AUSTRALIAN CHRISTIAN CHURCHES · Australian Christian Churches Victoria Inc. INCORPORATION MEETING...

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AUSTRALIAN CHRISTIAN CHURCHES VICTORIA STATE CONFERENCE 2014

Transcript of AUSTRALIAN CHRISTIAN CHURCHES · Australian Christian Churches Victoria Inc. INCORPORATION MEETING...

AUSTRALIAN CHRISTIAN CHURCHES

VICTORIA

STATE CONFERENCE 2014

CONTENTS

2014 Conference Program

Incorporation Meeting Agenda

Minutes of Annual General Meeting

Conference Procedure

Standing for Election & Profile of Nominees

President’s Report & Welcome

State Secretary/Treasurer’s Report

State Statistics

Independent Audit Report

Church Growth Conference Report

Regional Report 2014

Chaplaincy Australia 2014

Victorian Christian Women

Youth Alive Victoria

ACC Kids Victoria 2014

Multinational Pastors Network of ACC Victoria

The Australian Christian Churches Victoria State Conference 2014 is proudly sponsored by:

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CONFERENCEPROGRAM

MONDAY 22nd September

Check In (Registration) & Voting Area Open11am- 1pm

7:30pm Session 1

TUESDAY 23rd September

9:30am Session 2

11:00am Morning Tea

11:30am Session 3

12:20pm Stretch Break

12:30pm Business Session

1:30pm End session

2 – 3pm Power Up Delegates Lunch Session (18-30’s Emerging Leaders)

7:00pm Session 4

WEDNESDAY 24th September

9:30am Session 5

11:00am Morning Tea

11:30a Session 6

12:30pm End Session

12:30pm Elective: ACS Financials: Preparing for Retirement

1 – 2:30pm Regional Teams Lunch Session

7:00pm Session 7

End of Conference

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Australian Christian Churches Victoria Inc.

INCORPORATION MEETING NO. 31AGENDA

To be held at Ford Theatre, GPAC, Geelong

on Tuesday September 23rd 2014.

1. OPENING2. APOLOGIES3. VOTING STRENGTH & PROCEDURE4. RECEPTION OF MINUTES NO. 30 5. MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES6. INTERIM FINANCIAL REPORT7. ACC VIC STATE REPORTS8. ELECTION OF STATE EXECUTIVE

Nominations have been received for the following: -

State President Ps Shane BaxterState Vice President Ps John SpinellaState Secretary Treasurer Ps Mark Bates

State Executive Member Ps Andrew DrummondState Executive Member Ps Michael Geerling State Executive Member Ps Lucky Kanagasabi State Executive Member Ps Ian Kruitho�State Executive Member Ps Ron MallonState Executive Member Ps Graham ShandState Executive Member Ps Neil SmithState Executive Member Ps Corey Turner

4 to be elected.

9. APPOINTMENT OF AUDITOR

10. CLOSURE

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AUSTRALIAN CHRISTIAN CHURCHES VICTORIA LTD.ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING No. 31 MINUTES

Conducted at the Ford Theatre, GPAC, Geelong, Tuesday 24th September, 2013.

1. OPENINGThe meeting was opened in prayer at 12:40pm by the State President.

2. APOLOGIESIt was agreed that the following apologies be received:

Ps Don & Julie GallPs Arthur & Danni CherriePs Phil & Tracey McCourtPs John & Cherylene Martin

3. RECEPTION OF INCORPORATION MEETING MINUTES NO. 30It was moved by Grahame Shand, and seconded by Damien Warren that the minutes of meet-ing No. 30 be received.

Carried.

4. MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTESThe Secretary gave a verbal update report on the transition of the ACC Victoria entity from an incorporated association to a Company Limited by Guarantee.

Carried.

5. FINANCIAL REPORTIt was moved by John Spinella, and seconded by John de Britto that the Audited Financial Statement for the Incorporation for the 2012/2013 year be received as presented.

Carried.

6. APPOINTMENT OF AUDITORIt was moved by Lucky Kanagasabai and seconded by Phil Martin that Paul Fox be appointed as State auditor for 2013/ 2014.

Carried

Following the conducting of this business the meeting was closed at 12.50pm

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CONFERENCEPROCEDURE

The Business of the Conference shall be conducted on a Parliamentary procedure.

1. All voting delegates including eligible credential holders (OMC and PMC) are required to nominate on the conference registration form as well as the appointed church delegates at the rate of one delegate per 250 adult members or part thereof. This gives the conference organizers a voting strength before conference begins.

2. In cases of dispute, doubt or di�culty arising out of matters of procedure or order, the decision of the Chairman shall be final and conclusive.

3. In debate upon any subject no person shall, except by leave of the Chairman, be permitted to speak more than once on the same question, except that the mover of the motion shall (unless a vote to close the debate has been carried) be allowed to speak in reply, after which the debate shall be closed.

4. No motion to close the debate shall be put to the Conference unless the Chairman is of the opinion that su�cient discussion of the question before the Conference has taken place.

5. The mover of a motion shall not speak for more than five minutes and no other speaker for more than three minutes (except by permission of the Chairman).

