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Articles Tagged: blue mountains events

Meet the 9 Ministry Women Bringing New Perspectives to Oxygen 2023 

This year at Oxygen conference we’re thrilled to have a line-up of thoughtful and practical segments and workshops, brought to you by seasoned ministry women speaking from their experiences and expertise. 

Meet the 9 ministry women who will be speaking at Oxygen this August! 

Oxygen Plenary Sessions: Lessons from Life in Ministry 

Anna Powell and Sarah Irving-Stonebraker will join the main plenary sessions to share their personal experiences, giving a short talk as part of our segment titled “Lessons from Life in Ministry”.  

Anna Powell

Anna Powell is married to Morgan and they have two delightful daughters. They served for 13 years in South America with SIM, in Ecuador and Peru. In her talk “Seeing Clearly: How our Culture Deforms our Hearts for Ministry”, Anna will share how leaving Australia helped her to see how culture can leave a “non-Biblical imprint” on our understandings of ministry.  

Sarah Irving-Stonebraker

Dr. Sarah Irving-Stonebraker is the Associate Professor of History and Western Civilisation at Australian Catholic University. She was awarded her PhD in History from Cambridge University and held then a Junior Research Fellowship at Wolfson College, Oxford University. She will be giving a talk titled “How Historical Traditions of Spiritual Formation Can Help Us Reshape Our Hearts”.  

Eleasa Sieh

Eleasa is a Can-Aussie – a Canadian-born Chinese from Toronto and now working as a GP and GP counsellor in Brisbane. She is passionate about discipleship and Biblical counselling, having just finished the online MAC program through Westminster Theological Seminary. Eleasa will be one of our MCs at Oxygen. This will be her first Oxygen Conference and she is excited and privileged to be able to attend and serve in this way. 

Oxygen Workshops

Oxygen will also feature a range of optional workshops which focus on the heart requirements of life in ministry. These workshops will help you to understand the inner and outer challenges of ministry, as well as provide practical learnings to renew and revive your passion for the work God has called you to do.  

Meet the women leading our inspiring workshops:  

Valerie Ling

Valerie is the founder of the Centre for Effective Serving, as well as the Clinical Director and founder of the Centre for Effective Living, a group psychology practice dedicated to clinical excellence in mental health. As a ministry wife herself, Valerie has a particular passion to support gospel workers. Her workshop “Moving from a Reactive to Reflective Ministry: Leadership and Ministry Longevity in a Hectic and Troubled World” will be focused on helping ministry workers to manage burnout.  

Kerrell Ranucci

Kerrell together with her husband Andrew, spent almost three decades planting a church, a school and pioneering ministries to reach the lost and disciple them to Jesus. Kerrell is passionate about soul care, facilitating spiritual retreats, and walking with pastors to support them to develop a deep personal devotional life. Her workshop “Cultivating Our Life with God” will help delegates explore the role of spiritual practices in helping them to experience the presence of God in daily life.  

Susan Marcuccio

Susan is the National Supervision Director for Chaplaincy Australia and President of Australasian Association of Supervision. Susan is passionate about all those in the helping professions being able to access quality and confidential support and engage in transformational learning. Her workshop “Pastoral Supervision: Protecting Your Heart to Go the Distance in Ministry” will explain how pastoral supervision can enhance ministry, ignite passion, and protect your heart.

Rachael Litchfield 

Rachael has been involved in cross-cultural mission work in Thailand, Cambodia and Australia for the last 30 years serving in physiotherapy, community health, leadership and pastoral care roles. In 2020 she completed a doctor of ministry dissertation titled “A Spirituality for Transition Grief”. Her workshop “Spiritual Practices for the Grief of Transitions” will help delegates strengthen their capacity to craft meaning and move deeper into our life with God during unsettling transitions.

Miriam Chan 

Miriam Chan is an accredited mental health social worker, counsellor and supervisor. Miriam currently works as a counsellor at an Australian University and in private practice in Burwood at New Leaf Centre. Miriam’s workshop “Mental Health and Ministry” will explore a Biblical overview of mental and emotional wellbeing and explore practical ideas on how to best serve Jesus when we are feeling unstable. 

Kathy Thurston 

Five and a half years ago Dave and Kathy Thurston left Sydney and parish ministry to work in the Presbyterian Church of Queensland. Their brief was mentoring pastors and their wives, training other to be mentors, develop a post college training program as well as various other ventures. They now live in Blackheath on two acres where God willing they will build a Christian Retreat centre. Together with her husband, Kathy will lead a workshop titled “The Importance of Emotional Self Awareness for Healthy Ministry”.  

