AND HOPE ENDURANCE 2020 Annual Review - TSCF
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ENDURANCE AND HOPE 2020 Annual Review
LESSONS FROM ENDURANCE Ben Carswell National Director
He ākonga ki ngā ākonga hei
ara whakawhiti mō te Karaiti. The year was 1914. The dark clouds of World “Ka mua, ka muri” meaning “Walking back- had brought them to their predicament –
Reaching students for Christ, War I were gathering. Ernest Shackleton, a wards into the future;” we learn from the past unseasonable gales, changeable weather and
changing students for life. young Antarctic explorer, was preparing to as we head into the future. sub-zero temperatures. As the months went
lead the Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition, on, the grim reality became apparent: their
Editor
Bex Allen
attempting the first land crossing of the An Ambitious Vision ship was trapped, would be crushed, and sink.
Antarctic continent via the South Pole. His Shackleton’s plan was simple, yet bold and When the time came, Shackleton simply said,
Designer plans were grand, the task huge and the ambitious. Preparations were made, a team “She’s going, boys. I think it’s time to get off.”
Rachel Hay
potential glory, great. But deep in the assembled and a goal established – to
Antarctic Ocean the plan was halted, and his achieve the first land crossing of the Antarctic Throughout this obvious disappointment and
mission changed. continent. immediate danger, Shackleton maintained a
realistic perspective. Their ship was gone, but
Shackleton and his crew of 27 planned to sail As TSCF, our vision is also simple, bold and they were still alive. They had three boats to aid
TSCF’s vision is to help students their ship Endurance through the Weddell Sea ambitious. We want to see students across them and supplies to keep them. All was not
in New Zealand become servant to the Antarctic Peninsula, where their land NZ being transformed by the gospel of Christ lost, though everything had changed. Later,
leaders of character through the crossing would begin. However, before they and becoming servant leaders of character. as Shackleton and his crew faced the realities
transforming gospel of Christ. TSCF is a reached land, Endurance was trapped, then We want them to be shaped by Biblical con- and choices of their situation, he asked the
founding member of the International crushed in an icepack. Within a few days their victions, integrating faith, study, work and life, question: “Can we stay where we are?”
Fellowship of Evangelical Students. grand plans were irrevocably changed, and bringing cultural renewal to NZ’s tertiary insti-
new challenges awaited. tutions. Our mission is to reach students for As 2020 began, it was terrific to see TSCF’s
The Annual Review is for those
who partner with us in our vision and
Christ and change students for life. vision outworked. Encouraging numbers of
mission to reach students for Christ. It The similarities with our situation over a cen- students gathered at our Student Lounge at
reports on what God has accomplished tury later in 2020 are striking. For TSCF, and A Changed Plan Festival One, then at various Launch events,
through TSCF in the previous calendar indeed much of the world, COVID-19 has Just weeks after departure, Endurance was Orientation Weeks and Clubs Days on numer-
year, as well as looking to what he is resulted in aborted journeys, changed plans surrounded by packed ice “different...from ous campuses. The mood amongst students
building for the future. This work is and reframed missions. As we look back on anything encountered before,” and unable and staff was buoyant.
made possible by the grace of God the past year, it’s clear we are at a seminal to move. For the crew of Endurance, the real-
and the generosity of our partners. moment in history. isation they were beset came very slowly, However, it soon became clear that things
This is a review of the 2020 year. like a creeping resignation. Within weeks, were going to change. Within weeks of our
Navigating the uncharted paths of our COVID Shackleton made official what they had all first COVID case in NZ – a virus different from
TSCF
response, I have repeatedly been reminded of come to accept – they would have to win- anything encountered before – a global pan-
annual review 2020
PO Box 9672, Marion Square,
Wellington 6141
Scripture and Shackleton and encouraged to ter on board Endurance. No-one could have demic was declared, our borders closed, com-
learn from both. As the Māori whakataukī says, foreseen the disastrous chain of events that munity transmission occurred and NZ went
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+64 4 384 7274
www.tscf.org.nz
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into Level 4 lockdown. After a promising start despite their marked individuality. He wanted and working together to achieve a common of Antarctica. However, when Endurance was
to the year, student meetings had to go online, people who shared his vision and enthu- goal. The complexities of lockdown, restricted trapped and eventually sank, his task became
Easter camps were cancelled and Summit, siasm for exploration. His focus was on the campus access and prevailing uncertainty even more dangerous; they could not stay
our national conference – due to take place one thing that gave them the best chance of have brought a fresh reminder of our need for where they were indefinitely.
