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Men Equipped to Tackle Emotions Biblically at BASECAMP

We praise God that over two weekends in August, over 1,700 men from 286 churches gathered under God’s word at BASECAMP men’s conference. 

Men joined the event from across the state, with the largest groups coming from South-West Evangelical Church (Kingsgrove), St Matthew’s Anglican Church (Manly), Hebron Chinese Alliance Church (Westmead), Helensburgh Anglican Church (Helensburgh), and St Thomas Anglican Church (Moorebank). 

The livestream option also enabled men from outside of Sydney metropolitan areas to join the event, with churches tuning in from Orange, Kiama, Broken Hill, Canberra and Tasmania. 

Each year at BASECAMP, God’s word is preached around a theme that is relevant to men from all walks of life. In 2023, guest speakers Alasdair Groves and Peter Sondergeld spoke on the topic “Unravelling Emotions”, encouraging men to have a biblical view on emotions such as sadness, anger and shame; how to handle them well, and how to process the emotions with God and one another in community.  

  • Talk #1: Sometimes it’s Good to Feel Bad – Alasdair Groves (John 11:5-35) 
  • Talk #2: Shame and Anger – Peter Sondergeld (Genesis 3:1-13)  
  • Talk #3: Engaging Emotions – Alasdair Groves (Psalm 62:1-8) 
  • Talk #4: Responding to questions and moving forward – Alasdair Groves (Romans 12:1-21) 

For many delegates, BASECAMP 23 highlighted relevant and significant issues that have been overlooked or suppressed: 

“The topic of ‘Unravelling Emotions’ was spot on for where I am at right now. I was feeling pretty low and needing to hear a word from God and to feel His love and that is exactly what happened. I cried through almost every song.”

Andrew 

“The speakers were the best in years. What a fabulous topic to cover.  It dealt with a topic that has sat unresolved in my faith for the last few years, in a way that nobody has been able to do thus far.”

Grant

“Emotions are something that men generally really struggle with, so for you to tackle this issue was so worthwhile and beneficial.”

Brian

For others, BASECAMP gave them an opportunity to bond with men from church, and to deepen existing friendships through honest conversation. At a time where following Jesus can be a lonely pursuit, BASECAMP reminded many men that they are not alone in their faith:  

“BASECAMP opened up new conversations about deeper topics, for the mutual benefit of building each other up in Christ.”

Gerald 

“I really enjoyed the atmosphere of being in the company of so many brothers in Christ. The sound of so many men singing was truly uplifting.”

Wayne

“Joining together with so many men as well as the group from our own church is a highlight. This makes it clear that God is moving in men all over the place.”

Joly

Did you miss out on BASECAMP 2023? Our Livestream video is available On Demand until Monday, 11 September 2023. Register now to get instant access. 

BASECAMP Merch now available online!

If you missed out on grabbing BASECAMP merch, you can now buy it online! All profits will support the BASECAMP ministry. Stock is limited, so make sure you get in quick: basecampmen.com/merch

Save the dates for BASECAMP 2024!

BASECAMP will return in 2024 on the weekends of the 3rd (Sydney) and 9-10th (Mountains & Online) of August.  

Pastor, preacher and apologist Sam Allbery will be joining us to speak on the theme “Building Brotherhood (Life Together)”.  
 
Learn more on our website: basecampmen.com or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.

We praise God that over two weekends in August, over 1,700 men from 286 churches gathered under God’s word at BASECAMP men’s conference. 

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  

Register now and save: https://basecampmen.com/  

Join us for BASECAMP 2023

OneLove for Women

OneLove gives 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

International Evangelists John Lennox and Glen Scrivener to Speak at Oxygen 2023 

We are pleased to announce that international evangelists, John Lennox and Glen Scrivener, will be speaking at Oxygen conference as special guests.  

Returning this August, Oxygen exists to serve anyone in Christian ministry—to refresh them in their zeal for God and the work that He has called them to do. This year, Oxygen will return as a 4-day conference retreat in the beautiful Blue Mountains.  

Through bible talks, practical workshops and rich fellowship in a quiet and focused space, delegates will be invited to check their hearts and spiritual health for ministry.  

Meet Oxygen Special Guest: John Lennox 

John Lennox is the Emeritus Professor of Mathematics at the University of Oxford, Emeritus Fellow in Mathematics and the Philosophy of Science, Pastoral Advisor at Green Templeton College, and former Associate Fellow at Saïd Business School. 

He has written extensively on the interface between science, philosophy and theology, with recent titles including ‘Can Science Explain Everything?’, ‘Where is God in a Coronavirus World?’ and ‘Cosmic Chemistry: Do God and Science Mix?’. John has also engaged in high-profile public debates with Richard Dawkins, Peter Singer and the late Christopher Hitchens.  

John Lennox will be joining us virtually, live from the UK for one of our evening segments titled ‘The Non-Negotiables of Christian Ministry’.  