6. A person who has spoken may, by permission of the Chairman be heard again in explanation, but shall not, except by permission of the Chairman, introduce a new matter nor interrupt a person who is speaking.

7. Whenever an amendment on an original motion has been moved and seconded, no second or subsequent amendment shall be moved until the first amendment of the original motion shall take place and shall become the question of which any further amendment may be moved.

8. At the request of the Chairman any motion or amendment o�ered in the meeting shall be reduced to writing and read to the meeting before being debated.

9. No business shall be transacted at the Conference other than business which: a) Is included in the Agenda b) Arising out of Reports c) Is in the opinion of the Chairman of great importance and which the Conference has agreed to transact by a resolution duly passed by a majority of those delegates present and voting.

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STANDING FORELECTION

State PresidentShane Baxter

State Vice PresidentJohn Spinella

Secretary / TreasurerMark Bates

State Executive(4 to be elected)

Andrew Drummond

Michael Geerling

Lucky Kanagasabi

Ian Kruitho�

Ron Mallon

Graham Shand

Neil Smith

Corey Turner

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Shane Baxter is the Senior Pastor of Enjoy Church. Under Shane’s visionary leadership and relational style, Enjoy Church has grown significantly over the past 16 years, meeting in eight di�erent campuses across Melbourne and Victoria with over 90 nationalities represented. Shane is a member of the National Executive for the ACC (Australian Christian Churches), and is also the State President for the ACC in Victoria. He is passionate about seeing the local church fruitful and flourishing, impacting and influencing the community and beyond. He is committed to leadership development and seeing people released into their purpose and calling.

He has a unique ability to relate and connect with others with his zest for life and his warm sense of humour. Woven through his life is Ecclesiastes 8:15, “So I commend the enjoyment of life”.

Shane is married to Georgie, who is actively involved in ministry with him and they have two beautiful daughters.

SHANEBAXTER

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John has served in various church leadership roles, at both country and city churches, during his 31 years of full time ministry. John and Lois moved to Encompass Church (formerly known as Northside Christian Church) in 1987 becoming its senior pastor 16 years ago.

During his time as senior pastor the church has multiplied in size and influence and is now meeting in two locations. A number of autonomous churches have also been planted around the Northern suburbs of Melbourne under his leadership, while the church continues to maintain a strong global mission’s vision.

John has served the ACC movement in a number of District and Regional team roles that span almost two decades. For 8 years he has led the City North and now City Central region focusing on unity of vision and purpose and helping build strong networks of meaningful connections amongst ACC leaders.

He is passionate about seeing every local church become strong and healthy and inspiring pastors to maximise the ministry gift that God has placed in their life, through the power of the Spirit and wise leadership. His focus is on raising up multigenerational pastors and leaders to steer the church into God’s future.

John currently coordinates the ACC State probationary ministers training program. He is married to Lois who serves alongside him and they have two adult daughters.

JOHNSPINELLA

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Position: Secretary/Treasurer of the Victorian Australian Christian Churches Pastor at Large for ACC Victoria Board member for Youth Alive Victoria and Chaplaincy Victoria.

Experience: 15 years as Secretary/Treasurer of ACC Victoria 16 years as Senior Pastor of Valley Christian Church 36 years in pastoral ministry

Ministry Emphasis: Helping to encourage Pastors and churches to experience increase and breakthrough through his practical and relevant teaching and ministry. Bringing people and churches into an encounter with the presence of God. Assisting Churches with correct governance and structures to promote health and growth. Mark is passionate about the role of the Australian church in bringing a better life to the poor and abused through the gospel and good works. He believes in the local church as God’s place for people to flourish and grow to their potential. Mark and Karen travel extensively visiting and ministering in ACC Victoria churches almost every week.

Family: Mark has been married to Karen for 36 years and has two children, a son and daughter in law, and 6 beautiful grandchildren. Both of his children and their spouses are involved in church leadership and ministry.

MARKBATES

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Pastor Andrew Drummond has been in ministry for 14 years. After pursuing the call of God, he and his wife Donna, moved to Australia from Canada nine years ago. After serving for two years at Keilor City Church as assistant and interim pastor, Andrew and Donna accepted a transitional role at Connect Christian Church. In 2008 he took on the Senior leadership role and has held that position there ever since. Andrew has also served on the region as a district leader for 5 years.

Andrew’s desire is to see people reach their God thing, championing in them what God sees in them. The great joy of life is seeing other people become what God has wired them for, chasing the dream and call.

Andrew and Donna have been married for 11 years and have two beautiful daughters, Olivia, 5 and Abigail, 3.

ANDREWDRUMMOND

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At 15 I made a decision to follow Jesus at a regional Youth Alive event. I then spent my teen and university years in an ACC local church. I have so much to be thankful for.

I am passionate about the future of healthy churches in all parts of our state, and believe that the Victorian ACC has a growing momentum of local church ministry.Married for 16 years to Kirstin, and now with 3 children, we have been in ministry responsibilities for 15 years. We currently serve as Senior Pastors of New Life Chapel in Albury Wodonga. I love the privilege of serving other pastors in the North East District.

Having served in local, state and national Youth Alive events, I now have the opportunity to help local churches raise great young leaders.

My passion is that your local church will be all that God has called it to be.