in Queenstown – became an online event. achieving their goals – unity, not uniformity. collaboration and connectedness in our mis-
Large numbers of international students In the face of crisis, this team of 28 were able sion. Though at times we feel our isolation as The voyage of three lifeboats across 160 kms
stayed away or returned home. Student min- to pull together to achieve the unthinkable. a distant island nation, we have no need for of icy sea was perilous, but their only option.
istry began to look radically different. Shackleton was convinced their best chance isolation in our mission at home. Shackleton and his crew navigated them-
of reaching safety was to remain together. It selves to Elephant Island, a place remote, unin-
As we adjusted to “the new normal,” students required leadership, teamwork, humility and Our situation in NZ remains so different from habited and rarely visited. Then Shackleton
and staff learned the upsides and downsides hard work. much of the world. While we have experi- and five men sailed one of the lifeboats, the
of an online existence. Outreach became enced distance from James Caird, 1300 km to the island of South
“CAN WE
much harder, with difficulties creating mean- TSCF is a team of stu- many of the grim real- Georgia. For two-and-a-half weeks they faced
ingful connections with new students. “Zoom dents, staff, supporters ities of the global pan- a prolonged struggle with heavy seas and
fatigue” meant students who spent all day and churches working demic and enjoyed hurricane-force winds. It was nothing short of
watching lectures were less inclined to join together to be the mis- freedoms as a result, a miracle that they made it to land.
STAY WHERE
an online TSCF meeting. The challenges were sion arm of the church we know many of our
real, but our mission remained. Student minis- reaching students for IFES friends around Landing on the south side of the island, they
try had changed, but it had not ceased. Christ. We are all part the world are suffering faced 40 kms of challenging, unexplored inte-
of something bigger. immensely. Just before rior to reach potential rescuers at the whaling
One year on from the start of the pandemic,
we can feel the strong temptation to maintain
the status quo and stay safe. It is good to ask
We have heard much
about NZ’s “Team of 5
million,” where every
WE ARE?” the true scale of the
pandemic was realised,
I had the privilege of
station of Stromness. By day and night they
crossed the mountainous terrain to reach civ-
ilisation, risking life and limb, with no map to
the same question that Shackleton asked his member plays their visiting CECE Ecuador, guide them.
men: “Can we stay where we are?” We surely part. In TSCF, our team is nearer 5,000, but where I joined Ruth Hicks (TSCF Graduate
answer with a resounding “No!” We consider nevertheless, every person plays their part, and CECE’s General Secretary) to speak at their Through these journeys, Shackleton’s crew
which changes we must keep and which and we are thankful to each one. As Romans national camp. Over the past year, Ecuador faced the constant strains of danger, fatigue,
changes must still be made to adapt for the 12:4–5 says: has suffered on a scale unimaginable for ice-cold conditions, frostbite, wind, rain, snow
future. Though we have had times of forced “Just as each of us has one body with many those of us who are largely protected from and storms. Their endurance was immense
inactivity, we cannot remain inactive forever. members, and these members do not all have the virus. Whilst our situation is much better, and their sacrifices great.
We must move forward with hope in times of the same function, so in Christ we, though we must not forget others whose lives are in
uncertainty. many, form one body, and each member turmoil because of the pandemic. As TSCF we have been through challenging
belongs to all the others.” times in 2020. When the Level 4 lockdown
A United Team A Challenging Task was first announced, we were unsure of the
annual review 2020
Shackleton’s genius was leading a diverse Despite a challenging year, one of the encour- For Shackleton, his initial goal was ambitious. financial implications. We were aware sup-
crew to live and work together in harmony, agements has been to see our team united No-one had ever completed a land crossing porters’ circumstances may change and the
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participation from supporters across NZ and When Shackleton left Elephant Island for
the world. Creativity and a “We’ll try it!” attitude South Georgia and the hope of rescue, he
are part of our DNA. left Frank Wild, his right-hand man, in charge
of the remaining crew. Each day, Wild would
An Enduring Hope wake the men with the words, “The boss
Shackleton’s leadership was characterised by [Shackleton] may come today!” Our endur-
his continued optimism despite some of the ing hope is in one who does not disappoint.
bleakest circumstances. He showed courage, We look forward, awaiting the day he returns,
positivity, cheerfulness and patience. He real- but until then, we endure and persevere. As
ised that without hope, his crew would per- Romans 5:2–4 says, “We rejoice in hope of the
ish. At times that hope must have seemed glory of God. Not only that, but we rejoice in
misplaced. But he kept a balanced sense of our sufferings, knowing that suffering pro-
realism, pragmatism and optimism. As he later duces endurance, and endurance produces
said, “In trouble, danger and disappointment, character, and character produces hope.”
