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Dave Miers (City On A Hill, Brisbane) will be joining the KCC platform this Friday 25 June for Onward Youth conference. Joining a panel of varied and experienced speakers, Dave will be preaching from the book of Habbakuk and helping teens to discover the ‘God in the Shadows’ in suffering and when times are tough. Get to know him here!
We are pleased to welcome Dave Miers back to the KCC platform this Friday 25 June for Onward Youth conference. Joining a panel of varied and experienced speakers, Dave will be preaching from the book of Habbakuk and helping teens to discover the ‘God in the Shadows’ in suffering and when times are tough.
Dave has been a long-time supporter of KCC and has preached at previous Onward and KYCK conference for teens. He currently serves as the Lead Pastor of City on a Hill in Brisbane. He is married to Rowena, and they have three children: to Sam, Tom & Beth. Dave loves Jesus and he is passionate about using new mediums to communicate the timeless message of Christ crucified and risen. In his downtime, he enjoys soccer, sushi, sunsets, and daydreaming about being a YouTube Vlogger. You can get a taste of Dave’s teaching here:
1. Dave Miers preaching at KYCK 2010
In this KYCK talk from 2010, Dave preached from the book of Ecclesiastes and addressed ‘The Injustice of Life’.
2. Cool Christians?
In this Fervr blog post, Dave addresses the question of whether it is possible to be both ‘Christian’ and ‘cool’. Read it here. 3. Staying Strong For God Under Pressure In this Fervr blog post, Dave addresses our desire to ‘fit in’ and how the book of Daniel encourages us to remain loyal to God even under pressure. Read it here. 4. But First, Bible Headed by Dave, “But first, Bible.” is a commitment to prioritise time in God’s Word. The goal of this reading plan is to encourage you to read the Bible each day. It will take less than 10 minutes per day to stay on top of this plan and read the whole Bible in a year. Follow ‘But First, Bible’ on Instagram or Facebook. 5. We Are Fools For Christ’s Sake In this sermon from 1 Corinthians 4:1-21, Dave shares three ways of how the gospel of Jesus radically shapes leadership in the church. He claims that these attributes are necessary, not just for leaders, but to all who belong to Jesus. Onward Pricing & Registration 
In 2021, we're excited to bring you Onward Youth as an online livestream—and it will be bigger and better than last year! The one-night program will feature practical talks, God-glorifying worship with our friends from Whitefield, real-life personal testimonies, interviews and more. Tickets are $29 per livestream viewer and includes: 1. Full access to Onward Youth LIVE 2. Digital Onward Youth Program Booklet 3. Access to our DEEP DIVE resource which includes 3 weeks of youth group Bible talks, discussions questions, resources, interviews, Q&A with Onward speakers and more! Registration is opening soon, so stay tuned for more details. To receive the latest updates, join the mailing list on the Onward website.
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In this KCC Story, Year 12 student, Sarah shares why she believes KYCK is the ‘biggest highlight of each year’ and why other teenagers—Christian or not—should consider attending the conference in the future.
Sarah (bottom row, second from right) pictured with United Allawah Youth Group from Allawah Community Church.
1. What brings you back to KYCK each year?
I am a year 12 student from United Allawah Youth Group, and I have been going to KYCK since 2016. KYCK truly is one of the biggest highlights of each year! The unmatchable love and community that KYCK creates every year always keeps me coming back. There is always such a sense of homeliness and safety in being able to worship, praise and learn more about God with hundreds of other people my age, and feeling such a strong connection with everyone and God. The sermons are always spectacular and teach me about Christianity, the love of God, and how to keep my faith strong after KYCK is over. For me, it really is an experience like no other. It also helps to build stronger friendships in your youth group and make other Christian friends! 2. What is your favourite memory from KYCK? A memory I will always remember is from KYCK 2017, during the last worship session of the first night. I was having a mentally rough year, feeling distant from God and felt so exhausted from the day and just wanted to go to sleep. Then the song ‘O Praise the Name’ came on. I remember hearing every single person in that shed sing from the bottom of their heart and freely praise God. I remember it was overwhelmingly beautiful and strengthening, and then the fourth verse came: He shall return in robes of white. The blazing sun shall pierce the night. And I will rise among the saints, my gaze transfixed on Jesus’ face. I remember just bursting out crying, feeling all the pain and anxiety I had felt dissolve away and being replaced with the strength and love of God. I think that moment was a big turning point in my faith and helped me realise how much I really needed God in my life more than ever. 3. How has KYCK encouraged your faith? KYCK has encouraged my faith by teaching me about God and Christianity in a way that really resonates with me. The speakers are so relatable, encouraging and preach in a way that I really understand as a teenager. The KYCK sermons also teach me how I can keep my faith strong once we are back home and how we can introduce God and Christianity to others. It is also a great reminder of why I am a Christian in the first place and why it is all worth it in the end. 4. What did you learn from KYCK21? One thing I learned at KYCK 2021 was what it truly means when Jesus can take away our sins and burdens, and how important rest is in our relationship with God. One thing that really hit me was Danny Mitchell’s talk on Matthew 11:28-30 and how Jesus’ yoke is easy, and his burden is light. It was so reassuring! 5. Why would you encourage others to come to KYCK? I would encourage other people to go to KYCK because it is such an incredible experience—one like no other. If you aren't a Christian but are open to the idea of God and Christianity, KYCK is perfect for you. It is a great experience to learn what the Christian faith is all about, is so encouraging for your faith and beneficial in such a comforting and inclusive environment. Even as a Christian, KYCK benefits me greatly in positively shaping my faith and helping me to understand topics and things in the bible that I may have doubted or questioned previously. Join us at KYCK #4 this September! 
