Global Senior Pastors Phil and Lucinda Dooley look with fresh vision for the future of Hillsong Church, announcing a mission-focused pathway as we step forward into a new era.
Acknowledging Hillsong Church’s legacy and foundations, last Sunday, Pastor Phil said: “We are stepping into a new era… God is continually outworking new things; constantly moving us forward, challenging us to grow, develop and change as we serve Him.”
Linking with 127 locations, 193 services and 32 countries across the globe, the key scripture for the morning was Hebrews 12:1-3,
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.
After the recent upheavals of COVID-19 and leadership changes, in keeping with “A Healthy Church, Changing Lives Through Christ”, Phil outlined three strategic pillars that will support the outworking of the mission:
- Building healthy church communities
- Purpose-filled Jesus followers
- Significant and sustainable social impact.
Vision Sunday has been an annual tradition built over many years and has now been rebranded as Mission Sunday, highlighting the shift in focus. “It’s mission that stirs our hearts and drives us forward… an understanding of our purpose. Jesus was on mission; He knew His purpose deeply… Events are driven by mission, not the other way around.” The focus is on building strong and healthy relationships and communities, to pursue Jesus Christ as our first love and live lives in service to Him; to be an outwardly focused church, serving our communities locally, nationally, and internationally.
“I believe this is the time for us as a global church to work together like never before. To pray for each other. To support each other. To grieve with those who are grieving and to rejoice with those who are rejoicing.”
Pastor Phil shared his dream of what he believes we can achieve collectively as a church, and that we could be known for our commitment to MISSION, with an exciting announcement of Hillsong’s first global mission adventure in 2024. Naturally, big dreams also require time and planning, so there is still much to do! But the future looks bright and hopeful as together, we seek to focus our energies and resource into becoming a healthy church with significant and sustainable social impact, filled with purpose-driven, Jesus-followers.
To conclude the service, Pastor Lucinda prayed that we, His church, could be His servants – “true prisoners of Christ”, asking for forgiveness and determining to fix our gaze on Christ as we look to the future for His glory.
May 17 2024
