Accemag 2 by ACCMag

#2 2016

EMAG

TALKING

quarterly publication for acc leaders

CHURCH CHURCH HEALTH

3 VITAL SIGNS of a Healthy Church MISSIONS

Challenging the CHARITY MINDSET

SAFER CHURCHES

THE IMPORTANCE OF

TAKE A

LOOK... 1

TRAINING LEADERSHIP

10 Hallmarks of a LEADER of LEADERS

SIDE

TAKE A LOOK REPRESENTING OVER 1,000 CHURCHES AND OVER 3,000 PASTORS, THIS EDITION LOOKS AT THE ACC MOVEMENT AND THE WAYS WE ARE INVOLVED IN CONNECTING PEOPLE TO JESUS.

TAKE ANOTHER LOOK...God has been good to us, declares Wayne Alcorn, and we can be grateful for some of the great reports across the ACC movement

TALKING CHURCH... The ACC National Executive provide some challenging questions on the spectrum of church life at a leadership summit in Melbourne.

3 VITAL SIGNS OF A HEALTHY CHURCH... John Hunt shares how the health of a leader affects the health of a local church.

CHALLENGING THE CHARITY MINDSET... Alun Davies looks at the charity approach to missions and how a shift to justice can change the world.

SAFER CHURCHES: THE IMPORTANCE OF TRAINING.. Over 3,500 ACC pastors and leaders in local churches have attended Safer Churches awareness workshops across the nation.

10 HALLMARKS OF A LEADER OF LEADERS... Test yourself. Brian Houston provides a list of qualities that indicate whether you are leader of leaders.

INSPIRATION... Pakenham Christian Church in Victoria is cheering on Matt Lewis who will represent Australia in Rio at the Paralympic Games.

ABCD OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT...by Paul Bartlett

UNLOADING YOUR TRUCK ...by Ralph Estherby

ACC INDIGENOUS ENGAGEMENT...by Will Dumas

NEW RELEASES

FAITH & FINANCES ...by Tim Macready

ACCKIDS + YOUTH ALIVE

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ON...

TAKE A

LOOK...

movement are seeing the result of answered prayer, and

TAKE ANOTHER LOOK...

I am grateful that we have a good testimony and a great

There are so many more good reports, across the spectrum of

OD HAS BEEN GOOD TO US. So many areas of our

story to tell. Take a quick look at some of the things we are grateful

the ACC and I am looking forward to our national gathering on

for.

the Gold Coast next year to present a comprehensive report. Registrations are open for our National Conference from 2–4 May

GROWTH: In 2013, we set a goal to grow by 7% per annum, and

2017, with the theme Take Another Look. What has pressed on my

since then we have been growing at over 8%, with more than 30,000

spirit is that we need to take another look, with fresh eyes, at some

people joining ACC congregations every year. Our movement now

of the things we may assume we know. I don’t want to be someone

represents over 315,000 constituents in over 1,000 local churches.

who says that they have seen it all before - I want my heart to

HEALTH: Growth goes hand in hand with health. The health of a

always feel that excitement and anticipation that God has so much

church is closely linked to the health of its leadership. John Hunt

more.

shares three vital signs for health on page 8.

God wants to show us things – from His perspective. Our National

GENEROSITY: The generous spirit of our churches continues to

Conference invites us to look again with wide-eyed wonder at the

increase, with the annual giving for overseas aid and missions to

church, mission, leadership, lost people and our place in society. What

ACCI projects was $9 million in the past year. Yet there is so much

can you see? Problems or possibilities? Opposition or opportunity?

more we can do. Alun Davies presents an interesting challenge to

Hassles or the Harvest? Take another look. This is our moment to

the charity mindset that can bring long-term solutions for the future.

present Jesus through the unchanging message of God’s extravagant

See page 10.

love to an ever changing culture.

TRAINING: We have always been committed to raising up and

In Psalm 116, the Psalmist asks the question: ‘What shall I return to

training leaders so it was great to hear that 857 students recently

the Lord for all His goodness to me?’ (v12). I believe that it is when we

graduated from our national Bible College, Alphacrucis – the

live grateful, not losing the simple joy, that keeps us grounded by a

biggest graduation yet (see the news report on page 16). In line

sense of gratitude and childlike wonder because God has been good

with implementing our Child Protection Policy, since 2015, over

to us.

3,500 pastors and leaders have attended Safer Churches awareness

workshops throughout the country (see article on page 14).

WAYNE ALCORN ACC NATIONAL PRESIDENT

WHAT SHALL I RETURN TO THE LORD FOR ALL HIS GOODNESS TO ME? 3

PSALM 116:12

W W W. A C C . O R G . A U / C O N F E R E N C E 4

TAKE A LOOK...

@ACCSNAPSHOT

CHECK OUT WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BEEN HAPPENING ACROSS THE ACC WITH THE RECENT INSTAGRAM POSTS

w NATIONAL

w GENERATIONS

w MISSIONS

w COMMUNITY

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w WORSHIP w UNI STUDENTS

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

TALKING

CHURCH the second quarterly acc national executive meeting was held in melbourne from 10–12 May, followed by the annual general meeting and a gathering of state and national leaders who spent the day talking and examining various aspects of church and ministry life.

National Executive quarterly meeting held in Melbourne, May 2016 (Photo: Alun Davies)

WAYNE ALCORN on Living Grateful

ALUN DAVIES on Missions

SEAN STANTON on Church Planting

God has been good to us so let us live grateful, in the midst of a society that has a sense of entitlement. ‘What can we return to the Lord for all His goodness? I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord. I will fulfil my vows to the Lord in the presence of all His people.’ (Psalm 116:12–14) Let’s outwork our salvation publicly by living with a grateful heart.

If we are going to change the world, there is a limit to how much money we can give. I want to fix the problem, not waste money. We need to get over the charity attitude towards missions.

Do you know why we plant churches? They fulfill the Great Commission;they reach all parts of society and break ground where existing churches don’t; and they raise up leaders out of necessity. Perhaps the real question is not so much, why do we plant churches, but why don’t you plant churches?’

Read more: see ‘Challenging the Charity Mindset’ on page 10

DONNA CROUCH on Community

JOHN McMARTIN on Pastoring

When it comes to community engagement, you are probably doing more than you think you are. Take a fresh look at how you are communicating what you are doing to help people; why you are doing it; and how are you measuring it?

‘Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers...’ (1 Peter 5:2) To find out whether you are a good overseer, ask yourself these questions : Can I let go? Can I trust people? Can I share glory? Am I learning to become bigger?