To see the full list of local and international Oxygen speakers, click here: https://oxygenconference.com/speakers/ 

Is it Time to Hit Pause at Oxygen?

Our recent Oxygen Christian Workers Survey revealed alarming levels of job dissatisfaction, loneliness, and mental health issues amongst Christain workers in Australia.  

In comparison to men, women were more likely to be experiencing or suspecting a mental health issue – 40 per cent compared to 25 per cent. In speaking of mental well-being, an Anglican Women’s Minister serving in a capital city says:   

“I think about burnout and wonder if I am already there and what to do about it. It is hard to find the energy to invest in people but my love for the Lord and his people continues. I often wonder if I am the right person for my job, which is not a question I had 5 years ago.” 

This is why Oxygen exists—to give ministry workers a space to reflect, think, pray and recharge under God’s Word.  

If you’re a woman in Christian ministry, we invite you to pause with us this 15-18 August at Oxygen. Learn more here: https://oxygenconference.com/ 

Meet the 9 ministry women bringing new perspectives at Oxygen 2023!

By Heidi Tai

“It Will Change Your Life for the Better”: Bek’s KYCK Testimony 

In this interview, Bek from Robertston Youth Group shares how she became a Christian at KYCK youth conference in 2019. Even though following Jesus hasn’t always been easy, Bek shares how knowing Him has transformed her life.  

1. Tell us how you became a Christian!  

I was brought up in a Christian home, so I knew of God but I didn’t have a real relationship with Him. In primary school, I went through something really hard, so I was very far from God, and so just so angry and sad. In 2019, I was in year 8 and I attended KYCK for the first time. I remember a talk just spoke to me and the rest is history.  

Meeting and following Jesus hasn’t been easy, but he has helped me work through my mental health issues. I have also met so many amazing people that have encouraged me in my faith. They have uplifted me, helped me grow, and have taught me so much, as a person and as a follower of Jesus.  

I have also had the amazing opportunity to be a Junior Leader at my Youth Group! Primarily I help welcome people. It’s a blessing to help make a fresh face fit in and feel a part of our group.  

2. How many KYCKs have you been to and what is your favourite part of it?  

I have been to five KYCKS, and it would have been six if COVID didn’t happen. My favourite part of KYCK is the incredible atmosphere—singing with 2,000 other people and the feeling of God around is amazing. Also, the food and the talks.  

3. What would you say to someone on the fence about attending KYCK? 

Go! It will change your life for the better. It’s an incredible experience and you will learn so much about Jesus, see so much and have loads of fun. One of the best experiences ever. You won’t regret it! 

LAST CHANCE to join KYCK 23 at the early bird rate!  

KYCK challenges and equips teenagers to boldly live the Christian life. This 22-24 September, we invite youth groups to join us for one final weekend and to “Meet Jesus” in the Gospel of Mark. Early Bird tickets are still available until 30 June. Register now and save: https://www.kyck.org.au/register/  

Bek shares how she became a Christian at KYCK youth conference in 2019.

By Heidi Tai

Mid-Year Reflection: 7 Ways God Has Transformed Lives So Far 

We are officially halfway through 2023 and want to take a moment to celebrate how God has been at work through the Katoomba Christian Convention (KCC) ministry to date.  

April was a big month for KCC, as we had the privilege of hosting over 7,300 delegates across two conventions—Katoomba Easter Convention (KEC) and KYCK conference for high-schoolers. Over 4 weekends, people of all ages and life-stages left the distractions and pressures of everyday life to gather as ‘One in Christ Jesus’ in Katoomba. In doing so, the mountains came alive with powerful preaching and meaningful fellowship; the echo of singing and laughter giving thousands a ‘slice of heaven’ on earth. 

Katoomba Easter Convention 2023 Highlights

Like all our events, every element of KEC and KYCK is thoughtfully planned to fulfill our vision: to see our nation transformed by Jesus Christ through the powerful preaching of the Bible. Here are 7 ways we have seen this happen this year:  

  1. As the gospel was preached powerfully and faithfully, God rescued people to Himself!  

“One of our youths has literally been counting down the days for KYCK since he heard about it. He became a Christian on Saturday night, and asked if we could have a party to welcome him home. We had a party. Thanks for doing what you do, KYCK changes so many lives for Christ!”

Youth Leader at KYCK 2023

“Two of my youth girls became Christians – by far the most important experience for me as a youth pastor. I’m so thankful for this ministry.”

James, Youth Pastor at KYCK 2023 

“We had four of our youth make commitments to Christ on the Saturday night – including one of my sons. Praise God for the message of the gospel and the power to save.”

