Oxygen conference is returning this August for leaders and workers in Christian ministry. Hosted by Katoomba Christian Convention, Oxygen is a conference retreat designed to ‘fuel passion for Christian ministry’.
In this interview, returning delegate Andrew Laird shares his Oxygen highlights, how the conference has benefited his work at City Bible Forum, and why other Christian workers should consider signing up for this year.
Describe your ministry!
I work for City Bible Forum, a national organisation that aims to “reach the world through workers with the good news of Jesus”. I’m based in Melbourne and have a particular focus on discipling Christians in their life and witness in the workplace. I’ve been serving with City Bible Forum for nine years.
How many Oxygen events have you attended and what has been a highlight?
I attended the first Oxygen conference back in 2011 with John Piper and John Lennox as the speakers. That was a highlight, joining with sisters and brothers in person to learn from the wisdom and years of experience of these two men.
How has God used Oxygen to ‘fuel your passion for Christian ministry’?
12 years on, I still think back to those few days in August 2011 as being a refreshing and inspiring time, chatting with new and old friends about the shared joys and challenges of serving God in vocational ministry. Being surrounded by women and men who have been faithfully persevering over many years, pacing themselves for a marathon not a sprint, was a wonderful experience too.
Why do you think ministry leaders and workers should set aside time to attend conferences like Oxygen?
There are so many conferences in the annual calendar, but Oxygen is one I have made a priority of making time for in 2023 because I know how important it is to be refreshed in ministry. Having been refreshed by the books of both Paul Tripp and Zack Eswine, I’m really looking forward to being fed by their teaching, as well as spending time with interstate peers from Bible college as we stay together for the conference, something we don’t get to do often enough!
Come up for ‘Oxygen’ this August
Workers in Christian ministry dedicate their lives to teaching, encouraging and serving others, but who teaches, encourages and serves them in return? When was the last time you truly slowed down to check your heart for ministry?
This August, we invite you to join us at Oxygen to be refreshed and renewed by God’s word. Over four unrushed days, delegates will be served with a quiet, focused space to hear God speak and to rest and reflect in nature. Scripture will be opened each morning and evening, and delegates will be equipped through practical sessions aimed at nurturing and cultivating a “God-shaped” heart.
Dates: 15-18 August, 2023
Venue: StayKCC conference centre, Blue Mountains, Katoomba
Speakers: Paul Tripp and Zack Eswine
Registrations are now open for you and your ministry team. Standard ticket pricing is available from now until July 18, 2023. On-site, catered accommodation is also available.
For more information on tickets, speakers, program and the group discount rate visit our website: oxygenconference.com/register
