is ours in Him alone.
But here’s the thing, to experience
His grace we need to constantly admit our need of it which means we must leave our spiritual cosmetics and every false sense of perfectionism at the door. Grace encourages us that when we come to the communion table, we don’t need to offer up our perfection to partake of Him rather, we 'do so in remembrance of HIM' through refocusing and remembering that perfection was found in the sacrifice who made eternal life possiblenow!
Therefore, communion gives me permission to be real and admit that I live in a paradox: I have faith, and I doubt; I have hope, and I get discouraged, I love, and I struggle to love, I trust, and yet sometimes I am anxious. But, through Him alone I have an experience of the uncreated grace of God which empowers me to live the with-God life in the midst of a distracted and dying world.
Ally Cawthorn has served as a member of the ACC National Executive since 2021.
By Sean Stanton
'You’ll remember, friends, that when I first came to you, I didn’t try to impress you with polished speeches and the latest philosophy. I deliberately kept it plain and simple: first Jesus and who He is; then Jesus and what He did — Jesus crucified.' (1 Corinthians 2:1-2, MSG)
The notion of Jesus as a miracle worker resonates deeply with us; it conjures up images of awe and wonder. Yet, the journey of faith can be tumultuous, especially when we yearn for a miracle that doesn’t manifest as anticipated. In those moments of doubt, it’s all too easy to construct elaborate theologies that pacify our discouragement and disappointment. However, we can draw profound lessons from the first miracle Jesus performed: the transformation of water into wine.
The setting of this miracle unfolds at a wedding — a celebration filled with lofty expectations. It’s a day meant to fulfil dreams, particularly for the bride and the mother of the bride. These joyous celebrations could extend for up to seven days. Yet, amid the joyful chaos, things often take unexpected turns. The wine supply ran out during the festivities, so Jesus’ mother told him, 'They have no more wine.' (John 2:3 NLT) Running out of wine was not just an inconvenience but the ultimate humiliation. As a rabbinic saying reminds us, “Where there is no wine, there is no joy.”
In times of crisis, our attention can quickly shift from faith and truth to focusing on our feelings and the stark realities of our situation. The weight of our problems can cloud our vision, causing us to forget God’s limitless power and unwavering promises. 'We must remind ourselves that we are called to live by faith, not by sight.' (2 Corinthians 5:7, NIV)
In an effort to regain control, we might instinctively take matters into our own hands, much like Jesus’ mother did initially. The prophet Isaiah cautioned Israel about such futile attempts to manage their circumstances. He warned, 'You will be left like a lonely flagpole on a hill or a tattered banner on a distant mountaintop. So the Lord must wait for you to come to Him so He can show you His love and compassion.' (Isaiah 30:17-18, NLT) It’s a poignant reminder that it cannot simultaneously be God’s and our problems.
As the weight of our challenges grows, we can find ourselves exaggerating the negative aspects of our lives. There’s a saying that resonates with truth: 'We cannot keep telling God about our problems. At some point, we must tell our problems about our God!' We need to remind ourselves of God’s promises. 'For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ.' (2 Corinthians 1:20, NIV)
Mary relinquished her attempts to persuade Jesus to take action. Deep within her, she carried the profound mystery of His miraculous birth and recognised His unique identity. With unwavering faith, she redirected everyone’s attention to Him. 'Do whatever He tells you,' she instructed the servants. (John 2:5, BSB)
When Jesus performed the miracle, the result was astonishing: producing the finest wine. 'Never doubt God’s mighty power to work in you and accomplish all this. He will achieve infinitely more than your greatest request, your most unbelievable dream, and exceed your wildest imagination! He will outdo them all, for his miraculous power constantly energises you.' (Eph 3:20, TPT)
Sean Stanton is the ACC National Secretary. He and his wife Lynda are the senior pastors of LIFE UC in Canberra, ACT.
By Mark Varughese
One day, we will all stand before God, and the only thing that will truly matter is our relationship with Him. Our ministry achievements, our labour, our perseverance are all an outworking of a relational intimacy with God.
In Revelation 2, Jesus commended the church in Ephesus for their works, their patience, and their endurance. But then came the piercing words: “Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love.” (Rev 2:4). They had the works but lost their wonder. They laboured but lacked love. And Jesus’ invitation to them—and to us—is simple: Remember. Repent. Return.
In our fast-paced world, it is easy to become so consumed by the demands of ministry, family, and life that we unintentionally drift from intimacy with God. The fire that once burned bright begins to dim, not because He moved away, but because we allowed distractions to take His place. But the good news is this: if we have left our first love, we can return!
Church services are not the whole meal; they’re the tasting plate meant to stir an appetite for more of God in our personal lives.
How do we keep the fire of devotion burning? In Leviticus 6:12, God commanded the priests to keep the fire on the altar burning—it must never go out. The fire was started by God, but keeping it ablaze was their responsibility. The same is true for us.
Here are four ways to throw logs on the fire of our devotion:
1. Seek the Lord – “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” (Jer 29:13) Every time we prioritize time alone with God, we place another log on the fire.
2. Sanctify Your Senses – What we watch, listen to, and dwell on fuels either passion for God or distraction from Him. Let’s fill our hearts with His Word and His presence.
3. Stir One Another – If your fire is dwindling, get around those who are burning. Passion for Jesus is contagious—stay connected to a faith-filled community!
