Crossroads Christian Centre hosted the first northern faith festival.
Held in South Auckland in December, the festival follows the concept started by Bruce Nielsen and the youth of Dunedin Presbytery in 1987. The faith festival is an opportunity for young people to connect and share their faith and experiences.
Northern festival co-ordinator the Rev Steve Millard of Crossroads, pays tribute to national youth co-director Mo Mansill and Keith Finlay for their encouragement to “go for it” and organise the festival.
Mr Millward was touched by the generosity of people who helped.
“One guy from our church wrote out a cheque for $1,000 to help cover our expenses. Another young couple gave an open cheque towards it [the festival]. Others baked these amazing cakes, which we thoroughly enjoyed over the weekend.”
The Rev Barry Ayers of Beachlands-Maraetai Presbyterian Church thought the festival was excellent. “All of our group really enjoyed the time and they’re keen to come again next year and bring more people!”
At the festival there was a great deal of joy, ministry, bouncing off each other in terms of musical ability and ideas, enthusiasm, feel good factor and excitement, says Mr Millward.
“One 16 year old guy, from a non-Church background, was moved visibly as he was prayed for. Another young man gave a testimony of being healed of vertigo that he has had for years.
“There was a genuine sense of togetherness and joy in the Lord, and I think it helped people dream again about what God wants to do through us, his people.”
A lot of people helped, says Mr Millward.
“The worship team from Pacific Island Church in Newtown, the hugely entertaining Z Amigos, the cool sounds of the Clevedon band and Sara Auva’a, and the passion of the Botany Downs worship band all helped make the festival a success.”