ability to financially partner with us may be and his crew showed a willingness to embrace never give up hope. The worst can always be
affected. We applied in good faith for the creativity. Shackleton took the modern step of got over.” He understood the situation, but he Despite these challenges, God has been good
government’s COVID-19 subsidy. Thankfully, pre-selling the rights to stories, photographs recognised the hand of Providence protect- to us, and in his kindness he has been at work
we were able to return it in full, as the drop in and film of the expedition. When it was clear ing and guiding them, observing that at times and provided for all our needs. As Paul writes
income we experienced wasn’t near the 30% Endurance would not survive, he showed it felt like they had an extra person with them. to Timothy, “God’s Word is not chained,” or as
required. flexibility and adaptability, creatively using our friends at CECE, Ecuador have put it, “The
their resources to achieve the rescue they Whilst COVID-19 certainly limited our activities gospel is not in lockdown.”
The challenges have not simply been finan- needed. When faced with difficult choices on campus, it didn’t abort all opportunities. In
cial. The uncertainty of regional disruptions that required creative solutions, Shackleton’s Otago, the planned Mark Drama took place I find great encouragement in the final words
and restricted campus access have made it attitude was, “We’ll try it!” during Level 2 restrictions (limited to 100 of Acts, where Luke tells us that Paul, who
more difficult to plan or grow our student people, all appropriately physically distanced). for two whole years had been in “lockdown”
Credit: Scott Polar Research Institute, University of Cambridge
groups. For many, the impact of the pandemic The ongoing challenges of 2020 have taken Despite fewer activities taking place over the alone under house arrest, with just a soldier to
has taken its toll mentally, physically and spirit- us back to essentials, and encouraged us to year, a small number of students made a com- guard him, “proclaimed the kingdom of God
ually. It appears these challenges may be with try new ways of doing things. Student cre- mitment to follow Jesus as Saviour and Lord. and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ – with
us for some time yet. The sacrifices by so ativity and flexibility have come to the fore. We pray they would grow deep roots that all boldness and without hindrance!” (Acts
many have been great. Paul’s description in 2 Zoom and social media have been our allies, bear fruit in years to come. 28:30–31). May we face the future with endur-
Shackleton’s crew near the “Endurance”
Corinthians 6 of, “great endurance; in troubles, allowing us to creatively adapt events to be ance, enjoying the opportunity to proclaim
hardships and distresses” is apt. But our story is held online. We tried online outreach events, As I write, the uncertainty of COVID-19 and its the kingdom of God and teach of the Lord
one of God’s goodness and grace. which helped us in hosting Summit 2020, our longer-term implications continues. Our bor- Jesus Christ boldly and without hindrance!
first ever online conference; we had the larg- ders are closed to most international students,
annual review 2020
A Creative Edge est number of students attend in recent years! and the possibilities of further lockdowns and
Through the many challenges, Shackleton We also held our first online AGM, enabling restrictions remain.
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AUCKLAND
“May the God of hope fill you be welcomed and small groups
with all joy and peace as you trust to establish before switching to
in him, so that you may overflow meeting online.
with hope by the power of the
Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13) Aware of the lack of routine
with online learning, for the
Robyn Drake Our theme verse (above) at first few weeks of lockdown we
Team Leader Launch, where forty new and held online daily devotions for
returning students gathered students for just half an hour
in February to kick off the aca- every weekday morning. These
demic year, proved to be a great became a highlight for some
prayer for the uncertain days students, and a way for students to students becoming more enthusiastic a Bible study.’ He ended up being very inter-
ahead. As one student reflected, from different campuses to evangelists; and Sola Scriptura’s move to a ested in the Bible and we spent the next 2
“It’s a great way to fellowship meet and support one another. public space enabling connection with more hours talking about Christianity and Islam.”
with other Christians at Uni and students.
get prepped for the year ahead.” There were some real disap- Michael, another associate staff member,
Another said, “The first two talks pointments last year, with the Hanli, one of Auckland’s associate staff, gives reflected the feelings of the Auckland staff
on practically living out your second lockdown forcing the another example of how we’ve seen God team in his summary of the year, “The year...