4. Surrender All – Lay everything at His feet. There is no intimacy with God without full surrender to God. Surrender is so attractive to those who realise how dependent they are on Him.
This year, let’s recentre along the highest priority of 'Him alone'. Let’s not just serve, but seek. Let’s not just work, but worship. He is the author and the finisher, the beginning and the end. The one who wills and gives us the strength to do.
Without Him, we can do nothing. But with Him, all things are possible. Any good that happens in our life and ministry is ultimately only because of One person – Him and Him alone.
Mark Varughese has served on the ACC National Executive since 2021. He and his wife, Jemima, are the global senior pastors of Kingdomcity Church.
By Joel Chelliah
Growing up in a Catholic home, my grandma had a picture of Mary and Jesus hanging above her altar. In this image, Jesus was depicted as a white toddler with beautiful blonde hair and striking blue eyes. I was always concerned that, despite looking wealthy in his golden tunic, he didn’t appear happy.
This image of Jesus profoundly shaped my early years because this is who I would envision whenever I prayed. This is the version of Jesus I worshipped. I even made it my personal goal to put a smile on the face of rich, white, baby Jesus.
I share this to illustrate a powerful truth: having an accurate picture of who God is will deeply impact your personal relationship with Him. So, do you have an accurate picture of God?
This is what Jesus meant when He asked His disciples, 'Who do you say that I am?' (Matthew 16). He wasn’t so much interested in the opinions of the crowds, but in how His disciples personally saw Him.
God desires for us to see Him as He truly is, and in order to do that, we must allow Scripture to shape the image we hold of Him in our hearts.
In Genesis 28, we read about Jacob’s first encounter with God. Jacob had done some shameful things leading up to this moment—he had deceived his blind, elderly father, stolen from his brother, and was now all alone, cast out from his home. It was after all this that God met him in a dream.
Genesis 28:11-15 (NIV): There above it stood the Lord, and he said: ‘I am the Lord, the God of your father Abraham and the God of Isaac. I will give you and your descendants the land on which you are lying. Your descendants will be like the dust of the earth, and you will
spread out to the west and to the east, to the north and to the south. All peoples on earth will be blessed through you and your offspring. I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.’
When I read this passage, I was overwhelmed by the tenderness of the Lord. This was not the picture I had of God. I expected God to confront Jacob, reprimand him, and perhaps even issue threats or a list of things Jacob had to do to earn His favor. But none of that happened.
I love how the Lord approaches Jacob with a desire for relationship. Instead of condemnation, He offers promises of presence, provision, and protection. It was this kindness that melted Jacob’s hardened heart. It was this goodness that led him to willingly surrender his life to God’s plan.
I realised that my picture of God had been shaped by my religious upbringing, but it was not accurate. It caused me to run from God every time I sinned, rather than running to Him. It led me to distance myself from the relationship just when I needed God the most.
Reading this encounter with Jacob transformed me because it changed the way I saw the Lord. God wants to correct our understanding of Him. We must let go of false images and allow the truth of His character, as revealed in Scripture, to shape our relationship with Him.
Joel Chelliah is a member of the ACC National Executive. Joel and his wife Sharon are the senior pastors of Centrepoint Church in Perth, WA.
Photo
You can serve Him, but do you follow Him?
By Matt Heins
A question I asked my staff recently was: 'You can serve Him, but do you follow Him?' Serving God is a matter of action, but following Him is a function of the heart.
A.M Hunter says it well: 'It has been said that follow me is the whole of a Christian’s duty, as to be where Christ is, is the whole of his reward.' 1
In John 21, Jesus appears to the disciples while they are out fishing and once again miraculously provides a catch of fish. Yet Peter’s response in verse 7 is what encourages me.
Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, “It is the Lord,” he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water. The other disciples followed in the boat, towing the net full of fish, for they were not far from shore, about a hundred yards.' (NIV)
As soon as he realises it is Jesus, Peter forgets the miraculous catch of fish and rushes to Jesus’ side. Peter’s focus and attention is on the person of Jesus to such an extent that he seemingly neglects the work of serving and even forgets about the miracle for a moment. All else pales in comparison to being in God’s presence and following Him. The other disciples are left behind to focus on the task at hand, but Peter has a greater revelation –a life that is lived to follow Jesus is our highest calling. It is Peter, whom Jesus later instructs to 'take care of my sheep' (v.16).
In other words, to lead effectively, our first priority is to be followers.
The ultimate litmus test for Christian leadership is a life that prioritises following Jesus. From that deep place of communion with Him alone, flows a life marked by the miraculous, by serving Him and by great acts of faith. But it begins with a determination to draw close to Him – to be leaders who follow.
John 12:26 (MSG) reminds us:
'If any of you wants to serve me, then follow me. Then you’ll be where I am, ready to serve at a moment’s notice. The Father will honor and reward anyone who serves me.'
In the busyness of ministry, too often we can fix our attention on serving God at the cost of delighting in following Him. Jesus’ words in John 12 recalibrates our focus as leaders. Whoever serves Him must first be committed to following Him – in our daily schedules, in our homes and families and in our daily obedience and surrender to Him.
