Blog Archives

Jackie Hill Perry to Empower Women in Holiness at OneLove Conference this August

28/5/2021

We are thrilled to announce that writer, poet, bible teacher and hip hop artist, Jackie Hill Perry, will be the guest speaker for OneLove women’s conference this August. Jackie will address the theme “Made for More: Created to be Holy” and encourage women to live full lives that are worthy of God’s calling to holiness.

We are thrilled to announce that Jackie Hill Perry will be the guest speaker at OneLove women’s conference this Saturday 21 August. Jackie Hill Perry is a writer, poet, bible teacher and hip-hop artist whose latest album, Crescendo, was released in May 2018. At home, she is a wife to Preston and Mommy to Eden, Autumn, and Sage.

Since becoming a Christian, Jackie has been compelled to use her speaking and teaching gifts to share the light of the gospel of God as authentically as she can. In her biography, Gay Girl, Good God: The Story of Who I Was, and Who God Has Always Been, she shares her story of finding wholeness in her experience of growing up in a fatherless home and struggling with gender confusion.

Jackie grew up abusing marijuana, loving pornography and embracing both masculinity and homosexuality. At the age of 19, Jackie came face-to-face with what it meant to be made new. It didn’t happen in church or through contact with Christians, rather God broke in and turned her heart towards Him.

At OneLove, she will be addressing the theme “Made for More: Created to be Holy”. By opening the Scriptures, Jackie will encourage women to live full lives that are worthy of God’s calling to holiness.

You can get a taste of her teaching here:

1. Let’s Talk Podcast

Let’s Talk is a podcast for women from The Gospel Coalition Podcast Network. On each episode, Jackie Hill Perry, Melissa Kruger, and Jasmine Holmes talk about a different topic and how to apply biblical wisdom to everyday life. Episode topics include people pleasing, taming the tongue, discontentment, and fighting sin.

2. The Gospel for the Fallen

A challenging and encouraging sermon from John 21 about the gospel for fallen followers.

3. How to Avoid Being an Intelligent Fool

If being a disciple means to be a student, can learning be the legacy you leave? In this talk, Jackie Hill Perry shares the significance of being a learner of God, so that one can teach what they’ve learned to the next generation.

4. Love is a Gospel Issue

Jackie Hill Perry discusses the urgency of showing love for the ‘least of these’ in light of the gospel and what’s at stake if we fail to do so.

5. Jackie Hill Perry on Poetry and Rap

In this video, Jackie Hill Perry describes how music and poetry can display the glory of God in unique and effective ways. You can tune into her latest Rap album, Crescendo, on Spotify.

Save the date for OneLove 2021!

OneLove will return on Saturday, 21 August 2021. This one-day event is for women of all ages and life stages who desire to gather together for life-changing preaching, inspiring testimonies and fantastic fellowship. The program is designed for both Christians and people with questions about God.

Registrations will open soon so make sure you mark the date in your calendar. You can also sign up to receive the latest updates via email on our website: www.onelovewomen.com

Stay up to date with OneLove

Suffering, Sexuality and Mental Health: 8 Recommended Reads for Today’s Youth

27/5/2021

The Onward Youth team have compiled a list of 8 recommended reads for Christian youth and the hot topics they face in today’s world. These book titles address the issues of suffering, sexuality and mental health, which will be explored further at Onward Youth conference this June.

Hosted by Katoomba Christian Convention (KCC), Onward Youth exists to equip a new generation of Christians to be salt and light in the world and to engage with controversial themes and societal hot topics from a Christian perspective.

This year’s theme is “God in the Shadows: Finding God When Times Are Tough”. Through talks from the book of Habbakuk and interviews addressing mental illness, sexuality, and isolation, Onward will help teens to find joy and experience God—even when times are tough.

To help our youth think deeper about these topics ahead of the event, the Onward team has compiled a list of recommended reads which can be purchased at The Wandering Bookseller.

1. Why Does God Let Bad Things Happen?

Big questions deserve good answers. This warm, reassuring and fast-paced book looks at what the Bible says to help kids aged 9-13 think through this big question for themselves. It puts the problem of suffering in the context of the Bible's big story, and encourages readers to see that whatever they're facing, Jesus is with them. Lively stories and illustrations make this book easy to engage with.

2. Suffering and Evil

In this short book, Scott Petty guides us through the Old Testament story of Job—a man who suffered excruciating pain and grief without ever knowing why. On the way through, Scott deals with some of the common questions people have about suffering and evil: Why do bad things happen to Christians? Does God cause suffering? Is God in control of suffering and evil?