MICHAELGEERLING

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Lakshman(Lucky) together with his wife & Damayanthi (Dami) are the founders & Senior Ministers of Christian Life Assembly, a growing multicultural ACC fellowship of close to 200 families, in Glen Waverley, in S E Melbourne.

Their conversions followed personally experiencing the power and mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ, overcoming health crises and near death, through His acts of supernatural healing.

Lucky was a corporate banker and a member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers- UK with over 29 years in Banking/Finance. He resigned his senior management position with ANZ in 1999 to go “full time”, and has been serving the Lord Jesus Christ for over 28 years.

He now serves both as District Leader( CE South), member of the Human Resources Committee – State Executive, and as Facilitator of the Multi-National Pastors Executive Team of the ACC Victoria network, with a passion to build unity in the Body of Christ, among ministers of the Gospel.

Lucky received Bible College training under Dr Kevin Connor at Waverley Christian Fellowship. He is a founding committee member of “Teach All Nations” directed by Dr Kameel Majdali.

Lucky and Dami’s ministry commenced with a Home Bible Study first in Abu Dhabi, UAE, and continued on relocating to Australia in 1988.Their fledgling home-based Bible Study in Melbourne became the nucleus for what is today, a dynamic Spirit filled multifaceted ministry, operating from it’s own Church premises in Glen Waverley. The church has 6 weekend services, and runs outreaches for the Sinhala Community, one in Pakenham and an Aged Care Home in Mount Waverley.

The Lord has anointed them with a powerful Apostolic/Teaching/Prophetic ministry which has taken them to many parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, the Middle East, Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore, South Africa & Malawi and New Zealand, where they have ministered at Churches & Conferences.They have a strong emphasis on intimacy with God, fellowship with the Holy Spirit, obedience to God’s Word in everyday living, and preparing the Bride for the return of the Lord Jesus Christ. Lucky and Dami have two sons both married, and seven grandchildren. Their sons & their wives are also active in ministry. Their testimony as a family is “HOW GREAT IS OUR GOD”!

LUCKYKANAGASBAI

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Ian is the full‐time ACC Church Growth Director, coordinating Church Planting & Church Health in Victoria. He has been a pastor in the ACC for almost forty years, including 27 years as a senior minister. He has pioneered healthy Churches in Australia and overseas.

Ian has served the state most of his adult life, sitting on or leading every state department committee and structure except Woman's Ministry.

He and Lorri have been married for thirty-seven years and have three sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren. He is also a board member of ACC International Relief and vitally interested in missions and serves as the state mission representative and disaster relief coordinator.

IANKRUITHOFF

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Ron and Susan have been leading Generations Church ACC, Tatura, for 23 years. He has served on the State Executive for four years, and is the Country North Regional Leader. They have five married children and fourteen grandchildren, all of whom are involved in ACC Vic churches.

Their ministry emphasis is on building a strong generational local church that impacts its community through the power of the gospel, raising leaders, supporting church planting, and equipping God’s people to live Word and Spirit balanced lives. Ron’s passion for country Victoria has seen him appointed as the state executive point-person for all things country.

RONMALLON

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Graham is married to Julie, and has been blessed with three children: Hannah, Jared and Caleb. He has a passion to support the raising up and development of pastors and leaders, and to see people embrace their God given destiny. Graham has been a Senior Pastor for over 25 years, and together with Julie has led Casey Life church over the past 13 years. During this time it has gone from a small church meeting in a public hall, to a multinational church with its own building, and three services each Sunday. His ongoing missions work has taken him to Sri Lanka, India, the Pacific Islands, Africa and other parts of the world.

He has completed post graduate studies in Leadership at Alphacrucis college, and has served on multiple boards including Students for Christ, Kids R Us, and currently leads the City South Region of ACC Victoria. He has run Excellence in Church Management seminars in most Regions of the state, and now heads up the State ACC Mentoring Matters program, which focuses on the personal growth journey of Senior Pastors.”

GRAHAMSHAND

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Neil Smith is recognised for having a strong leadership gift. In his primary role as the International Director of Planetshakers, he travels extensively imparting leadership principles, o�ering support and mentoring to leaders from both the church and the business worlds. He has a heart for church planting and a strong desire to equip local churches to impact their local communities.

Pastor Neil’s previous ministry experiences include founding and developing a large thriving church called Lakes Christian Life Centre for 10 years in Perth, WA (now KingdomCity Church). He was also the former State President of ACC WA. Currently, he sits on 4 church boards. He has a powerful gift of faith and the ability to inspire people to embrace their God-given destiny. He is married to Leonie and has two children, Kimberley (17) and Ryan (14)

NEILSMITH

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Corey Turners passion is to excel in building up the church. He travels extensively across the body of Christ all over the world doing that through his dynamic preaching, leadership training and prophetic insight. He’s authored 2 books and writes daily on his popular blog site www.burningheartblog.com.

Corey is a former Victoria Police O�cer, Youth Pastor, Church Planter and Senior Pastor of Activate Church. He currently is the State Youth Alive Director for Victoria. He holds a Bachelor of Ministry from Tabor College and is currently completing a Master’s Degree at Harvest BC. Corey has run from Sydney to Melbourne (1,170km) raising $160,000 for his local church and has completed several Ironman Triathlons. Corey resides in Melbourne, Australia with his wife, Simone and their three children.