Jesus’ ministry ushered in the Kingdom of God and it is a Kingdom that is radically different to the powers of this world. It is an ‘upsidedown’ kingdom, marked by leaders who lead by following Christ and serving others, rather than domineering or taking over (Mark 10:42-44). We lead by following first. As Paul instructs the church in Corinth:
'Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ' (1 Corinthians 11:1)
Towards both the beginning and the end of Jesus’ ministry, He performs a similar miracle with the disciples – the miraculous catch of fish (Luke 5 and John 21). In both instances, the disciples follow Jesus’ command to let down their nets, despite having fished throughout the night. They are seasoned fishermen who have expertise in this area. Yet the disciples do not prioritise strategy over their obedience to the Lord. As we plan and strategise in our ministries, let’s never forget to place obedience first. To follow, so that we can lead. When we put obedience first, we see the hand of God at work in our lives and we can rest in the knowledge of what He has done for us. We see the fruit of following Him.
In Mark 3:14 we read that Jesus '…appointed twelve that they might be with Him…'.
What an incredible reminder to us. Of all the goals we can have as leaders, there is nothing greater than determining to follow Him, and Him Alone.
Matt Heins is the ACC State President of Victoria. He and his wife, Franca, are the senior pastors of Faith Christian Church in Melbourne.
1. A. M. Hunter, The Gospel according to John, The Cambridge Bible Commentary (Cambridge, 1965)
By Mark Zschech
The Apostle Paul tells us that 'three things will last forever —faith, hope, and love– and the greatest of these is love.' (1 Cor 13:13).
As a follower of Jesus, there is a sense that we should have a posture of holding dreams for things yet unseen in our lives. Dreams that are bigger than our reality.
The funny thing is, that one of the criticisms about Pentecostals is that we are triumphant people, that we are too positive and aspirational. People with too much Hope (I'm happy to be criticised for that!)
'Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see.' (Hebrews 11:1 NLT)
The writer of Hebrews is encouraging us to have faith and hope for the things that have not yet happened in our lives; and because of that Faith and Hope, earn us a good reputation.
What are you dreaming for? These dreams are the things to apply our faith to.
'It was by faith that Abraham obeyed when God called him to leave home and go to another land that God would give him as his inheritance. He went without knowing where he was going.' (Heb 11:8-10 NLT)
Abraham lived in Faith and also died in Faith, with Hope and a promise. His greatest legacy was that he passed down to Isaac and Jacob the same dreams and hopes
that God had given him. Abraham told God that he will never be successful until he had a successor. Now that is legacy-thinking right there! Abraham’s God-given dream was bigger than his tent. No wonder he is referred to as the Father of Faith.
Stepping out in Faith
Years ago as a family, we travelled to Rwanda for a mission trip. It was an impacting trip – an attempt to understand the genocide in 1994, where approximately 1 million people were murdered within 100 days. I left there with a deep conviction: I have to do something
So I took a bold step of faith to attempt to do something that had never been done before. When people would ask me what I was working on, I would (bravely) say: We want to turn mourning into dancing, and turn grief into Hope.
Inside my head though, was another conversation: How can you say such outrageous things? Who are you to say that? There I was, asking as many people as possible to bring their gift to the nation of Rwanda but the question in my mind was: Who are you? How can you assume people will be behind you?
I was not seen by leaders as a leader at the time; I was a behind the scenes guy. So of course there was a battle inside my mind. The enemy always uses this as a tactic, to extinguish your faith.
'Jesus we know, Paul we know, but who are you?' (Acts 19:15 NIV)
Looking back today, the outcome was amazing. People in Rwanda still talk about this endeavour, now referred to as ‘100 days of Hope’.
Some of the end results were:
• every child in the nation received a bible,
• every prisoner (of which there were many) received a hygiene pack,
• open heart surgeries where performed for the first time,
• crusades were held in every corner of the nation,
• tens of thousands of people accepted Jesus.
What have you not seen yet in your life? You may have dreamt it, but its not real yet?
Faith really is simply a boldness, to step into believing for the unseen. When we step out in boldness, we access Faith and God’s grace and favour. Boldness is your key, for the season ahead.
Faith, Hope and Love: they will last forever. They are supernatural, greater things than this world can offer, and they will outlast our todays and follow us into eternity.
The purpose of your dream is Him Alone – a Kingdom legacy that must be handed over to the next generation.
Mark
is the
By Ralph Estherby
One of the greatest parts of my role is that I get to work closely with Pastors, Leaders and Chaplains from all over the country. I also get to celebrate the work they do and the difference they are making. Being available for someone else is an incredible gift, an incredible opportunity but also, it is an incredible responsibility. Whether you are in a pastoral-leadership role (speaking to them from the pulpit) or whether you are in a care-chaplaincy-supportive role (standing next to them on their worst day), you have an opportunity to impact lives and make a lasting impression. But what are you going to leave them with?
I used to think that the cleverer I was and the more words I spoke would make all the difference. I have made the mistake of taking over and forcing my view and imposing my will. I have even seen the impact of leaning on my own understanding and putting my own plans in place... I know that you have probably done the same (at times) and experienced the same results – less than effective and less than satisfying.
But there is another option that we should never lose sight of... and Paul put it like this...
“...for in Him we live and move and have our being...” Acts 17:28
In Him alone we live – He alone needs to be our home, our point of reference and the source of our inspiration. There are so many distractions and ideas, so many points of view but only one is going to make the difference. We need to cultivate our life in HIM ALONE and never stray far from it.
