Signs of Spring by Calee Loughran

Earlier this week, Matt Dobing sent staff a cheerful message wishing us a happy first day of spring. 

Even after a couple of years in Australia, September meaning springtime still catches me by surprise. Having grown up in the US, September has always meant autumn to me, with cooler days, changing leaves and the slow turn toward winter.

But this year, that reminder felt especially lovely.

We are heading into a season of sunshine and warmth, bright blooms and green grass, growth and new life. I find myself looking forward to warmer days, throwing open the windows to let in the fresh air, tackling a good spring clean and tidying up the flower beds.

I love the way the newness of spring seems to spill over into the rest of life. There is something about longer days, fresh growth and signs of life appearing all around us that makes possibility feel a little closer.

After a full and meaningful National Gathering, I hope that as a church we can embrace this season in much the same way: with openness to light and warmth, hope and life, growth and possibility. May we carry forward what has been stirred among us, making room for fresh movement and new life as we continue to follow where the Spirit is leading.

Wishing you a hopeful beginning to spring.

Calee Loughran

IYF/SPEC Stories: Millicent Sarre, 2009

For more than 30 years, the Australia Mission Centre has helped young people take part in international Community of Christ youth experiences, creating opportunities for connection, faith formation and a broader sense of what it means to belong to a worldwide church. As we look ahead to IYF/SPEC 2027, we’ll be sharing reflections from past participants whose experiences continue to speak to the impact of these journeys.

Creating Space at Open Door - An Interview with Charlotte Putros

Charlotte Putros is a student completing her work placement with The Open Door and The Open Door Rainbow Community Hub. Through the placement, she has been gaining practical experience while supporting the congregation’s ministries, activities and connection with the wider community. In the following interview, Charlotte shares about her experience, the connections she has formed and what she has learned along the way…

Making Space for Faith by Calee Loughran

Over the past couple of weeks, my social media has been filled with smiling faces, worship, crafts and games, meaningful discussions, and friendships. Here in Australia, children gathered at Young Peacemakers Holiday Program at Tiona and also at the Victorian Kids Area Gathering in Frankston. In the U.S., hundreds of teenagers are spending this week at Spectacular in Iowa, creating memories and friendships that I know from experience can shape a lifetime of faith…