JOHN HUNT on Church Health ‘As goes the senior pastor, so goes the church!’ When it comes to building a healthy church, the big question to ask yourself is: Am I leading from a position of health? Read more: see ‘3 Vital Signs of a healthy Church’ on page 8

SHANE BAXTER on Men

JOEL A’BELL on Media

These are very challenging days with regards to gender definitions, and this can be confusing for some men. In the midst of this, the voice of the Church needs to be heard so we don’t lose who we are as men. In the second half of 2016 we will be starting the conversation across the states among the men.

JAMES MACPHERSON on Uni Students

As pastors, we are skilled at verbal communication, yet there are also so many online platforms and technology that we can be utilising, such as broadcast, social media or apps. We are only limited by your imagination. The challenge, however, is to keep the balance right.

There are 175 university campuses across Australia with 1.3 million students. Have you ever thought that to change the world is not about trying to change politics but to change culture? If you bring change to Uni students, you can change the world. Next issue: more on 2017 strategies for uni campuses

ACC MEN’S ROAD TRIP

ROAD TRIP ACC MEN’S

We are at a significant time in our nation where we need to see a spiritual awakening amongst Australian men, and help them engage with God, family and church communities. Topics to be covered will include Men’s Ministry; Local Church connection to men; Helping men find their place; Journeying with men to help them find their identity; Growing securely as Fathers, Brothers, Sons and Husbands; Releasing men to their God-given gifts and calling.

CHURCH HEALTH

VITAL SIGNS OF A HEALTHY CHURCH BY JOHN HUNT

A HEALTHY MARRIAGE, A HEALTHY SELF AWARENESS AND INTIMACY WITH JESUS ARE SIGNS OF A HEALTHY CHURCH 8

here is an old adage that rings true when it comes to church health: As goes the senior leader, thus goes the church Ultimately the health of a church is reflected in the health of the leader. So what is needed for a leader to stay healthy so they can deliver the healthy church? _________________________________ The big question to ask yourself is: Am I leading from a position of health? _________________________________ There are three areas of health that need to be nurtured in order for you to be healthy.

1. LEAD OUT OF A HEALTHY MARRIAGE Your greatest gospel message is not your best sermon, your biggest event, or even your greatest act of service to the community. Your clearest gospel message is your marriage - the way you talk about and treat your spouse. Out of the primacy of that relationship, your ministry flows. These has been an assumption that “seeking first the kingdom of God” can be translated into ‘marriage is important but not as important as building the church.’ Our oneness with God cannot be separated from our oneness with our spouse. Paul understood this when he wrote to the Ephesians, instructing husbands to love their wives and revealing “what I am talking about is Christ and the Church. (Ephesians 5:21-31) He was actually talking about the health of the church and one of the greatest thing you can do for your church is to love to your spouse.

2. LEAD OUT OF HEALTHY SELF AWARENESS It has been suggested that the biggest issue for church health is the EQ of the leader. About twenty years ago, Daniel Goleman rocked the leadership world with a new theory on EQ: that emotional intelligence is as—or even more important—to success than IQ is.

Goleman identified five main components for emotional intelligence, chief of which is self-awareness. Self awareness is about knowing our strengths and our weaknesses, and the extent of your shadow. It is understanding the difference between how I perceive my leadership versus how my leadership is perceived by others. Sometimes when you’re in a position of leadership, it’s difficult to see this clearly; who really tells you the truth about yourself? Self-aware leaders understand their own emotions and actions as well as the impact of their emotions and actions on others. That sounds simple, but the implications are staggering. For instance, in church life, a spirit of forgivenss can be also seen as weak and irresponsible; courageous can be viewed as brash and reckless; being analytical can be viewed as pettiness or pickiness. Everyone of us has strengths but we also cast shadows. Sometimes a desire to grow the church can be more about my need as a validation as a leader. How does your staff perceive you? What is the atmosphere of meeting if you are not there? We may be good leaders but to become a great leader requires us to become aware of ourselves and the shadow we cast.

3. LEAD OUT OF YOUR INTIMACY WITH JESUS Have you ever considered that someone can lead a church without Jesus? Read Matthew 7:21-23 with this in mind as Jesus explains how many will come and say things like “Lord, did we not feed the hungry, house the homeless or prophesy in your name?” yet He will say He did not know them. In other words, He did not have an intimate relationship with them. Leaders can do many things from their own natural gifting or good leadership principles. We can build an organisation on management principles; lead teams based 9

on leadership principles; and we can even preach truth based on communication techniques. _________________________________ The greatest gift I can bring to my church is the overflow of my intimacy with Jesus – not out of my gift or talent. _________________________________ It is important to realise that just because God knows everything about me doesn’t mean He has access to me. Intimacy with God is not just about spiritual habits of devotion, our quiet times or bible reading. It is about giving Him access to every area of our leadership, including the difficult conversations, decision-making and managing emotional triggers. Cultivating this kind of relationship with God can’t be hurried or rushed. Delighting in His presence takes time. Don’t allow one on one encounters with God to be crowded out by the demands of life. “The greatest thing we have to offer our people is not our education. It is not our good ideas. It isn’t even our gifts and abilities. It is the fruit of the time we have spent with the Saviour, The utterly unique and unparalleled thing that happens to us when we are simply in His Presence.” (Ben Patterson) If we want to build great churches that are strong and healthy, lead out of that oneness with your spouse, awareness of self and that close intimate relationship with God. John Hunt is the ACC Qld State President and National Executive member

recommended reading: Leadership and Self-Deception: Getting Out the Box by The Arbinger Institute

GLOBAL IMPACT

CHALLENGING THE

CHARITY MINDSET BY ALUN DAVIES

ALUN DAVIES SHARES ON GOING DEEPER THAN THE SURFACE-LEVEL ‘CHARITY MINDSET’ OF MISSIONS TO BECOMING PEOPLE OF JUSTICE WHO WILL CHANGE THE WORLD. 10

CCI Missions & Relief is able to have an incredible impact across the world due to the engagement, support, passion and commitment of the ACC movement. Last year over $9 million was raised to assist a multitude of people and projects, and every year the impact we collectively make continues to grow. Last year alone – our Field Workers were able to make the following impact: • 9,216 leaders trained (50.8% increase on 2010 annual figures), • 33,915 children assisted (166% increase on 2010), • Over 78,000 community development beneficiaries (225% increase on 2010), • 53 churches were planted, • 5,598 salvations, • 1,082 water baptisms, and • 1,237 baptisms in the Holy Spirit.

HOW CAN WE DO MORE?