“The talks were really encouraging, revealing more of God’s character, power and love than I was expecting to learn. It was so helpful looking at Joshua. I had started reading scattered bits last year and hadn’t thought to relate it to our everyday lives as modern-day Christians.” - KYCK 21 Delegate
Did you miss out on KYCK this April? You can still register for KYCK #4 this September school holidays. If you need assistance or have questions with regards to tickets or accommodation, please reach out to our team at kyck@kcc.org.au or 1300 737 140.
Register at: https://www.kyck.org.au/register/ Save the dates for KYCK 22! We look forward to having you join us at KYCK 22 as we explore the topic of JOY! Registration tickets and accommodation will go on sale Tuesday 9 November at 9.30am (AEDT) so make sure to tell all your friends and mark this date in your calendar! KYCK 2022 Promo from kcc on Vimeo.
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‘Motherhood Is Ministry and Ministry Is Like Motherhood’: An Encouragement to Ministry Mums9/5/2021 In the last of our Mother’s Day series, biblical counsellor and ministry wife, Jo Kim, shares how God’s word has transformed her perspective and goals for motherhood, and how the experience of nursing newborns has ‘sleep trained’ their family in love, perseverance and generosity for church service.  1. What does being a Christian mother mean for you? Being a Christian mother means I am enjoying Christ’s presence and discipleship, and striving to emulate this for my children--whether in the dark valleys of sleep deprivation, mountain top celebrations of my children's personal bests, or in all the regular routines of everyday life. 2. What do you believe to be the ultimate purpose of motherhood? To love my children and to pray that they will know and glorify God. Also, to enjoy God in motherhood. 3. How has the Gospel shaped the way you parent your children? Through a Gospel worldview, I now have different methods and goals, with an eternal perspective in mind. I’ll be quick to confess, there is an internal battle to implement my Gospel worldview through motherhood, as my sin will at times agree with the world’s offers of many ‘good’ options as the ultimate answer for children. My anxiety reveals my heart has accepted temporary preferences as my source of identity, peace, and security. So, in motherhood I thankfully appreciate my regular times of sweet ‘R&R’—Repentance and Rest (in Christ). I remind myself that motherhood is not defined by a sum of programs but by pointing my children to the Perfect Person. Nor is Christian parenting a weekly fixed formula, but about nurturing faith by walking together in Christ through our ordained days (2 Cor.5:7). The Gospel also shows that sanctification doesn’t just happen between me and Christ. I am continually sanctified with enriching fellowship in His body, the Church. It’s important for my children to see that consistent corporate worship is good fruit and essential in the growth of a Christian. My husband and I are very blessed to be part of a church community who faithfully expound the Bible and are living examples of their faith in Christ. We sincerely appreciate their teaching to uphold Christ in our children’s lives; with their loving hearts playing building blocks, exploring the outdoors, or playing Uno for the 11th time in a row. 4. What has God been teaching you in motherhood? I’m a mother of four children, from preschool to primary ages. In general, God has taught me to embrace and enjoy who they are now, in all their individual uniqueness. However, God has also taught me what ‘leadership’ in motherhood looks like—to be a step ahead of my children and to individually support their goals with increments that are realistic and achievable. These goals are not just age-related developmental goals, but goals focused on character and soul care. With careful instruction, I want to stop and camp on big, existential questions that may be motivated by deep-rooted fears (mostly asked at school pick up or bedtimes). God has also taught me to inspire my children to strive for excellence in opportunities the Lord has allowed, and to prepare them to engage the task with joy and thankfulness to the One who has given us these great experiences. In motherhood, I have also been faced with unexpected and challenging circumstances as two of my children require intensive learning support. My husband and I anticipate such care will be lifelong and constantly fluctuating with the ebb and flow of their developmental goals but so far, they are doing well! God has taught me through challenging trials that the promises of the Bible are precise and tangible. Specifically, I have learned that Christ’s loving purpose and presence brings a sense of peace that the world cannot give (John 14:27). I’ve also learned to appreciate the persevering faithfulness of Puritans. I love their 1883 hymn, “I Need Thee Every Hour”, which has been my anthem for years! Finally, God has humbled me to teach scripture with a creative approach, so that my children can clearly comprehend we are sinners in need of a Saviour. Motherhood has led me to pay closer attention to how Christ engaged with sinners through different senses and scenarios—with bread, sheep, birds, flowers, fruit, sand, baking, pottery, and emotions. Utilising such resources with scriptural lessons make learning the Gospel and who God is quite an impactful and engaging lesson, particularly if there are days when my children are needing alternative approaches to listening, reading and written comprehension of the Bible. 5. You are also a pastor's wife! How have you seen God use your children to further you and your husband's ministry? In ministry, I’m often reminded of this great example from the inspired words of a single, male travelling missionary, the Apostle Paul. He writes in 1 Thessalonians 2:7-8: ‘But we were gentle among you, like a nursing mother taking care of her own children. So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.’ It is incredible that Paul notes the gentle, tender-hearted, sacrificial, committed, interaction between mother and her infant child, and has associated this interaction as his prime example of sharing his life and the Gospel message to the beloved Thessalonian church. The experience of nursing newborns has ‘sleep trained’ my husband and I to express similar tender affections for the church and to serve generously at any moment—especially at 2am. Paul also writes in Galatians 4:19-20: ‘My dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you, how I wish I could be with you now and change my tone, because I am perplexed about you!’ There have been many times where my kids have come home with new ideas, and I am ‘perplexed’ with how they came to such a conclusion as they have been taught otherwise. I find myself carefully explaining the foundation of the gospel and promises from God’s Word again and pray that it will be used to lead them into maturity in Christ. Finally, my children are each so different and I love to connect with them in their own uniqueness. They have helped me to be adaptable to connect with a wide variety of characters and personalities of Christians in the church. Motherhood is ministry and ministry is like motherhood. It’s a biblical blend of experiences. 6. What word of encouragement would you give to other ministry wives who are juggling the demands of family and ministry? With endless responsibilities, how do we meet with Christ and his great love for our weary and burdened heart? Jesus knows the demands we have on our shoulders and says in Matthew 11:28-30: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” The gospel accounts have recorded for us, the numerous times Jesus Himself retreats from the crowds, to meet with our Father in prayer (Luke 11:1, 5:16). In all four gospel accounts, we read the most excruciating ‘private’ prayer before the cross--an insight into why he was willing to go through devastating suffering: “not my will but yours be done.” If you can rejig your schedule to alleviate some pressures and to encourage a quiet place with Christ, please do share with your husband, church leadership or trusted Christians who will support you and your family’s godliness. There’s no clear-cut prescription as family life is ever evolving, and all congregations have their own church culture, dynamics, and nuances with differing levels of spiritual maturity. However, it is crucial to have moments to rest in Christ and renew our minds with His living and active Word. Finally, this passage will speak encouragement for those in a demanding season but points to purpose in Christ. 2 Corinthians 4:7-9 says: ‘But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies’. Enjoyed this read? Read the rest of the series!
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In April, the KCC auditorium came to life again with powerful Bible preaching, uplifting worship music and the enthusiasm of youth in the thousands! Across three weekends, over 3,400 teenagers and youth leaders from 146 churches attended KYCK, a conference for high schoolers.
After a year of event closures due to COVID-19, it was refreshing to see the KCC auditorium come to life again with powerful Bible preaching, uplifting worship music and the enthusiasm of youth in the thousands!
Across three weekends, over 3,400 teenagers and youth leaders from 146 churches attended KYCK, a conference for high schoolers. Started in 1993, KYCK runs during the school holidays to challenge and inspire the next generation to place their trust in Jesus and to live for Him alone. For many, KYCK is a cherished “safe” space that enables them to deepen their faith in the company of other like-minded teenagers. “Today was my last day of my last KYCK and it felt so special. Thank you for creating such an incredible, safe and God-filled environment that people from all over the place can feel safe to explore Christianity with other youths. Thank you for helping me all these years in growing and developing my faith.” - KYCK Graduate
For the first time in KCC history, KYCK was hosted as a hybrid event. Delegates could choose between an in-person conference experience in the Blue Mountains, or KYCK Online; a high-quality livestream which gave delegates a ‘front row’ seat from the comfort of living rooms and church halls.
This year, over 300 delegates from 18 churches joined KYCK Online, with many appreciating a more intimate, virtual experience. “The weekend away was so amazing and even though I watched it livestreamed, the atmosphere was still inspiring! The talks were so good and encouraging and I can’t wait till next year.” - KYCK 21 Delegate “I just watched the livestream with my youth group, and absolutely loved it! It was my first time “attending” KYCK, and it was one of the best experiences!” - KYCK 21 Delegate “Congrats to Ed and Katie who did a great job of engaging the live-stream participants. There had been a possibility for me to attend KYCK this year, but the live-streaming made it a certainty.” - Debbie 
KYCK MC’s Ed and Katie
This year we had 139 youth groups join in from New South Wales, and 7 from the Australian Capital Territory. The largest group of 100 teenagers came from Christ Church Gladesville in Sydney’s inner west, followed by Cornerstone Presbyterian Church, St Michael’s Anglican Wollongong, Maitland Evangelical Church and Nowra Baptist.
At KYCK 21, guest speakers Brett Hookham (Menai Baptist), Pete Tong (Barker College), and Danny Mitchell (Ann Street Presbyterian, Brisbane) opened the book of Joshua, exhorting youth to respond to the gospel of Jesus with strength and courage. Although we live in uncertain times, our speakers empowered youth to remain Strong and Courageous as God is still the ruler over all the earth.
From the feedback received so far, the music and the Bible talks were the highlight for our youth. Many believed that that the message served through word and song was both “encouraging” and “challenging” and relevant for these uncertain times:
“The talks were really encouraging, revealing more of God’s character, power and love than I was expecting to learn. It was so helpful looking at Joshua. I had started reading scattered bits last year and hadn’t thought to relate it to our everyday lives as modern-day Christians.” - KYCK 21 Delegate “The talks were great and challenging not just for the youths but for the leaders too. These talks are probably one of my favourite ones just in terms of the way the speakers unpacked the passage, and really used the truths to both encourage and rebuke us!” - Cici "My favourite thing was the singing. At KYCK, singing is about praising God, having fun and loving Him." - KYCK 21 Delegate
We praise God that as a response to his word being preached, 80 youth made the exciting decision to put their trust in Jesus for the first-time and over 350 youth recommitted their lives to Him.
