We praise God that over the Easter long weekend, over 2400 adults, youth and children gathered at Katoomba Easter Convention (KEC) to be empowered by God’s Word. Through powerful Bible talks, inspiring testimonies and uplifting worship in song by bands Mountainkind and Whitefield, delegates were encouraged to ‘Fear Not’.
Among the many who joined us, delegates travelled from New Zealand to be there in person, while another tuned in via livestream from Western Australia.
Since 1962, KEC has become a family tradition for many—a cherished space for people of all cultures, generations and denominations to gather as ‘one in Christ Jesus’, to hear and respond to God’s Word.
“KEC is a spiritual highlight each year for our family. Like a good hearty roast dinner is the preaching and fellowship at KEC.” – Alistair
“I attended this year because every year this is a great time away together as a family, spent in Gods word. It is always a great time to take a step back from the mundane of everyday life and re-centre on Christ.” – Zoe
“We love the formula of friends, mountains, and Bible teaching!” – Sue
“It is now a part of the annual rhythm of our family. Honestly it’s on our favourite times of the year being able to have a dedicated time to learn from God’s Word and worship Him with so many others… Especially special because it is over Easter!” – Isaac
This year 1800+ delegates joined the Adult Program to hear from a wide range of international and local speakers. We were blessed by the faithful teaching of Jim Samra, Nancy Guthrie, Malcolm Gill, Jonathan Dykes and Mark Stephens — along with with Anna Brotherson and Amy Townsend who gave short talks.
Throughout the weekend, Jim took us through Exodus and Matthew, drawing out connections we might have missed. Again and again, we were reminded that God has not abandoned us. Even in the storms of life, He is present with us and, in His sovereignty, places us exactly where He wants us to be.
“There is no place that we can go that God is not with us. There is no time where we can go that God will not be with us.” – Jim Samra
In the evenings, Mark Stephens opened God’s Word for us, reminding us of the powerful work of the Holy Spirit.
“Sin remains but it does not reign.” – Mark Stephens
Perfection will not come until Jesus returns, but we are on the way. Transformation is not out of reach. Because of the Spirit, our future is secure. We live in the tension of the now and the not yet, holding both deep joy and a longing for what is still to come.
Nancy Guthrie opened up Habakkuk and showed us a faith that can face disaster and still rejoice. A trust that holds steady, even when life doesn’t.
“What I know about my future glory and my own future of sharing in it is changing how I feel about my present reality.” – Nancy Guthrie
On Sunday, we were reminded that God is uniquely at work when His people gather, and that Jesus is still building His church. Amy Townsend challenged us to be bold in pursuing Him and not to let fear hold us back. She spoke honestly about moments where she was paralysed by gospel opportunities and encouraged us to step forward in faith.
“I’ve forgotten who it is that saves… I let my fear grip things so much — because of my love, because of my concern, but it made the whole situation me-centric.” – Amy Townsend
On Monday, Malcolm Gill asked us to consider how we are spending our lives. Are we making the most of the time we have, or are we distracted by things that will not last? So often we chase what is fading, nibbling at what the world offers, yet never fully satisfied. But it is only the Lord Jesus who can truly meet our deepest needs.
“Friends, we chase many things, we chase fading things, but it is only the Lord Jesus who can meet our deepest needs.” – Malcolm Gill
Jim closed KEC by helping us see God’s presence in the wilderness seasons of life. His presence is seen in His provision. He gives not too much and not too little, but exactly what we need. His provision satisfies, and in it, our striving can cease.
“He invites us into the wilderness so that we might know that He provides. He provided for the past. He provided for today. He will provide for tomorrow.” – Jim Samra
Here is what a few KEC 26 attendees had to say about the talks:
“I was most encouraged by the speakers this year! I really loved the speakers and how each one of them were so passionate and uplifting and they all brought something new from the passage to get me to reflect on. I was really challenged and encouraged by this year’s topic as it was highly relevant.” – Leticia
“The KEC26 theme of Fear Not could not have come at a better time. Shifting my perspective in these storms of life to asking God what he wants me to learn in this season has been really helpful for me in my current stage of life.” – Sophie
“The topic of not fearing but trusting always in the Lord. All the talks were particularly relevant, life-changing and encouraging this year.” – Rodney
While adults enjoyed rich teaching and fellowship in the main session, over 500 children and youth were served by one of eight programs, ranging from toddlers to Senior High (Year 11-12). Quiz Worx served the Primary Program with puppetry, music and stories, while Tom Stanton taught Junior High, and Craig Tubman in Senior High.
“(What encouraged me most) was people praying for each other and my child engaging at the junior high program. He says KEC is the best, even better than his youth camp at our home church.” – Petunia
“Our kids love the kids programs too and this year the youngest has moved to Junior High. They have made great friends and woke up early today to text them about their Katoomba experiences. In the evenings the kids join us in the adult sessions and what a joy to see them participate and make notes of their learnings.” – Stella
Catch up on KEC 2026 on KCC One!
If you missed out on KEC this year or simply want to re-listen, part one of the KEC 2026 talks are available on the KCC One app tomorrow (22/04/26) with the rest of the talks dropping weekly.
Download it now to access teaching from our KEC 26 speakers, plus other resources to help you keep encouraged year-round. Subscribe here.
Save the dates for KEC 2027!
Katoomba Easter Convention will return next Easter long weekend with Paul Tripp and Matt Fuller who will be teaching from God’s word. Sign up to our mailing list and follow us on Facebook and Instagram to be the first to hear about KEC 2027 registrations and event updates.