While ACC churches are incredibly generous in their support of missions, there is a limit to the amount of finance we can give. Therefore, achieving more is not simply a matter of raising more funds. It is about critically evaluating our methods and approaches to missions and ensuring that we are strategically using our resources to tackle root causes and implement long-term solutions. The greatest obstacle to achieving this is the ‘charity mindset’ in missions. Under the charity model, we respond to immediate and observable needs that people have by providing food for the hungry and material goods for those facing desperate circumstances. For example, if we hear about a village with 100 starving children in a developing country, we respond by launching a campaign to raise money to start a feeding program. In other words, we focus on addressing the symptoms, but ignore the causes. My vision for missions is that we focus on solving the problem, not simply throwing money at the problem. This means we need to look beyond the immediate issue and ask ‘Why are people in need? Why are the children hungry?’ The best contribution we could make to the village of starving children would be to address the root causes of poverty. An example of a long-term solution would be to invest into resourcing and equipping the community to generate sufficient food or income to feed themselves and their own children – which in many cases can be achieved using the same money that would otherwise be spent on providing them with food.

Are we willing to change our habits and practices so we can focus on justice and address the root causes? Because when we operate out of a charity mindset, we fail to address the underlying causes of the issue and we run the risk of perpetuating the problem and reinforcing dependency, feelings of inferiority and powerlessness, all of which deepen someone’s experience of poverty.

A JUSTICE MINDSET

Proverbs 13:23 says, “An unplowed field produces food for the poor, but injustice sweeps it away.” The Bible tells us that injustice is at the root of poverty, and therefore resolving the root causes of issues such as poverty requires us to move beyond charity and pursue justice. If children need food, what we need to do is deal with the injustices that causes the children to be hungry. If children are in danger of exploitation, we need to deal with the injustices leading to their vulnerability and commodification. In order to establish a new mindset and approach to missions founded upon justice, let’s examine the biblical plan. “For I, the Lord, love justice...” (Isaiah 61:8) “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8) The word of God through Micah is that we should “do justice”, that is, practice justice, not just accept it as an idea. Biblical justice is not a concept we just adhere to or discuss, it is a behaviour we must adopt and practice. Justice must be at the core of all we do. It must be one of our foundational values reflected in our policies and practices.

HOW DO WE ‘DO JUSTICE’?

The gospel is good news that brings wholeness - a spiritual, relational, physical and emotional wholeness. In the same way, missions must be holistic - spiritual, emotional and social. Our responsibility in missions goes beyond just starting a church. Rather, we need to bring holistic change to communities. We need to “do justice” by addressing injustice. This usually includes FOUR KEY ACTIVITIES: 1. ADVOCACY – in order to identify and challenge structural causes of injustice and inequality. “Speak up for the people who have no voice, for the rights of all the down-andouters. Speak out for justice! Stand up for 11

the poor and destitute!” (Proverbs 31:8 MSG) 2. EDUCATION – to equip local people with the skills to break cycles of poverty, improve their access to safe employment, improve their decision making and critical thinking skills, improve their access to literate and post literate learning materials, and enhance their confidence to engage in decision making sites. 3. INTERVENTION – to transform inequalities between people and give communities or individuals opportunities to affect positive change in their lives and futures. This means talking with the people, to discover their self-determined hopes and goals. “Because I delivered the poor who cried, the fatherless and him who had none to help him. The blessing of him who was about to perish came upon me, and I caused the widow’s heart to sing for joy….I was eyes to the blind, and feet was I to the lame. I was a father to the poor and needy; the cause of him I did not know I searched out. And I broke the jaws or the big teeth of the unrighteous and plucked the prey out of his teeth.” (Job 29:12-13, 15-17 AMP) 4. PREVENTION – to reduce risks and vulnerabilities and enhance community resilience to shocks and crises in order to negate the necessity of resorting to negative coping mechanisms. (e.g. trafficking, irregular migration, unsafe employment, child labour, sex work etc). This means stepping in and working with governments. To truly change the world, we need to first change our charity mindset in missions and start taking a stand for justice. It is when we direct our resources and energy towards tackling the root causes of injustice that we can do more than we’ve ever done before. ‘...Do you know what I want? I want justice—oceans of it. I want fairness—rivers of it. That’s what I want. That’s all I want.’ (Amos 2:21 MSG) Alun Davies is the Director of ACC International and ACC Vice President.

recommended reading Doing Bad by Doing Good: Why Humanitarian Action Fails by Christopher J Coyne

EMPOWERING THE TAKEO VILLAGE

CCI Relief in partnership with the local church is working in the Takeo Village to see community members equipped and families strengthened to self-determine and direct their own development. Through the process of community mapping and asset-based development techniques facilitated by local church, the Takeo Village was trained to understand the power of participation, recognise the resources and skills at their disposal and set their own goals for development. They decided to build permaculture farms in order to establish food security for families in the community. This project was so successful that the local government and university students have come to see what is happening and learn about this kind of development program. Yet the village not only achieved this, but have been empowered to go on and address other structural injustices in their community. The church leader said, “They are so excited and proud of their achievements, and have now decided upon their next goal, which is to address the water shortage and reclaim communal land to build a dam.” Today they have sufficient water for the whole village, and have since seen the whole community prosper! “I am so happy that I received this training. I am overjoyed. So overjoyed,” said a community member. “I now have knowledge to give my children and grandchildren.” We are simply the community’s partners, here to encourage and empower them so that they become more confident, stable and stronger in the future. This is about giving power back to the community.

> CLICK HEREhttps://vimeo.com/136677350 TO WATCH THE TAKEO VILLAGE VIDEO < 12

PERSONAL INSURANCE

an kitchen gardens protect families from labour exploitation? In rural Cambodia, they certainly can. Through ACCI’s Community Transformation project, many families have been trained in how to grow healthy and flourishing kitchen gardens using permaculture methods. In almost all instances, this not only provides ample fruit and vegetables for the family, but excess produce can then be sold at local markets. There becomes a two-fold financial benefit for these gardening families - they save the cost of purchasing food, which can be significantly inflated, plus they gain an additional income stream from the sale of excess. As permaculture methods use minimal

PARTNERSHIP THAT HELPS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

water and provide year-round crops, families are protected from the financial ebbs and flows of rice harvesting. If crops failed during particularly dry seasons, or suffered from pests or other disease, many households were left without the meagre income they were heavily reliant on. This often led to household members - usually women - taking up factory jobs in the city. This factory work is typically exploitative with long working hours, very low pay, and often dangerous conditions with exposure to chemicals and various machinery. Through ACCI’s project, gardening families no longer have to rely on this sort of exploitative labour for income. It’s an incredibly exciting development for these rural communities, who have often spent

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SAFER CHURCHES

THE IMP O R TAN C E O F

TRAINING T

he ACC is committed to continue building safer churches for everyone, with the ACC Safer Churches strategy being implemented in all churches. A lot of hard work and professional input has gone into strengthening policies in relation to child protection and safety, and the ACC will continue to stay vigilant in this area, doing everything to ensure that churches are safe environments for children and youth, and all vulnerable people.