3. Hope When It Hurts

Suffering is real. But so is hope. Authored by Kristen Wetherell and Sarah Walton, these thirty biblical reflections are full of realism about the hurts of life yet overwhelmingly full of hope about the God who gives life. This book will gently encourage any woman who is hurting and give hope for life both in and beyond suffering. Each chapter contains a biblical reflection, questions, prayers, and a space for journaling.

4. Why Am I Feeling Like This?

In his latest book, counsellor David Murray introduces readers to the personal stories of 18 teens who have dealt with different types of anxiety or depression, and the freedom they experienced through practical steps and tools. This book will not only explain common causes of anxiety, but it will also equip teens with keys to unlock the chains of anxiety and depression. By utilising these God-given truths and tactics, teens will experience new liberty, peace, and joy in their lives.

5. If I Were God, I'd End All the Pain: Struggling with Evil, Suffering and Faith

A child catches a rare brain virus and is affected for life. A father dies in a plane crash. A dictator murders millions. Why doesn't God do something about things like this? Why does he allow them to happen? In fact, can we still believe in God in the face of all the suffering and pain in the world? In this book, John Dickson looks honestly at these questions, and provides some compelling answers. He looks briefly at the alternative explanations for suffering provided by Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam and Atheism, before turning to what the Bible itself says about God, justice and suffering.

6. Teen Sex by the Book: A Call to Countercultural Living

Authored by renowned sex therapist and educator, Patricia Weerakoon, this book answers questions about teenage sexuality and relationships and explores topics such as sexual desire, falling in love, dating, cybersex, pornography, homosexuality and questions like, ‘How far is too far?’ This book will inform and challenge you to consider who you are and what you stand for, while helping you to discover God’s countercultural lifestyle which leads to healthy sex and satisfying relationships lasting a lifetime.

7. Why Does God Care Who I Sleep With?

Christians are increasingly seen as outdated, restrictive and judgmental when it comes to sex before marriage, cohabitation, homosexuality, gender identity, or transgender rights. In fact, for many people, this issue is one of the biggest barriers for them considering Christianity. In this book, Author Sam Allberry (‘Is God Anti-Gay') sets out God’s good design for the expression of human sexuality, showing that God himself is love and that only he can satisfy our deepest desires. It is a great reminder of the Bible’s positive blueprint for love, sex, and marriage and ideal for giving away to people who may see this as a stumbling block for belief.

8. Tricky: The Hardest Questions to Ask about Christianity (and Some Answers)

In this book, Authors Michael Dormandy and Carl Laferton address nine hard questions about Christianity such as: 'Doesn't Jesus ruin your fun?' 'Why is there so much suffering?' and 'Don't Christians hate gay people?' Written for people of all backgrounds and beliefs, this book is short but not simplistic and clear but not condescending. Grab this book if you are struggling with these hard questions or want to learn how to answer them!

These book titles can be purchased from The Wandering Bookseller.

Grab your tickets to Onward Youth this June!

Full access to Onward Youth LIVE
Digital Onward Youth Program Booklet
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!

For tickets or more information, visit our website: www.onwardevent.com

Stay up to date with Onward Youth!

Greg Coles to Address Sexuality, Isolation and Joy in Suffering at Onward Youth this June

25/5/2021

We are so pleased to welcome Greg Coles (Author, ‘Single, Gay, Christian’) to the KCC platform this Friday 25 June for Onward Youth conference. Joining a panel of varied and experienced speakers, Greg will talk about his experiences with sexuality, isolation, and how to find joy in suffering.

We are pleased to welcome Greg Coles to the KCC platform this Friday 25 June for Onward Youth conference. Joining a panel of varied and experienced speakers, Greg will be sharing what it means for the Christian to continue having joy even in sadness and when things are not right.

He will also share his experience of his sexuality, and how even though faithfulness to Jesus means singleness and at times deep loss, he continues to seek to find joy. Greg will be interviewed at Onward Youth and share more in-depth content as part of Onward Deep Dive, an exclusive resource for Onward ticket holders.

Onward Youth 2021 - Gregory Coles from kcc on Vimeo.

Greg is a writer, speaker, and worship leader in Pennsylvania, U.S.A., though he grew up much closer to Australia on the island of Java, Indonesia. He's the author of two books: ‘Single, Gay, Christian: A Personal Journey of Faith and Sexual Identity’ and ‘No Longer Strangers: Finding Belonging in a World of Alienation’ which address Christian faith, sexual identity, and what it means to find belonging in a world where we don’t belong.

