Mercy Ministries Australia is a not-for-profit Christian charity committed to helping young women facing life-controlling issues. Often Mercy Ministries is their last hope. Our approach is to provide a holistic, residential program which attempts to address the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of these young women.
There are complex challenges in caring for young women with eating disorders, low self-esteem and suicidal tendencies, for women who have suffered abuse and engage in self harm.
Many of the women who voluntarily come to our program have struggled with one or more of these issues over an extended period of time, and have come to the point where they know they can no longer fight it on their own.
Sadly, there are young women who don't see the program through. Articles in the Herald last week reflected the views of some of these women. However, this is not everyone's experience. The program has been a great help to a large and growing number of people.
Mercy Ministries is an independent charity founded 25 years ago in the United States by Nancy Alcorn, a woman whose work in juvenile justice brought her into contact with secular programs which did not produce permanent results or change lives.
Mercy Ministries is not owned or run by Hillsong Church. Hillsong, along with other churches, organisations and individuals, makes annual donations to our work. Like any other not-for-profit organisation, we do seek the support of sponsors, which include Gloria Jean's Coffees.
As a Christian charity we believe in the teachings of the Bible, and that God loves all people unconditionally and all life is sacred. Our program reflects this statement. Claims of exorcism are simply untrue. We address the spiritual needs of young women, and prayer is one aspect of this.
We provide all residents with total access to medical specialists, including psychiatrists, general practitioners and psychologists. Our counselling staff are carefully recruited, hold tertiary qualifications and undergo ongoing professional development.
We strongly promote the girls' independence, social interaction and regular contact with their families.
We work closely with Centrelink where a young woman is eligible for benefits. This amount goes a small way to providing 24-hour care, seven days a week for these young women.
While we carefully interview our girls before entry, outlining what they can expect during their time with us, there are some girls who may request to leave of their own accord.
There are also a number of circumstances where we would ask someone to leave the program due to behavioural issues - including ongoing physical and verbal aggression that prevents us from fulfilling our duty of care in a residential setting. We have a fair process in place to handle this. In some cases, young women may return to continue the program.
We remain strongly committed to offering an excellent care program and continually improving what we do. Since the articles went to print, we have received an overwhelming response from supporters, graduates, family members, and the wider community. One of these graduates, Carly Thomson, wanted to share her positive story with others:
"Mercy Ministries provided fully qualified professionals who counselled me through my personal challenges, gave me self-worth, strength and practical tools to help me continue to live a regular and healthy life.
"There was not one single time that a member of staff abused me physically, mentally or emotionally. The staff would always support, guide and uplift me. Every young woman who entered the program at Mercy Ministries knew that they were free to leave at any time. No one was ever held there against their will.
"Today I am a healthy and confident young woman. I finished a university degree in primary school teaching/special education and am now working as a full-time teacher. I was married in December 2006 and am in a healthy and loving relationship.
"I have just started to study psychology and bought my first home in January. Life is better than I could have ever imagined it to be because of the help that Mercy Ministries provided to me."
Monday, April 21, 2008
Angel Of The Lord
The Lord's my Shepherd, I have everything I need.
Mercy and love follow me.
Though I walk through the dark valley of death, I will
Not be afraid for He's here.
The Lord's my refuge, no evil can come near me,
Dwelling in His secret place.
I put my trust in Him, He is my shield, I will
Let His peace rule in my heart.
(Chorus)
Surely, the Angel of the Lord is around me.
I have no cause to fear, my God will not forsake me.
I am His child, no enemy can touch me.
I will not die but live, to tell what He has done.
He has ransomed me, He gave me all authority,
Power, love and a sound mind.
Strong in the Lord and the power of His might, I will
Put on His armour and stand.
(Chorus)
Surely, the Angel of the Lord is around me.
I have no cause to fear, my God will not forsake me.
I am my Father's child, no enemy can touch me.
I will not die but live, to tell what He has done.
Mercy and love follow me.
Though I walk through the dark valley of death, I will
Not be afraid for He's here.
The Lord's my refuge, no evil can come near me,
Dwelling in His secret place.
I put my trust in Him, He is my shield, I will
Let His peace rule in my heart.
(Chorus)
Surely, the Angel of the Lord is around me.
I have no cause to fear, my God will not forsake me.
I am His child, no enemy can touch me.
I will not die but live, to tell what He has done.
He has ransomed me, He gave me all authority,
Power, love and a sound mind.
Strong in the Lord and the power of His might, I will
Put on His armour and stand.