faith and your testimony [were cancellation of much-antici- at work despite the disruptions: “The Unitec highlighted...the way God used isolation
most helpful]. I will definitely pated Mission Week events at TSCF group had no students attending at and plague to help us find new ways of car-
apply the lessons I gained there.” two campuses. Some of the the start of the second semester, likely due ing for one another, sharing the gospel and
groups also struggled due to to COVID and all its disruptions. However, in seeing students grow in Christ. But it also
Moving into Clubs Days, one Zoom fatigue, not being able hope I still went to the chaplaincy building highlighted the place of mutual support and
of the highlights was the TSCF to meet in person socially, and every week. Three weeks in, there was still fellowship on campus – something that I had
groups at the University of difficulty finding new leaders no sign of any students. I sat in the chair and almost taken for granted but now come to
Auckland working together to because they couldn’t get to prayed, ‘Lord, give me at least ONE student with renewed commitment.
run a welcome event, to which know younger members. to meet with this semester’. Not more than
over 80 students came. It was a 20 minutes after this prayer, a middle-aged
real blessing to have a couple But there were real joys as well: Muslim student poked his head in through
of weeks of meeting in per- A student at the MIT student the door! He said he had never seen the
son before lockdown started, village becoming a Christian; chaplaincy door open and was curious who
annual review 2020
which enabled new people to evangelism training leading was inside. So I said, ‘I’m inside and I’m holding
Launch Auckland
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adapted campus ministry to keep reaching All these things may seem small steps, but
students for Christ. they are a key part of how TSCF groups have
functioned for decades in New Zealand.
The pandemic gave us the opportunity to
think differently about campus mission. Our The last meeting in early June was a joy – we
Hamilton-based student leaders took their were finally able to meet in person again! We
Colossians Bible studies online, opening elected five students onto our leadership
these up to TSCF students in Tauranga and committee, laying the foundation for cam-
beyond. Our Bible studies prompted much pus ministry in the second semester.
discussion and Deep Thought, and our
end-of-meeting prayer times became more True Witness continued through and after
honest and Global Reach-focused – particu- lockdown. We took our national Summit
larly as we heard the struggles of other IFES conference online and held a Waikato/Bay of
groups in countries we have strong links Plenty hub, which met in Cambridge. We par-
with, such as Ecuador, India and Italy. ticipated in national online events that TSCF
hosted – talks by Michael Ots and Professor
I have been learning the ebbs and flows of John Lennox – to engage in Deep Thought
WAIKATO & BAY OF PLENTY student ministry. After a vibrant group devel-
oped at Tauranga’s Toi Ohomai Institute of
about the pandemic, and questions it raises
about God, life and meaning.
Technology in 2019, it fell away this past year,
God is with us in and through Weeks, Clubs Days and our largely in response to COVID-19 disrupting The second semester was a lot more nor-
all things. This is a key truth our regional Launch event – all seek- campus life. mal. With new leadership teams at Waikato
students had a great opportu- ing to make connections with University’s Hamilton and Tauranga cam-
nity to learn this year, particularly students in the crucial first weeks. On the upside, lockdown gave us the puses, we re-started in terms of encouraging,
as a result of the COVID-19 pan- Then COVID-19 hit, changing opportunity to formalise the TSCF group on mentoring, training and equipping a new
Bay of Plenty & Waikato students at their end-of-year beach day
demic. So much has happened everything for everyone. Tauranga’s new University of Waikato CBD group of students to lead others. Studies in
since COVID-19 entered the campus, following some small beginnings Semester Two focused on understanding the
Dave Hodgkinson world’s vernacular in early 2020. It’s easy to focus on the frus- in 2019. Through networking to raise aware- gospel and looking into the parables of Jesus.
Team Leader Despite everything, God is still trations and difficulties 2020 ness, we held online meetings, sharing the
with us, an ever-present help in placed on us. However, despite ethos and vision of the group, as well as Nadine Liddle, Nick Goodwin and I continue
trouble. As Psalm 46 declares, the challenges and limitations photos and stories. It was God’s timing: we to work closely with students to disciple
“God is our refuge and strength.” of lockdown, physical distancing established a base membership, ratified our them well, encouraging them to engage
and enforced online learning, constitution and invited students to prayer- in campus mission amongst their peers by
The study year began fairly nor- I’ve been encouraged at how fully consider serving on the inaugural lead- living undivided lives as faithful followers of
annual review 2020
mally, with campus Orientation our TSCF groups responded and ership committee. Jesus.
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MANAWATŪ
During a year of uncertainty and outreach, and led to many meet-
frustrated plans, it’s been impor- ings with students to share the
tant to focus on the firm truths of good news. Around a dozen stu-
the gospel. As Paul summarises dents joined evangelistic Bible
in 1 Timothy 3:16: studies on campus and at least
“He appeared in the flesh, was two came to faith in Christ dur-
Scott Mackay vindicated by the Spirit, was seen ing the year. We also saw around
Team Leader by angels, was preached among 60 new Christian students come
the nations, was believed on in along to activities on campus in
the world, was taken up in glory.” the first few weeks.
