We are so pleased to introduce our speakers for Katoomba Easter Convention (KEC) next year. In 2024, John North, Matt Sparks and Tim Blencowe will join the KEC platform to preach on the topic “Conquering Worldliness: Resisting the Gravitational Pull of the World”. Together, they will open God’s word to help believers hear God’s warning against worldliness while encouraging them to stay true to the course God has set before them.
Meet John North
John North was born in India to Australian missionaries and loves to teach God’s word in a penetrating way that changes people’s lives. He is the Director of EvangelismSHIFT International and the National Director of Ambassadors for Christ International (AFCI) in Australia. For 30 years he has helped AFCI to build a team focused on accelerating the spread of the gospel through local churches.
John wrote GrowthWorks, a book to help you get back on the path of spiritual growth. He is on Hope 103.2 radio each morning in Sydney with the Time With God devotional spot. John is married to Lois and they have four children. In his free time, John rides his mountain bike, plays games with his family, and reads.
John will be giving the four main morning talks across the KEC weekend.
Meet Matt Sparks
Matt is married to Tash, and they have three kids, living in Sydney’s eclectic Inner-west. In 2014, they took a leap of faith and planted Anchor Church in their small two-bedroom apartment with a team of 17 people praying for a powerful move of God. Today, Anchor is a growing movement of churches committed to planting vibrant, missional churches that form people into the image of Christ. He is passionate about the local church, the glory of God, and the Parramatta Eels!
Matt will be giving three main evening talks across the KEC weekend.
Meet Tim Blencowe
Tim and his family are part of the international community of Macquarie Baptist Church, where he serves as senior pastor and as a chaplain to Macquarie University. Tim was raised in a missionary family, has a background in high school teaching, and enjoys helping people embrace a living faith that integrates the whole of life.
Tim will be giving four short morning talks across the KEC weekend.
Go Together. Grow Together.
At KEC, hearing and responding to God’s word is the priority. At a time where we and our children are bombarded by secular messages, values and ideals, KEC will help your family to start the year well, rooted in God’s word.
As always, the program will feature empowering Bible talks, inspiring Christian testimonies, uplifting worship in song, and breaks for relaxation and fellowship. With age-specific programs for everyone from toddlers to adults, all are welcome to join us this Easter.
Book your Family Package by 31st December 2023 and get FREE online access over the long weekend added to your booking (normally $60 in value). For more information visit our website: https://easterconvention.com/special-offer/
Meet our 3 speakers confirmed for Katoomba Easter Convention 2024!
By Heidi Tai
6,400 Youth, 485 Recommitments and 122 Conversions: A Huge Year for KYCK
KYCK 2023 officially ended in September, with over 1,400 delegates committing their weekend to ‘Meet Jesus’ in the fourth and final KYCK weekend. We praise God that this brought the total number of KYCK 2023 attendees to 6,400 from over 240 churches.
Hosted by Katoomba Christian Convention, KYCK is an annual event that challenges and equips teenagers to boldly live the Christian life. 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 teenagers his powerful yet loving rule. We praise God that because of hearing God’s word preached, a total of 122 teenagers decided to follow Jesus for the first time, 485 recommitted their lives to him, and 130 left the conference wanting to learn more.
“My favourite thing about KYCK was having the privilege to see God work in kid’s hearts and minds, and the encouragement when they came back into the hall on response night was electric.”
– Youth Leader, KYCK 4 Attendee
“KYCK is a pivotal part of our year as a Youth group. This year, two of our youth committed their lives to Jesus for the first time and we all sat and cried with joy and praise to God.”
– Youth Leader, KYCK 4 Attendee
Over the years, KYCK has become a treasured space for teenagers to explore and deepen their faith with like-minded company. 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.
KYCK typically runs through three weekends in April (KYCK 1, 2 and 3) and one weekend in September (KYCK 4). KYCK 4 was added to the KCC calendar to give churches more flexibility for youth camps in warmer weather, and to encourage more involvement among junior students while seniors are studying for final exams.
KYCK will return in 2024 across the following weekends:
Weekend 1: 12–14 April
Weekend 2 & Online: 19–21 April
Weekend 3: 26–28 April
Weekend 4: 27–29 September
The theme will be ‘In the Beginning’ with guest speakers preaching from Genesis 1-3. Tickets will go on sale Tuesday 7 November, 9.30am AEDT and will be available until sold out. To sign up for the latest updates, visit our website: https://www.kyck.org.au/
We praise God that 6,400 youth and leaders attended KYCK conference this year!