In Him alone we move – our responses should not be in our own strength or our own understanding but in His love and grace, always ready to give a reason for the hope that is in us. Strive to make every action a response to Him, rather than a response to the urgent or the immediate. Walking in HIM ALONE and reaping His fruit.
In Him alone we have our being – He is author and the finisher of who we are – our faith, our practice of ministry and our assessment of ourselves should flow from HIM ALONE. Do not be too concerned what others think, do not be too impressed with your own bio and what you have done. He should be our centre and if He is then we have truly arrived.
Let’s make sure that we leave all those we serve with HIM ALONE.
Ralph Estherby is the national director of Chaplaincy Australia.
By Stephen Fogarty
In an age of leadership failure, it is critical that we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith (Heb.12:2).
As Christian leaders our primary responsibility is to know Christ and make Him known, to be able to say, 'imitate me as I imitate Christ' (1 Cor.11:1).
Anything less is inadequate.
Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of a leader who uses His status and power solely for the good of others. He 'empties' himself for the benefit of others (Phil.2:5-8). To lead in imitation of Jesus is to reject the privileges of status and to be prepared to suffer for others. It is challenging.
In Philippians, the apostle Paul encourages his readers to maintain unity within the church. He appeals to them to avoid division and divisiveness (Phil 2:1-4). The Church can only survive external pressure when its members are 'standing firm in one spirit, striving side by side with one mind for the faith of the gospel' (1:27). He therefore urges them to 'be of the same mind, having the same love, being in one accord and of one mind' (2:2).
Practically, this means that each member should 'look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others' (Phil 2:3).
Unity is produced through practicing mutuality. Paul refers to such behaviour as 'humility' which regards 'others as better than yourselves' (Phil 2:3). The supreme example of such behaviour is Jesus Christ.
Jesus Christ, though He was in the form of God, He did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited. Rather, He emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness, and being found in human form, He humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death – even death on a cross.
He is the ultimate example of one who does not pursue His own interests or selfishly take advantage of rights, privileges, or status.
Him Alone! It is a high call. 'I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Jesus Christ my Lord' (Phil.3:8).
Prof Stephen Fogarty is the President of Alphacrucis Univeristy College.
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AGE GROUPS: Newborn–Walkers
We've created a comfortable and welcoming Parents Room for parents of very young children. Located in a new space on the ground floor, this room offers a relaxing environment where you can take a break, recharge, and care for your little ones.
The main sessions will be live-streamed into the Parents Room, so you won't miss out on any anything. For added convenience, there are private feeding rooms, as well as a microwave and fridge to make things a little easier for you throughout the day. Plus, we've set up a pram parking bay, so you can leave your stroller without any hassle.
HOST: Pastor Jason Van Vuuren
AGE GROUPS: Walkers–Age 3 / Ages 3+– Age 5 / Prep/Preschool–Grade 2 / Grades 3–5
Hosted by the ACCKids team from across the country, the ACC25 Kids program runs from Tuesday morning during the Streams and main arena sessions.
Kids will enjoy a variety of activities, including dynamic guest speakers, intentional worship, and encounter moments designed to inspire and encourage their faith. With snacks included in your registration, you can rest easy knowing your little ones will be well cared for throughout the day.
For children aged 5 and up, there's also a special excursion to look forward to, offering more opportunities for fun and connection. This is a fantastic opportunity for your kids to make new friends, experience God's presence, and have a truly memorable time.
> Go to www.conference.acc.org.au/kids
HOST: Pastor Isaiah Simmons
AGE GROUP: Grades 7– 12
The Youth Conference at the ACC25 National Conference is going to be an incredible experience for young people.
Hosted by the Youth Alive Directors from across the country, the focus is all about creating a space for youth to grow in their faith, make new friends, and connect with others from across the nation.
In addition to the dedicated youth sessions, youth will also join in on the main conference night sessions— experiencing inspiring speakers, worship, and a chance to be part of something bigger.
We've also set up a special hang space where they can relax, connect, and build friendships with other young people from all over. It's the perfect opportunity for your youth to grow, connect, and experience God in a whole new way.
> Go to www.conference.acc.org.au/youth
By Essie Blase
I didn’t grow up going to church—I grew up in it. Every service, every youth night, every team night, every special event, every rehearsal, every Youth Alive rally, every regional meeting, every conference, every camp. You get the idea. If the doors were open, we were there. And if the doors weren’t open—well, someone had a key.
I’ve heard people say that kids and young people can’t or shouldn’t be expected to sit through long services, but honestly? I didn’t have much of a choice. I learned early on that a good church kid survival kit included a tab at the church café, the ability to spot an open seat next to someone who had snacks, and perfecting the art of falling asleep under a pew.. But beyond all of that, something deeper was happening. I was absorbing. Watching. Learning. And most importantly, encountering God for myself.
One of the greatest gifts of my upbringing wasn’t just being included—it was being protected. My parents and leaders made sure my siblings and I grew up in a spiritually healthy environment. They didn’t expose us to drama or leadership struggles. We weren’t handed cynicism; we were handed faith. We saw the best of church, the beauty of it, the power of what happens when people come together hungry for God. By the time we were old enough to notice the imperfections of people, it didn’t shake us—because we had already fallen in love with Jesus. The call of God was already real to us. And that made all the difference.