“This KYCK is my first one, even though virtually. A couple of years ago I completely lost my faith and never told anyone, and I never decided to properly recommit either. Brett’s talk really pushed me, and I decided to recommit to Jesus. Looking at Joshua really encouraged me and my faith.” - KYCK 21 Delegate “I recommitted to Jesus last night and it felt amazing. I’m even asking a couple friends to rebuke me so I can really know how to shine for God and grip onto him. Thank you for another amazing experience!” - KYCK 21 Delegate “KYCK 2021 helped me recommit to being a Christian. I started falling away from God through COVID. Going into high school, so many of my friends stopped being Christian as it wasn’t classified as ‘cool’ but seeing all the other people my age at KYCK really helped me realise that I want to put all my trust and faith in God.” - Mel
While KYCK is designed to serve high schoolers, it also exists to serve leaders who get a break from running youth that weekend. In addition, they can use the weekend to deepen their relationship with youth through bonding, learning and sharing together.
“Many of the girls in my discussion group have been challenged to seriously think through their priorities in life from the talks. Would love prayer for God to keep reminding them that He is with them always!”
Do you have a story of how God worked in you or your youth at KYCK 21? Let us know using the online feedback form or by emailing kyck@kcc.org.au. We would love to hear from you!
5 ways to relive KYCK!
Do you have the post KYCK blues? Here are 5 ways to relive the experience!
Join us at KYCK 22!
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 | Mother, Not Maker: On Relinquishing Control this Mother’s Day "As a first-time mother, I hope to model a power perfected in weakness, and a strength empowered by faith." In this reflection, Writer, Heidi Tai, shares what God has been teaching her in both the joys and challenges of pregnancy. Read it here. |
 | Single-Not-Single-Mum: Parenting in Community “Gods’ community gives me strength when I am weak, so I can be what my children need.” In this reflection, Author and Blogger, Ruth Baker shares what God has been teaching her in both the joys and challenges of parenting two boys as a single mother in Christian community. Read it here. |
 | ‘Motherhood Is Ministry and Ministry Is Like Motherhood’: An Encouragement to Ministry Mums "The experience of nursing newborns has ‘sleep trained’ my husband and I to express similar tender affections for the church and to serve generously at any moment." Jo shares how God’s word has transformed her perspective and goals for motherhood and offers a word of encouragement to other mums in ministry. Read it here. |
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Onward Youth is returning this June, to help delegates put their hope in the ‘God in the Shadows’—even when things are tough. Included with each ticket is free access to DEEP DIVE, a complementary resource designed to help youth groups gain the skills and means to grow their love for God and to relate to the world with a gospel mindset.
Onward Youth is returning this Friday 25 June, to help delegates discover the ‘God in the Shadows’. This year, we have invited a varied and experienced panel of speakers to tackle the topic of suffering and hope. By opening the Scriptures, Onward Youth aims to equip the next generation to see God and put their hope in Him, even when things are tough.
Hosted by Katoomba Christian Convention, Onward Youth is a conference that engages with culture and equips Christians to practically live out their faith in this world. For many people, 2020 was a year of wrestling and struggling in isolation, which is why we’ve chosen to address hope in suffering at Onward Youth 21.
Where is God when I’m hurting?
How do I trust Him when things are tough?
How do I trust Him when things are tough?
Does He even care?
If you have asked these questions and want to learn the answer, join us at Onward Youth 21. Visit our website for more information or to sign up for updates on speakers, program, and event access: https://www.onwardevent.com/
Hosted by Katoomba Christian Convention, Onward Youth is a conference that engages with culture and equips Christians to practically live out their faith in this world. For many people, 2020 was a year of wrestling and struggling in isolation, which is why we’ve chosen to address hope in suffering at Onward Youth 21.
Where is God when I’m hurting?
How do I trust Him when things are tough?
How do I trust Him when things are tough?
Does He even care?
If you have asked these questions and want to learn the answer, join us at Onward Youth 21. Visit our website for more information or to sign up for updates on speakers, program, and event access: https://www.onwardevent.com/
Introducing Onward Deep Dive
The Onward team acknowledges that suffering is a huge topic and can’t be addressed in one conference. For this reason, we’re introducing Onward DEEP DIVE, a complementary resource that will teach youth how to faithfully posture themselves in a broken world.
Included with each Onward 21 ticket is free access to DEEP DIVE which aims to help our youth:
1) EXPLORE MORE with 3 Youth Group talks from our speakers.
2) THINK DEEPER with 1 Min Take: 1-minute answers to key questions from our speakers.
3) FEED THEMSELVES with a Bible reading and reflection/discussion questions.
4) READ WIDER with snippets from relevant books.
5) ENGAGE FURTHER with curated links to other books, articles and videos from other sources.
DEEP DIVE can be introduced into Youth Group programs or used for personal reflection before or after the conference. Either way, it is our hope that through Onward Youth 21 and DEEP DIVE, delegates will gain the skills and means to grow their love for God and to relate to the world with a gospel mindset. For more information, visit our website: https://www.onwardevent.com/
Onward KYCK Instagram Giveaway!