COREYTURNER

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Hi Everyone,

What a joy it is to be able to sit down and write my second State Presidents report, my joy stems from a heart of gratitude towards the many many pastors and leaders who are a constant in our state as we press forward to advance the kingdom of God.

From the State Executive Members through to our Regional Pastors in the most remote places within Victoria, I want to begin by saying thank you. The truth is, our state is healthy and we are taking ground for Christ. We're planting Churches, our Constituents numbers are up and church closures are down, our Regions, Districts and Departments are all healthy and we have more State Training happening than ever before, our present day reality is good and our future is bright.

I'd like to take a moment to thank "the team". Our Team is incredible! As I make reference to the team, please understand I'm not just referring to the State Executive Team, or the State O�ce Team, for when I think and refer to the team I'm thinking of everyone who’s playing their part in the ACC, from Orbost to Mildura and from Portland to Wodonga. Being part of the team simply means you heard my heart four years ago when I said "Together", and as a result by Faith you’re playing your part in this good work that we might make Jesus Famous.

I believe at the moment there is a real sense of Together across this great State of Victoria. By way of relationship I think we're being more strategic to reach our state than ever before. I'm thrilled with the sense of cooperation that is filling the air, and the knowledge that together we've planted 24 churches over the past 2 years, and have run 17 major training events (apart from conference, regional and district events) across the State. So as of the time of writing this report, we've never had more or stronger or larger churches and church plants in our State, we are positioned well to leave a great legacy for the generation to follow.

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church plants in our State, we are positioned well to leave a great legacy for the generation to follow.

Let me personally thank our State Executive, for the role that they play and the personal responsibility that they carry. Your hearts for God and our movement are so appreciated, your willingness to serve and put yourself on the front line does not go unnoticed, may God Himself Bless you for your personal sacrifice. To our State O�ce Team, thank you so much, in many ways you are the engine room that allows us to do all that's in our hearts to do, without the proper administration and governance our dreams would not progress from the drawing board. To all of our Regional, District and Department Leaders, thank you for all that you have done and all that you are doing, your care and concern for the thousands of pastors and volunteers under your care makes the term "Together" become our reality! And a thank you to the larger churches across our State that contribute finance and resource to help our movement and churches move forward, your sacrifice is noted by us and I'm sure and certain it is by heaven.

In conclusion, I'd like to thank Ps David and Sally Doery for the many years they have served the ACC. Over the past 10 years Ps David has served on the State Executive, the past four years as the Vice President of our movement. Ps David is a great man, who has been a great friend and servant of the movement; he has been instrumental in the redevelopment of the Regions and Districts within the State. We wish Ps David and Sally well as we release them to embrace and take on the next season of their ministry lives.

Once again, with love and appreciation we thank you for all that you are doing, and look forward to partnering with you into the next season of the ACC in Victoria.Every Blessing,

Ps Shane BaxterState President // ACC Victoria

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Lakshman(Lucky) together with his wife & Damayanthi (Dami) are the founders & Senior Ministers of Christian Life Assembly, a growing multicultural ACC fellowship of close to 200 families, in Glen Waverley, in S E Melbourne.

Their conversions followed personally experiencing the power and mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ, overcoming health crises and near death, through His acts of supernatural healing.

Lucky was a corporate banker and a member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers- UK with over 29 years in Banking/Finance. He resigned his senior management position with ANZ in 1999 to go “full time”, and has been serving the Lord Jesus Christ for over 28 years.

He now serves both as District Leader( CE South), member of the Human Resources Committee – State Executive, and as Facilitator of the Multi-National Pastors Executive Team of the ACC Victoria network, with a passion to build unity in the Body of Christ, among ministers of the Gospel.

Lucky received Bible College training under Dr Kevin Connor at Waverley Christian Fellowship. He is a founding committee member of “Teach All Nations” directed by Dr Kameel Majdali.

Lucky and Dami’s ministry commenced with a Home Bible Study first in Abu Dhabi, UAE, and continued on relocating to Australia in 1988.Their fledgling home-based Bible Study in Melbourne became the nucleus for what is today, a dynamic Spirit filled multifaceted ministry, operating from it’s own Church premises in Glen Waverley. The church has 6 weekend services, and runs outreaches for the Sinhala Community, one in Pakenham and an Aged Care Home in Mount Waverley.

The Lord has anointed them with a powerful Apostolic/Teaching/Prophetic ministry which has taken them to many parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, the Middle East, Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore, South Africa & Malawi and New Zealand, where they have ministered at Churches & Conferences.They have a strong emphasis on intimacy with God, fellowship with the Holy Spirit, obedience to God’s Word in everyday living, and preparing the Bride for the return of the Lord Jesus Christ. Lucky and Dami have two sons both married, and seven grandchildren. Their sons & their wives are also active in ministry. Their testimony as a family is “HOW GREAT IS OUR GOD”!