From this brief summary, it’s clear The Manawatū groups launched different halls. The idea of “Grill a Christian” is its implications for the Christian life.
our mission to proclaim Christ a multi-pronged approach to present the gospel in the context of a pro-
flows directly from his incarna- to True Witness in 2020. OCF vocative Q&A session. The Christians invite Our capacity for Global Reach and engage-
tion, resurrection, appearances, started an “Explore Group” for their friends from the hall, consume pizza, ment with international students remains
and ascension. The most natu- international students who are and listen to a short introduction, before the largely unknown as we look ahead to 2021.
ral response to the gospel is to new to the Bible, which contin- guests are invited to “grill” the presenter with OCF has lost some momentum over the last
announce it to the world. That ued online during the disrup- their toughest questions about Christianity. few years, and we are looking to rebuild this
continues to be the heartbeat of tions of Semester One. Several The news of Jesus is clearly explained as well group. There have been some promising
TSCF groups in the Manawatū. students engaged in one-to-one as the challenge to respond. connections made with the Pasifika student
evangelism with friends or con- community, which we pray will bear fruit.
In student ministry, Orientation tacts made during Orientation. The growth of our student leaders in Deep
can make all the difference. In Another initiative was a pub- Thought and Undivided Life has been facil- One encouragement has been the closer
2020 the TSCF team at Massey lic talk on the topic “Does God itated by new Core Training. Each week stu- relationship between CF and OCF, includ-
Palmerston North did a fantas- Belong on Campus?” dents share stories from campus mission, ing the formation of a combined leadership
tic job at a giveaway campaign take turns answering tough questions about team at the end of 2020. This has led to a lot
during Orientation Week and A key strategy for True Witness faith, and engage in a training seminar given more collaboration between domestic and
Clubs Day. We made contact was launching a group in the res- by staff. We’ve out-grown the room we were international student leaders. This was seen
with 550 new students and over idential halls at Massey. As well allocated in the Chaplaincy Centre, so we’re especially at our combined Graduates Party,
70% of these expressed interest as meeting weekly to pray and looking for somewhere bigger in 2021! We which celebrated the contribution of grad-
in finding out more. This created study the Bible, this group ran also hosted an online day-conference during uating students and the ways they’ve made
annual review 2020
Palmy Graduates Party
a wonderful opportunity for some “Grill A Christian” events in lockdown on the doctrine of the Trinity and an impact for the gospel at Massey.
12 13
of the gospel each week. We also looked at to come. Our thoughts and prayers are
what the scriptures have to say about our with him. We praise God for his example of
mental health. This group consisted of a faithfulness.
number of students from diverse spiritual
backgrounds, which brought various chal- The end of 2020 has brought closure to our
lenges and joys. residential community, Rongopai. This year
brought a host of challenges, including the
In our missional group, focusing more specf- pandemic, which hasn’t been helpful when
ically on the gospel and evangelism, we trying to establish an intentional community.
looked at what it means to live a life of gospel As such, we made the call to end this chap-
generosity even as “poor” students. ter and re-allocate resources to other minis-
try structures in the region. We give thanks
During lockdown we continued all our to God for the significant way this flat has
groups online. I was surprised to see the stu- served and formed students over the years.
dents coming along each week even though
everyone was screen-fatigued. We had the Hope
WELLINGTON
option to continue online after lockdown. One of the lessons we took away from online
However, we all preferred to meet in person ministry is that it is fairly simple to invite inter-
– nothing beats face-to-face! national Christian apologists as guest speak-
ers. Wellington students really appreciated
Hot Topics approached the subjects we Health gathering in a local hub to watch the evan-
What happens when you ask studied biblically, theologically In terms of challenges, this is a year that keeps gelistic event with Professor John Lennox,
students about the current and evangelistically. To my sur- on giving. Max Rideout, our associate staff and the chance to hear him respond to their
issues and big questions of life prise, students kept coming, worker, was diagnosed with a brain tumour questions. We look forward to more of these
that concern them? They won’t with new people being added and is receiving treatment for this. Staff and events in the future and will no doubt lean
hesitate to tell you! This year Vic over the course of the trimester. students have been incredibly shocked and into this online ministry space.