Onward has joined forces with KYCK conference to host a GIVEAWAY! By following KYCK and Onward on Instagram, you will go into the draw to WIN stylish and much-wanted KYCK merchandise.
First prize includes a KYCK 21 hoodie and t-shirt and second prize includes a ‘Past Present Future’ KYCK 20 t-shirt. This competition is open until midnight (AEST), Wednesday 5 May. To enter, visit the Onward Instagram page and follow the instructions on the post.
Stay up to date with Onward Youth
Ahead of Mother’s Day (Sunday 9 May), we'll be sharing stories of every day Christian mothers, and how knowing God and the gospel has shaped their perspectives on children and parenting. In this reflection, Author and Blogger, Ruth Baker shares what God has been teaching her in both the joys and challenges of parenting two boys as a single mother in Christian community.
Author: Ruth Baker
There was just too much life to cope with. Normally, I would ask my friends to come over after church and hang out just for fun. But this particular day, it was a plea. I had reached the end of my tether. The mental load was too high. The world was too noisy. The single parenting was too intense. How long had it been like this? Long enough for me to reach the point where I finally had to reach out. “I have nothing for morning tea”, I said to my friends “and I might cry.”
They appeared at the door with their four kids, morning tea, a litre of milk, bread, a roast chicken and salad. All the things a mum at her wits end could need. I did cry.
This is single parenting. More importantly, this is Christian parenting. We parent in community.
It’s not a nice feeling sometimes, having to admit you can’t do it. Feeling like you’re failing because you need other people to prop you up. These children are my responsibility. I should be able to do this. Most of the time we can of course. We all can. It’s just sometimes – we can’t. Sometimes, I need someone to take care of me. Sometimes, I need to matter to someone. Sometimes, I need help with the load, just for a little while.
And that’s okay. God placed us in community for this very purpose. We are to carry each other’s burdens. The very nature of having burdens is the means by which we are drawn into community. God did not make us to bear our burdens alone. We grow as part of the body. So just as we bring our sins and cares and anxieties to God, we should expect to bring our burdens to our community.
The parenting itself is not the burden though. The burden is the diminished capacity to cope, the lack of time for self-care, the number of things to think about all the time, the herculean effort it takes to carry the mental load. The parenting? The parenting is not the burden. The parenting is a God-given treasure. God gave those children to me. He also gave me their smiles, their trust, their shoes all over the floor, their hugs, their silly jokes, their muddy clothes, their love, their smushy kisses. No. The parenting is not the burden.
Most importantly, God gave me to them. The combination of all my life experiences and trials, triumphs, terrible mistakes and great moments have shaped my character in just such a way that makes me the person God wants to raise my children. He has given me the life that was needed to shape my character and convictions to form the person that my children need. I am the parent God made and through whom my children can grow and be prepared for the world, under God and in faith.
If God gave me to my children, the parenting in community is not for my sake alone. Gods’ community gives me strength when I am weak, so I can be what my children need. And my children see me living in community and growing in it. It is the community where they too are planted, to grow as children of God. I cherish this community as God’s plan and gift for me, and my children. And even in my weakness, I thank God for giving me to my children, praying that I can be the mum that they need.
They appeared at the door with their four kids, morning tea, a litre of milk, bread, a roast chicken and salad. All the things a mum at her wits end could need. I did cry.
This is single parenting. More importantly, this is Christian parenting. We parent in community.
It’s not a nice feeling sometimes, having to admit you can’t do it. Feeling like you’re failing because you need other people to prop you up. These children are my responsibility. I should be able to do this. Most of the time we can of course. We all can. It’s just sometimes – we can’t. Sometimes, I need someone to take care of me. Sometimes, I need to matter to someone. Sometimes, I need help with the load, just for a little while.
And that’s okay. God placed us in community for this very purpose. We are to carry each other’s burdens. The very nature of having burdens is the means by which we are drawn into community. God did not make us to bear our burdens alone. We grow as part of the body. So just as we bring our sins and cares and anxieties to God, we should expect to bring our burdens to our community.
The parenting itself is not the burden though. The burden is the diminished capacity to cope, the lack of time for self-care, the number of things to think about all the time, the herculean effort it takes to carry the mental load. The parenting? The parenting is not the burden. The parenting is a God-given treasure. God gave those children to me. He also gave me their smiles, their trust, their shoes all over the floor, their hugs, their silly jokes, their muddy clothes, their love, their smushy kisses. No. The parenting is not the burden.
Most importantly, God gave me to them. The combination of all my life experiences and trials, triumphs, terrible mistakes and great moments have shaped my character in just such a way that makes me the person God wants to raise my children. He has given me the life that was needed to shape my character and convictions to form the person that my children need. I am the parent God made and through whom my children can grow and be prepared for the world, under God and in faith.
If God gave me to my children, the parenting in community is not for my sake alone. Gods’ community gives me strength when I am weak, so I can be what my children need. And my children see me living in community and growing in it. It is the community where they too are planted, to grow as children of God. I cherish this community as God’s plan and gift for me, and my children. And even in my weakness, I thank God for giving me to my children, praying that I can be the mum that they need.
About Ruth
Ruth is a single mum of two beautiful boys. She blogs at 'Meet Me Where I Am', and writes regularly for The Australian Church Record, The Gospel Coalition Australia, Southern Cross and GothereFor.com. Ruth is a graduand of Sydney Missionary and Bible College and author of Are We There Yet? Purchase her book at Wandering Bookseller, Koorong or Reformers Bookshop.