(Chorus)
Surely, the Angel of the Lord is around me.
I have no cause to fear, my God will not forsake me.
I am my Father's child, no enemy can touch me.
I will not die but live, to tell what He has done.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Children of a modern God
The crowd surges to the stage with arms outstretched, mouths open and eyes closed in rapture. They form a tight, heaving mass in front of the young lead singer, who is bouncing around the stage near banners reading "Love God" and "forever". "I know it's hot, but my Jesus didn't know it was hot when he died on the cross for me," he screams to his sweaty flock, before singing that "I live to see this generation saved".
About 500 teenagers - who arrived here by the bus-load from Frankston, Werribee, Dandenong and Sunshine - sway or pray in time to the loud music. More still are expected at services over the Easter weekend, typically the busiest time in the Christian calendar.
Bass guitarist Tim Bradbury, 17, of Mooroolbark, has been attending the Planetshakers evangelical church since it started in Melbourne four years ago. God is the centre of his life, he says.
"I revolve my life around him. He's your best friend, someone who's very generous, has open arms. He's almost like your father."
The vinyl chairs filling Collingwood Town Hall on Friday night were empty for most of the service, as the teens stood to chant or clap while the youth pastors spread the word on stage.
This Friday is Good Friday, the most important date on the Christian calendar. But how many young people in particular will be marking Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection on Easter Sunday?
Empty pews are a common sight in Australia's established churches. The latest census found that just over half of 15 to 34-year-olds call themselves Christian, compared with 64% of all Australians and 79% of those aged over 65. Data tracing generation Y - those born from 1976 to 2001 - over the decade to 2006 as they began forging their own beliefs shows that about a third stopped identifying themselves as Catholic, while more than 40% turned from Anglicanism.
But it seems the long-documented drift from established religions has not left generation Y godless - or at least has not left it lacking in spirit. Experts suggest young Australians are increasingly embracing spirituality, whether in rebellion against their parents' secularism or as an antidote to rampant materialism.
Spirituality used to have a predominantly religious meaning, often referring to someone's relationship with God. Now it is used more broadly to denote a person's outlook and values, whether religious or not. And its rise among generation Y has prompted some who once spoke about the death of God to now contemplate something akin to a resurrection.
About 500 teenagers - who arrived here by the bus-load from Frankston, Werribee, Dandenong and Sunshine - sway or pray in time to the loud music. More still are expected at services over the Easter weekend, typically the busiest time in the Christian calendar.
Bass guitarist Tim Bradbury, 17, of Mooroolbark, has been attending the Planetshakers evangelical church since it started in Melbourne four years ago. God is the centre of his life, he says.
"I revolve my life around him. He's your best friend, someone who's very generous, has open arms. He's almost like your father."
The vinyl chairs filling Collingwood Town Hall on Friday night were empty for most of the service, as the teens stood to chant or clap while the youth pastors spread the word on stage.
This Friday is Good Friday, the most important date on the Christian calendar. But how many young people in particular will be marking Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection on Easter Sunday?
Empty pews are a common sight in Australia's established churches. The latest census found that just over half of 15 to 34-year-olds call themselves Christian, compared with 64% of all Australians and 79% of those aged over 65. Data tracing generation Y - those born from 1976 to 2001 - over the decade to 2006 as they began forging their own beliefs shows that about a third stopped identifying themselves as Catholic, while more than 40% turned from Anglicanism.
But it seems the long-documented drift from established religions has not left generation Y godless - or at least has not left it lacking in spirit. Experts suggest young Australians are increasingly embracing spirituality, whether in rebellion against their parents' secularism or as an antidote to rampant materialism.
Spirituality used to have a predominantly religious meaning, often referring to someone's relationship with God. Now it is used more broadly to denote a person's outlook and values, whether religious or not. And its rise among generation Y has prompted some who once spoke about the death of God to now contemplate something akin to a resurrection.
Ancient Of Days
Blessing and honor,
glory and power,
be unto the Ancient of Days.
From every nation,
all of creation,
bow before the Ancient of Days.
CHORUS-
Every tongue in heaven and earth,
shall declare Your glory,
every knee shall bow at Your throne,
in worship.
You will be exalted O God,
and Your Kingdom shall not pass away.
Oh Ancient of Days.
BRIDGE-
Your Kingdom shall reign over all the earth,
sing unto the Ancient of Days.
For none can compare to Your matchless worth,
sing unto the Ancient of Days.
glory and power,
be unto the Ancient of Days.