We are enjoying a season of great unity, momentum and growth in the churches of ACC Victoria. Personally, I believe that this in some part due to our intentional focus to develop and practice a greater degree of relational connection and mutual support than we have every experienced previously. We still do not get it right all the time but we have a genuine desire and willingness to connect and assist our churches and pastors on whatever level they have needs in. The outworking of this initiative has been the planning and provision of more targeted opportunities for enhancing and enriching the great work already being done by the churches of our state. If your church and ministry has not yet connected and become a beneficiary of this resource then I would encourage you to make the connection today. You will not be turned down and I believe you will not be disappointed. Our first two years were consumed by restructure and reorganisation and now we are enjoying the benefits of this work. This is what has been happening in our world over the past two years.

State O�ceEighteen months ago Ps Armando Tocci came on board to take on a role in managing and restructuring the State O�ce operations. He has had a dramatic and positive impact on all aspects of our work. Our credential turnaround times have reduced dramatically and he is doing his thing streamlining and improving every other aspect of our work. Armando is a highly experienced manager and pastor and has helped take our ACC Victoria operations to a new level which the envy of our other states. Thanks to Armando for your expertise but also your pleasant disposition, sense of humour, great work ethic, multi-tasking and multi-lingual skills. Thanks also to Amy Ford who has been our assistant in the state o�ce over this period and has done a great job in supporting our work.

Organisational RestructureTwo years ago at conference we voted to restructure the State Incorporation entity in line with the direction from the National Executive. In this period this restructure has been completed with the transition of the old Incorporated Association to a Company entity. On 1st January this year we also moved the majority of our operations into a

STATE SECRETARY/ TREASURER’SBIENNIAL CONFERENCE REPORT 2014

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newly formed unincorporated association to comply with the National restructure and the ACNC basic religious entity standards. All the other ACC State organisations also took this action.

StatisticsOur statistics are not able to be presented in the normal format. Information from the census has not been made available from the National o�ce or NCLS. So we are only able to give statistics on our credential data and church numbers and type. FinancesPart of the restructure required us to change our financial reporting to calendar year from 30th June. The new operations account has only been trading since 1st January and will complete its first year on 31st December. Accordingly, we have presented an incomplete interim 6 months finances for this meeting. Because of the transition the old account is running an 18 months financial year to bring it into line with the new system. So this account has a full 12 months report which includes the operations from July – December 2013. It is also presented as an interim report. Our first audit as the new entity will take place after 31st December this year. After consulting with our auditor and accountants it was decided to remove the Regional accounts and unincorporated State Departments from our operational accounts and balance sheet. Theses finances will still be overseen and monitored by the state o�ce and our auditor but not included in our consolidated reporting. A special thank you goes to Kathy Szacsuri our ACC Victoria book keeper who has done a fantastic again this year. We thank God and our churches for their continued financial support.

MinistryMy role in ministry around our churches is still growing. In 2013 we ministered in 43 churches on di�erent Sundays and this year we have been ministering every week. It is truly a blessing to be able to see firsthand the great work that our pastors and churches are doing. I especially appreciate visiting churches for the first time. It has been a great honour to build relationships and connections and be able to o�er advice and assistance. Next year we will be conducting some training days for pastors, children’s and youth workers in the area of creating safe churches and being compliant with child protection policies. Special thanks to my wife Karen who has so willingly and enthusiastically supported me in visiting a di�erent church every week. Thanks and appreciation is due to Ps Shane Baxter for his continued leadership and confidence in the work we do. We are part of something great and look forward to the coming years with a sense of excitement, anticipation and faith.Warm Regards

Ps Mark BatesState Secretary // ACC Victoria

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Credentialed Ministry

Comparative Church Growth

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STATE STATISITICS

Credentialed Ministry

Comparative Church Growth

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ACC VIC STATISTICSCENSUS 2014

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We are enjoying a season of great unity, momentum and growth in the churches of ACC Victoria. Personally, I believe that this in some part due to our intentional focus to develop and practice a greater degree of relational connection and mutual support than we have every experienced previously. We still do not get it right all the time but we have a genuine desire and willingness to connect and assist our churches and pastors on whatever level they have needs in. The outworking of this initiative has been the planning and provision of more targeted opportunities for enhancing and enriching the great work already being done by the churches of our state. If your church and ministry has not yet connected and become a beneficiary of this resource then I would encourage you to make the connection today. You will not be turned down and I believe you will not be disappointed. Our first two years were consumed by restructure and reorganisation and now we are enjoying the benefits of this work. This is what has been happening in our world over the past two years.

State O�ceEighteen months ago Ps Armando Tocci came on board to take on a role in managing and restructuring the State O�ce operations. He has had a dramatic and positive impact on all aspects of our work. Our credential turnaround times have reduced dramatically and he is doing his thing streamlining and improving every other aspect of our work. Armando is a highly experienced manager and pastor and has helped take our ACC Victoria operations to a new level which the envy of our other states. Thanks to Armando for your expertise but also your pleasant disposition, sense of humour, great work ethic, multi-tasking and multi-lingual skills. Thanks also to Amy Ford who has been our assistant in the state o�ce over this period and has done a great job in supporting our work.