CF students from our theology It was incredibly rewarding to saddened by this news. We thank God that
Matthias Loong and ethics group requested we see them stretched and con- surgery to remove the tumour went well. Campus culture will keep changing, but our
Team Leader tackle hot topics such as racial fronted by God’s Word on these He has since been on the difficult journey of call to campus mission will not. In this age of
justice, cannabis, euthanasia, the difficult but important issues. radiotherapy and chemotherapy. uncertainty, the clear message of the gospel
relationship between faith and Student group meeting in Wellington
is needed more than ever. May God grow the
works, and violence in the Old In our Vic CF Bible study group What is clear to all of us is Max and Mei’s tre- work of his gospel on campus. And may this
Testament, just to name a few. we started with a series on “The mendous trust in God’s goodness to them message of hope take root in all who find it.
Heart of the Gospel,” in which in spite of all that’s happened. They firmly
annual review 2020
In this particular group, we we looked at a different aspect have their hope in God and the resurrection
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CANTERBURY
What an unexpected year would have hoped; with lock-
2020 was! Throughout this year down moving university online
people have used a number it was difficult to develop new
of phrases to try to encapsu- relationships.
late the enormous impact the
global pandemic has had upon CU continued to meet online
Mark Santich our lives. One of these phrases as a larger gathering, in smaller
Team Leader described 2020 as an “unex- groups and one-to-one to look
pected year.” at God’s Word together, and
to build community through
Here at the University of prayer, reading the Bible and
Canterbury it feels like we have playing online games of varying Undercroft on campus to watch the event A year of great challenges has also resulted
had a number of “unexpected quality! with Professor Lennox online, with some in many encouragements. The greatest of
years,” as we live through the good discussion afterwards. these has been a couple of students, who are
anniversaries of the earthquakes As a movement we tried many new Christians, growing immensely through
and the shootings. The global new things online, such as the Our local conference planned for April even- difficult times. Along with these students,
COVID-19 pandemic is just a two national evangelistic events tually happened on campus in August, with each one of us at CU has been repeatedly
further reminder that we live in (Michael Ots and Professor John many graduates providing the food for us. reminded of our great need to trust God,
a world that raises big questions, Lennox, both from the UK), our This reflects the greatest encouragement of remembering that he is always in control
and that we humans aren’t as in mid-year national conference, the year – strengthened partnerships in the and always provides hope – something we
control of our world as we like to Summit, with in-person regional gospel. Being forced into social isolation, have seen repeatedly here in Christchurch
pretend. student hubs, and our TSCF both from the world as a country, and from over the last 10 years. And this is a hope we
AGM. one another in our communities has actually can offer to the world around us, to people
Like most of the world, on cam- resulted in the strengthening of relationships who are struggling to find hope in such an
Canterbury & Lincoln student hub for Summit Online
pus with Christian Union this Holding these events online within our CU community. Many of our CU unexpected year.
has been a year of ”adaptability” made it easier for students to members have spent more time together
and ”creative opportunity.” After join in, especially since we could socially, and we also joined Lincoln CF for a So bring on 2021, God will continue to do
meeting more first years and gather in local groups and the bonfire and laser tag. This year has also unex- great things as we humbly trust him.
new students at Orientation events were free. It was encour- pectedly strengthened our fellowship with
than we have in previous years, aging to have 25 or so stu- TSCF groups around the country – even
we were unable to follow up dents from UC at Summit, and through gathering online.
annual review 2020
these new contacts as we around 100 people gather at the
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the student leaders, James, who made a The connections formed online helped us
comment in our meeting that stuck with me as we came out of lockdown and back into
over the days and weeks to follow: a somewhat new rhythm on campus. There
“This doesn’t change the fact that we are was enthusiasm and momentum for meet-
a community of Christ-like servant lead- ing together again in person, so we kicked
ers reaching students at Lincoln University things off with our annual camp which we
through the transforming gospel of Christ. had hoped to hold earlier in the year. After
We’re still here to love and care for each limited opportunities to meet new people or
other!” even gather with the existing CF community,
camp was an excellent opportunity to invite
These words gave me hope, and strength- friends, grow in our relationships with one
ened the staff and student leadership team another and spend time in God’s Word. This
at a time when being physically distant allowed us to be equipped and encouraged
brought frustration to what is usually a very for his ministry at Lincoln for the remainder
in-person ministry! of the year.