From every nation,
all of creation,
bow before the Ancient of Days.
CHORUS-
Every tongue in heaven and earth,
shall declare Your glory,
every knee shall bow at Your throne,
in worship.
You will be exalted O God,
and Your Kingdom shall not pass away.
Oh Ancient of Days.
BRIDGE-
Your Kingdom shall reign over all the earth,
sing unto the Ancient of Days.
For none can compare to Your matchless worth,
sing unto the Ancient of Days.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
The sky's the limit - Mercy Ministries' success stories
JOAN Habkouk will be 25 in June. It's only two years since she completed the Mercy Ministries' program, but it's a lifetime away from where she was.
The Castle Hill woman had battled eating disorders, depression and self-harm since she was 14.
"I had tried the public health system and counsellors, but none were beneficial," Ms Habkouk said.
Although the 11-month Mercy Ministries program was hard, now she can look back at it through enlightened eyes.
"It was absolutely the best time of my life," she said.
"You are dealing with the root issues of your life, so it's hard to face things like that but I am now living a life that is completely different and free.
"Before I went, I was ashamed of my life. I was taught I did have worth and value and I was beautiful, and that was a turning point for me. Now it is evident in the way I am living and just getting on with life and loving it."
The program helps young women overcome life-controlling issues such as self-harm, substance abuse, sexual abuse and eating disorders. But it's not for everyone.
The residential program in Glenhaven is regimented and disciplined, something director Peter Irvine doesn't deny. But its 95 per cent success rate should not be overlooked, he said, and residents come voluntarily.
"They have to want to come in. You can't help anyone who doesn't want to be helped," he said.
"Our approach is holistic, addressing the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of young women aged 16 to 28. If it's an eating disorder, a dietician develops a healthy diet for them. If it's abuse or self-harm, we have qualified counsellors and they will have one counselling session every day.
"They have plenty of free time; they go shopping once a week, they have to go to their doctor. If they don't have one, we have a doctor they can go to and a staff member will go with them. They are in our care so we have responsibility for them.
"The first four to six weeks are the toughest but after that, they are generally starting to settle down and address the issues.
"We try to get work experience for them in something they would like. Some have gone back to university and are topping their year."
Mr Irvine, a Hillsong attendee who denies any other affiliation with the charismatic church, said the program was Christian-based. Since it began, about 97 girls have attended.
"A lot of the accusations [in the Sydney Morning Herald's recent coverage] were that we lock them in their rooms but there are no locks on the doors," Mr Irvine said.
"The girls feel safe and we are happy for people to come and talk to the girls there. We do have to ask a few to leave the program but it is after a lengthy warning cycle. A handful have wanted to leave because they found it too tough but then some have asked to come back."
The Castle Hill woman had battled eating disorders, depression and self-harm since she was 14.
"I had tried the public health system and counsellors, but none were beneficial," Ms Habkouk said.
Although the 11-month Mercy Ministries program was hard, now she can look back at it through enlightened eyes.
"It was absolutely the best time of my life," she said.
"You are dealing with the root issues of your life, so it's hard to face things like that but I am now living a life that is completely different and free.
"Before I went, I was ashamed of my life. I was taught I did have worth and value and I was beautiful, and that was a turning point for me. Now it is evident in the way I am living and just getting on with life and loving it."
The program helps young women overcome life-controlling issues such as self-harm, substance abuse, sexual abuse and eating disorders. But it's not for everyone.
The residential program in Glenhaven is regimented and disciplined, something director Peter Irvine doesn't deny. But its 95 per cent success rate should not be overlooked, he said, and residents come voluntarily.
"They have to want to come in. You can't help anyone who doesn't want to be helped," he said.
"Our approach is holistic, addressing the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of young women aged 16 to 28. If it's an eating disorder, a dietician develops a healthy diet for them. If it's abuse or self-harm, we have qualified counsellors and they will have one counselling session every day.
"They have plenty of free time; they go shopping once a week, they have to go to their doctor. If they don't have one, we have a doctor they can go to and a staff member will go with them. They are in our care so we have responsibility for them.
"The first four to six weeks are the toughest but after that, they are generally starting to settle down and address the issues.
"We try to get work experience for them in something they would like. Some have gone back to university and are topping their year."
Mr Irvine, a Hillsong attendee who denies any other affiliation with the charismatic church, said the program was Christian-based. Since it began, about 97 girls have attended.
"A lot of the accusations [in the Sydney Morning Herald's recent coverage] were that we lock them in their rooms but there are no locks on the doors," Mr Irvine said.