Get a taste of his teaching here:  

John Lennox: Suffering & the God Question 

If we believe in a loving God, how can we explain the existence of suffering and evil in the world? Is there enough evidence to trust in God despite the problems we see in the world around us? 
 
In this Oxygen 14 talk, John Lennox explores both the practical and theoretical aspects of this question and suggests ways in which the subject can be approached with the events of Jesus on the cross in mind. This talk was part of the ‘Apologetics and Evangelism’ stream at Oxygen 2014. 

John Lennox – Who Created The Creator 

In this video, John Lennox addresses Richard Dawkin’s question: Who created the Creator?  

https://vimeo.com/97364808

Meet Oxygen Special Guest: Glenn Scrivener 

Glen Scrivener is passionate about people meeting Christ and equipping Christians to share their faith. He’s often found speaking at Churches and Universities, in the studio producing online media or in his office, writing books and other evangelistic material. Glen is married to Emma, and they have a daughter, Ruby and son, JJ. 

Glen will be presenting a pre-recorded short talk, reflecting on the current cultural dynamics that are at play in the world and how they can impact our hearts and shape the ministry and work we do. 

Get a taste of his teaching here: 

Glen Scrivener Introduces The Air We Breathe 

In this video, Glen Scrivener introduces his book “The Air We Breathe” and shares how our values such as equality, compassion and consent are “supernatural” for they have come uniquely and specifically from Jesus. To learn more, you can also read his article “Everyone You Know Is a Believer”.  

YouTube video

Easter Uprising – The Weekend That Made Our World  

In this short documentary, Glen Scrivener travels from London to Rome in search of a true appreciation for the cross and how the crucifixion has been understood over time. He argues that way we see the cross has been transformed, because the ‘Easter Uprising’ has transformed the way we see the world. Trigger warning: Historical violence described. 

YouTube video

Fuel your love for God in ministry at Oxygen! 

This August, we invite you to slow down and to invest in the crux of what drives you in ministry: your love for Christ. Be revitalised by God’s Word and invigorated for the gospel work He has called you to do.  

Paul Tripp and Zack Eswine will be teaching from the Bible, thoughtfully and prayerfully prepared just for you in ministry, joined by special guests Prof John Lennox, Glen Scrivener, Miroslav Volf, Sarah Irving-Stonebreaker, Kirk Patston, Anna Powell, Mal Gill, and Jonathan Dykes. 

Along with our fantastic line-up of workshop speakers, every part of the program has been carefully planned to expand perspective, offer guidance, and real, relevant experience to help enrich and strengthen you and your ministry. 

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to be with like-minded people in ministry in all its forms, and to sit under teaching, encouragement and fellowship that is tailored just for you! 
 
Standard rate tickets for Oxygen 2023 are available until midnight on Tuesday 18th July. Book your tickets today.  


 

Meet John Lennox and Glen Scrivener who will be speaking at Oxygen conference this August.

By Heidi Tai

Can Christianity be True and Good? Teenagers Empowered and Equipped with Answers at Onward 

Earlier this month, youth groups across the country gathered for Onward Youth to engage with an important question: True and Good – Can Christianity Be Both?  

Delegates across Sydney joined the conference in-person, while the livestream option welcomed youth from as far and wide as regional New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Canberra and even from Zürich in Switzerland!  
 
Through four short talks, guest speakers Alan Au and Dave Jensen explored the claims of Christianity to be “true and good”, and the tension that exists when following Jesus can feel painful or difficult. By looking into the life of Jesus from the Gospel of Luke, delegates were invited to consider how Christian love, justice, freedom and hope are both true and good—even if the claims of the Bible can sound judgmental. 

“God’s love on the cross is where true and good meet, and that the resurrection is the single most important event in human history because it means everything Jesus said and did is true.”

Theodore, Onward 23 Youth

“True freedom is freedom from sin.”

Jason, Onward 23 Youth

“My favourite thing about Onward is the warm and welcoming environment and being able to listen to new ideas about Christianity. I learned that Jesus went to great depths to provide love for us, and it is important to have.”

Beatrix, Onward 23 Youth

Onward 23 also featured a roundtable discussion where Christian teenagers shared their perspectives on the topic and some of the issues they face when engaging their friends with their faith. The roundtable highlighted the ways in which youth find Christianity offensive and unsettling, and that teenagers need to be empowered and equipped to share their faith with their friends. 

Missed out on Onward Youth? Access the Livestream!  

Hosted by Katoomba Christian Convention, Onward Youth is a one-night apologetics conference, aimed at equipping teenagers to observe current culture with a gospel lens, so that they are equipped to stand firm against issues that challenge their faith.  

There’s still time to catch up on the Onward talks! Our livestream is available on-demand until 22 July 2023. Register and get instant access to Onward here: https://www.onwardevent.com/   

Your invitation to Onward 2023

Youth groups across the country gathered for Onward Youth to engage with an important question: True and Good – Can Christianity Be Both?