LINCOLN
In some ways, lockdown brings a smile to my Though I speak fondly of 2020, it hasn’t been
face, with memories of continuing our usual without its challenges. Because lockdown
Wednesday lunch meeting, but instead of occurred so early in the university year, it
turning up for a free sandwich, bringing my was difficult to engage with and meet new
I remember sitting on the sunny drive north, catching the ferry leftovers from the night before to a Zoom students. Even in Semester Two when we
lawn in front of the university to head to his family farm in screen. One student even called from her were back on campus, many lectures contin-
library. It was 25 March, the day Hawkes Bay. Another would tractor as she was feeding out to the animals! ued online and the campus was no longer a
before lockdown, and we were drive south to her farm out of We played online games together, as we thriving metropolis, with students choosing
having a final student leadership Mosgiel and yet another would chatted away through video calls. We shared to study from afar or at home.
team meeting. We met outside be staying on campus in the videos on Facebook of our testimonies, as an
for the fresh air and dragged halls. We didn’t know how long encouragement and witness to one another Despite the challenges of the year, we give
Kate McClelland together a handful of large lockdown would be – whether and the wider campus community. Each thanks that God was at work at Lincoln
Team Leader wooden picnic tables, so that all we’d be seeing each other again week we had a new online challenge rang- University. We are greatly encouraged that
seven of us could sit at least one in a few weeks, or a few months. ing from push-ups and artwork, to Tik Tok the community of students continues to
metre apart from one another. dances. We heard stories of and prayed for reach students through the transforming
Despite not knowing what others around the world. These activities con- gospel of Christ. We are indeed a community
Lincoln Christian Fellowship camp
None of us knew what was we would be leading the CF tinued to keep us connected to one another learning to love and care for each other; long
in store. From that lunchtime community through, we were – our Lincoln CF way of loving and caring for may that continue.
annual review 2020
meeting, one student would greatly encouraged by one of one another.
18 19OTAGO
In 2020 we had to ask ourselves on various topics. Though online
some challenging questions: groups remained small, it was
What does student ministry look encouraging to see students
like in extraordinary and unex- meeting around the Bible and
pected circumstances? How do being a source of community
we continue to reach students and fellowship for one another,
Simon Sim for Christ? What is God doing in especially for those who were
Team Leader the midst of a COVID-19-stricken isolated from their usual com-
world? munities and scattered across
the country during lockdown.
As we reflected on the year, we
were reminded of these words During a year when many plans (split into three separate bubbles), and con- particularly on their studies, mental health,
from Winsome Parnell, one of did not happen, in August we tinued with the rhythms of community liv- and well-being. Some subject-based student
the members of our local TSCF were grateful for the opportu- ing, with shared meals and spiritual practices. groups struggled to keep going due to the
Support Committee: “We need nity for student witness to con- We have witnessed God at work, as residents changing demands of their study schedules
to make sure student witness tinue through the Mark Drama. have grown deeper in their faith in Jesus and course requirements.
continues in the midst of this cri- Across three performances we and in their relationships with one another
sis.”The mission has not changed. had around 200 people attend. through living together in lockdown. We Despite all this, student witness has con-
God is still at work. We were encouraged that the hope and pray God will continue to use tinued under God’s guidance, grace, and
best turnout involved us maxing Harbour Light Base as a place of community, provision. We are grateful for the staff team.
Continuing out at 100 people under Alert spiritual formation, and outreach next year. We welcomed Michael Bresler as a staff
Student witness continued dur- Level 2; we even had to turn worker following his completion of Minty,
ing the five or six weeks of lock- people away! Challenges and Penelope Keast as associate staff. We are
down, as groups met online each The 2020 year has brought new challenges. grateful for the student leaders who stepped
week. The Overseas Christian This year was our first in the new The effects of the pandemic have been felt in up to the challenges and served faithfully. We
Fellowship (OCF) studied the residential community, Harbour many ways. Due to the timing of lockdown, are grateful for our supporters and partners
book of Haggai together, while Light Base. We have had to learn we have not had as much opportunity to who share our vision for student witness
the Varsity Christian Fellowship to be an intentional community The Harbour Light Base community
connect with new students and first-years. and enable it to continue. Most of all, we are
(VCF) studied the Gospel of Luke. while obeying the guidelines set We have also missed new international stu- grateful to our God and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
The Christian Medical Fellowship out by our Government. During dents who bring vibrancy and diversity to In the midst of this crisis, student witness
(CMF) invited speakers to join lockdown, 16 out of 23 students our campuses and groups. We have seen continues because this is God’s mission, and
annual review 2020
their online meetings and share stayed at Harbour Light Base the toll that lockdown has taken on students, he will see us through.