"The girls feel safe and we are happy for people to come and talk to the girls there. We do have to ask a few to leave the program but it is after a lengthy warning cycle. A handful have wanted to leave because they found it too tough but then some have asked to come back."
Proclaim Your awesome power
Proclaim Your awesome power
Tell of mighty deeds
Declare Your future kingdom
Of everlasting peace
And my eyes they look unto You always
And I am captured by Your Majesty
All of my days
I will sing of Your greatness
All of my days
I will speak of Your grace
All of my days
I will tell of Your wonderous love
Your love in my life
Your love
All Your works will praise You
Your children bless Your name
We speak of all Your goodness
We walk in fields of grace
Tell of mighty deeds
Declare Your future kingdom
Of everlasting peace
And my eyes they look unto You always
And I am captured by Your Majesty
All of my days
I will sing of Your greatness
All of my days
I will speak of Your grace
All of my days
I will tell of Your wonderous love
Your love in my life
Your love
All Your works will praise You
Your children bless Your name
We speak of all Your goodness
We walk in fields of grace
Friday, April 18, 2008
Hillsong Church, Gloria Jeans linked to abuse claims
YOUNG women suffering mental illness were treated with Bible studies and exorcisms as part of a secretive ministry linked to Gloria Jean's Coffees and the Hillsong Church.
Troubled young women signed over months of their lives to Mercy Ministries, which offered them little or no medical or psychiatric care, the Sydney Morning Herald investigation found.
Three former ministry residents have blown the whistle on the program, claiming they were independent young women when they entered, but came out broken and suicidal, believing - as ministry staff had told them - that they were possessed by demons and that Satan controlled them.
The women have since been forced to undergo years of intense psychological and psychiatric care to overcome their treatment at the ministry.
Membership at the ministry required residents to sign over any Centrelink benefits, and it is believed the group also received a carers payment to look after the women, the Herald reported.
The Mercy Ministries website says the group takes in women aged 16 to 28 and offers them support from "psychologists, general practitioners, dietitians, social workers, (and) career counsellors''.
However, the three residents who have spoken out about the ministry said no professional medical services were provided, and instead the program focused on prayer, Christian counselling and expelling demons from in and around the young women.
"Mercy Ministries staff address the issues that the residents face from a holistic client-focused approach; physical, mental, emotional. The program is voluntary and all aspects are explained comprehensibly to the residents and no force is used,'' ministry executive manager of programs Judy Watson told the Herald.
Mercy Ministries, sponsored by Gloria Jean's and supported by the Hillsong Foundation, says it has a 90 per cent success rate from its programs
Troubled young women signed over months of their lives to Mercy Ministries, which offered them little or no medical or psychiatric care, the Sydney Morning Herald investigation found.
Three former ministry residents have blown the whistle on the program, claiming they were independent young women when they entered, but came out broken and suicidal, believing - as ministry staff had told them - that they were possessed by demons and that Satan controlled them.
The women have since been forced to undergo years of intense psychological and psychiatric care to overcome their treatment at the ministry.
Membership at the ministry required residents to sign over any Centrelink benefits, and it is believed the group also received a carers payment to look after the women, the Herald reported.
The Mercy Ministries website says the group takes in women aged 16 to 28 and offers them support from "psychologists, general practitioners, dietitians, social workers, (and) career counsellors''.
However, the three residents who have spoken out about the ministry said no professional medical services were provided, and instead the program focused on prayer, Christian counselling and expelling demons from in and around the young women.
"Mercy Ministries staff address the issues that the residents face from a holistic client-focused approach; physical, mental, emotional. The program is voluntary and all aspects are explained comprehensibly to the residents and no force is used,'' ministry executive manager of programs Judy Watson told the Herald.