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.  

Register now and save: https://www.kyck.org.au/register/   

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! 

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

Meet BASECAMP Speaker: Peter Sondergeld 

We are pleased to announce that Lead Pastor of Restoration Church, Peter Sondergeld, will be joining the BASECAMP platform as a keynote speaker.  

Meet BASECAMP 23 Speaker: Peter Sondergeld

Joining Alasdair Groves (CCEF), Peter will combine Scripture and biblical counselling experience to help men have a biblical view of what their emotions are, how to handle them well, and how to help each other process with God and one another.  

Peter serves as the Lead Pastor at Restoration Church in Toowoomba, Australia. He is also the founder and chair of Restore Ministries and is a registered teacher, counsellor and counselling supervisor. Peter’s qualifications include a Doctor of Ministry (Australian College of Theology) and a Master of Education & Graduate Certificates in Biblical Counselling. His first book, Becoming You, was released in 2022. 

He has been married for over 20 years to his loving and encouraging wife Angela, is a father to four teenage sons and is a friend to many. If you don’t catch him equipping, teaching and loving his local church, you will find him enjoying a good coffee, camping with his family or enjoying a mountain bike ride. 

Get a taste of his teaching here:  

Silencing Anxiety 

The internal noise generated by anxiety can be deafening. How do you silence it? Some people try to silence it through feverishly gathering more and more information, but it doesn’t ultimately work. In this video, Peter shares some thoughts on a better way forward. 

https://vimeo.com/376332913

Book Preview: Dehumanised & Stuck 

This chapter is a sneak preview of Peter’s book: Becoming You. Click here to download now. 

Power & Dignity: How to Build it Without Blowing it 

In this talk from the 2018 ‘Restoring True Humanity Workshops’, Peter addresses humanity’s problem with power and our capacity to abuse it. He highlights the type of power that we should refuse while giving us a view of biblical power that we should pursue, as we become more like Christ.  

https://vimeo.com/295925059

What if Boys Cry?

In 2023, BASECAMP will address the topic of emotions because the team recognises that ‘boys don’t cry’ is one of many damaging principles of a past era. It’s a ‘truth’ that has raised men with suppressed grief, until it explodes in anger or anxiety, causing further damage to their relationships with God and one another.    

At BASECAMP, we want to recognise that if men are to live in a world stained by sin, they need community and tools to process grief and disappointment in a godly way. Christian men need to have a biblical view of what their emotions are, what to do with them, and how to help each other. Together, men need to fix their eyes on Jesus, the perfect man and model of emotional expression, and bring the change that is needed.   
   
BASECAMP is for men of all generations, backgrounds and life-stages. Whether you’re fighting anger or anxiety, weariness or worry, register to renew your strength at BASECAMP: https://basecampmen.com/    

Lead Pastor of Restoration Church, Peter Sondergeld, will be joining the BASECAMP platform as a keynote speaker.  

By Heidi Tai

Can We Really Trust God?  

Who do you trust?  

A loving and supportive parent?  

A leader with integrity?  

A friend who has been loyal over time?  

Is there anyone who is worthy of all your trust—with absolutely everything? Or has time proven that even the best of human relationships can fail or disappoint, and that trusting someone comes at a level of risk?  

While some of us have a long list of trusted confidants, others are more cautious and skeptical, choosing to trust in only themselves. However, even the most self-sufficient person has limits—in strength, resources and wisdom. A life independent from others can feel lonely and exhausting.  

After all, humans are interconnected and dependent beings—from young we crave attachment and relationship. But if the people around us are limited and finite, who exactly can we trust with all our needs and desires—both today and into eternity?  

At OneLove this year, guest speaker, Jackie Hill Perry will preach on the theme “Worthy of Trust: The God Who Sees Us”. Guiding us through Scripture, Jackie will refresh our eyes to the goodness and beauty of God while empowering our hearts to put our entire trust in Him:  

“If God is holy, then it means He can’t sin, and if God can’t sin, then it means He can’t sin against me, shouldn’t that make Him the most trustworthy being there is?”  – Jackie Hill Perry

Jackie Hill Perry will teach at OneLove 23

The Christian is called to trust God, but what makes Him worthy of our trust?  

What if God doesn’t always feel very loving, supportive, loyal or righteous?  

Is God even aware of our circumstances or understand the details of our lives? 

If you have doubts about God’s character, feel abandoned in sorrow, or unseen in suffering; or if you want to be further strengthened in the trust that you already have, then OneLove is for you.  

Join us on Saturday 26 August, to be refreshed and inspired to live wholeheartedly for a holy God who truly sees, loves, and can care for you—both today and eternity. Bring a group from your church, play group or Bible Study, and make it a special day of encouragement and fellowship!

For more information about OneLove visit the website: www.onelovewomen.com  


 

If humans are limited and finite, who can we trust with all our needs and desires—both today and into eternity? Join us at OneLove to find out!

By Heidi Tai
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