When he's not writing or playing piano, you will find him baking! He worked for several years at a bakery, where he specialised in buttercream icing, and he holds a personal record of making 137 kilograms of icing in a single day.

You can get a taste of Greg's teaching here:

1. Christian Sexuality – Interview With Dr Gregory Coles

A Christian Sexuality video compilation where Greg Coles shares his views and life experiences with faith and sexuality.

2. Article: In Which I Stop Saving Myself for Marriage

What’s the real reason for chastity? Greg writes: “We’re not meant to ‘save ourselves’ for the moment we finally belong to someone, so that our bodies can finally matter. Our bodies already matter; we already belong to someone.

3. Video: Gay, Christian, and Coming Out: Greg Coles

In this interview, Greg talks about faith, sexuality and coming out as gay. Greg gives some advice to Christian parents with gay kids and how to respond well when they come out. He also helps those who are wrestling with their sexuality to consider the right context, time, and person to come out to.

4. Blog Post: Your Gay Neighbour is Closer Than You Think

Greg writes: “I wish that people who shared pews with me in church talked about gay people the way they talked about diplomats and florists and concierges, as if we were just people. I wish they didn’t see us as the enemy camp of a protracted culture war. I wish they were more interested in my pursuit of Jesus than in who I was tempted to have sex with. I wish that Christians saw gay people not following Jesus and straight people not following Jesus as all equally in need of Jesus.”

5. Church Leaders Podcast: It’s Possible to Be Same-Sex Attracted and Fully Surrendered to Jesus

What does it mean to love someone in the LGBTQ community without compromising your beliefs? Should we use someone’s preferred pronouns? How should pastors explore these topics with care from the pulpit?

In this Church Leaders podcast with Jason Dayes, Greg Coles talks about LGBTQ experiences and the importance of language for marginalised groups.

6. A Culture Story Podcast

In this interview, Greg talks about third culture identity and his transition from the privileged white minority in Indonesia to the privileged white majority in the United States.

Grab your tickets to Onward Youth this June!

Full access to Onward Youth LIVE
Digital Onward Youth Program Booklet
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!

For tickets or more information, visit our website: www.onwardevent.com

Introducing Onward Youth 2021: God in the Shadows from kcc on Vimeo.

Stay up to date with Onward Youth

Lily Strachan to Address Hope in Mental Illness at Onward Youth This June

21/5/2021

We are so pleased to welcome Lily Strachan (Chaplain, Robert Menzies College) to the KCC platform this Friday 25 June for Onward Youth conference. Joining a panel of varied and experienced speakers, Lily will be interviewed on the topic of mental illness, the stigma associated with it and where hope can be found in the midst of it all.

We are pleased to welcome Lily Strachan to the KCC platform this Friday 25 June for Onward Youth conference. Joining a panel of varied and experienced speakers, Lily will be interviewed on the topic of suffering, mental illness and the stigma associated with it.

Lily is no stranger to mental illness, having been diagnosed with depression in 2003 and bipolar in 2008. She believes that Christians are not exempt from suffering and will share where hope can be found in the midst of mental illness.

You can get a taste of Lily’s interview content here:

Lily serves as the Chaplain to Robert Menzies College at Macquarie University and is writing a book about living with bipolar disorder and caring for those who struggle with it. Before studying theology, Lily worked as a corporate lawyer and before that she learnt to love coffee, big books and politics whilst studying at the University of Sydney.

She enjoys long lunches with family, hiking and the beach with friends and, most of all, talking about God’s goodness in all of life. She also happens to own the ‘cutest dog in the world’, a cavoodle named Ziggy.

Onward Pricing & Registration

Full access to Onward Youth LIVE
Digital Onward Youth Program Booklet
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: https://www.onwardevent.com/#updates

Introducing Onward Youth 2021: God in the Shadows from kcc on Vimeo.

Stay up to date with Onward Youth

Serving at KYCK a ‘Snapshot of Heaven’: Phil’s Volunteer Story

20/5/2021

It’s National Volunteer Week and we want to spotlight the people who make KCC conventions possible! In this Volunteer story, Phil shares how he became a Christian at KYCK 1999, why he chooses to volunteer on the KYCK committee and the ways in which the work has given him a ‘snapshot of heaven’.

“God has been gracious in growing my capacity to love and serve others. I volunteer because it is a joy serving our good God in whatever way He sees fit.”