Mercy Ministries, sponsored by Gloria Jean's and supported by the Hillsong Foundation, says it has a 90 per cent success rate from its programs
All I Need Is You
Left my fear by the side of the road
Hear You speak
Won't let go
Fall to my knees as I lift my hands to pray
Got every reason to be here again
Father's love that draws me in
And all my eyes wanna see is a glimpse of You
All I need is You
All I need is You Lord
Is You Lord
One more day and it's not the same
Your Spirit calls my heart to sing
Drawn to the voice of my Saviour once again
Where would my soul be without Your Son
Gave His life to save the earth
Rest in the thought that You're watching over me
All I need is You
All I need is You Lord
Is You Lord
You hold the universe
You hold everyone on earth
You hold the universe
You hold
You hold
Hear You speak
Won't let go
Fall to my knees as I lift my hands to pray
Got every reason to be here again
Father's love that draws me in
And all my eyes wanna see is a glimpse of You
All I need is You
All I need is You Lord
Is You Lord
One more day and it's not the same
Your Spirit calls my heart to sing
Drawn to the voice of my Saviour once again
Where would my soul be without Your Son
Gave His life to save the earth
Rest in the thought that You're watching over me
All I need is You
All I need is You Lord
Is You Lord
You hold the universe
You hold everyone on earth
You hold the universe
You hold
You hold
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Hillsong United To Launch TheIHeartRevolution
Release of With Hearts As One CD Is First Part of New Social Justice Movement
Sydney-based Hillsong United will launch TheIHeartRevolution social justice movement on April 1 with the U.S. release of With Hearts As One, a new double album that captures live worship from around the world.
The CD release is the first part of a three-part action plan for TheIHeartRevolution that also includes a June release of a DVD titled We're All In This Together. Both the CD, which captures the "sound" of global worship, and the DVD, which captures the "visual," are aimed at creating awareness for phase three - - the development of an online community and social justice hub set to launch in July.
The With Hearts As One CD features 30 songs recorded live in various locations including Scotland, Malaysia, France, Paraguay, Sweden and Brazil to name a few. The album was produced by Hillsong United frontman Joel Houston along with guitarist Jad Gillies and Andrew Crawford.
"From Rwanda to Capetown, Buenos Aires to Mexico City, Los Angeles to Toronto, London to Budapest and Shanghai to Sydney… we've recorded almost every United worship service for the last 2 years," says Houston. "We bottled just some of the moments and put them together for all who'd choose to hear. The end result is the sound of a generation across the earth singing praise and worship to our God. The sound of the nations joining as one in the same song."
With Hearts As One will be available in Christian retail stores beginning April 1 through Provident-Integrity Distribution and in mainstream outlets through Columbia/SONY-BMG.
Regarding TheIHeartRevolution, Houston says: "We must live out our worship through action by reaching out to the lost and the broken... helping the poor and oppressed, pursuing justice and fairness for all people. That's the impetus behind TheIHeartRevolution. It is simply a generation of people expressing their heart for worship and realizing God's purpose for all of us, to love people and be His hands and feet."
Houston continues, "We'll do our best to set up a platform and a network where we can be educated on the issues and be directed in ways we can help locally and globally, a place to be inspired by the stories of others and to share our experiences. But, practically speaking, the revolution depends entirely on all of us choosing to act."
"Every generation needs a revolution," adds Houston, "And this one needs to look, sound, walk and breathe like love…"
The passion to "live out their worship" is at the heart of Hillsong United's ministry and also at the heart of Hillsong Church, Australia's largest evangelical congregation and home to the dynamic youth ministry from which the band emerged. Hillsong United is a "Group of the Year" nominee for the 39th Annual Dove Awards and also a former recipient of the Gospel Music Association's International Award given in recognition of their impact on the global Church.
Additional information about the movement is available at www.TheIHeartRevolution.com and http://www.myspace.com/theiheartrevolution with details related to the DVD release and development of the social justice hub to be announced later.
Sydney-based Hillsong United will launch TheIHeartRevolution social justice movement on April 1 with the U.S. release of With Hearts As One, a new double album that captures live worship from around the world.
The CD release is the first part of a three-part action plan for TheIHeartRevolution that also includes a June release of a DVD titled We're All In This Together. Both the CD, which captures the "sound" of global worship, and the DVD, which captures the "visual," are aimed at creating awareness for phase three - - the development of an online community and social justice hub set to launch in July.
The With Hearts As One CD features 30 songs recorded live in various locations including Scotland, Malaysia, France, Paraguay, Sweden and Brazil to name a few. The album was produced by Hillsong United frontman Joel Houston along with guitarist Jad Gillies and Andrew Crawford.
"From Rwanda to Capetown, Buenos Aires to Mexico City, Los Angeles to Toronto, London to Budapest and Shanghai to Sydney… we've recorded almost every United worship service for the last 2 years," says Houston. "We bottled just some of the moments and put them together for all who'd choose to hear. The end result is the sound of a generation across the earth singing praise and worship to our God. The sound of the nations joining as one in the same song."
With Hearts As One will be available in Christian retail stores beginning April 1 through Provident-Integrity Distribution and in mainstream outlets through Columbia/SONY-BMG.