Dave, Youth Leader at KYCK 2023 

2. Long-time delegates were moved by God’s faithfulness to them over decades 

“I’ve been coming to KEC for most of my life, and in Sam Chan’s first talk he put up John 20:31. I immediately began to sing it in my head, as it had been the memory verse for the Junior High program one year. In that moment, I was just thankful I’d spent well over a decade having had the Bible well-taught at KEC by people who loved Jesus and were willing to give up time and money so the conference could happen. I’m thankful for all that I’ve learnt about the Bible, and that the leaders of the Kid’s Programs and KEC speakers never shied away from the fact that life can be hard, but God and His Word are true and unchanging and that He is worth following.”

Lizzie, KEC 2023 

3. After years of isolation, God used our large-scale gatherings to sustain and embolden His people 

“KYCK feels like the only place other than church, where you can connect with people who have the same beliefs as you whilst learning new things to take home and cherish. This was my first ever KYCK and it was the highlight of the year. Definitely going to come back next year and be fully committed to listening to God’s Word, following Him and loving like Jesus did.”

Youth at KYCK 2023 

“[I was encouraged by] a feeling of unity and community with fellow Christians when it’s very easy to feel overwhelmed by the amount of people who don’t know Jesus, but there are so many brothers and sisters out there believing the same thing I do.”

Kayla, KEC 2023 

“[My favourite thing about KYCK was] worshipping with over a thousand teenagers and being able to sing and let my heart out without fear of judgement.”

Grace, Youth at KYCK 2023

4. As God’s word was preached, believers were encouraged to persevere in faith, hope and love  

“To say I was refreshed, encouraged, inspired, challenged, provoked and filled…is a small response. We were filled with the sustaining love of Jesus for us and for others; with teaching, thinking and experiences to go onwards and to reach others. I can’t fully describe or encapsulate what you guys did to include all this, but this is something unique and special in the Christian world that you have created.”

Grant, KEC 2023 

“The Bible teaching was most important as I am grieving the loss of my husband and I needed the encouragement reinforced that God does comfort us through His people and Word and that He is there through the darkness.”

Kim, KEC 2023 

5. The next generation of believers are being inspired and grown in Christ-likeness

“I didn’t have a relationship with God for most of my life. I still have a long way to go with my faith, but now I’m putting in an effort to read his Word and pray more often. Being surrounded by so many people in a God-praising environment is just so incredibly amazing.”

Izabelle, Youth at KYCK 2023 

“[I was encouraged by] the senior high program, being able to meet people my age and talk about the Bible, doubting, failure and all sorts of things in discussion groups.  Meeting with like-minded people from all over Sydney and NSW has opened by eyes to how many people believe the same thing as me.”

Stormlee, Youth at KEC 2023 

6. At a time where society is increasingly sceptical towards the Bible, God  refreshed eyes and softened hearts to hear and respond to His Word

“KYCK has really changed the way I’ve thought about Christianity. I now have a newfound joy for worship and confidence to approach my non-Christian friends.”

Youth at KYCK 2023 

“I felt encouraged to get back into my Bible more. Life has been busy and stressful the last 12 months and my quiet time with God has become neglected. This weekend spurred me on to make the time for it again and to dig into the Word more.”

Tim, KEC 2023 

7. Delegates returned home empowered to serve God in their homes, workplaces and local churches

“It was good to be reminded of God’s master plan and how His Word makes so much sense in our fallen world. It also challenged me to share the good news with others again. God is good even in the midst of pain. God’s Word will go out to accomplish what God intends.”

Kristina, KEC 2023

“We have made KEC an annual family retreat. We were encouraged by the range of speakers all speaking on a coordinated program. Hearing the range of testimonies and other ministries gave great insight into what the wider church is working hard at. It encouraged us to do our best where God has planted us.”

Joanne, KEC 2023 

We want to see more people love Jesus more. Can you help? 

Our aim is to call and inspire Christians to single-mindedly dedicate their whole lives to God, and we want to see more people come to love Jesus more. 

You can help us 

Help us continue this ministry that impacts so many. In tougher economic times we appreciate your gift more than ever. 

 Give Now.  

Tax deductible gifts are a huge help to KCC because they enable us to use KCC One (our mobile app) and its huge talk library to reach thousands of people with life-changing preaching. 

 Give Now.  

7 ways God has transformed lives through the ministry of Katoomba Christian Convention.

By Heidi Tai

5 Ways to Re-experience Katoomba Easter Convention 

You may have left Katoomba Easter Convention (KEC) on a spiritual high but found yourself quickly buried by the demands and pressures of life back at home. Here are 5 ways to re-experience KEC and to ‘stand firm’ for Jesus!