By Heidi Tai
Conquering Worldliness: Secure Your Spot at Katoomba Easter Convention 2024
Hosted by Katoomba Christian Convention, KEC is an annual event aimed at encouraging people to rest and grow in God’s word each Easter. For many families with children, KEC has been adopted as a family tradition; a way for parents to communicate the significance of Christ’s death and resurrection and prioritisation of spiritual growth each year.
Katoomba Easter Convention 2023 Highlights
Since 1962, God has used KEC to transform entire families, with children growing up through the children’s programs, and graduating as men and women who are convicted to live for Jesus alone:
“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, KEC Delegate and Volunteer
“KEC is an opportunity for a family get together with a gospel centred focus. Our children in the past and now our grandchildren love the children’s program and are encouraged and fed in their walk with the Lord and enjoy fellowship with KEC friends. Adults likewise are encouraged and challenged to continue to serve the Lord.”
Gaye, KEC Delegate
In 2024, the program will be built around the theme: “Conquering Worldliness: Resisting the Gravitational Pull of the World”, with delegates invited to consider how they can remain faithful as Christians in an increasingly secular world.
The program will feature empowering Bible talks, inspiring Christian testimonies, uplifting worship in song, and breaks for relaxation and fellowship.
With age-specific programs for everyone from Keenites (toddlers) to adults, all are welcome to join us this Easter.
To receive the latest KEC updates including updates on 2024 speakers, follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
Registrations are now open for Katoomba Easter Convention (KEC) 2024
By Heidi Tai
July Discount: Bring 5 Friends to OneLove or BASECAMP and Save!
BASECAMP men’s conference and OneLove women’s conference are coming up this August and we don’t want anyone to miss out! This is why we’re offering a July special for groups. Bring a group of 5 or more friends and you can get $10 off each ticket*. Be quick as this offer will end on Monday 31 July.
*Available for tickets purchased in one transaction. Valid for in-person tickets only.
BASECAMP for Men
BASECAMP will be an unmissable event for men to strengthen their faith in the company of like-minded brothers. This year, guest speakers Alasdair Groves and Peter Sondergeld will teach on the topic “Unravelling Emotions”. BASECAMP will be held over two weekends at the following locations:
BASECAMP Sydney: Saturday 5 August at the UNSW Roundhouse, Kensington
BASECAMP Mountains: Friday 11 – Saturday 12 August at StayKCC, Katoomba
OneLovegives women an opportunity to step away from the everyday, to invest in their walk with God and to hear great preaching from gifted female speakers! This year, award-winning author and Bible teacher, Jackie Hill Perry, will speak on the theme “Worthy of Trust: The God Who Sees Us”. OneLove will be held on Saturday 26 August at the Hillsong Convention Centre in Norwest. Register now and save: https://onelovewomen.com/
Join us for OneLove 2023
Bring a group of 5 or more friends and you can get $10 off each ticket!
By Heidi Tai
“I Regret Not Going in Previous Years”: Adam’s KYCK Testimony
In this interview, Adam from Coffs Harbour Presbyterian Church shares how he met Jesus at his lowest point and how attending KYCK 23 challenged him to live like Jesus and to be proactive with his faith. He also shares why youth should “get off the fence” and just make the decision to go to KYCK this year!
1. How many KYCKs have you been to and what was your favourite part?
KYCK 23 was my first KYCK! Unfortunately, it was also my last due to my age, and I regret not going in previous years! My favourite part about KYCK was the ability to praise, connect with and learn about Christ, surrounded by thousands of people – an incredibly encouraging experience!
2. How did KYCK23 challenge you in your faith?
KYCK 23 has challenged me to not only live like Jesus, but to actively seek and read His word in the Bible, encourage others in reading His word and to back Jesus up when I’m being questioned. You just never know when He’ll enter someone’s life through you!
3. Tell us how you became a Christian!
I met Jesus when I was at my lowest. 2020 was a tough year for so many, and I was struggling with depression following the death of my grandfather and the isolation brought on by COVID. God used that time to build me back up, create a proper, almost unbreakable connection with Him and surrounded me with an amazing group of friends.
4. How has meeting Jesus changed your life?
Meeting Jesus has provided me with an incredibly freeing feeling, knowing that there will always be someone I can rely on who’ll ride the waves of life with me in a life that He prepared for me is amazing.
5. What would you say to someone on the fence about attending KYCK?
I was once on the fence too, and for way too long. Just go! It’s the most amazing experience and you absolutely won’t regret it. You’ll meet new people, make new friends and may well find yourself connecting with Christ on a whole new level!
KYCK 23 Early Bird Rate Ends This Week!
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.
Adam shares how he met Jesus at his lowest point and how attending KYCK 23 challenged him to live like Jesus and to be proactive with his faith.
By Heidi Tai
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!
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 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 explorea 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”.
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:
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.
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.
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”.
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.