1. When did your journey with KYCK begin and how has the ministry impacted your life?

My journey with KYCK began in 1999 when it was called Kyckstart. I was in Year 9 and 14 years old. It was there I began to understand grace. It was a lightbulb moment, realising that my best efforts don’t make me right with God, rather it is Jesus who makes me right and I can trust in His righteousness.

I prayed the prayer, but I was too self-conscious to go out the back or put my hand up, but the Lord knew that, and He still heard my prayer—praise God! I’m still a work-in-progress that will finish when the last nail is in my coffin, but by God’s grace He is changing me slowly by His Spirit!

2. Why do you choose to volunteer for KYCK?

God has been gracious in growing my capacity to love and serve others. I volunteer because it is a joy serving our good God in whatever way He sees fit. To me, it is largely about being a good steward of the gifts He has given us, so it is only natural to direct God-given gifts to the building of His kingdom and service of His people. As a musician it is natural for me to serve God in a musical capacity, but for now, the focus of my role is working with the KYCK Committee and other musicians.

3. What does volunteering for KYCK look like? What type of work is involved?

Volunteering on the KYCK committee comes with great responsibility. As the Music Director, I’m responsible for holding leadership conversations with the committee and band representatives around the kind of music we select, development of policy and procedures, logistics, contingency planning, and now entering the next phase of growing the KYCK family even more--for God’s glory and the building up of His church. With His help we hope to see success.

4. Share one highlight in your volunteering experience!

Every Saturday night session is a highlight! Watching young people acknowledging their sin and asking God to be their King is always emotional. It’s literally a miracle seeing someone cross over from death to life, and we rejoice with the angels in heaven! Everyone seems to sing a little louder those nights and it’s a little snapshot of heaven to hold on to until we’re there ourselves, joining the multitude in praise!

Join KCC’s Volunteer Family!

KYCK Volunteers

KCC events run and rely on the power of volunteers—from our convention committees to our ushers on the day, each and every volunteer helps to facilitate God's Word preached from the platform. We would love to hear from you if you are able to help!

Fill out the Volunteer Form and we’ll get back to you.

Stay up to date with KCC!

Meet Katoomba Easter Convention Volunteer: Verity Hall

19/5/2021

It’s National Volunteer Week and we want to spotlight the people who make KCC conventions possible! In this Volunteer story, Verity shares her highlights of growing up in the Katoomba Easter Convention (KEC) Kid’s Program and the impact that her volunteer leaders have had on her faith and life. We thank God that her love for KEC has empowered her to serve in the KEC Junior High program!

“I think it is amazing that we can form genuine connections [at KEC] with likeminded people who also find joy and hope in Christ."

1. What was it like growing up attending Katoomba Easter Convention?

I started coming to Katoomba Easter Convention (KEC) because that is what my family always did every year since I was born. The year 2020 during COVID was my first year not going to Katoomba for Easter! KEC has been a great time for my family to get away from the challenges and distractions of life and spend time together reflecting on God and what he has done for us through his Son Jesus. We all love it!

2. What was your favourite part about the KEC Kid’s Program?

My favourite part of attending the KEC Kid’s Program has definitely been the building of great friendships over the years. It is crazy that I have made so many lasting and deep friendships. Even though I only see these people once a year at KEC, the friendship is so natural, and we just pick up where we left off. I think it is amazing that we can form genuine connections with likeminded people who also find joy and hope in Christ, and that we get to encourage and support one another to live out our faith!

3. How has KEC impacted you as a Christian?

KEC is a constant reminder each year to humbly come before God and recognise what he has done for us. So often as a Christian we can take for granted the things God has blessed us with, such as having Christian parents who love and support me, or simply the knowledge of the gospel message.

As a Christian, it is easy to become complacent and forget the gravity of God’s grace—something we are all in desperate need of. Coming together at KEC is a great reminder that Easter isn’t about chocolate or holidays, rather it is a time to reflect on Jesus’ death and resurrection and how that should shape our daily lives.

For me, KEC has been a valuable place and time to refocus on what is important through helpful bible talks and discussions with leaders who give up their time to faithfully serve and teach from God’s word. The way they live out their faith and demonstrate what it means to live godly and faithful lives has also had a significant impact on me.

Join KCC's Volunteer Family!

Katoomba Easter Convention Volunteer

Stay up to date with KCC!

'Seeing God Work Is What Keeps Me Coming Back': Lachie’s Volunteer Story

18/5/2021

It’s National Volunteer Week and we want to spotlight the people who make KCC conventions possible! In this Volunteer story, Lachie shares how he became a Christian at KYCK 13, why he loves volunteering, and how God has used his volunteer efforts to evangelise to a friend living on the other side of the world!