1. Hear all your favourite KEC talks with KCC+ 

Were the KEC talks and testimonials the highlight of your weekend? Hear them all again with KCC+, a brand-new subscription service giving KCC One users faster and exclusive access to all the latest KCC event talks. Sign up today to get instant access to 13 uploads from KEC 22, and all talks from KEC 23 including: 

  • Ed Stetzer’s “God Has Spoken” expository talks from the Psalms 
  • Dan Paterson’s “Living Out the Truth in a World of Confusion” expository talks from the Gospels 
  • Sam Chan’s “The Plausibility of Believing” short talks from the book of John and Luke 
  • Sarah Irving-Stonebraker’s personal testimony “How Oxford and Peter Singer led an Atheist Historian to Jesus”.   

Learn more or sign up to KCC+ today!  

2. Tune your heart to ‘stand firm’ with the KEC Spotify Playlist 

Many of us left KEC feeling encouraged and emboldened by God’s word, with hearts softened and committed to walking in the Truth. We want you to continue walking this way—not just at KEC—but all year round! What better way than to keep God’s praises on your lips than to sing of him each day with these handpicked worship songs from the official KEC Spotify playlist:  

3. Spot yourself in the KEC Highlight Reel

Over 2,300 of God’s people gathered at KEC this year, and there were plenty of highlights and things to be grateful for! We’ve tried to stitch it all together in a highlight reel—see if you can spot yourselves!  

4. Be encouraged to ‘stand firm’ with one of the KEC recommended reads 

We’ve picked out a few books that will help you to apply God’s word into everyday life. With topics such as singleness, evangelism, courage, motherhood, business, secularism, money, and the historical accuracy of the Bible, there’s something for every member of your family. Check out the full list on The Wandering Bookseller: https://wanderingbookseller.com.au/collections/kec  
 

5. Reflect, pray and process what you learned at KEC 23 

You may have left KEC on a spiritual high but found yourself quickly buried by the demands and pressures of life back at home. Why not commit to having some quiet time with God—reflecting, praying and processing what you learned with these guided questions:  

1. What is one verse that stood out or resonated with you? 

2. What is one thing God is showing your through His Word? Did you learn anything new? 

3. What is one thing you can apply to your daily life? Or is there a habit or attitude you need to change? 

4. What do you want to tell God as a result of what you have heard? Or is there one person you want to share that with who can walk with you in this step of faith? 

Pray! 

5 ways to re-experience KEC and to ‘stand firm’ for Jesus

By Heidi Tai

Over 5,000 youth invited to ‘Meet Jesus’ at KYCK 

Over three weekends, more than 5,000 teenagers and youth leaders attended the KYCK conference in Katoomba. Founded in 1993, KYCK is a Bible preaching event aimed at inspiring high schoolers to live for Jesus alone.  

Over the years, KYCK has become a treasured space for teenagers to explore and deepen their faith with like-minded company. Each year, delegates are invited to hear and respond to God’s word through powerful Bible talks, uplifting worship in song, inspiring testimonies, and fun youth-appropriate activities.  

This year, guest speakers Seth Fellows (AFES), Josh Hayward (Christ Church St Ives), Dave Jensen (EV Church), Nathan Lee (Trinity Grammar), Ed Sowden (Bathurst Presbyterian) and Jonnie Wintle (Seaforth Anglican) invited delegates to ‘Meet Jesus’ in the Gospel of Mark.

The talks aimed to demystify the person of Jesus and to show us his powerful yet loving rule. We praise God that because of hearing His word, 81 teenagers decided to follow Jesus for the first time, 257 recommitted their lives to him, and 92 left the conference wanting to learn more. 

For teenagers who are already Christian, attending KYCK enables them to hear God’s word taught from someone new, thus allowing them to hear old stories with fresh perspective. Gathering at KYCK also serves as a powerful reminder that they are not alone in their faith, and that their beliefs are shared by thousands across Australia. This encouragement is especially important for teenagers in smaller youth groups, isolated rural areas, or who face opposition for their faith at home or school.  

“KYCK feels like the only place other than church where you can connect with other people who have the same beliefs as you, whilst learning new things to take home and cherish. This was my first ever KYCK and it was certainly the highlight of the year. Definitely going to come back next year and be fully committed to listening to God’s Word, following Him and loving like Jesus did.” 

“KYCK has really changed the way I’ve thought about Christianity. I now have a newfound joy for worship and confidence to approach my non-Christian friends.” 

“I’ve made so many new memories, new friends and most importantly, renewed my relationship with God.” 

“Seth’s talks were amazing. He helped me view Jesus in a whole new perspective.” 