Every church has been strongly urged to make this a high priority, with a range of resources and material available to help local churches implement the necessary requirements of the policy. As part of the implementation of the ACC Child Protection Policy (adopted by the National Conference in April 2015), the National Executive developed Safer Churches Guidelines, as well as developing ACC specific Awareness Workshops and a Training Manual for all those who work with children and young people in local churches and ministries. The content of the Guidelines, Manual and Workshops are useful to all workers, both volunteer and paid staff. The Safer Churches Guidelines consist of 17 Guidelines to assist church leaders in abiding by legislation applicable in all states and territories of Australia. The Safer Churches National Helpline operates during business hours from 9am5pm (EST) Monday to Friday and is part of the reporting of Safer Churches concerns in accordance with ACC approved Safer Churches response to complaints processes. After each call, a report will be sent to the

relevant State Safer Churches Officer. If a child or any person is in immediate danger of being harmed, or where a crime has been committed/alleged, the matter should be directly taken to the local police. It is a requirement for all ACC credential and certificate holders to attend a Safer Churches Awareness Workshop every three years at a minimum in order for their credential/ certificate to be renewed.

3500+ TRAINED Over 3500 ACC pastors and leaders in local churches have attended Safer Churches Awareness Workshops across the country since 2015.

GUIDELINE 1. ACC SAFER CHURCHES AWARENESS WORKSHOPS It is recommended that all ACC People as defined in the [Child Protection] Policy, attend a Workshop every three years at a minimum. ACC Credential and Certificate holders shall attend a Workshop (or equivalent) every three years at a minimum in order for Credentials or Certificates to be renewed.

GUIDELINE 2. MOTIVE FOR MINISTRY Our primary motive for establishing and maintaining Safer Churches environments for Children or Young People and all vulnerable people, is God’s love for us. ACC People are committed to providing Children or Young People with positive and nurturing experiences and as such shall minister out of the love God has for everyone. We commit to church ministry events and programs built on solid Safer Churches foundations.

Awareness and training workshops commenced towards the end of 2015 and have been held in every state. So far, over 3500 ACC pastors and leaders have attended workshops, including 170 people through ACC International. This is in line with the ACC Child Protection Policy states that all ACC People are provided with training on a regular basis to understand and recommit to the Policy and the approved Child Protection Practice Guideline. Such training will also form part of any induction we provide to ACC People. ACC People includes ACC officers or employees, credential holders, local church staff and volunteers, as well as any congregation member of a local church who may have a direct role with children or young people. Safer Churches Workshops are aimed at leaders (paid and volunteer) to develop a greater awareness of the Policy, Guidelines, Codes of Conduct, and to increase understanding and commitment to the ACC Safer Churches strategy.

The ACC credential renewal forms require confirmation that pastors are up to date with their working for children checks and training in line with the Safer Churches strategy. If you would like to attend a training or awareness workshop, please contact your local ACC State Office.

ANDY KIRK, ACCKids National Director, has facilitated 17 Safer Churches Awareness Seminars in the first half of 2016.

serving Children at a local School and through a community Kids Club. As you look at the Safer Churches information personally before you outwork a heap of the practical elements, ask yourself this question: What is your motivation for ministry? When you consider that, be reminded of the incredible love that God has shown you and it is this that will form the basis of all you do. – Andy Kirk (ACCkids National Director)

The content is well and truly in my head and I am at a constant place of seeking God after each seminar to help me be a better leader and pastor as I continue to outwork these 17 Guidelines. It is Guideline 2 that brings us back to why we do what we do and asks the question about our motive for ministry. In 1999 I was 19 years old and had started a Kids Club in my small local church. That year I attended the Children’s Ministry Stream of Hillsong Conference, and the words of someone who prayed for me shaped my life and the next 16 years since: ‘Let your Children’s Ministry be your heart, not your start’. This was a profound moment and those words stuck because they also had a deeper meaning which for me is the MOTIVE OF MINISTRY. God is love it says in 1 John. It’s who He is and it’s expressed to us and through us. We are called into the heart of who God is, the essence of who He is and to demonstrate this through us by providing safe places and safer churches. God has shown me even more how much He loved me and how this love was to be outworked into the community by

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CRUCIS We are pleased to share with you an article from Alphacrucis College’s online publication, Crucis. The aim of Crucis is to make widely available the research of faculty and students for the benefit of the church and broader community. This article, titled “Neo-Orthodox Iconography: A Place for Tattoos in Pentecostal Worship”, is authored by Phillip Webb. Phillip is a graduate of AC’s Master of Arts (Christian Studies), and has recently completed his major research subject on this topic. It must be noted that his article is not a comprehensive response, nor a universal affirmation, of tattooing for Christians. It is rather a theological evaluation of the role tattoos can play in worship and spirituality. Phillip’s perspectives are also influenced by his years of experience as a pastor. This is research at the ‘cutting-edge’ of the intersection between Christianity and culture and we hope you find it informative and thought-provoking. CLICK HERE to read the article. Andrew Youd and Lily Arasaratnam-Smith Editors, Crucis

99% PASS RATE

HIGHEST NUMBER OF AC GRADUATES YET

ALPHACRUCIS COLLEGE recently celebrated its annual Graduation Ceremony with a record number of graduates this year. 856 students graduated across certificate, diploma, bachelors and masters degrees from ministry and theology, through to business and education. On the day, 157 graduates attended the ceremony at the historic Parramatta Town Hall, followed by a night of celebration at The Waterview in Bicentennial Park. Congratulations to the Class of 2016 on such a wonderful accomplishment!

CLASS OF 2016

856

graduates 17

10 HALLMARKS OF A LEADER OF LEADERS BY BRIAN HOUSTON

SOME LEADERS ATTRACT FOLLOWERS – OTHERS ATTRACT LEADERS. AND STILL OTHERS HAVE THE UNCANNY ABILITY TO TURN FOLLOWERS INTO LEADERS. SO, WHAT KIND OF LEADER ARE YOU? TEST YOURSELF WITH THIS LIST OF QUALITIES THAT I CONSIDER TO BE SIGNS THAT YOU ARE A ‘LEADER OF LEADERS.’