Enjoyed this read? Read the rest of the series!
| | Mother, Not Maker: On Relinquishing Control this Mother’s Day "As a first-time mother, I hope to model a power perfected in weakness, and a strength empowered by faith." In this reflection, Writer, Heidi Tai, shares what God has been teaching her in both the joys and challenges of pregnancy. Read it here. |
 | Parenting and Disability: On Recognising My Limits this Mother’s Day "Human frailty or weakness or limitation is no impairment to God’s ability to work in and through us." In this reflection, Louise Gosbell shares how God has been at work in her family living with disabilities and chronic health issues. Read it here. |
 | ‘Motherhood Is Ministry and Ministry Is Like Motherhood’: An Encouragement to Ministry Mums "The experience of nursing newborns has ‘sleep trained’ my husband and I to express similar tender affections for the church and to serve generously at any moment." Jo shares how God’s word has transformed her perspective and goals for motherhood and offers a word of encouragement to other mums in ministry. Read it here. |
We recently had the pleasure of speaking to Matt who attended KYCK conference for high schoolers. In this interview, Matt shares how KYCK changed his life when he first attended in year 7, what he learned this year, and why teenagers should consider attending in future years!
1. How many years have you attended KYCK and who did you come with?
Not including online livestreams, KYCK 21 was my 4th conference, and I’ve attended with ‘The Attic’ youth group from Christ Church Inner West.
2. What is your favourite memory from KYCK?
I find the time on Saturday night when everyone is given the opportunity to commit or recommit themselves to God incredibly moving. It was so great to see some of my friends commit themselves to Him. Also in previous years, I’ve absolutely loved the praise pit, and the songs as a whole.
3. How has KYCK encouraged your faith?
Every year it’s been so encouraging to see thousands of people my age who share the same love and trust in Jesus Christ. The talks and songs are also so encouraging, showing me how to live a life dedicated to Jesus.
4. What did you learn from KYCK 21?
KYCK 21 taught me what it means to live a life dedicated to Jesus. It showed me how to be strong and courageous in my faith, and how to relate the promise God gave his people in the book of Joshua, to the promise made in Jesus.
An image that stuck with me from one of the talks was Jesus as a soldier charging across the battlefield towards us. Although we fight against him, he drags us back to his side. This helped me visualise just how much Jesus is doing for us.
5. Why would you encourage others to come to KYCK?
KYCK changed my life when I first went in year 7. It was the first time I fully comprehended what it meant to live a Christian life. KYCK is such a great opportunity for everyone. It is a place to form new friendships and strengthen old ones, grow a personal relationship with God, and have SO much fun. I would encourage all high schoolers to go!
Not including online livestreams, KYCK 21 was my 4th conference, and I’ve attended with ‘The Attic’ youth group from Christ Church Inner West.
2. What is your favourite memory from KYCK?
I find the time on Saturday night when everyone is given the opportunity to commit or recommit themselves to God incredibly moving. It was so great to see some of my friends commit themselves to Him. Also in previous years, I’ve absolutely loved the praise pit, and the songs as a whole.
3. How has KYCK encouraged your faith?
Every year it’s been so encouraging to see thousands of people my age who share the same love and trust in Jesus Christ. The talks and songs are also so encouraging, showing me how to live a life dedicated to Jesus.
4. What did you learn from KYCK 21?
KYCK 21 taught me what it means to live a life dedicated to Jesus. It showed me how to be strong and courageous in my faith, and how to relate the promise God gave his people in the book of Joshua, to the promise made in Jesus.
An image that stuck with me from one of the talks was Jesus as a soldier charging across the battlefield towards us. Although we fight against him, he drags us back to his side. This helped me visualise just how much Jesus is doing for us.
5. Why would you encourage others to come to KYCK?
KYCK changed my life when I first went in year 7. It was the first time I fully comprehended what it meant to live a Christian life. KYCK is such a great opportunity for everyone. It is a place to form new friendships and strengthen old ones, grow a personal relationship with God, and have SO much fun. I would encourage all high schoolers to go!
Join KYCK #4 This September!
Our April events are sold out, but there’s still an opportunity to join us for KYCK #4 this September (24-26 September). Youth will hear from guest speakers Brett Hookham, Pete Tong and Danny Mitchell as they preach from the book of Joshua on the theme “Strong & Courageous”.
For more information, visit our website: https://www.kyck.org.au/
Ahead of Mother’s Day (Sunday 9 May), we'll be sharing stories of every day Christian mothers, and how knowing God and the gospel has shaped their perspectives on children and parenting. In this reflection, Writer, Heidi Tai, shares what God has been teaching her in both the joys and challenges of pregnancy.
I’ll never forget the day my house exploded with screams and pink balloons. Surrounded by loved ones, my husband and I learned that we were pregnant with a daughter! After five long years of waiting, this was an unforgettable surprise which filled my heart with praise. This Mother's Day will be my first, and I’m heading into my third trimester with both anticipation and anxiety. While falling pregnant has come with many joyful surprises, it has also been a test of patience, endurance and faith.
Some days, I have felt like Wonder Woman—empowered in my own skin and ready to show my daughter the strength, courage and love of a mother. Other days, I’m writhing on the couch, defeated in my battle against nausea, fatigue and relentless muscle pain. Some days, our home is filled with cheers and balloons, other days it echoes with panic and despair.
