We praise God that over the Easter long weekend, over 2,400 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, delegates were encouraged to seek the Kingdom first.
Among the many who joined us, delegates travelled from Western Australia to be there in person, while another tuned in via livestream all the way from Singapore.
During the Monday open mic session, Wesley from Darwin shared, “Coming here and singing hymns that everyone knows, feeling the building reverberate with so many voices… it’s something I only get when I’m here.”
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.
“It’s an annual commitment we make to “reset” for the year. We are always challenged and encouraged in our relationship with God through the bible talks and program.” – Lisa, KEC 25 Attendee
“KEC spiritually continues to fill me up every year I come, thank you.” – Greer, KEC 25 Attendee
“I loved being inspired and challenged from hearing God’s word taught with clarity, and the great opportunity to meet together with other believers of all ages, from many locations and denominations to fellowship together “All one in Jesus Christ”. – Denise, KEC 25 Attendee
This year 1,912 delegates joined the Adult Program to hear from a wide range of international and local speakers. We were blessed by the faithful teaching of Kirk Patston, Glen Scrivener, and Phil Ryken, and encouraged by special guest Anna Powell, who shared short talks every evening. Anna’s honest reflections helped us see our stories—failures and all—through a kingdom lens. As she reminded us, “I am completely secure in Him, and this is a kingdom worth seeking first.”
Throughout the weekend, we were reminded that while the world shouts “seek success, sex, self, and stuff!”, Jesus gently calls us to something far better: seek first the Kingdom of God. We were challenged to pray “Thy Kingdom Come” not just with words, but with Kingdom-shaped prayers that reflect our deep longing to see God at work—in our lives, our churches, and our world.
Kirk Patston took us deep into the book of Job, leading us through riddles and the raw poetry of suffering. His thoughtful teaching reminded us that the ‘heavy chapters of lament in the Bible is to assure us that God is thoroughly familiar with how hard our lives can be’. Through Job’s story, we were encouraged to remain faithful in both joy and sorrow, to trust God in the uncertainty, and that He is always worthy of praise.
On Sunday, we were also challenged by Phil Ryken to proclaim the Kingdom—to be bold, contagious Christians who seize every opportunity to speak of Jesus.
Here is what a few KEC 25 delegates had to say about the talks:
“The encouragement from God’s Word was delivered through all the speakers.” – Lei
“It is so hard to pick (what encouraged me most) because the concept of Seeking First the Kingdom encompasses all. I was really struck by the idea of a perspective shift, where instead of seeing where/how I can invite God into my life and plans, looking at how He’s already working and asking to be a part of His plans.” – Rylea
“I love the high calibre talks, I’m really spurred on in my faith every year.” – Tina
While adults enjoyed rich teaching and fellowship in the main session, 555 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 Kohei Yamada taught Junior High, and Joshua Kim in Senior High.
“Our son, Isaac, has been talking about Jesus dying on the cross for our sins so we can go to heaven! Touches our hearts and we’re so thankful for the wonderful teaching there every year.” – Abigail
“Our youngest child (12) said to me today that every year KEC is the highlight of her year. This is especially because she’s made such good friends and really engaged with the night sessions. Her new friendships are so precious to her as they grow together in faith. And she just loves the evening sessions – being able to sing with so many people, to hear challenging Bible talks, to have fun over supper and to hear encouraging life stories. Our other kids also look forward to KEC each year and would be devastated if we didn’t come.” – James
Catch up on KEC 2025 on KCC One!
If you missed out on KEC this year or simply want to re-listen, part 1 of the KEC 2025 talks will be available from Wednesday, 7 May on the KCC One app!
Download it now to access teaching from Glen Scrivener, Phil Ryken, Kirk Patston, and Anna Powell—plus other resources to help you keep seeking first the kingdom all year round.
“Kirk’s talks were EXCELLENT and I purchased the KCC+ subscription to re-listen to them!” – Laur a
Save the dates for KEC 2026!
Katoomba Easter Convention will return next Easter long weekend, 3-6 April 2026. Jim Samra will join us to teach from God’s word. Sign up to our mailing list to be the first to hear about KEC 2026 registrations and event updates.