#1 LEADERS ARE INSPIRED BY YOUR LIFE If you are a leader of leaders, your apparent success may be inspiring; but even more inspiring is your life! Leaders are not only impressed by what you’ve built, but by your demeanour (your attitude, consistency and character) during the building. Your wisdom – when confronted with overwhelming and perplexing circumstances – along with your attitude toward others, your marriage and family, and the ongoing fruit of your life, will all challenge others that they too can live their lives well. You stretch and inspire other leaders through your big capacity.

They believe that If you can absorb the pressure, stay healthy and continue to grow, so too can they. #2 LEADERS ARE STRENGTHENED BY YOUR CONSISTENCY If you are a leader of leaders, it means that you have kept turning up, and proven resilience against impossible odds. You have never allowed the difficulty, opposition or pain (of leadership) to poison your spirit. You’ve truly modeled longevity and just as the apostle Paul put it in his letter to the Ephesians: ‘..having done all, you are still standing’. You inspire others that they too can hold fast in the

battle with an unquenchable spirit – a spirit that has weathered the storms, but remained un-weathered. #3 LEADERS ARE CURIOUS ABOUT THE ‘SECRET’ TO YOUR SUCCESS A leader of leaders sparks curiosity and people want to know…how do you do it? What makes you tick? Why do you do it that way? People will travel from afar to come and see it for themselves, or to get one opportunity to quiz you over a coffee. There’s just something a little different about you. Of course, if nothing you do stands out from the rest, then you will never spark curiosity. But an innovative leader has ideas, peculiarities, and methods that make others inquisitive. It is my observation that curious people attract curious people. As a kid, my siblings always called me “nosy” because I was always asking questions – I always wanted to know! That nosy-ness has helped frame the way I still live and lead today. My experience with other leaders is that a true leader of leaders will ask the most questions and are the most curious. #4 LEADERS ARE ENVIOUS OF YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS Perhaps we all define success differently, but your accomplishments are not something to be ashamed of. Only insecure or mean- spirited people are critical of genuine God-breathed success. Not all envy is evil. In fact, the Amplified bible translates ‘blessed’ as ‘happy, fortunate, and to be envied.’ This is not the type of envy or jealousy that eats people up on the inside; but a righteous envy that inspires others toward greater heights, and compels them to live their own lives of significance. #5 LEADERS ARE ASTOUNDED BY YOUR OPENNESS If you are a leader of leaders, then you are not ‘guarded’ but have a healthy mix of wisdom about when to speak and when to hold your peace. You avoid the gossip train and don’t try to prove your leadership by having to know everything about everyone. You have nothing to hide and your authenticity makes you easy to follow. You are a locked vault when it comes to confidentiality, but an open book when it comes to accountability and transparency. Other leaders can follow someone who is genuine, unguarded and at times can even laugh at themselves. Such leaders are not

‘precious’ and over sensitive. People do not have to tip toe around you, and you are more likely to put a room at ease than to stiffen everybody up. You often lead with your smile and are quick to show gratitude to those who serve. #6 LEADERS ARE WARMED BY YOUR HUMILITY As a leader of leaders you are not filled with your own importance and your feet are still firmly placed on the ground. You have a quiet confidence that emanates a well-rounded security; yet you are selfeffacing and aware of your own humanity. You have time for people. And though you have clearly matured, are more seasoned and perhaps your time is now in higher demand – to those who have known you a long time you are still the person they always knew. When people meet you in a cafe or on the street, they are impressed with just how down-to-earth you are. You are consistently and quietly generous and polite to waiters, or those who serve you in the gas station and supermarket. Other leaders will follow ‘real-deal, genuinely humble leaders’ quicker than a know-it-all who is filled with their own importance. Prominent people need to be wise about security, but bodyguards or an entourage is never as impressive as a highly successful leader who simply carries themself with genuine confidence, humility and authenticity. #7 LEADERS ARE SECURE ABOUT YOUR MOTIVES It is appealing to others that your commitment to them goes beyond building your own world, and that you are genuinely committed to enhancing their world. You encourage others to dream big dreams, and your interest is clearly not for the sake of ‘building empires’. While you may be fiercely committed to your own God-given vision, and clearly intentional in your own call, your commitment to other leaders is unselfish and unfettered by personal motive or agenda. Many may want to join your network, come under your umbrella or lean into your leadership and vision – but they can sense that your interest in them goes far beyond yourself. #8 LEADERS ARE COMMITTED TO YOUR PROTECTION If you are a leader of leaders, you will naturally attract loyalty. Though opposition may come, you will forever be 19

surrounded by people who have got your back. However, not everyone is going to like you – just like not everyone liked Jesus. Religious people were in fact the most outspoken against the Saviour. And while that still might be true for you and me, and even while the silence of some of your peers may roar loudly; there are plenty of leaders who will stand with you in the trenches, and protect your credibility and character. You never have to demand respect or honour, because you naturally attract it and you carry it with dignity and class. You also honour those above, beside, and below you – always recognising that honour is a two way street. You attract loyalty because you’ve always lifted the ceilings for others and are quick to recommend and promote their cause, as well as your own. #9 LEADERS ARE BETTER BECAUSE OF YOUR INFLUENCE Leaders of leaders leave an imprint on others and many will testify that they are better leaders simply because of you. Those who lean into you and your leadership have ‘caught’ your spirit and the fruit of that can be seen in and through their endeavours. The impact of your life on others has sparked health, momentum and growth; and while you don’t always need the credit, your imprint and influence is clear to see. #10 LEADERS ARE TESTIMONY TO YOUR LEGACY “Instead of Your fathers shall be Your sons, Whom YOU shall make princes in all the earth.” Psalms 45:16 (my emphasis). Of course, a true leader of leaders does not only attract other leaders, but they have a long-proven track record of raising up even more leaders. They become a spiritual ‘mum’ or ‘dad’ to others who may even surpass them in stature and measure – and their ‘ceilings’ becomes another generation’s floor. You see, the greatest testimony to a true LEADER OF LEADERS, is found in the honour of watching your leadership legacy lived out by the next generation of leaders of leaders. ©Brian Houston 2016 Published with permission. Brian Houston is the founder and senior pastor of Hillsong Church.

AUSTRALIAN CENSUS QUESTION ON RELIGION Every five years, the Australian Census gathers data that provides an informative snapshot of our nation. This year the national census is scheduled for Tuesday, 9 August 2016. A question on religion has always been included in the Australian Census; however there have been some changes to Question 19, that is important to the influence of Christianity in Australia. 2011 CENSUS DATA ON RELIGION The results of the two previous census data (2006 and 2011) have indicated a decline in religion in Australia. There was an increase of those stating ‘no religion’ from 18.7% to 22.3% over the five year period. Subsequently there was a decline in the total identifying with a Christian denomination from 64% to 61%. However, a slight increase was recorded among those who identified as Pentecostal, Salvation Army, Seventh Day Adventist and ‘other protestant. 2016 CENSUS QUESTION 19 Changes to Question 19 in the 2016 Census include the box for ‘No Religion’ to be placed at the top of the list. This is followed by a list of religious options; however there is no specific box for those who attend an ACC church. It is therefore requested that members write the word ‘PENTECOSTAL’ under the section for ‘Other’. The sample graphic (left) indicates how ACC members can fill out the form. This year it is expected many will fill out the form online.