When I was halfway through my pregnancy, I was surprised with news that I didn’t want. My pregnancy was struck by a complication which required an emergency scan and immediate bed rest. My maternal instinct kicked into full gear, and while I felt fiercely protective, I was powerless to protect. It was a tension so anxiety-inducing, I had no choice but to cry out to God for comfort. The 24-hour wait was gruelling but ended with relief. The scan showed that while my body may be weak, the baby was safe.
The pains of pregnancy have given me a new appreciation of the power of mothers and the strength of the female body, but more importantly, it has left me in awe of God’s creation power and unwavering strength. A healthy pregnancy diet doesn’t have the power to kickstart a fetal heartbeat. Sufficient bed rest cannot breathe life into blood and bones. In all the pain and bleeding, weakness and waiting, I have learned that every milestone is simply a divine miracle.
Ahead of my first Mother’s Day, I have been reflecting on God’s purposes for motherhood, and the values that I want to pass on to my daughter. While “Wonder Woman” resilience and courage tops the list, I also want to model humility and faith. I hope that my daughter will one day understand that although God gave me the capacity to bear the physical pain and burden of childbearing, it is He who created and sustains her inmost being:
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. (Psalm 139:131)
Furthermore, as a mother, I want to be open with my sin, failure and limits, so that my daughter will see that though I have been given the role of her mother, I am definitely not qualified to stand as her Maker:
I lift up my eyes to the mountains--
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
(Psalm 121:1-2)
As a first-time mother, I hope to model a power perfected in weakness, and a strength empowered by faith.
Some days, I have felt like Wonder Woman—empowered in my own skin and ready to show my daughter the strength, courage and love of a mother. Other days, I’m writhing on the couch, defeated in my battle against nausea, fatigue and relentless muscle pain. Some days, our home is filled with cheers and balloons, other days it echoes with panic and despair.
When I was halfway through my pregnancy, I was surprised with news that I didn’t want. My pregnancy was struck by a complication which required an emergency scan and immediate bed rest. My maternal instinct kicked into full gear, and while I felt fiercely protective, I was powerless to protect. It was a tension so anxiety-inducing, I had no choice but to cry out to God for comfort. The 24-hour wait was gruelling but ended with relief. The scan showed that while my body may be weak, the baby was safe.
The pains of pregnancy have given me a new appreciation of the power of mothers and the strength of the female body, but more importantly, it has left me in awe of God’s creation power and unwavering strength. A healthy pregnancy diet doesn’t have the power to kickstart a fetal heartbeat. Sufficient bed rest cannot breathe life into blood and bones. In all the pain and bleeding, weakness and waiting, I have learned that every milestone is simply a divine miracle.
Ahead of my first Mother’s Day, I have been reflecting on God’s purposes for motherhood, and the values that I want to pass on to my daughter. While “Wonder Woman” resilience and courage tops the list, I also want to model humility and faith. I hope that my daughter will one day understand that although God gave me the capacity to bear the physical pain and burden of childbearing, it is He who created and sustains her inmost being:
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. (Psalm 139:131)
Furthermore, as a mother, I want to be open with my sin, failure and limits, so that my daughter will see that though I have been given the role of her mother, I am definitely not qualified to stand as her Maker:
I lift up my eyes to the mountains--
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
(Psalm 121:1-2)
As a first-time mother, I hope to model a power perfected in weakness, and a strength empowered by faith.
Enjoyed this read? Read the rest of the series!
| | Single-Not-Single-Mum: Parenting in Community “Gods’ community gives me strength when I am weak, so I can be what my children need.” In this reflection, Author and Blogger, Ruth Baker shares what God has been teaching her in both the joys and challenges of parenting two boys as a single mother in Christian community. Read it here. |
| | Parenting and Disability: On Recognising My Limits this Mother’s Day "Human frailty or weakness or limitation is no impairment to God’s ability to work in and through us." In this reflection, Louise Gosbell shares how God has been at work in her family living with disabilities and chronic health issues. Read it here. |
 | ‘Motherhood Is Ministry and Ministry Is Like Motherhood’: An Encouragement to Ministry Mums "The experience of nursing newborns has ‘sleep trained’ my husband and I to express similar tender affections for the church and to serve generously at any moment." Jo shares how God’s word has transformed her perspective and goals for motherhood and offers a word of encouragement to other mums in ministry. Read it here. |
Over the Easter long weekend, the KCC Convention Centre in Katoomba was filled with the sound of music and preaching, fun and laughter, as over 1,700 delegates gathered at Katoomba Easter Convention to celebrate the 'Kindness of God'.
After a year-long break, the KCC Convention Centre in Katoomba was once again filled with the sound of music and preaching, fun and laughter, as delegates gathered at Katoomba Easter Convention (KEC) to celebrate the 'Kindness of God' in brilliant sunshine.
This year, KEC was hosted in a new and innovative COVID-safe format, combining a high-quality livestream for Adults and choice between an in-person program in the Blue Mountains or Video On-Demand content for Children and Youth.
This year, KEC was hosted in a new and innovative COVID-safe format, combining a high-quality livestream for Adults and choice between an in-person program in the Blue Mountains or Video On-Demand content for Children and Youth.