Organisational RestructureTwo years ago at conference we voted to restructure the State Incorporation entity in line with the direction from the National Executive. In this period this restructure has been completed with the transition of the old Incorporated Association to a Company entity. On 1st January this year we also moved the majority of our operations into a

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The good news is that over the last two years we have been able to endorse a new Church every month, which means we are now at 252 Churches. Over thirty plants were approved and the rest are in the process of qualifying for endorsement.

We have lost eight Churches in the past twelve months. However the number of endangered Churches is reducing as health trends and new Church approval standards rise. The mean Church size is up to over 130 persons. There is an upward trend to both new Churches and new people which will hit a J curve in the years to come as more new endorsed works thrive and less existing Churches are in danger of closure. The future is very bright.

It is important to acknowledge that the instigator and sustainer of church Growth is the Holy Spirit. He knows that planting more healthy Churches is the key to reaching more people. It is He who puts dreams in the hearts of planters for specific areas, planned the increase in ethnic Churches knowing of the coming immigration boom, and spoke to mega Church pastors about expanding their borders. He continues to speak of thousands of Churches and Churches of thousands.

Regions and DistrictsOur eight regional leaders and twenty district leaders continue to generously give their time and resources to serve our pastors and Churches by providing decentralized relational connections for the processes, support, encouragement and communication we all need.

Multinational PastorsOur Multinational Pastors' Network is led by pastor Lucky Kanagasabai, a genuinely caring and industrious man, and his team of pastors who continue to build ties with our uni-ethnic Churches. Almost 40% of our metro churches fall into this category. Most Churches today are multicultural but a substantial number reach out to specific people groups, many in their primary language.

Mega-ChurchesWe have eighteen mega Churches and campuses, and more to come. This is exciting as they provide a large percentage of our people and resource growth. They choose to belong without needing to and all of them graciously provide time, energy and resources to our Movement.

Training and DevelopmentWe have excellent training and development support in our state. Pastor Mark Bates oversees our board training days. Pastors Graham and Julie Shand run our Mentoring Matters program and pastors Phil and Tracy Shand are the new Church Planter Training Day coordinators. Pastor John Spinella coordinates our PMC Day training.Other agencies such as our state o�ce team and the state departments, which are not separate but integral to our life and plans, all contribute to our overall vision of building more Churches, reaching more people, making more disciples, and training more leaders.

Future considerationsI am listing some of our challenging opportunities for the coming years in the hope and prayer that some people may rise to meet them.

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Our 7% pa adherent growth rate and Church planting endeavours would be the envy of other denominations but it is not keeping up with population growth in many areas. The opportunity exists for many more healthy expressions of the Church in more places.

The increasing multinational population in Victoria presents another opportunity. Half of our projected population growth rate will be through immigration. The challenge is for our uni-ethnic churches to grow and equip pastors beyond their own needs and for immigration pathways to recruit pastors from overseas be established.

Another opportunity exists in country Victoria. The number of churches being planted per capita is falling and the number of pastors approaching retirement is increasing. Pastoral vacancy rates are higher and longer in the country. Attracting and raising up future leaders is an opportunity needing action for and by our country Churches.

We have cities, towns and people groups with great potential for amazing Churches. Geelong and Bellarine has over 270,000 people for whom we currently have three Churches. The area also has great promise in a substantial population of first generation African, Indian, Islander, and Filipino people. The bayside suburbs from Seaford to St Kilda (some 400,000 people) where we have few Churches; are another excellent mission field. Some cities and towns such as Warrnambool, Swan Hill and Mornington, have the potential for more Churches to e�ectively reach the population.

We have a Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population of 40,000 people to reach. At present we have only one Koori Church in the state. Statistically Shepparton, Geelong, Mildura, Bendigo, Casey, East Gippsland, Darebin, Wyndham, Whittlesea, Latrobe and Hume could all support a congregation if not a Church.

Of course the great challenge and opportunity is raising up the people who can take hold of these possibilities and make them realities.

Thank you!

Thank you to everyone who has been mentioned in this report whether by name or by role. Thank you to my wife Lorri who spends time alone as I trip around the state. Thank you to pastor Shane Baxter who leads our state e�ectively and represents us all passionately. Thank you to the state executive and state o�ce team with whom it is a pleasure to serve. Thank God for the opportunity to work with Him in the greatest enterprise on earth - the building of the Church.

Respectfully,

Ps Ian Kruitho�State Church Growth Director // ACC Victoria

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Last conference, we reported some significant changes to the district structures across our state. The number of our churches was continuing to grow and a new model was needed to keep up with this demand and better position us for the future. Our goal was to keep strengthening relationship and to help equip and support each of our churches to fulfill the vision of “Churches of thousands and thousands of churches”. I am glad to report that the changes made are achieving their goal!

REGIONAL AND DISTRICT CARE. Our regional leaders and their teams have continued to do a brilliant job connecting pastors and churches all across the state. Each of these men and women has their own busy local churches but consistently take the time to encourage and support others. I know of many instances where leaders and churches have not only been helped through times of great challenge but have also been inspired to new levels of growth and faith. Only eternity will reveal the full extent of their influence in our state. We owe them all a great debt of gratitude for the outstanding work they do!