While KYCK is designed primarily for high schoolers, it also serves youth leaders who can take a break from planning and leading Youth Group that week. Instead, leaders are invited to spend quality time with their teenagers, and to deepen relationships through bonding, learning, sharing and praying together.  

A BIG thank you for KYCK 2. It was my first time, and the first time bringing our little youth group (4 teens + one other leader). It was a wonderful weekend of Bible teaching, music, fun, and time together. I was particularly encouraged by your commitment to being faithful to the Scriptures and your focus on Christ.

“What a weekend! We’re leaving with a challenge to answer: who is Jesus and what difference does that make to my life? Mark’s Gospel has spoken to us this weekend and we pray our youth will continue to listen to Him speak into their lives as we head back to Taree.”

Emersus Youth

Hosted as a hybrid event, youth groups can choose to experience KYCK in-person at StayKCC in the Blue Mountains, or KYCK Online; a high-quality livestream promising a ‘front row’ seat from the convenience of a living room or church hall. Delegates who joined KYCK in-person could take part in optional fellowship activities including an organised Prayer Gathering and a Saturday night BBQ which raised over $3,000 for Scripture teachers.  

Do you have a story of how God worked in you or your youth at KYCK 23? Let us know using the feedback form or by emailing kyck@kcc.org.au. We would love to hear from you! 

KYCK will return for a fourth weekend on the 22-24 September. Tickets are still available from our website: https://www.kyck.org.au/  

Over three weekends, more than 5,000 teenagers and youth leaders attended the KYCK conference in Katoomba.

By Heidi Tai

Over 2,300 Emboldened with a ‘Rock Solid’ Faith at Katoomba Easter Convention  

We praise God that over the Easter long weekend, over 2,300 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 refreshed with compelling and respected reasons to trust God’s word in a world of confusion.  

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.   

This year, over 1700 delegates joined the Adult Program to hear from a wide range of international and local speakers. Through expository preaching, topical talks and inspiring testimonies, KEC speakers encouraged delegates to see God’s word as a ‘Rock Solid’ source of truth, goodness and beauty.  

Program highlights included Ed Stetzer’s “God Has Spoken” expository talks from the Psalms, Dan Paterson’s “Living Out the Truth in a World of Confusion” expository talks from the Gospels, Sam Chan’s “The Plausibility of Believing” short talks from the book of John, and Sarah Irving-Stonebraker’s personal testimony “How Oxford and Peter Singer led an Atheist Historian to Jesus”.  

“Each speaker had an impact. Listening to Dan speak about his suffering and Sarah about her walk from atheism into Christianity was very encouraging.”

“All of the speakers were amazing. Ed, Sam and Dan all had different styles of preaching which was super refreshing each time they came up to speak.”

“I loved Dan Peterson’s talks illustrating the gospel and Jesus’ death and resurrection. The whole convention showed me how much God loves me and convicted me that I need to spend more time with Him.”

While adults enjoyed rich teaching and fellowship in the main session, over 580 children and youth were served by one of eight programs, ranging from Tiny Tots (up to 12 months) to Senior High (Year 10-12). Quiz Worx served the Primary Program with puppetry, music and stories while Tim Edwards taught Junior High, and Aaron Smith in Senior High. Powered by over 170 volunteers, KEC’s age-specific programs gives every family member an opportunity to hear and respond to the gospel each Easter: 

“I’d spent well over a decade having the Bible well-taught at KEC by people who loved Jesus. I’m thankful that the leaders in the Kid’s Programs and speakers for the adults never shied away from the fact that life can be hard, but God and his word are true and unchanging, and that he is worth following.”

“My last year in the senior high program proved to me how special KEC is, particularly the incredible encouragement from those within my discussion group. It really prompted me to think deeply every day and to praise God for the amazing opportunities we have.”

While we live in a world of confusion and scepticism towards the Bible, it is our hope that KEC has given delegates a renewed confidence that the Bible is true and trustworthy, beautiful and good. It is our prayer that the church will have a ‘Rock Solid’ faith in God’s word, holding out the Bible as a treasured possession and worthy of wholehearted, joyful submission.  

Did God speak to you at KEC? Share your story with us here!  

Hear all the KEC talks with KCC+ 

The KCC One app has launched KCC+, a brand-new subscription service giving users faster and exclusive access to the latest KCC event talks. Available from a monthly annual subscription rate of $4.99, new subscribers will get instant access to our April catalogue which includes 13 talks and uploads from KEC 22, as well as all the KEC 23 talks in May.  

