Bushfire Relief

Australian Christian Churches President Offers Prayers and Support for Australians

As Australians it is impossible (and unthinkable) to ignore the tragedy that has so recently devastated the state of Victoria. The recent bushfires have claimed too many lives, and changed the face of some communities forever. Too many people have lost homes, and too many people are now facing the heartbreaking task of rebuilding their lives without loved ones. Our hearts and prayers are with all of those affected by these horrible fires.

In times like these, it is often easy to ask why things like this happen, and to look heavenward for answers. Too often we try to understand these tragic times, and turn to political statements and moral codes to help us grasp the depth of these situations. It breaks my heart to hear of people making broad, bold, and often very disillusioned statements equating such tragedies as ‘retribution from God’.

The God I serve is a personal being who cares about our everyday lives, and whose heart breaks over these unfair and often unjust circumstances. I believe in a God who is full of mercy and grace, a compassionate Saviour who wants to build people’s lives for the better, feels the pain of loss as His own, and who cares deeply for those that are hurting, alone, widowed and orphaned.

Our days are filled with unpredictable circumstances, and it is at this time that we must quickly focus our attention to offering support and compassion, concentrating our efforts on the restoration of these great Australian communities and our neighbours in need.

Pastor Brian Houston
Senior Pastor – Hillsong Church
National President – AOG in Australia/ Australian Christian Churches

*Hillsong Church and the ACC have both launched emergency appeals for support from the church community in Australia, and believe that we can all make a significant contribution to rebuilding the lives fellow Australians. For more information please visit: https://www.hillsong.com/bushfirerelief or http://www.aog.org.au/Events/WorldReliefAppeals/tabid/1355/language/en-US/Default.aspx

FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT 8853 5303 or Media@hillsong.com