KEC 21 Children's Program in Katoomba
KEC 21 Youth Program in Katoomba
KEC 21 Volunteers
With so many options for access, we saw over 1,200 adults and 500 children join the KEC21 program, with families tuning into our livestream from as far and wide as the Northern Territory, Western Australia, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, Chile, Singapore and the USA.
By providing online access to KEC, many were able to join either for the first time or to relive childhood memories.
“Our family of 5 have enjoyed being part of KEC for the first time. We are thankful for livestream. What a wonderful way to spend our Easter.” – The Moore Family
“So great to be able to join KEC online from Melbourne after having grown up attending it each year in the Blue Mountains.” - A. Laird
For some delegates, online access was a demonstration of “God’s great kindness” at a time of adversity:
“God's great kindness is shown in that Pamela was able to join us despite having had a heart attack and nearly dying 7 weeks ago, and that she could stay in her nightie and dressing gown to do it.” – E. Beckers
In addition to the normal program, on Easter Sunday, the KCC Plaza was transformed into a colourful showground as delegates of all ages gathered to enjoy fellowship over a sausage sizzle, fairy floss, jumping castles, silent disco, an Easter Egg hunt and a Children’s Concert with Children’s Entertainer, Dan Warlow.
By providing online access to KEC, many were able to join either for the first time or to relive childhood memories.
“Our family of 5 have enjoyed being part of KEC for the first time. We are thankful for livestream. What a wonderful way to spend our Easter.” – The Moore Family
“So great to be able to join KEC online from Melbourne after having grown up attending it each year in the Blue Mountains.” - A. Laird
For some delegates, online access was a demonstration of “God’s great kindness” at a time of adversity:
“God's great kindness is shown in that Pamela was able to join us despite having had a heart attack and nearly dying 7 weeks ago, and that she could stay in her nightie and dressing gown to do it.” – E. Beckers
In addition to the normal program, on Easter Sunday, the KCC Plaza was transformed into a colourful showground as delegates of all ages gathered to enjoy fellowship over a sausage sizzle, fairy floss, jumping castles, silent disco, an Easter Egg hunt and a Children’s Concert with Children’s Entertainer, Dan Warlow.
Jumping castle at the Easter Sunday Family Fair
Easter Sunday Family Fair
This year, the Adult Program welcomed a variety of guest speakers, interviewees, and musicians. Bible teachers Kirk Patston, Paul Tripp, Matt Fuller, Don Carson, and Peter Williams preached from various books on the Kindness of God. The Bible talks served to remind delegates of God’s kindness demonstrated to us in Jesus, and the subsequent call for Christians to be a kind and gentle witness in a complex and post-modern world.
KEC 21 Speaker, Kirk Patston
To make the teaching more practical and concrete, we were joined by Special Guests such as Nicole Starling who shared a biographical talk of God’s kindness in the life of Elizabeth Saunders, an Australian Christian woman and Pastor’s wife who served God in the early days of Colonial NSW. According to Nicole, her life was “quietly poured out in the service of God and others” and that like Naomi and her Ruth, she was a vulnerable woman who lived out God’s kindness in a way that was costly and sacrificial.
Nicole Starling shares a biographical talk on the life of Elizabeth Saunders.
Special Guests Dr. Louise Gosbell and Mohammad Shahmaleki also joined the platform to share their conversion stories and practical testimonies of God’s kindness. In her testimony, Louise shared how God’s kindness has compelled her to serve the disabled in her community and to use her research and experience to help churches become more inclusive to families with Special Needs. Mohammad shared how God’s kindness compels him to support needy families in Iran, and to help them gain access to medicine, education and the word of God.
Dr. Louise Gosbell shares her personal story at KEC 21.
L-T Hopper interviews Mohammad Shahmaleki
On top of preaching and testimonies, the KEC program also featured much-loved elements such as worship in song by the KEC band and African-Australian band Afrofest and book reviews.
KEC 21 Band
African-Australian worship band, Afrofrest
Although COVID has continued to impact on in-person gatherings in 2021, we praise God for the opportunity to gather in a smaller scale, and that for many, KEC was an encouragement and blessing for the entire family:
“We have really enjoyed this great reminder of the great kindness of our wonderful God! We missed catching many friends in person but have been blessed so deeply!” – The Smiths & Youngs
“Thank you so much for a wonderful weekend. Our whole family has been greatly encouraged and blessed. may we go forth in kindness!” – Amy Hueston
Katoomba Easter Convention will return in 2022 from Friday 15 April – Monday 18 April. Mark the dates in your calendar and we hope to serve your family again next year! In the meantime, you can stay up to date with KEC on Facebook or Instagram.
Do you have feedback for us? Fill out the feedback form here.
“We have really enjoyed this great reminder of the great kindness of our wonderful God! We missed catching many friends in person but have been blessed so deeply!” – The Smiths & Youngs
“Thank you so much for a wonderful weekend. Our whole family has been greatly encouraged and blessed. may we go forth in kindness!” – Amy Hueston
Katoomba Easter Convention will return in 2022 from Friday 15 April – Monday 18 April. Mark the dates in your calendar and we hope to serve your family again next year! In the meantime, you can stay up to date with KEC on Facebook or Instagram.
Do you have feedback for us? Fill out the feedback form here.
Missed out? Tune into our livestream!
The KEC livestream for Adults and Children will remain available until end of April 2021. Whether you missed out on KEC this year or would like to extend kindness to a family in need, you can purchase an access pass on our website.
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