Learn more here: https://www.kccone.org.au/ 

Sign up to KCC+ here: https://www.kccone.org.au/users/sign_up  

“The talks were all just incredible and I can’t wait to listen to them all again on the KCC+ app. I am so grateful for the reminder that there is nothing I can do to earn or deserve God’s love and it is purely through His Grace that I am saved.”

We praise God that over the Easter long weekend, over 2,300 people gathered at KEC to be empowered by God’s word.

By Heidi Tai

6 Ways to Prepare for Easter Convention This Weekend  

Katoomba Easter Convention (KEC) is right around the corner! Here’s 6 ways to prepare your hearts, minds and families for the long weekend with us.  

1. Secure your spot at the Easter Sunday Night Dinner 

Get the family together and enjoy a hot, catered dinner and fellowship with other attendees. The Easter Sunday Night dinner is separately bookable from your conference ticket registration. For attendees who have booked accommodation onsite with StayKCC (not including camping & CMS) and volunteers staying onsite, this has been included in your booking. 

Pricing:  

  • Adults and children over 12 years: $20 
  • Children (3-12 years): $15 
  • Children under 3 are free. 

If you have already purchased your KEC tickets and would like to add on the special night dinner, you can purchase directly through our ticketing system or give us a call on 1300 737 140. 

2. Meditate on passages that will be preached at KEC 23 

This year we are pleased to host a combination of local and international speakers and special guests including Ed Stetzer, Dan Paterson, Sam Chan, Malcolm Gill, Jonathan Dykes, Judith Calf and Sarah Irving-Stonebraker.  

Together, they will explore the theme, “Rock Solid: Trusting God’s Word in a World of Confusion”. To prepare your hearts for Easter, we encourage you to meditate on the passages that will be preached at KEC:  

  • Psalm 1  
  • Psalm 19  
  • Psalm 23  
  • Psalm 84  
  • Matthew 27:32-54  
  • Mark 14:66-72  
  • Mark 15:42-47  
  • Luke 24:1-12 & 36-49 
  • John 20:24-31  
  • John 8:40-48  
  • John 2:1-12  
  • Isaiah 55 
  • Psalm 119:105 

To see the 15 confirmed talk titles, click here.  

3. Prepare your tickets for entry 

Make sure your tickets are ready upon entry. If you registered on or before close of business 23 March 2023, please bring the tickets that you received in the mail. If you registered after this date, please arrive a little earlier on Good Friday morning to pick up your tickets from the Info Tent on site.  

4. Pack for all types of weather 

The weather in Katoomba can be unpredictable, so make sure you pack for rain, hail and shine! Don’t forget your rain jacket, warm clothes, and comfortable gear for enjoying the outdoors during free time!

5. Stay up to date with KEC on socials and the KCC One app 

Stay up to date with the latest KEC news, and interact with our live segments by following us on Facebook or Instagram. Download the KCC One App to gain daily encouragement from KCC’s library of sermons, topical talks, testimonies, and devotionals in audio, text and video formats.

6. Tune your heart for worship with our Spotify playlist 

Familiarise yourself with the songs being played at KEC by following our Spotify playlist.

There’s still time to join us!

At Katoomba Easter Convention 2023, we’re ready to serve you with a family-friendly program that will empower you to believe that the Bible is true, trustworthy and inspired by God.   

Dates: 7-10th April 2023     
Place: StayKCC, Katoomba      

There’s still time to join us! Register today: https://easterconvention.com/      

6 ways to prepare for Katoomba Easter Convention 2023

By Heidi Tai

15 Talks Confirmed for Katoomba Easter Convention 

We’re pleased to give you a sneak peek of the 15 talks confirmed for Katoomba Easter Convention (KEC).  

Katoomba Easter Convention is returning this Easter long weekend to address the theme “Rock Solid: Trusting God’s Word in a World of Confusion”. At KEC this year, delegates will be empowered to have confidence in the Bible’s authority, while refreshing their desire to hear, understand and live by God’s word.   

We praise God for our range of international and local speakers who have accepted the invitation to address this important topic. Here’s a sneak peek of the speakers and talks that will be covered this Easter long weekend: 

Ed Stetzer

Ed Stetzer is a Professor and Dean at Wheaton College where he also serves as Executive Director of the Wheaton College Billy Graham Center.  