Regarding TheIHeartRevolution, Houston says: "We must live out our worship through action by reaching out to the lost and the broken... helping the poor and oppressed, pursuing justice and fairness for all people. That's the impetus behind TheIHeartRevolution. It is simply a generation of people expressing their heart for worship and realizing God's purpose for all of us, to love people and be His hands and feet."
Houston continues, "We'll do our best to set up a platform and a network where we can be educated on the issues and be directed in ways we can help locally and globally, a place to be inspired by the stories of others and to share our experiences. But, practically speaking, the revolution depends entirely on all of us choosing to act."
"Every generation needs a revolution," adds Houston, "And this one needs to look, sound, walk and breathe like love…"
The passion to "live out their worship" is at the heart of Hillsong United's ministry and also at the heart of Hillsong Church, Australia's largest evangelical congregation and home to the dynamic youth ministry from which the band emerged. Hillsong United is a "Group of the Year" nominee for the 39th Annual Dove Awards and also a former recipient of the Gospel Music Association's International Award given in recognition of their impact on the global Church.
Additional information about the movement is available at www.TheIHeartRevolution.com and http://www.myspace.com/theiheartrevolution with details related to the DVD release and development of the social justice hub to be announced later.
Anything (For You)
Verse:
For you, I'd climb the highest height
I'd dive the deepest sea
Search for more of you
For you, I'd fall upon my knees
Cry out night and day
Search for more of you
Pre-Chorus:
And I would give my riches away
They're nothing without you
Chorus:
Something to live for
Something worth dying for
Has taken my heart
Someone to follow
In good or in troubled times
I'd give all I have
Do Anything for you
Anything for you
Verse
Pre-Chorus
Chorusx2
Do Anything for you
Anything for you
Pre-Chorus
Chorusx2
Do Anything for you (Anything for you)
Anything for you (Anything for you)
Anything for you (Anything for you)
Anything for you (Anything for you)
Anything for you (Anything for you)
Anything for you
Anything for you
For you, I'd climb the highest height
I'd dive the deepest sea
Search for more of you
For you, I'd fall upon my knees
Cry out night and day
Search for more of you
Pre-Chorus:
And I would give my riches away
They're nothing without you
Chorus:
Something to live for
Something worth dying for
Has taken my heart
Someone to follow
In good or in troubled times
I'd give all I have
Do Anything for you
Anything for you
Verse
Pre-Chorus
Chorusx2
Do Anything for you
Anything for you
Pre-Chorus
Chorusx2
Do Anything for you (Anything for you)
Anything for you (Anything for you)
Anything for you (Anything for you)
Anything for you (Anything for you)
Anything for you (Anything for you)
Anything for you
Anything for you
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Rabbitohs behind push for Hillsong Church
The South Sydney Rabbitohs are reportedly behind a push to build a new mega-Church for the evangelical Hillsong Group.
Fairfax Media reported that Hillsong is wanting to build a new mega-Church to seat up to 2700 people in the inner-city of Sydney.
It is understood that several high-profile organisations are behind the push, including former politicians, the PCYC and the Rabbitohs league club.
The near $80 Million development is to seat nearly 3000 members, and will also house a seven-storey office development.
However residents of the Rosebery area are furious at the development application and high-profile support - saying that those supporting it will not have to live with it.
Hundreds of supporters letters have been sent to the Sydney Cit Council, while hundreds against the development have also responded.
The Rabbitohs said that while they wrote the letter of support, they had little understanding of what the project was really about.
"We didn't fully understand the nature of the development and the objections from the community, but we do feel that they are making a positive contribution," Rabbitohs spokesman Chris Keeble said.
It is believed that most supporter letters are from those outside of the development zone - with therefore no impacting consideration.
Hillsong says that it has every right to build the new mega-Church, despite widespread community anger at the plans.
"Our congregation cannot be excluded from the community … the members of Hillsong Church have as much right as the minority residents action group to get those who are concerned to act on their behalf," Hillsong's George Aghajanian told Fairfax Media.
Hillsong Church is seen as an evangelical organisation, originally starting in the north-western suburbs of Sydney.
It is known for it's campaigns to attract a much younger demographic within it's constituents, with a focus on music and technology.
Fairfax Media reported that Hillsong is wanting to build a new mega-Church to seat up to 2700 people in the inner-city of Sydney.
It is understood that several high-profile organisations are behind the push, including former politicians, the PCYC and the Rabbitohs league club.