Our current Regional Leaders are:• Ps Phil Linden• Ps John Spinella• Ps Graham Shand• Ps Mal MacLeod• Ps Ron Mallon• Ps Derek Bodycote• Ps Phil McCourt

I would also like to acknowledge both Ps Matt Heins and Ps Don Gall for their time as Regional Leaders and the great contribution each of them made.

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EVENTSOur Regional Events have continued right across the state and we have seen an increased number of churches and teams coming together for times of equipping, inspi-ration and connection. Each of these events takes time and e�ort from our Regional Teams and host churches, and we are incredibly grateful for their commitment to the state.

Each year our districts have also been enjoying “End of Year Get Togethers” for Senior Pastors and their spouse. It may seem like a small thing, but the importance of these times in helping us move forward “Together” can’t be over-estimated.

SUPPORT As well as support through our Regional Teams, we have also enjoyed great support from other leaders and ministries committed to strengthening our churches and pastors:

• Ps Mark Bates and Ps Armando Tocci from the State Office;• Ps Ian Kruitoff, responsible for church life across Victoria;• Ps Lucky Kanagasabai, Chair of the multi-national pastors team;• Ps Ron Mallon, Country Churches Representative; and• Ps Barry Clarke, leader of the Emeritus ministry, following the great work done by Ps Ian Fenn

All of these men do an outstanding job and have a profound impact on the growth and health of our pastors and churches.

It has been an honor to once again serve under the leadership of Ps Shane, working alongside the State Executive and so many gifted and dedicated leaders. God is doing a great thing across our state and the future is even brighter as we keep moving forward “Together!”

Ps Dave DoeryVice President // ACC Victoria

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“Many, O Lord my God, are the wonderful works which You have done, and Your thoughts toward us; no one can compare with You! If I should declare and speak of them, they are too many to be numbered.”- Psalm 40:5 AMP

It’s good to be able to speak about some of the great things that God is doing through Chaplaincy Victoria. Chaplains have this unique opportunity to access communities that are not available to pastors and everyday Christians. Just the other week, one of our Chaplains was debriefing a member of a sporting club after a traumatic incident. The member said that after he spoke to our Chaplain, it was “like a huge weight lifted o� my shoulders.” Stories like this happen on a regular basis.

Our 77 Chaplains are serving in many di�erent communities: hospitals, nursing homes, schools, industries, sporting clubs, opportunity shops and care arms of churches. We care for our chaplains through a network of Regional Chaplains. Ps Glenise oversees this area of caring for the carer.

Over the past 12 months, we have trained about 50 students in Diploma in Ministry (Chaplaincy) and Cert.IV in Pastoral Care. The training is held in two localities – Keilor City Church and Enjoy East. We appreciate the pastors of these churches for allowing us to use their facilities. Why not visit the Chaplaincy stand and find out how we can help you raise up pastoral care workers in your church and equip chaplains to reach out into your community. We thank Ps Glenise for her excellent work in training.

On the 18th of October, we are having a training day for Chaplains and Pastoral Care workers at Monash Christian Church, Mulgrave. The theme for the day is Chaplains and the Prophetic ... a fresh encounter. I believe we can hear the voice of God and with wisdom communicate God’s heart for our communities in a caring non-o�ensive way. It will also be an upfront opportunity for personal ministry. We also have an opportunity to promote Chaplaincy in Tasmania at its State conference this October.

God has blessed us with an amazing board: Pastors Glenise Dedrick, Drew Gormlie and Mark Bates. Sandra Tennison does an awesome job running the Chaplaincy o�ce.

We say a big thank you to our pledge partners and the churches that have supported us over the year and also in the ‘dollar-a-day in the month of May’ initiative. Love and blessings,

Ps Phil MartinState Director Victoria // Chaplaincy Australia

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VICTORIANCHRISTIAN WOMEN

It's so exciting to watch the awesome thing that God is doing as He continues to build cause and purpose into our girls. Year upon year, and layer upon layer, He is building a strength, a confidence and an awareness of these things into us. This year was a milestone gathering as Adore Conference celebrated its 10th anniversary with a maxed-out venue of 1500 beautiful women of all ages from around Victoria, and beyond.

During our time together this year, God focused our attention outward with the truth that we have each been marked by Him to leave a mark upon our world. We are marked by His love, His hope and His freedom, and as such called to be bearers of the same.

We were reminded of both the natural power with which we've been created and the heavenly power that has been given to us. As we take hold of both the power of our mind, and the mighty dynamos power of the Holy Spirit, there comes an easy flow in living this life He has for us.

It was strategic that both, Lady Joy Hill, Potters House Denver USA, and Dr Caroline Leaf, USA, were with us at this time. The work of the Holy Spirit was very evident as we were challenged to engage His power as well as His wisdom in dealing with issues of the heart, mind and life.

As the girls poured out through the doors at the completion of this event there was such an air of expectancy and life. I'm believing that the words over the exit of the building - Do Something - we're an endorsement and confirmation of what God had just birthed in their hearts.

Much Love,

Ps Georgie Baxter State Women’s Director // ACC Victoria

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YOUTH ALIVEVICTORIA

2014 has been a year of transition in leadership and of building momentum for the future.Ps Ben Prescott did a great job of leading Youth Alive in recent years and has really set the ministry up for the fruit we are experiencing in 2014. Many thanks must go to Ps Brett Gill, Planet Shakers, Ps Mark Bates and the previous Youth Alive board members who have helped the ministry move forward in 2012-2013.