LE P M

PAKENHAM CHURCH SUPPORTS PARALYMPIC ATHLETE Pakenham Christian Church in Victoria is cheering on the champion athlete in their congregation as Matt Lewis prepares to compete in the Paralympic Games in September.

Matt Lewis Photo: aaavic.org.au

Bruce Miskin and Pastor Carl Sepssy of Pakenham Christian Church

Matt, 28, has been a committed member of Pakenham Church for ten years and has been selected to represent Australia as a member of the wheelchair rugby team in Rio de Janeiro. Following a tragic accident in 2011, Matt sustained life-threatening injuries when a device exploded, leaving him in a medically-induced coma for over a month. He ended up losing both his legs and most of the fingers on both hands, and had more than a dozen operations to rebuild his body. Pastor Carl Sepssy recalls visiting him in Royal Melbourne Hospital: “I’ll never forget sticky notes of Bible verses stuck everywhere around his bed and on the apparatus around his bed keeping him alive.” Against the odds, Matt pulled through and had to adjust to a new way of life after spending eight months in hospital, including four months in a rehabilitation facility. It was after someone saw him in rehab and mentioned he’d be a good candidate for wheelchair rugby. Since he began to get involved in the sport, he has competed both nationally and internationally, and is now looking forward to going for gold at the

Paralympics. Carl has known Matt over 13 years, both before and after the accident. “Matt’s testimony is an inspiration to us at church, in fact, to the whole community in Pakenham,” he says. “Before the accident, Matt had been involved in our church as a youth leader, as well as a guitarist in the worship team,” he said. “After losing his fingers, sadly Matt was no longer able to play guitar, but he did channel his energy into keeping fit and rebuilding his life.” Besides his passion for his sport, Matt has been doing a lot of motivational speaking to church groups and in the hospitals. Matt was blessed when the Pakenham congregation, under the direction of Bruce Miskin, rallied together to help build him a relocatable house on his parent’s property. “The men from our ‘Fishers of Men’ fellowship at church got together at the beginning of 2012, and it took us two years to build a totally relocatable home,” explains Carl. “ It was mostly funded by church fundraising, along with Matt’s family and the generous donations from building supply firms in the community. Cardinia Christian Centre and their Foodbank and Crisis Centre from Pakenham also helped with fundraising, which helped Matt buy a modified car. “We were a small congregation of under 100 at that time but it’s been amazing with God’s help what a church our size can do,” said Carl. “To God be the glory that we have been able to support such a determined and inspirational young man.” matt lewis will be available for speaking engagements after the paralympic games, at the end of 2016. for enquiries, contact: csepssy@live.com.au

Work day on Matt’s house with men from Pakenham’s ‘Fishers of men’ fellowship

ABCD T

OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

he ACC Community Engagement national team gathered in Melbourne in May, with much to celebrate that is happening in communities engagement across our nation. We asked our leaders to continue to shout out what they are doing by sharing stories on our website – check out acccommunityengagement.org.au We’re on an exciting new path, training in a new way of thinking called Asset Based Community Development, which was the main focus of our meeting. The ABCD approach helps us to focus on what we actually have in our hands already, not on what we don’t have. I like it because it’s the ‘glass half full’ approach to community transformation. ABCD sets out four steps your church can take to launch community transformation: discover, connect, act, and celebrate. 1. DISCOVER: This is the first step. Here you identify the assets or resources your community – and your church – already have. It involves mapping the incredible assets and passions within the community, such as the people’s gifts, groups’ passions, industries, and events. It also includes identifying land, buildings, equipment, and

parks that could be useful. Look at assetmapping what your community has. Don’t look at what your community doesn’t have and try to fill in those gaps. 2. CONNECT: This second step involves linking these assets so that community transformation can begin to click into gear. Here’s what I’ve learnt about community transformation: I can’t save the world on my own! I’ve discovered that it will take at least three of us! A great African proverb says, “If you want to go faster, go alone. If you want to go further, go together.” Churches can really shine by building meaningful relationships between community assets, whether that’s individuals, groups, clubs, churches, government bodies, and so on. The ABCD approach is built around collaboration within the community. 3. ACT: The third step is to begin to implement action. I think the key to community transformation is to become opportunity obsessive. So look for opportunities to connect resources and ignite action. Begin to share and work together to make the most of what you have and empower people to act on what they care about. American writer Margaret

BY PAUL BARTLETT

Wheatley once stated, “There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about.” 4. CELEBRATE: This final step involves revelling in the past, present, and even future successes of a healthy and strong community. I want to challenge you to consider your own town or city. What makes it great? Whatever it is, find it and help your community celebrate it. I find that churches don’t speak much about the past, but community heritage is cool. It’s uplifting to a community to promote and celebrate something inspiring that happened years ago. And why not celebrate what you have now and what could be in the future? If you want to learn more about how to implement ABCD and gather with others doing the journey, come join us for our ACC National Community Conference, 6–7 September at The Woolshed. For more information check out: acccommunityengagement.org.au Look forward to having you with us! Paul Bartlett is the National Director of ACC Community Engagement.

UNLOADING YOUR TRUCK BY RALPH ESTHERBY

ONE OF THE CLEAREST SIGNS OF AN ‘OVERLOADED TRUCK’ IN MINISTRY IS THAT OF COMPASSION FATIGUE.

f you have had the opportunity to travel to Asia, India or many other parts of the world you would have experienced the fact they take a very different approach to local transport than we do in Australia. I have often been amazed at the sheer volume that individuals will attempt to squeeze onto their trucks before they are considered full…but this is an activity that is not limited to developing countries; it is a habit that is alive and well within our churches and ministries. I am not talking about actual ‘trucks’ but about the capacity that each one of us has to carry responsibility and burdens which accompany our ministries. Any Pastor, Chaplain or individual working in a role that deals with people ends up carrying a load within them. Different people have different capacities that is sure, but everyone has a limit that, if exceeded, will lead to problems and eventual breakdown. If you think of your ministry today – what does your ‘truck’ look like? When we started out it was clean, fresh and empty – but then we headed down the

road. Into our truck have been placed the burdens of ministry and the challenges we have faced along the way. We have seen and experienced things which have left us with scars and reminders of days we would rather forget. We have walked with people experiencing trauma; we have ministered at gravesides; we have stood beside individuals who have lost so much; we have dealt with growth issues; we have had successes and failures in ministry; we have been misunderstood or misinterpreted; we have had the burden of carrying vision and risk; we have had people leave us and hurt us along the way. I am not suggesting for a minute that ministry is all bad, quite the opposite. It is a privilege to serve and know the fulfilment which comes from responding to the call of God. However, the truth remains that we carry a weight within us that has to be managed or else we are headed for trouble down the road.