The near $80 Million development is to seat nearly 3000 members, and will also house a seven-storey office development.
However residents of the Rosebery area are furious at the development application and high-profile support - saying that those supporting it will not have to live with it.
Hundreds of supporters letters have been sent to the Sydney Cit Council, while hundreds against the development have also responded.
The Rabbitohs said that while they wrote the letter of support, they had little understanding of what the project was really about.
"We didn't fully understand the nature of the development and the objections from the community, but we do feel that they are making a positive contribution," Rabbitohs spokesman Chris Keeble said.
It is believed that most supporter letters are from those outside of the development zone - with therefore no impacting consideration.
Hillsong says that it has every right to build the new mega-Church, despite widespread community anger at the plans.
"Our congregation cannot be excluded from the community … the members of Hillsong Church have as much right as the minority residents action group to get those who are concerned to act on their behalf," Hillsong's George Aghajanian told Fairfax Media.
Hillsong Church is seen as an evangelical organisation, originally starting in the north-western suburbs of Sydney.
It is known for it's campaigns to attract a much younger demographic within it's constituents, with a focus on music and technology.
More Than Life
Stand by everything You said
Stand by the promises we made
Let go of everything I 've done
I'll run into Your open arms
And all I know
Chorus:
I love You more than life
I love You more than life
Fall back on everything You've done
Fall back on everlasting arms
When all the world is swept away
You are all the things I need
You're the air I breathe
How can it be
You were the one on the cross
Lifted for all our shame?
How can it be
The scars in Your hands are for me?
You are the king of all
Stand by the promises we made
Let go of everything I 've done
I'll run into Your open arms
And all I know
Chorus:
I love You more than life
I love You more than life
Fall back on everything You've done
Fall back on everlasting arms
When all the world is swept away
You are all the things I need
You're the air I breathe
How can it be
You were the one on the cross
Lifted for all our shame?
How can it be
The scars in Your hands are for me?
You are the king of all
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Hillsong Reacts to Idol's Shout to the Lord
Hillsong Church leaders say they are thrilled that their song "Shout to the Lord," was chosen for American Idol's Give Back broadcast that aired Wednesday.
But they also said they were not asked about the removal of the name Jesus in the broadcast performance.
RELATED STORIES:
WATCH: 'American Idol' Shouts to the Lord - Again
Aussie Gets the Boot
on American Idol
"Hillsong Church was thrilled to see the song "Shout To The Lord" performed recently on American Idol," officials with the Australian church said in a statement issued late Friday.
"It received an incredible response and was the fifth most downloaded song in this week's U.S. iTunes charts," a church spokesperson said.
The show's eight final contestants from season seven first sang the song during American Idol's second annual charity drive Idol Gives Back. But during the broadcast, the opening line of the song was changed to remove the name of Jesus. The word 'shepherd' was inserted instead.
But in a reprisal of the song Thursday night, and in the downloaded version, "Jesus" was left in.
"Darlene Zschech and Hillsong Church were not asked, nor approved, of the name of Jesus being replaced," the spokesperson said. "We were pleased to see that the song was performed again with the correct lyrics."
Wednesday night's performance became the number one download from that night in the United States.
"Wow. I've never heard this song until they played it on Idol Gives Back," said one reviewer of the downloaded performance. "I really liked how it was giving praise to the Lord and was full of hope. It was beautiful."
On Wednesday, millions tuned in to the charity show to see the needs spread across the globe -- everything from hungry children to AIDS victims.
Numerous celebrities participated in the event to encourage viewers to donate, including Bono, Miley Cyrus, Brad Pitt, Billy Crystal, and Peyton and Eli Manning -- just to name a few.
Producers expect the event to raise $100 million.
But they also said they were not asked about the removal of the name Jesus in the broadcast performance.
RELATED STORIES:
WATCH: 'American Idol' Shouts to the Lord - Again
Aussie Gets the Boot
on American Idol
"Hillsong Church was thrilled to see the song "Shout To The Lord" performed recently on American Idol," officials with the Australian church said in a statement issued late Friday.
"It received an incredible response and was the fifth most downloaded song in this week's U.S. iTunes charts," a church spokesperson said.
The show's eight final contestants from season seven first sang the song during American Idol's second annual charity drive Idol Gives Back. But during the broadcast, the opening line of the song was changed to remove the name of Jesus. The word 'shepherd' was inserted instead.
But in a reprisal of the song Thursday night, and in the downloaded version, "Jesus" was left in.