Ed will share four talks from the book of Psalms:  

  • Psalm 1 – The ‘Rock Solid’ Word (TRSW) Focuses Our Direction to God’s Pathway 
  • Psalm 19 – TRSW Frames Our Decisions for God’s Honour 
  • Psalm 23 – TRSW Feeds Our Desire for God’s Presence 
  • Psalm 84 – TRSW Fuels Our Devotion to God’s Glory 

Dan Paterson 

Dan Paterson is the founder of ‘Questioning Christianity’, a ministry helping you connect the Christian story to life’s deepest questions. Dan will unpack the Easter story over three talks from the following books:  

  • Matthew 27:32-54 – Otherworldly Suffering 
  • Mark 14:66-72 & Mark 15:42-47 – Re-enchanting Humanity 
  • Luke 24:1-12 & 36-49 – Turning Graves into Gardens

Sam Chan

Sam Chan is the lead mentor and trainer at EvQ School of Evangelism, a ministry of City Bible Forum) and author of How to talk about Jesus (without being THAT guy). Sam will share three talks from the Gospel of John:  

  • John 20:24-31 – How do I know the Bible is True? 
  • John 8:40-48 – How do I know the Bible is Good? 
  • John 2:1-12 – How do I know the Bible is Beautiful? 

More talks from Special Guests!

PLUS, more talks from our Special Guests on a range of topics:  

Jonathan Dykes (Executive Director, Katoomba Christian Convention) 
The Bible in Everyday Life: Rain & Snow (Isaiah 55) 

Malcolm Gill (Lead Pastor, Multicultural Bible Ministry)  
The Bible in Everyday Life: Lamp & Light (Psalm 119:105) 

Sarah Irving-Stonebraker (Associate Professor of History and Western Civilisation, Australian Catholic University)  
How Oxford and Peter Singer led an Atheist Historian to Jesus 
A Strong Foundation: How History Can Help us in a Confused World  

Judith Calf (Program Manager for Theological Education, Anglican Aid)  
Keep Them and Do Them 

There’s still time to join us at KEC! 

Dates: Easter long weekend, 7-10 April 2023 
Venue: StayKCC, Katoomba 

Katoomba Easter Convention is less than two weeks away, so don’t delay in booking your tickets. Register now at: https://easterconvention.com/ 

A sneak peek of the 15 talks confirmed for Katoomba Easter Convention (KEC) this April.

By Heidi Tai

Jonathan Dykes Confirmed as Guest Speaker at Katoomba Easter Convention

We are thrilled to announce that Jonathan Dykes will return to speak at Katoomba Easter Convention (KEC) 2023. 

KEC 23 Guest Speaker: Jonathan Dykes

Katoomba Easter Convention will return on 7-10 April 2023, to address the theme “Rock Solid: Trusting God’s Word in a World of Confusion”. In a time where God’s word is often met with mistrust and skepticism, KEC will empower delegates to have confidence in the Bible’s authority, while refreshing their desire to hear, understand and live by God’s word.   
 
To address this topic, Jonathan Dykes will return to the KEC platform as a guest speaker. A long-time attendee and volunteer on KCC committees, Jonathan was appointed as Executive Director of Katoomba Christian Convention (KCC) in 2012. Prior to this, he served as a faculty member at Sydney Missionary & Bible College (SMBC) teaching Preaching and on the staff teams at St Thomas’ Anglican Church North Sydney and City Bible Forum.  

For Jonathan, attending KEC every year has become an important family tradition—one that communicates to his children the preciousness of Easter and hearing from God’s word:  

“Making the effort to go to KEC every year helps communicate to our kids that Easter is a special time and that dedicating time to listen to God is a priority.  

“It has become our regular retreat space – away from interruptions, distractions and busyness – where we can talk as a whole family about what it means to follow Jesus Christ.” 

Jonathan last spoke at Katoomba Easter Convention in 2004 and 2022, and we are thrilled to have him back at KEC 2023. Get a taste of his teaching from the SMBC archives here: https://www.smbc.edu.au/resources/bibletalks-speaker-talks/Jonathan-Dykes    

Go Together. Grow Together. 

At Katoomba Easter Convention 2023, we’re ready to serve you with a family-friendly program that will empower you to believe that the Bible is true, trustworthy and inspired by God. Whether you join us in the beautiful mountain air of Katoomba, or from your living room or holiday home elsewhere, our absolute priority is to provide a program that will continue to be a time of significant spiritual impact for every member of your family.   

Dates: 7-10th April 2023   
Place: StayKCC, Katoomba    
Theme: Rock Solid: Trusting God in a World of Confusion    
Main Speakers: Ed Stetzer (Wheaton College Billy Graham Center) and Dan Paterson (Questioning Christianity) 
Guest Speakers: Malcolm Gill, Sam Chan and Jonathan Dykes 
    
For more information on ticket types, pricing, family packages and children’s programs visit our website: https://easterconvention.com/    

Jonathan Dykes will return to speak at Katoomba Easter Convention 2023. 