Today, every one of us is serving in church—missionaries, pastors, church builders, youth pastors, creatives. Not
because we had to, but because we wanted to. Because we saw God move. Because we were there when He spoke, when He healed, when He called. And once you’ve experienced that for yourself, there’s no turning back.
I wouldn’t trade my experience for anything. Being in those rooms, surrounded by faith, shaped me. It made me who I am. And I can’t help but wonder—how many other kids are longing for that same experience? How many are standing at the edge of something powerful, just waiting for someone to take them by the hand and say, Come with me. You belong here.
So, take them with you. Bring them to conference. Bring them to the moments where God is moving. Let them see it, hear it, feel it. Let them be in the room where faith is stirred and lives are changed.
Because they’re not just watching from the sidelines. They’re listening. They’re hungry. And they are so ready.
Essie Blase is the ACC National Conference Manager. She has a wealth of experience in event management, ranging from local church events to large Christian and corporate conferences, youth rallies and festivals. Email: essie.blase@acc.org.au
> Check out the options for your kids and teenagers at ACC25 National Conference.
By Andy Kirk
The world of Generation Alpha (born 2010-2024, currently ages 0-15) is one of unprecedented connection, digital immersion, and evolving beliefs. They are growing up in a landscape that is shifting faster than ever, shaped by influencers, social media, and a rising openness to alternative spiritualities. In the midst of this rapid change, the greatest need for this generation is clear: Christ, and Him alone.
The OneHope research on Gen Alpha in Australia reveals a generation spiritually open but often untethered. While 39% of Australian Gen Alpha pre-teens identify as Christian, only 5% exhibit the beliefs and behaviours of an Emerging Committed Christian. The challenge is not just belief—it is engagement. Many say faith is important, yet only 52% of Christians believe the Bible is the Word of God.
Photo by Yan Krukov /Pexels
Their worldview is being formed, not by Scripture, but by the steady stream of voices on their screens.
This is why discipleship must be intentional. We cannot assume faith will be absorbed by proximity. The spiritual battle for Gen Alpha is not about whether they will believe in something, but whether their faith will be grounded in Christ alone.
Encouragingly, research confirms that parents remain the most significant influence in a child's spiritual development. When pre-teens have questions about faith, they overwhelmingly turn to their mum (80%) and dad (68%) first for guidance. However, in homes where faith is only a cultural identity rather than a daily practice, children grow up with a diluted gospel.
The greatest gift parents can give their children is an authentic, lived-out faith. Modelling regular Bible reading, prayer, and church involvement is not about legalism but about demonstrating the beauty and necessity of walking with Jesus. The data is clear—pre-teens who see their parents engaging with Scripture and prayer are far more likely to do the same. Among those who read the Bible with their parents, 57% also read it on their own weekly or daily. Conversely, only 17% of those who do not read Scripture with their parents engage with it themselves.
While parents lay the foundation, the church must reinforce it. Gen Alpha is spiritually curious, with 71% of non-churchgoing pre-teens saying they would attend if invited. This openness is an opportunity for the church to step up, not just with programs, but with discipleship. The church must be a place where young people encounter Jesus, not just in Sunday services but in relationships, mentorship, and community.
Discipleship is not an event; it is a journey. The next generation needs youth leaders, small group mentors, and church communities who will walk with them, answer their tough questions, and point them back to Christ— consistently and lovingly.
The statistics show a generation searching for truth, identity, and meaning. Many are drawn to alternative spiritual practices—45% of Australian Gen Alpha pre-teens regularly engage in activities like manifesting, astrology, and crystal healing. They are looking for something transcendent, something real.
We must proclaim the truth that what they are searching for is only found in Jesus. He alone offers forgiveness, purpose, and eternal life. He alone is the firm foundation that will not shift with cultural trends.
For parents, pastors, and leaders, the mission is clear. The world is discipling Gen Alpha every day through digital platforms, entertainment, and social influence. If we do not disciple them in Christ, the world will disciple them in something else.
Now is the time to be intentional. Now is the time to speak truth, to model faith, and to lead with love. The next generation does not need more distractions, diluted beliefs, or fleeting trends. They need Him alone.
"For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ." (1 Corinthians 3:11)
Andy Kirk is the national leader of ACC Kids. Info: acckids.org.au
By Paul Bartlett
We are so excited to launch our Community Engagement magazine at the ACC25 National Conference!
Finding new and innovative ways to reach your community can be a challenge so we have taken the brain freeze out of the equation and put together 52 ideas that any church of any size and budget can try!
For example many times people in your church don’t see how their occupation, skill or talent could help others, so what about getting a few of your “grease monkeys” together and host a community "oil change" day for single parents or the elderly?
Or what about a Community garden or better still, a neighbourhood book swap and story telling afternoon tea?
Some of the best ways to connect with your community is with small simple ideas. Don't forget the golden rule of Community engagement is: it's not just about the doing, the most important thing is the getting to know the people that you are serving. If you do good things they will thank you; if you take the time to get to know them.....they will never forget you!
Grab your copy of the magazine at the ACC Community Engagement stand at conference, or after Conference it will be available online at the website: www.acccommunityengagement.org.au
Paul Bartlett is the national leader of ACC Community Engagement..