"Darlene Zschech and Hillsong Church were not asked, nor approved, of the name of Jesus being replaced," the spokesperson said. "We were pleased to see that the song was performed again with the correct lyrics."
Wednesday night's performance became the number one download from that night in the United States.
"Wow. I've never heard this song until they played it on Idol Gives Back," said one reviewer of the downloaded performance. "I really liked how it was giving praise to the Lord and was full of hope. It was beautiful."
On Wednesday, millions tuned in to the charity show to see the needs spread across the globe -- everything from hungry children to AIDS victims.
Numerous celebrities participated in the event to encourage viewers to donate, including Bono, Miley Cyrus, Brad Pitt, Billy Crystal, and Peyton and Eli Manning -- just to name a few.
Producers expect the event to raise $100 million.
Obama backtracks after 'elitist' gaffe
HILLARY Clinton's Democratic presidential campaign has been given new life in Pennsylvania and beyond after Barack Obama was forced into a second day of damage control for calling small-town Americans "bitter".
Senator Clinton blasted her rival as "elitist" and "out of touch". At first, Senator Obama acknowledged only that he had chosen his words poorly. But by his fourth clarification he had moved closer to contrition.
"If I worded things in a way that made people offended, I deeply regret that," Senator Obama told the Winston-Salem Journal. "The underlying truth of what I said remains."
Senators Clinton and Obama will clash in a face-to-face debate in Philadelphia on Wednesday.
Senator Clinton, 60, trails Senator Obama, 46, in total nominating victories, the popular vote and elected delegates going into the Pennsylvania contest and needs a strong win.
Senator Obama's remarks came at an April 6 fund-raiser in San Francisco, when he spoke of workers in Pennsylvania and elsewhere who have seen factories shut down. "So it's not surprising then that they get bitter, they cling to guns, or religion, or antipathy, to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations," he said.
The blue-collar, economically stressed voters Senator Obama was talking about are a key voting bloc in Pennsylvania on April 22 and in coming primaries in North Carolina, Indiana and West Virginia.
Senator Clinton launched the first volley in what might become a high-stakes game of working-class one-upmanship. "The people of faith I know don't 'cling to' religion because they're bitter. People embrace faith not because they are materially poor but because they are spiritually rich," she said.
Some analysts say the comments raise larger questions about Senator Obama's candidacy. "This is serious … potentially devastating," said Terry Madonna, an independent pollster in Pennsylvania.
Many Democrats have said Senator Clinton's last hope is for a major event or gaffe to derail Senator Obama's march to the nomination. Some were wondering if they had just seen it.
"Mistakes like this make superdelegates nervous," said one Democratic strategist in Washington. "You cannot be elected president of the United States if you think you're smarter than everyone. People pick up on that."
NEWSDAY, AFP
Senator Clinton blasted her rival as "elitist" and "out of touch". At first, Senator Obama acknowledged only that he had chosen his words poorly. But by his fourth clarification he had moved closer to contrition.
"If I worded things in a way that made people offended, I deeply regret that," Senator Obama told the Winston-Salem Journal. "The underlying truth of what I said remains."
Senators Clinton and Obama will clash in a face-to-face debate in Philadelphia on Wednesday.
Senator Clinton, 60, trails Senator Obama, 46, in total nominating victories, the popular vote and elected delegates going into the Pennsylvania contest and needs a strong win.
Senator Obama's remarks came at an April 6 fund-raiser in San Francisco, when he spoke of workers in Pennsylvania and elsewhere who have seen factories shut down. "So it's not surprising then that they get bitter, they cling to guns, or religion, or antipathy, to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations," he said.
The blue-collar, economically stressed voters Senator Obama was talking about are a key voting bloc in Pennsylvania on April 22 and in coming primaries in North Carolina, Indiana and West Virginia.
Senator Clinton launched the first volley in what might become a high-stakes game of working-class one-upmanship. "The people of faith I know don't 'cling to' religion because they're bitter. People embrace faith not because they are materially poor but because they are spiritually rich," she said.
Some analysts say the comments raise larger questions about Senator Obama's candidacy. "This is serious … potentially devastating," said Terry Madonna, an independent pollster in Pennsylvania.
Many Democrats have said Senator Clinton's last hope is for a major event or gaffe to derail Senator Obama's march to the nomination. Some were wondering if they had just seen it.
"Mistakes like this make superdelegates nervous," said one Democratic strategist in Washington. "You cannot be elected president of the United States if you think you're smarter than everyone. People pick up on that."
NEWSDAY, AFP
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