The message of a life following Jesus is always central when the church gathers. The participants present in the auditorium and the many thousands watching online get to hear the uplifting message when Kåre J. Smith commences the evening.
The results show great support
The ongoing reorganization of the international BCC Federation has been of central importance in recent years. And tonight, the status of the three factors that are decisive for the overall finances will be reviewed: voluntary work, the donation model, and accommodation through Samvirk.
Tore Aslaksen from the Secretariat explains the background to the steps taken to resolve this, and refers back to the Assembly of Representatives’ decision that the church should have sustainable and predictable finances. And the results so far show that there is great support for this from people wanting to be part of BCC.
“The friends have supported the donation model and Samvirk in a fantastic way and made a voluntary effort in recent years that I think must be a world record,” says Aslaksen.
With love as the driving force
Good information is crucial in major change processes, and Berit Hustad Nilsen from the Secretariat points out that although many have worked hard to make it as simple and clear as possible, information could probably be even better. At the same time, she encourages all viewers to think about what it means for us to be able to gather around the message we hear, and how we talk about this when we meet people.
“This is for people who want to be part of our church,” says Hustad Nilsen.
She reminds us that we are called to be light in the world, and that this must be reflected in our everyday lives. “This is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome,” says Hustad Nilsen and continues: “When you become a part of this, you get a completely different driving force. This way you can be a support in the work, whether you are a youth worker, a stay-at-home mom or an elderly intercessor.”
Good support programs for those who need it
“Imagine being able to meet people the way Jesus would have met them, with His shepherd’s heart,” says Harald Kronstad from the Elders.
Throughout the process of putting in place finances and developing the organization, the Elders have been concerned that good arrangements should be made for supporting those who need help with accommodation. They have also emphasized that everyone should be met with respect, warmth and understanding. Kronstad emphasizes to local church elders how important this is, and that each local church must take this responsibility seriously.
“This is something close to the heart of the Elders,” he says, and also refers to the fact that updated information has been shared with elders in all local churches worldwide.
Great support for voluntary work
And since we’re gathered for a volunteering weekend, loud applause in the hall accompanies Miriam Hartje Oommen from BCC Event when she talks about how 2024 has been when it comes to volunteering.
“We have succeeded; not only have we achieved the goals we set ourselves, but we have carried out even more than that,” says Hartje Oommen.
It is clear that there are many people who have a heart for the cause, when a presentation is made showing a number of different contributions by individuals and local churches around the world.
Campaign: A boost for those who want to participate in camps and conferences
All the work done by volunteer youth workers is motivated by the desire for more people to enter a life of discipleship, where following Jesus forms a part of everyday life. The Pace campaign that was launched this summer continues, and young people are committed. Those planning to attend youth camps and conferences in BCC are given encouragement to do so.
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