ICC’s Wider Connections
OUR WIDER CONNECTIONS
Even though Impact Christian Centre is an autonomous (self Governed) Church we have as strong a commitment to the wider body of Christ as we have to our own vision and mission. In fact, we have never been able to consider our own “vision” as separately configured to the wider expressions of the body of Christ. Our commitment to the unity of the body of Christ demands that we see ourselves as an inter-dependent ministry with local and trans-local connections.
CROSSLINK CHRISTIAN NETWORK, AUSTRALIA
We are members of a national network of churches and Christian ministries called Crosslink. It has been in existence for over ten years and has grown from five churches to over 100 and continues to grow. The Network is also primarily relational, but gives peer support, trans-local identity and accountability. This network is beginning to emerge as a seed movement representing the call of Christ to holiness, oneness, fullness and a commitment to complete the task.
FRATERNALS/NETWORKS
From our reading of the Bible we are convinced that there is really only one church in the Moreton Bay Region. It happens to be a divided church at worst or a disassembled church. We share no commitment to denominational loyalties or sensitivities since they have usually produced the sectarian identity that has been the curse of most cities and regions. Our desire is to find a way for the body of Christ to be “assembled” so that it can attend its divine commission.
We are constantly seeking relational networks of Christian leaders and churches across the region. It has taken various expressions over the years but remains as a tool for fostering strategic unity that represents a contemporary fulfillment of Jesus’ prayer in John 17 and Paul’s plea in 1 Corinthians and Ephesians.
PERSONAL INVOLVEMENT IN STRATEGIC CHRISTIAN CAUSES
In addition to our formal connections some ICC members are involved in other kinds of Christian ministries and organizations that serve the purposes of Christ. We encourage this and want to support this.
MISSIONS SUPPORT
We consider it vital to support others in ministry outside of ourselves even if ICC does not benefit directly.
In addition to one-off gifts locally, nationally and globally ICC supports and regularly contributes financially to:
The Chaplain at Pine Rivers state High School
The Chaplain at Samford State Primary School
Over 60 individuals at ICC sponsor the education of some children attached to City Gates Christian Centre in the Philippines.
Our Pastors and leaders are also involved in many activities outside ICC. In particular:
UK
Simon & Jane were part of planting congregations in London, England and a church in Slovakia (Eastern Europe). Even though they now have no jurisdiction or real leadership over these congregations, there is a real openness of relationship.
CEBU – Philippines
Simon & Jane were involved in establishing a Bible Training School, two small primary schools and planting 7 church sites in the Philippines (2001-2004). Simon still has some spiritual oversight. This involves assisting with major decisions, mentoring and leadership to local pastors, etc. Towards the end of 2008 a third site will be launched, at which Simon will be expected, (and would like) to be present.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE INTERNATIONAL (MAD)
With Cebu (Philippines) in mind Simon & Jane started and now help to oversee MAD International, a Charity registered in the UK since 2000. Last year MAD appointed their first paid, full-time worker in the UK to manage the Charity, visit the Philippines regularly and seek ways of raising finances.
MAD International is responsible for partly supporting three pastors and their families and renting two houses. They have recently rented another apartment to house 5 children who have been abandoned, and have committed to fully housing, feeding and looking after them.
MAD also runs a weekly feeding program, a training programme and various other projects in the Church, communities, etc.
CAIRNS (The ROCK Church, Ps. Henry)
During 2006 and 2007 Simon was able to help and encourage two Church sites and a Bible College with 1st and 2nd year students (35 in total). All are part of the Rock Church in Cairns. Simon has played the role of a mentor to the Pastors and leaders. Simon regularly speaks to the pastors and visits Cairns periodically.
Other involvement
- Simon is also the Chairman of the Board of OFB Global (non for Profit Company linked to OFB Corporation).
- Simon teaches young leaders on the YWAM base at Mitchelton each term on the subject of Mentoring.
- From time to time Simon takes assemblies/chapel services at Northside Christian College and more recently has been involved in speaking at whole school staff devotional times.
- Simon also speaks to other church groups, camps and seminars from time to time.
- Simon is a member of the Crosslink Christian Network board.