Empowering Faith: 19 Baptisms Spark Hope in New Hanover District

Australia for Christ 2028: Join the Journey to Transform Lives

Update Australia for Christ 2028: A New Era of Evangelism As the countdown to Australia for Christ 2028 begins, the significance of this upcoming event cannot be overstated. Delegates at the Australian Union Conference constituency meeting recently gathered to discuss their role in these transformational efforts within their communities. Energized by the success of the PNG for Christ campaign, they are keen to replicate that spirit and strategy across Australia, emphasizing the power of prayer, involvement, and grassroots outreach initiatives. The Power of Simplicity in Outreach Pastor Glenn Townend, president of the South Pacific Division, shared pivotal learnings from the PNG campaign, stressing the importance of simplicity in outreach methods. “We did a lot of training… they taught simple methods of reaching people, not making it difficult, so every member could be involved,” he noted. This approach is vital, as it opens doors for active participation from all church members, regardless of their level of experience or ability. As Townend pointed out, it’s crucial to focus on community needs and find ways to engage meaningfully. By doing so, the church can foster genuine connections with people who may feel overlooked or isolated. Building Bridges: Community Outreach as a Catalyst One of the standout strategies during the PNG for Christ campaign was how church members actively engaged in the local community. They provided support to individuals with disabilities and developed programs for women facing domestic violence. This direct involvement not only addressed pressing social issues but also showcased the church's commitment to service, significantly impacting the community's perception of the church. “They were doing things in the community that people noticed and nobody else was doing—it made a huge difference,” Townend remarked. The success observed in PNG serves as a model for how similar efforts can generate compassionate outreach in Australia and beyond. Faith and Prayer: The Cornerstones of Success Beyond practical outreach efforts, the momentum in PNG was significantly linked to the power of prayer. As Pastor Townend expressed, “I believe it was only because of prayer—the local people did not expect to have the results that they had. It was special for them, incredibly so, and out of that it challenged the rest of us in the Division and in leadership.” This sentiment underscores the belief that prayer not only strengthens faith but also unites congregations in a shared purpose. Leading up to 2028, invigorating prayer initiatives will be essential for cultivating a spiritual environment ripe for growth and harvest. Record Growth: A Sign of Preparedness In a time of exponential growth, Pastor Terry Johnson reported that Australia has been witnessing record numbers of baptisms in the past two years—a trend indicative of a prepared soil for evangelism. “That just shows you that God is preparing the soil right here... so that there will be a harvest by the time that 2028 comes around,” he shared passionately. Within this context, the thought of 10,000 to 30,000 new members joining the church within three years is not just a dream; it is a goal rooted in both faith and vigorous preparation. The Road to 2028: Supporting Other Initiatives In support of their vision for evangelism, the Australian church is extending its resources to initiatives across the Pacific. The Trans Pacific Union Mission’s TPUM for Christ initiative in 2026, followed by the New Zealand Pacific Union Conference’s NZPUC for Christ campaign in 2027, are pivotal steps in this collaborative journey. By fostering unity across regions, the church can cultivate a powerful network of support for evangelistic efforts, reinforcing the understanding that each initiative contributes to a larger, collective vision. Getting Involved: Your Role in Australia for Christ 2028 Australia for Christ 2028 is a call to action for every member of the Seventh-day Adventist community. As Pastor Johnson urges, “We want you to think about how you are going to get engaged between now and then.” Involvement can take many forms—from community outreach to active prayer participation—and every effort contributes to creating a transformative impact. Start conversations within your local church about ways you can engage and innovate for this incredible opportunity. Conclusion: Are You Ready for the Harvest? As we anticipate the transformative potential of Australia for Christ 2028, it is essential for each of us in the SDA faith community to actively participate in this movement. Harnessing the enthusiasm from past campaigns and aligning our efforts with prayer and community involvement is crucial for realizing the vision of a revitalized church. Are you prepared to join the mission of doubling the church numbers? Let's embrace this call, and together, we can pave the way for a remarkable harvest.