We thank God for the fruit already produced in the early months of 2014. This includes:- Smooth transition of New Director- New Youth Alive Board- A new core team of both 3 paid sta� and volunteers- Change for Change fundraising event involving 16 youth ministries, raising $27,000- Renewed financial commitment from sponsors totalling $20,000- New donors from the business community totalling $20,000- We have doubled the amount of church partners giving totalling $20,000- We have ministered in nearly 30 schools in our Freedom Tour across Victoria- We have had 3,000 teenagers attend 13 regional events with a total of 441 salvations- We are expecting over 5,000 teenagers and many salvations at our main event- We have equipped over 500 leaders at our training days- We are running a successful Youth Stream at State Conference- We saw nearly 50 Victorian youth leaders attending the National Youth Alive Summit

Moving forward in 2015!

2015 is going to be a game changing year for Youth Alive across Australia. For the first time in a long time we will be partnering with National Youth Alive to host multiple United We Stand rallies across every state in Australia on July 31, targeting 50,000 young people with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We will also be hosting a Youth Alive Conference on cup weekend Nov 9-10 late 2015. As well as these 2 key events we will be running an Equip leaders day in both the city and country, 2 youth leaders brunches, a Change for Change fundraiser, a training day with Youth Alpha and Make A Stand Schools Tour.

Thank God for what he has done but we look forward with vision and faith for all of the young people, leaders and youth ministries that will be impacted by the Holy Spirit through this great ministry in the days to come.

Ps Corey TurnerYouth Alive Victoria Director

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ACC KIDSVICTORIA2014 REPORT

This year has seen ACC Kids Victoria building relationships across many churches so that together we can resource leaders, reach kids with Jesus and see the Holy Spirit released in their lives.It has been an honor to lead our passionate leadership team of Ezra Boots, Luke Aiasecca, Paul Orton, Andy Mallon and Glenn Kruitho�. Along with the hard work of many other leaders and volunteers this team has successfully fulfilled the mandate of this ministry by seeing the following:

• Successfully running ACC Vic State Conference Kids Program with over 100 kids• Helping to run the Kidshaper National Conference in Melbourne with over 500 delegates• Seeing over 100 attend our ACC Kids Vic Country Camp (run jointly with Generations Church and New Life Chapel)• Over 170 kids leaders attending our regional events across Victoria in 2014

We have also launched a ACC Kids Victoria Facebook page for people to connect with other kids leaders and find out what’s happening – facebook.com/kidsrusvictoria.

Our desire is to see kids impacted by Jesus Christ, saved, set free and filled with the Holy Spirit. Next year we plan on running a state wide camp for our kids and in the future will run state wide evangelistic kids events. We are taking seriously Jesus call to “let the little children come to Me”.

God Bless,

Ps Adrian DennienACC Kids Victoria Director

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The Multinational Pastors Network of ACC Vic is a ground breaking initiative of our State President- Ps Shane Baxter.

The objective is to build greater integration and TOGETHERNESS of the multinational pastors in ACC Vic, with other pastors in our movement.Over 100 ( or some 40 %) of our pastors are born overseas, and have been called by God to plant and grow Churches, here in Australia, reaching out to our multinational communities.

Our Vision is to be REAL:RelationshipEdificationAssimilationLifting up Jesus through the local church.

Integration, not segregation, has been a key priority over the past three years, reaching out and building bridges of understanding and trust, through a number of initiatives. These include:

- Creation of a Multinational Pastors Exec Team (MNPET), drawn from representative cultural backgrounds, including Africa, Cook Islands, India, Korea, New Zealand, Philippines, Samoa, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Tonga, Etc. (The MNPET Team meets bi monthly, and seeks to complement and support the role of District and Regional Leaders).

- Hosting of training events tailored to meet key needs of multinational pastors and their church boards, in building excellence in Church Governance and Church Planting.- Close and regular interaction by members of the State Executive, and their accessibility to multinational pastors and their churches.

- Helping fledgling and emerging multinational pastors and congregations with the integration process

- Enrolment of multinational pastors in Mentoring Programs.

- Hosting of multinational social events at State Conference and year end.It is encouraging to note the fruit of these initiatives, as evidenced by:

- Increasing participation of multinational pastors at District/ Regional/ State events

- The number of new multinational churches berthed in the past three years.

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- The number of souls from non-Christian backgrounds, being saved through the multinational churches.

- Strong take up of training and mentoring initiatives by multinational pastors

- Stronger/ healthier multinational churches, with a number of them now moving onto acquire land and build their own churches.

One challenge facing the multinational pastors is the successful transitioning of the next generation, which is in the process of transcending "two cultures!” This must be handled with much wisdom, sensitivity, and reliance on the Holy Spirit.

In reviewing progress over the past three years, the significant support provided by our State President, members of the State Executive, including, notably, Ps Ian Kruitho�, Ps Mark Bates, and the MNPET team, are gratefully acknowledged.

Ps Lakshman (Lucky) KanagasabaiCoordinator Multinational Pastors Network // ACC Victoria

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