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For the past seven seasons, ACC Pastor Josh Hammann has been the team chaplain of the Illawarra Hawks, a professional basketball team in the National Basketball League (NBL). He recently released Elite Encouragements, a book that builds faith in elite and aspiring athletes.
I don’t believe faith in God is reserved for only certain times in our society or only for some moments in our lives and this book serves as an encouragement to elite & aspiring athletes everywhere to integrate their faith into every aspect of life.
As part of my role as the team chaplain of the Hawks I lead a pre-game prayer time. Players are invited to share in a brief moment with me where we pray and read an encouragement from the Bible before they take the court.
I believe in doing this every game for two reasons.
1. It provides an opportunity for the players to be grateful to the creator God for their gifts, skills, success or challenges. In essence, before we go ‘do’, we take a moment to thank God for who we ‘are’ because of him.
2. So much of professional sport and everyday life is ‘seen’ yet faith is often described as ‘unseen’. Praying before the game is a reminder there is more going on than what is right in front of us in that moment.
While my context is basketball, my prayer for this book is that professional or aspiring athletes in any sport could use this as a tool to connect with God in a greater way as they desire to live for Him in all areas of their life.
Each Encouragement follows a flow of Read, Think, Pray and ‘The bottom line’. There is also space for the reader's own reflections before a game; and each encouragement has suggestions of other times in your life that this reading could be used.
To anyone in the highest echelons of professional sport, right through to young kids giving their best at school or the local sporting field, I wish you all the best for the season ahead as you go and do, what God has gifted you to be!
Elite Encouragements is available through eliteencouragements.com for $20 and all proceeds of book sales goes to helping marginalised families to ‘dine with dignity’ through Lighthouse Community Kitchen.
Josh Hammann is one of the senior pastors at Lighthouse Church located in Wollongong, NSW. Insta @josh_hammann
In July 2020, Journey Church began in a humble Sydney living room. Within four months, the room was overflowing. “People were hungry for God,” Pastor Joel Galang recalls. “We knew we needed a bigger space.”
They rented an 80-seat auditorium, then a120seat venue after rapid growth. But even that came with its challenges.
The church only had access for a few hours on Sundays, and with setup and pack down, there was limited time for the service and fellowship. At a time when people were battling loneliness and needed their church community most, it became clear that Journey Church needed a permanent home.
They had seen a property a year earlier but knew it was financially out of reach. In the background though, God was working a miracle. A year later, the owner welcomed them as tenants and, as a condition of the lease, agreed to make improvements—including installing a toilet, a kitchen, and other essential upgrades the building lacked.
Sometime later, another miracle! The owner offered Journey Church the first chance to purchase the property off-market! Exciting news, but where does a church go to get loan?
Most churches unfortunately go to banks first and when a bank says no, it can trigger a domino effect, with other lenders declining as well. Many banks view churches as ‘high-risk’ and will either decline or only offer based on restrictive loans terms.
Unlike traditional banks focused solely on profits, ACS Financial understands that churches are about people, purpose, and eternal impact. We saw Journey Church’s vision and knew we could help provide that financial bridge when the gap seemed too wide to cross.
On 13 December 2024, Journey Church officially purchased their permanent home—God is good!
Today Journey Church is thriving. They’ve repaid initial costs and are steadily paying down their loan—all while continuing to grow and serve their community. To find out more about ACS Financial and how we can serve you, click on the banner below.
Info: acsfinancial.com.au or call 1800 531 734
By Allyson Parker
Positive Duty to eliminate sexual harassment and sexbased discrimination in the workplace
Under the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cth), organisations and businesses now have a positive duty to eliminate, as far as possible, the following unlawful behaviour from occurring:
• discrimination on the grounds of sex in a work context
• sexual harassment in connection with work
• sex-based harassment in connection with work
• conduct creating a workplace environment that is hostile on the grounds of sex related acts of victimisation.
The Human Rights Commission refers to this conduct as ‘relevant unlawful conduct’.
The new positive duty was introduced in December 2022. It imposes a legal obligation on organisations and businesses to take proactive and meaningful action to prevent relevant unlawful conduct from occurring in the workplace or in connection to work. This important change requires organisations and businesses to shift their focus to actively preventing workplace sexual harassment, sex discrimination and other relevant unlawful conduct, rather than responding only after it occurs.1
Additional to the Positive Duty legislation, on 19 September 2024, the Federal Parliament passed the
Australian Human Rights Commission Amendment (Costs Protection) Bill 2023 (Cth) (Costs Protection Bill), amending the Australian Human Rights Commission Act 1986 (Cth) by inserting a modified ‘equal access’ cost protection for applicants in federal unlawful discrimination (including sexual harassment) court proceedings. Under this legislation, organisations would be responsible for all court costs if the applicant is successful on one or more grounds.
The Positive Duty in the Sex Discrimination Act and the Positive Duty Costs Protection Bill apply to all ACC Churches. Therefore church boards and leadership teams must understand their obligations to implement this legislation and train ACC people in the requirements of this legislation.