a well-documented phenomenon which occurs to individuals who are working in caring professions who, over time, find themselves experiencing a change to their ‘normal’ mode of operating. Individuals who once were passionate about helping people in need; who were motivated towards care and response; who were empowered by opportunities to make a difference, find themselves growing jaded, cold and unfeeling towards people in general. They lose motivation; they become distracted and even deliberately avoid opportunities to work in areas they used to celebrate. It is like they have reached their capacity for care and their truck is full. The longer they stay in this mode the harder it is to recover. Many pastors, chaplains and carers have left their ministry behind because of compassion fatigue, you can’t ignore it, and you can’t hide it, the only option is to deal with it.

COMPASSION FATIGUE One of the clearest signs of an ‘overloaded truck’ is that of Compassion Fatigue. It is

UNLOADING YOUR TRUCK… If you want to maintain a capacity to minister, then you have to become

IF WE DON’T UNLOAD, WE WILL HAVE NO CAPACITY TO TAKE ANYTHING ELSE ON. effective at unloading your truck. It is not enough just to have a restorative hobby – we are not talking about having ‘fun and refreshment’ – we need to ‘unload’ that which we are carrying. If we don’t unload we will have no capacity to take anything else on. We can do this ‘unloading’ in informal ways: • Conversations and prayer with our spouse • Casual debriefing with a friend or colleague • Team meetings and open forums But to be truly effective we need to employ a formal strategy of regular debriefing or supervision. This is where you contract to meet with a skilled individual who understands ministry and its challenges. You have the opportunity to report and reflect on what you have been experiencing in ministry. You unload and unpack those experiences, victories and

failures and you are released, refreshed and ready to move forward. It is a practice that is a professional requirement for all chaplains but I believe should become a common practice for pastors and for all who minister to people in any way. I personally vouch for the fact that if I did not have regular supervision I would not be able to continue in ministry, but because I do, I have found that my capacity for ministry and care has increased exponentially. So as you look at your ‘truck’ today – what do you see? Is it empty and ready to be challenged with room for a new load that today will bring – or is it overflowing with residual stuff that makes you approach your next appointment with discomfort? If you want to survive for the long haul, you need to have an effective method of unloading. Don’t wait until it is too late, put a plan in place today. Ralph Estherby is the National Director for Chaplaincy Australia and an Army Chaplain.

www.chaplaincyaustralia.com 24

For more information on Professional www.chaplaincyaustralia.com Supervision, part of their ongoing commitment to strengthening ministry with the ACC, contact Chaplaincy Australia.

ACC INDIGENOUS ENGAGEMENT WILL DUMAS, ACC Indigenous Initiative: I am very excited about the Engagement conference this year, which has grown into such a strategic event on our ACC calendar. This conference focuses on Jesus as the answer to Indigenous Australian people, and through the power and presentation of the Gospel, how we can collectively learn, listen and work together to see His name glorified in our nation. Our presentations include keynote deliveries and plenary sessions from a wide number of ministers in the field, as well as education and employment agencies and experts and practitioners from these sectors, and Christian organisations who are making a difference in our communities and nation. Our aims Include: • Enhanced participant understandings of the various ministries that can be accessed to assist in the ministry that will impact Indigenous children, families and communities • Through exposure to best practice exemplars, enhanced participant understandings of the ways in which progressive models may be developed and applied across Indigenous cultural contexts, and • Build cross agency and community partnerships involving Indigenous leaders and communities. WAYNE ALCORN, ACC National President: I am excited about participating in this year’s ACC National Indigenous Conference, ‘Engagement’. As a movement, we recognise the First Peoples of Australia, and are committed to partnering with our Indigenous Leaders in planting churches and raising leaders. The Indigenous Initiative plays a key role as we continue to engage in healthy dialogue with Indigenous leaders. I am passionate to see healing in our land as we seek to show tangible expressions through the love of God in our communities.

Don’t miss the opportunity to get to know our Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Leaders who will be joined by ACC National President Wayne Alcorn at the next ACC National Indigenous Conference on 8-10 September 2016.

NEW RELEASES READ

LISTEN

WATCH

MOMENTUM EP Planetshakers

UNASHAMED By Christine Caine

In her open-hearted style Christine Caine explores how God takes us from a shame-filled life to a shame-free one. Christine combines aspects of her own life story with the example of biblical characters who overcame the shame of failure to embrace God’s plan for them.

This collection of songs were written and recorded over many months in Australia, Philippines and USA. Planetshakers ‘Momentum’ EP features five songs: Momentum (Live) Nothing Is Impossible (Live) I Know Who You Are Face to Face Come Right Now Video – Momentum (Live) Available to download on iTunes or Googleplay.

90 MINUTES IN HEAVEN DVD Declared clinically dead after an horrific car accident in 1989, Don Piper experienced the glories of heaven for 90 minutes before dramatically returning to life on earth. Based on Piper’s amazing testimony, as told in his best-selling book, this moving film adaptation stars Hayden Christensen, Kate Bosworth, and Michael W Smith.

OF DIRT & GRACE (UN) QUALIFIED By Steven Furtick

Whowe think we are is not as important as who God says we are. Delving into the biblical example of Jacob, Steven Furtick reveals that God has a way of using our weaknesses for good. This book debuted on the Publisher’s Weekly, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post and USA Today bestseller lists.

Hillsong United The 13th live album from Hillsong United is a live recorded version of their acclaimed studio album, ‘Empires’ (2015), with songs performed and filmed around various locations in Israel and Lebanon in 2016. It includes the 12 songs of Empires plus a few bonus ones recorded live and on RELEASE DATE: location in Israel – from Jerusalem up to 15 JULY 2016 Tiberius around the Sea of Galilee. 26

GOD’S NOT DEAD DVD A Christian college freshman and his atheist philosophy professor debate the existence of God. To pass the course, Josh Wheaton must prove to the class that God is alive. Putting his relationships and his future on the line, will Josh be able to support his beliefs? Court is now in session! Starring Kevin Sorbo (Hercules), Shane Harper (High School Musical 2), Dean Cain (Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman) and David A. R. White (Jerusalem Countdown).