By Heidi Tai

5 Reasons to Make Katoomba Easter Convention A Family Tradition 

Family traditions are experiences, activities, attitudes, or ideals that are passed down across generations. Whether you’re gathering to decorate a Christmas tree, wrap dumplings, or to celebrate a meaningful holiday by the sea, family traditions are important for establishing foundational values and moments of deep bonding.  

Since 1962, Katoomba Easter Convention (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.  

5 reasons to make KEC a family tradition this Easter:  

  1. Model to your family the significance of Easter  

For the Christian, Easter is a significant time of remembering the death and resurrection of Christ and how it applies to everyday life. Attending KEC can be a big sacrifice of time, money and resources, but by prioritising spiritual growth, we communicate to our families that Easter is more than a long weekend of chocolate eggs and bunnies.  

“KEC has been great for my family to get away from the challenges and distractions of life to spend time reflecting on God. 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.”

Verity Hall, KEC Delegate and Volunteer 
  1. Start each year deeply rooted in God’s word  

At KEC, hearing and responding to God’s word is the priority. At a time where we and our children are bombarded by competing messages, values and ideals, it is important to start the year well, rooted in God’s word. Each year, KEC invites gifted Bible teachers to preach on relevant topics. In 2023, main speakers Ed Stetzer and Dan Paterson, and special guests Malcolm Gill, Sam Chan and Jonathan Dykes will speak on the topic “Rock Solid: Trusting God’s Word in a World of Confusion”. In a world of scepticism and confusion, KEC will empower your family to believe that the Bible is true, trustworthy and inspired by a good and gracious God.  

“Through the Kid’s program, I was annually fed with engaging and solid Bible teaching, which allowed me to thank Jesus for what he has done in every stage of life. KEC has been a major influence in the way I know Jesus and express my faith today.”  

Anna Kreicers, KEC Delegate and Volunteer 
  1. A commitment to annual Sabbath rest as a family  

    What if the Easter long weekend could become a time of regular Sabbath rest for your family?  

    Attending KEC may take some effort but once you arrive, you will be invited to rest in God’s word in the beautiful Blue Mountains. Drop off your little ones at our children’s programs and enjoy mornings being refreshed by Bible talks, inspiring testimonies, and uplifting worship in song. Spend afternoons relaxing with friends and family, surrounded by golden Autumn hues. Swap out screen time for meaning conversation and prayer in crisp mountain air. Away from the interruptions and distractions of city life, KEC is a space for your family to deeply consider what it means to love and live for Jesus.  

    “I love watching the dedicated Toddler team in action. Young Adult leaders who volunteer their Easter break to lovingly care for little ones so that their parents can benefit from undisturbed bible teaching in the auditorium. That is Christian community in action.”  

    John & Jenny, KEC Delegates and Volunteers  
    1. Expand your family’s view of God’s world and the global church 

    Attending KEC will show your family that God’s world is much bigger than the four walls of the local church, and that He is working powerfully across our country and world. At a time when being a Christian can feel lonely or isolating, KEC is a powerful reminder that we belong to a bigger spiritual family, and for life-long friendships to be formed. By highlighting stories of the persecuted and vulnerable, delegates are given the opportunity to consider how they can be part of God’s mission too.  

    “Over the years we have seen children grow into adults with children and seen God working in people’s lives. As a volunteer I have met in person, many different godly people from Australia and all the over the world.”  

    Gordon, KEC Delegate and Volunteer 
    1. Inspire your family into a lifetime of faithful gospel service  

    KEC relies on the power of volunteers—from our children’s program leaders to our ushers on the day, each volunteer helps to facilitate God’s Word preached from the platform. This volunteer model has impacted many delegates and created a strong culture of gospel generosity and sacrifice. We thank God that over six decades, we have witnessed delegates flourishing into men and women of faith—serving their local churches and KCC events as staff, committee members and volunteers!  

    “We first started volunteering after our children were all in high school. We were so grateful for the volunteers that had looked after them that we decided to give some time and energy ourselves. We really enjoy being part of a team committed to serving their brothers and sisters, and we’ve formed great friendships as a result.”  

    Ross & Karen, KEC Delegates and Volunteers

    Go Together. Grow Together.

    Are you ready to make KEC a family tradition this Easter?  

    Dates: 7-10th April 2023  
    Place: StayKCC, Katoomba   
    Theme: Rock Solid: Trusting God in a World of Confusion   
    Main Speakers: Ed Stetzer (Wheaton College Billy Graham Center) and Dan Paterson (Questioning Christianity)  
       
    For more information on ticket types, pricing, family packages and children’s programs visit our website: https://easterconvention.com/   

    Family traditions are experiences, activities, attitudes, or ideals that are passed down across generations. Whether

    By Heidi Tai
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