The Human Rights Commission has fact sheets, resources, case studies and training options that will assist churches to comply with this legislation. These can be accessed here:
The Queensland government has implemented further obligations on employers and persons conducting a business or undertaking (Duty Holders) to proactively address and prevent sexual harassment through the introduction of the Work, Health and Safety (Sexual Harassment) Amendment Regulation 2024 (Amendment Regulation), which came into effect on 1 September 2024. Compliance with the Amendment Regulation requires organisations with Queensland-based operations to take
immediate steps to action the following:
1. Sexual harassment risk assessment: Conduct a specific sexual harassment risk assessment, taking into account feedback from the workforce following consultation.
2. Determining control measures: Determine appropriate measures to address the risk of sexual and sex or gender-based harassment.
3. Written prevention plans: From 1 March 2025, there is a requirement to have a written prevention plan to manage risks from sexual harassment or sex or genderbased harassment at work. These prevention plans must outline the identified risks, the control measures implemented to address each risk, and the specific procedures for handling reports of sexual harassment at work.
4. Review: The plans and control measures must be reviewed promptly in the event of a report of sexual harassment or sex or gender-based harassment, upon request by a Health and Safety Representative or Committee, or at least every three years.
5. Prevention plan accessibility: The prevention plan should be accessible to workers and organisations should take reasonable steps to ensure they are aware of the plan.
Samples of risk assessment and prevention plans for Queensland churches can be found here:
https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_ file/0022/141952/prevention-plan-template.pdf
https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_ file/0019/141922/prevention-plan-with-example.pdf
The ACC Ministerial Code of Conduct, ACC Workers (paid and volunteer) Declaration and Code of Conduct and ACC (non-spiritual guidance) Volunteer Declaration and Code of Conduct are important documents that can assist churches to meet the behavioural expectations of this legislation. The most recent versions of these documents can be found in the ACC Safer Churches implementation kit under Guideline 5.
Allyson Parker is the national director of ACC Safer Churches.
1. https://humanrights.gov.au/our-work/sex-discrimination/ positive-duty-sex-discrimination-act
By Tim Smith
Fire Safety is not something we think about week to week. But it is important. In the unlikely event of a fire, is your church ready?
Fire safety is regulated by State and Federal law. There are legal obligations you need to comply with. But more importantly, we are called by God to look after the people in our church and community.
There are a few key elements to fire safety compliance:
• Inspecting and maintaining all fire safety features installed in your building (e.g. fire extinguishers, emergency and exit lighting)
• Ensuring the means of escape (including exits) are clear and easily navigated
• Having clearly displayed evacuation diagrams that are up to date and compliant
• Having fire evacuation plans
• Making sure combustible materials are not stored inappropriately
• Annual reporting to confirm compliance with state regulations
The specific terminology and requirements vary from state to state. See brief summaries opposite.
If you want support with fire safety compliance at your church, you can email me at tim@bastionsystems.com
Tim Smith works for Bastion Systems, helping churches manage safety & compliance. He also works at Alabaster Church in Melbourne.
New fire safety regulations require building owners to engage an accredited fire safety practitioner to maintain ‘fire safety measures’ in their building and inspect their fire exits & paths of travel to exits. Most churches should have a ‘Fire Safety Schedule’ that lists the fire safety measures in their building. Owners must submit an annual ‘Fire Safety Statement’ to their local council and Fire & Rescue NSW, confirming their fire safety compliance.
Buildings built (or majorly renovated) after July 1994 should have an Occupancy Permit that lists the ‘essential safety measures’ and the required maintenance standards and frequency for those measures. Buildings built before July 1994, still need any essential safety measures in their building maintained. Owners must complete an ‘Annual Essential Safety Measures Report’, confirming their fire safety compliance.
Building owners and occupiers are required to engage a qualified professional to inspect and maintain the ‘fire safety installations’ in their building. Evacuation planning and practice is required to be checked and updated each year. The means of escape also need to be inspected to ensure they are clear. Owners/occupiers must submit an annual ‘Occupier Statement’ to the fire commissioner, confirming their fire safety compliance.
Building owners are required to ensure that ‘safety measures’ in their building are maintained to the relevant building standards. Relevant Australian Standards specify maintenance standards and frequency for those safety measures. Annual compliance reporting is not required.
Most buildings should have a ‘Schedule of Essential Safety Provisions’ that lists their ‘essential safety provisions’ and sets out the required maintenance on those provisions. Owners must submit an ‘ESP Maintenance Verification’ notice at the start of each calendar year to their local Council, confirming their fire safety compliance.
Building occupiers are required to engage a qualified professional to inspect and maintain the ‘fire protection equipment’ in their building. Building occupiers are also required to ensure the accessibility of exits, visibility of exit signs & operability of emergency lighting. Some buildings are also required to have fire evacuation plans. Suitable records must be kept, but annual compliance reporting is not required.
Building occupiers are required to maintain ‘fire appliances’ in their building to a proper maintenance standard. Building passageways & exits must be kept clear & operational. Many churches will have a ‘Fire Safety Schedule’ that lists the fire safety systems in their building. Annual compliance reporting is not required.
Building owners are required to ensure that fire equipment in their building is maintained to the relevant standards. Owners must ensure there is no obstruction of fire exits or the paths of travel to those exits. In addition people who work in the building must be given instructions in relation to emergency planning. Annual compliance reporting is not required.
How do we create a welcoming environment, where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people feel they are supported and have a sense of belonging?