“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.” Psalm 24:1

FAITH & FINANCES

The idea of stewardship is found throughout the Bible as a key theme for Christian living. As believers, we are entrusted by God with time, talents, money and other resources. Our role is to be good and faithful servants with these resources. This regular column will explore the practical matters of being faithful stewards. How can we manage our finances rather than feeling controlled by them? What does financial freedom look like? How can we build our savings and be generous givers? Of course stewardship is about more than having a budget or giving generously. Stewardship is an attitude that permeates all of life – an attitude that we can prayerfully cultivate and nurture in our hearts through the work of the Holy Spirit. Our vision is to see people living with financial health and understanding. We hope that you will find the content thought-provoking and encouraging, as you seek to grow in financial stewardship and manage your money with wisdom.

BY TIM MACREADY

Tim Macready is the Chief Investment Officer of Christian Super

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ACCKIDS

KIDSHAPER NATIONAL TOUR Kidshaper National Tour was again hosted by ACCkids stopping at five capital cities during the first week of May. ACCkids continued it’s intentional Leadership development to 1050 leaders as they were trained around the topic of ‘Unpacking a Sunday’. This practical night focussed on the why behind the what in various aspects of Children’s Ministry from the bump in set up time to when we pack up. We recorded the night in Sydney during the week so we could share this great resource with the wider church as part of our training resources online at www. acckids.org.au

UNPACKING A SUNDAY Here are the areas we covered and a one liner to explain why we do what we do or the top tip in this area: BUMP IN – Use Check lists to assist and even a first time Leader can immediately jump in and both serve and feel valuable. SIGN IN – The key Pastoral Care moment with the parents so vital for the Children’s Pastor to be here each week as a sort of ‘concierge’. HANG TIME – This is the best time to establish atmosphere for the morning and also connect with the kids pastorally. TRANSITIONS – Help the children move from one moment to the next with clear transitions so their expectations and focus is managed. PRAISE & WORSHIP – Find the best way for you to deliver it and then do so with passion. TEACHING – Think of what a graduating 12 year old looks like at the end of your program and work backwards from there to create your teaching curriculum. EARLY CHILDHOOD – This is where we lay a solid foundation of faith so again focus on safe, clean and fun atmospheres and teach them as they can learn so much at this age CREATIVE MOMENTS – You have creative people on your team, they have home ground advantage but use and refine scripts to maximise these moments. GAMES – Helps build relationships and community, can reinforce the theme or message but remember to not detract from having ministry time. BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT – Have a good program. Don’t blame poor behaviour on poor preparation. PRE / POST MEETINGS – Pre service: 1- Reinforce Church culture, 2- Remind what day is about, 3- Pray. Post Service: Evaluate. You can access the full video here KIDSHAPER TOUR VIDEO: www.acckids.org.au/resources/ 28

YOUTH ALIVE

NATIONAL LEADERSHIP SUMMIT Youth Alive National Leadership Summit was held on the Gold Coast in May. This bi-annual event brought together over 300 youth pastors and leaders from across Australia for a week of leadership development, impartation and connection with other pastors and leaders. Our guests included Brad Cooper (NewSpring Church, USA), Joel Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Bell (Hillsong), Russell Evans (Planetshakers), plus Cameron and Renee Bennett (Youth Alive).Our guests all delivered outstanding sessions. The sessions encouraged and inspired leaders and will result in youth ministries being impacted throughout the country. We also had guests being inspired by Youth Alive from across the globe including, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Poland. Youth Alive continues to fulfil its mandate to REACH young people, RAISE leaders, RESOURCE the local church and REVIVE a generation.

UNITED WE STAND FRIDAY 19 AUGUST 2016 29

WHAT’S ON

DIARISE TO ATTEND THE KEY NATIONAL EVENTS IN 2016 AND RESOURCE YOUR WHOLE MINISTRY TEAM.

MIS SIONS

1-4 AUGUST 2016

www.accimissions.org.au

KIDS

16-18 AUGUST 2016

www.acckids.org.au

YOU TH

19 AUGUST 2016

www.youthalive.com.au

COMMUNITY

Dates: Monday, 1 August at 6.00 PM → Thursday, 4 August at 8.00 PM Venue: Novotel Phuket Resort, Phuket, THAILAND Program: Starting with the ACCI Missions Director’s Welcome Dinner at 6pm on Monday evening, the program includes Morning Conference sessions (9am 12.30pm) and Night Rallies (6pm - 8pm). Hear from inspiring field workers in the PanAsia region, as well as ACCI missionaries from Africa and Europe.

KIDSHAPER CONFERENCE 2016 Dates: Tuesday, 16 August at 7:00 PM → Thursday, 18 August at 9:30 PM Venue: Surf City Church, 3046 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise QLD Guest Speakers: Steve Adams (Saddleback Church, USA); James Macpherson (ACC National Executive member) and the Kidshaper National team. More information: www.acckids.org.au

UNITED WE STAND 2016 Date: Friday, 19 August 2016 Location: Australia wide Program: One night, one youth movement united across Australia in many locations. Youth Alive is hosting UNITED WE STAND on Friday 19 August. More information: www.youthalive.com.au

6-7 SEPT 2016

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT CONFERENCE 2016

www.acccommunityengagement.org.au

CHA PLAINC Y

PAN ASIA CONFERENCE 2016

7-8 SEPT 2016

Dates: Tuesday, 6 September at 9:00 AM → Wednesday, 7 September at 3:30 PM Venue: The Wollshed, 601 Princes Highway, Yallah (Wollongong) NSW Program: This practical two day conference, hosted by Paul Bartlett and the ACC Community Engagement team, with some of the nation’s best speakers on community engagement, helping you to see your community differently.

CHAPLAINCY AUSTRALIA CONFERENCE 2016 Dates: Thursday,7 September Thursday, 8 September Venue: The Wollshed, 601 Princes Highway, Yallah (Wollongong) NSW More information: www.chaplaincyaustralia.com

INDIGENOUS

8-10 SEPT 2016

www.ganggalah.com.au

NATIONAL INDIGENOUS CONFERENCE 2016 Dates: Thursday, 8 September at 5:00 PM → Saturday, 10 September at 9:00 PM Venue: Generations Church, 1-3 Moore Road, Kewarra Beach, Cairns QLD Guest Speakers: Wayne Alcorn (ACC National President); Titom Tamwoy, Gobi Srinivasan, WIlliam Dumas Program: The conference starts with a welcome BBQ at 5pm on Thursday, followed by Session 1 at 7pm. Full program available on the website.