"Seeing God work so mightily in the hearts and minds of the kids is what keeps me coming back."

When did your journey with KCC begin and how has the ministry impacted your life?

My journey with KCC began in 2011 when I started attending KYCK. At first, I attended with a hard heart and the conference didn’t impact me. That changed in 2013 when I became a Christian at KYCK and my life flipped upside down.

The theme for KYCK 13 was “This is Love”. On Saturday night, and against all instincts, I gave my life to Jesus after hearing preaching describing God’s love. This was the work of God because there is no way I would do that by myself. I felt a weight lifted off me and a tingling in my heart after having a hard heart for so many years. I went back to my camp with a new feeling in my heart, and it wasn’t the pain or hurt that I was used to. The next morning, I was emotionally and spiritually refreshed but physically tired so I ate 12 pancakes for breakfast!

Since becoming a Christian at KYCK, the conference has held a very special place in my heart, and is one of several recharge points throughout my year. KYCK became my reprieve from my previous job which was physically, mentally and spiritually draining. The spiritual warfare and constant stream of different ideas and thoughts about life and faith was really tiring.

Coming to KYCK was a time I could relax and be mentally and spiritually refreshed by God’s word and seeing others worship God. The singing at KYCK is my favourite part. There is nothing like 2000 teenagers singing their praises to God.

Why do you choose to volunteer for KCC conventions?

I began volunteering at KCC as I enjoyed serving with fellow Christians and having an impact on kid’s lives. Seeing God work so mightily in the hearts and minds of the kids is what keeps me coming back. I always get emotional at KYCK on Saturday night when the alter call happens. This is a big thing for me, as I am not an emotional person.

I also enjoy volunteering as I get to meet, encourage and serve alongside the younger generation coming through from ‘The Bridge’ (SMBC) and ‘Year 13’ (Anglican Youthworks). Through volunteering, I have made many friends and it’s great to see other volunteers at other KCC events.

What does volunteering for KCC conventions look like? What type of work is involved?

A majority of the work involves serving in Logistics or the Muscle team. All of the work is behind the scenes. Whether it be selling merchandise in the Info Tent, setting up chairs in the Auditorium, serving food, or managing parking, I’ve done it all. I have fond memories of running up and down the hallways with stacks at chairs at Carriageworks for OneLove women’s conference. It may seem like a weird memory to enjoy, but being able to serve in that physical manner was really enjoyable for me.

Share one highlight in your volunteering experience!

For Katoomba Easter Convention this year, I was working on a virtual easter egg hunt. I asked one of my friends in California to help me. After making the video, he inquired about the convention and its purpose. As such, I started explaining what KCC was about and my testimony. As part of my testimony, I shared with him the KYCK 13 promotional video. At the two-minute mark, he started crying as God spoke to him and softened his heart.

Since then, he has asked me to teach him the gospel and I ran through Two Ways to Live with him. Usually on Tuesday evenings, we video chat and talk about the Bible. He’s now semi regularly attending a church in California and is being actively supported and encouraged by a Christian community. He often comes to me with questions about what he’s learnt on Sunday and the theology behind it. He hasn’t fully committed to God yet but is committed to finding out more. Prayers for me as I minister to him would be much appreciated.

It has struck me how amazing it is that our loving and caring father would use my story from KYCK 2013 to open the heart and mind of someone on the other side of the world. All it took is stepping out in faith and sharing my story. It was greatly encouraging to me as I was going through a very rough personal patch at the time and it reminded me that God is good and loving and care work through our brokenness, just like he did in my heart when I gave my life to Christ during KYCK 2013.

Join KCC’s Volunteer Family!

KYCK volunteers!

KCC events run and rely on the power of volunteers—from our convention committees to our ushers on the day, each and every volunteer helps to facilitate God's Word preached from the platform. We would love to hear from you if you are able to help!

Fill out the Volunteer Form and we’ll get back to you.

Stay up to date with KCC!

Meet Onward 21 Speaker: Dave Miers

13/5/2021

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.

Introducing Onward Youth 2021: God in the Shadows from kcc on Vimeo.

Stay up to date with Onward Youth!

KYCK the ‘Biggest Highlight of Each Year’: Sarah’s KCC Story

11/5/2021

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.

Stay up to date with KYCK!

‘Motherhood Is Ministry and Ministry Is Like Motherhood’: An Encouragement to Ministry Mums

9/5/2021

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!

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.

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.

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