Some examples include:
• Displaying Indigenous artwork, posters, plaques, and signs acknowledging the traditional Land and custodians.
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags can be displayed or used by the church.
• Recognise significant First Nation Observance Days and events, such as NAIDOC and Reconciliation Week.
National Reconcilation Week (NRW) is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.
The dates for NRW remain the same ach year: 27 May – 3 June
Reconciliation must live in the hearts, minds and actions of all Australians as we move forward, creating a nation
The following ACC churches are seeking senior leadership.
Please contact the relevant ACC State Office if you are interested in finding out more information.
strengthened by respectful relationships between the wider Australian community, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
We all have a role to play whenn it comes to reconciilation, and in playing our part, we collectively build relationshis and communities that value Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, histories, cultures, and futures.
NEW SOUTH WALES: Connect Church > State Office: admin@nswacc.org.au
QUEENSLAND: Dysart Family Fellowship Church Liberty Church - Whitsundays Seasons Church - Charters Towers
> State Office: admin@qldacc.org.au
SOUTH AUSTRALIA: Harvest Christian Centre - Kimba Highway Church Bordertown
> State Office: admin@saacc.org.au
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Colossians 1:15-20
“He is before all things, and in him all things hold together”
Col 1:17
7 JUNE 2025 10 AM - 4 PM
The theme this year is based on Colossian 1:15-20 and is “The Preeminence of Christ.”
Join in unity with churches of all denominations Australia wide to worship Him who is preeminent and to give Him glory on the National Day of Prayer, and to pray together in unity.
We encourage you to organise a combined church event or a single church event in your neighbourhood.
This will be a day of adoration and praise, honouring Jesus Christ as our Creator and Lord, repentance, and renewal, taking communion together, and prayer for our national and Church leaders, for harvesters and disciple makers, and to declare together Jesus’ preeminence over our lives and over our nation.
REGISTER HERE: www.australiaprays.com.au
by Paul de Jong
“Our greatest challenge — even our worst prognosis — can end up becoming a life-giving platform for God to use.” – Paul de Jong What do you do when you run into what others would see as a dead end? When you’re told there is no hope? When everything feels impossible? In his new book, ButGod…, Paul de Jong shares his personal experience of what it looks like to be confronted with the unexpected – in this case, an out-of-the blue diagnosis of inoperable, terminal cancer. Yet it’s also a story 30-plus years in the making, as lessons of faith learned earlier in life suddenly took on a whole new level of relevance.
Journey along with Paul for a fresh encounter with the Provider who is longing to bring you love, strength and new purpose even through the toughest of times.
by Darlene Zschech
This immersive journey into worship and reflection pairs daily devotions from Darlene Zschech with her iconic songs, offering a powerful combination of scripture, music, and personal insights to deepen your faith.
Testament is a unique devotional experience that provides:
• Thirty devotions that expand on themes in Darlene’s songs such as Shout to the Lord, In Jesus’ Name, and Here I Am, Send Me
• Biblical insights into why God calls us to worship individually and communally
• Daily spiritual nourishment and application through stories and reflections from Darlene with QR codes that lead to a multi-sensory devotional time incorporating Darlene’s songs and additional content
With her years of experience and passion for worship, Darlene brings a rich perspective to every devotion in Testament as she connects the messages of her songs with the truths of scripture.
by Josh Hammann
Psator Josh Hamman is the chaplain for the professional basketball team, the Illawarra Hawks. Written as devoitons for elite athletes,
Elite Encouragements is designed to be a book for athletes to use across a typical season to spend some time with God, prior to a game.
Each Encouragement follows a flow of Read, Think, Pray & ‘The Bottom Line’. There is also a space to write you own reflections and each encouragement has suggestions of other times in a season that this reading could be used.
All proceeds of the sales of this book go towards the Ligthouse Community Kitchen, that assists vulnerable people in the community to 'dine with dignity'.
ACC EMAG #2 2025
Published by Australian Christian Churches. Editor: Daryl-Anne Le Roux editor@acc.org.au
Graphics & Media Assistant: Kieran Carlos
Proofreader: Elba Broadhead
Photography by:
p. 1 ACC25 / Kieran Carlos
p. 4 Instagram @accsnapshot
p. 11 Wayne & Lyn Alcorn / Hope Centre
p. 12 Wayne & Lyn Alcorn / Hope Centre
p. 15 Wayne Alcorn
p. 16 Marcus Oostenbroek
p. 19 Pexels /Mark Arron Smith
p. 21 Ben Naitoko /Kings Church
p. 22 Unsplash / Debby Hudson
p. 25 The Louvre, Paris
p. 26 Mark Varughese /Kingdomcity
p. 29 Unsplash / Bill Gullo
p. 30 Matt Heins / Faith Christian Church
p. 32 Unsplash / Hanna Morris
p. 34 Unsplash / p. 41 Pexels / Alexander Dummer
p. 42 Pexels / Yan Krukov
p. 46 Elite Encouragement
p. 51 Pexels / Andrea Piacquadio
p. 53 Pexels / Vladimir Shipitsin
ACC EMAG is published four times a year. Visit www.acc.org.au/emag to read more editions.
ACC National PO Box 8093 Norwest NSW 2153
No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. All rights reserved. ©2025 Australian Christian Churches.