20 21FINANCE UPDATE
The year 2020 is one we are On the advice of our finance
unlikely to forget in a hurry. From committee, we applied and
border closures to lockdowns, to received the subsidy in April. As
moving lectures (and the whole per the terms of agreement with
of life) online, COVID-19 has the board, we placed the funds
made its mark on global history. in a separate account, holding
I suspect the impact will be seen them there for the three-month
Caitlin Ormiston for many years to come. Yet the period from April to the end of
Chief Operating good news that Jesus is the hope June when we re-assessed our
Officer for all the world has not felt more income. We were pleased to
relevant in most of our lifetimes. find that our income had only the reports from around the country, this been able to retain a small cash reserve over
It is helpful to be able to reflect reduced by 12% in comparison included running outreach events online, the past three years which now means we
on the year gone by – all God to 2019, and in July we returned
both locally and nationally, and in-per- can be more confident in approaching the
has done and continues to do the wage subsidy in full, includ-
son regional events. Critically, the funding coming year, should the situation continue,
through tertiary ministry in NZ ing interest.
received by TSCF has enabled staff to con- and the financial position of our supporters
and around the world.
I am thankful to God for his gra- tinue supporting students around the coun- suffer as a consequence of COVID-19. With
Last year as I wrote our 2019 ciousness to us, that although try as they have faced continued uncertainty prudence and good stewardship, and mov-
financial report we were unsure we saw a level of decline in our around lockdowns and studying online. Staff ing ahead with caution, we hope that the
what sort of impact COVID-19 income, by the end of 2020 and students also came together to cre- ongoing deficit budget will not be a burden
would have on TSCF’s ministry, this was only around a 4% drop ate an online version of our annual confer- to the fellowship. In all things we continue
or indeed our finances. In March compared with the previous ence, Summit, built around the theme “The to look to God for his wisdom and guidance.
the World Health Organisation year, and we were still able to Heavens Declare,” taken from Psalm 19. It was Please join us in prayer as we seek the Lord’s
declared the outbreak of the finish 2020 with a small buffer of great to be able to put on events like these provision to continue his work amongst stu-
coronavirus (COVID-19) a global approximately $59,000. Of this and continue investing in students across the dents in Aotearoa.
pandemic, and two weeks later total, $35,000 is general ministry country, despite the challenges of COVID-19.
the NZ Government declared a funding and $24,000 is restricted Thank you so much for your partnership with
State of National Emergency. funding for The Well Project. Despite finishing 2020 with a small buffer, the us in the gospel. As we look back on 85 years
decline in income has made budgeting for of ministry we also look back on 85 years of
Soon after NZ headed into Level The income TSCF received over 2021 more difficult. We would love to see our faithfulness from God’s people to support
4 lockdown, the Government the past year has enabled us to income grow as we dream and develop fur- and uphold the ministry he has laid before
announced its wage subsidy continue with ministry, even in ther ministry opportunities and innovations. us, in prayer and in finance. Praise the Lord for
Behind the scenes at the AGM
scheme, which companies could
this much-changed environ- We are conscious of working to balance our all the lives he has reached over that time!
annual review 2020
apply for if they anticipated a
ment. As you will have read in financial situation. On one hand, we have
decline in income of at least 30%.
22 23THE WELL PROJECT TSCF EXPENDITURE
The Well Project, our planned accommodation We have broken our expenditure
for a residential student community in Lincoln, down into five key areas: EXPENDITURE 2020 2019
TOTAL TARGET: is still progressing. We are in the final stages of Staff support 1,188,648 1,301,869
$410,000 seeking building consent and hope to begin Staff Support – Approximately 64%
Student communities 309,998 223,926
building soon, so the first students could live of our annual expenditure, these
$75,000 together from the start of 2022. Please join us funds enable staff to work with stu- Core, office and leadership support 308,605 294,549
in praying for the final details to come together, dents on the ground, as well as con- Regional activities 30,514 24,705
$50,000 for continued financial provision, and that we tributing to the national vision and
Conferences 5,601 20,698
$25,000 would keep seeking the Lord’s direction for strategy of TSCF.
this project. For more information, please visit Total expenditure 1,843,365 1,865,747
tscf.org.nz/TheWell or contact The Well Project Student Communities – TSCF’s Surplus 34,881 71,970
Lead, Tim Hodge, at tim@tscf.org.nz. student residences exist to provide
$260,000 Christian community living and Core, Office & Leadership Support – This includes govern-
intentional gospel-focused commu- ance and the administration required to run national projects
INCOME & EXPENDITURE 2020
nity. The expenses relate to our rental and events, and the resourcing of field staff for ministry.
Past funds on hand 100,422 of the residential properties, as well as
Donations and interest 99,556 community activities, pastoral sup- Conferences – Costs significantly reduced in 2020 due to the
port and training events. necessity to move most events online.
Loans received 50,000
Expenditure (building design) 74,577
Funds on hand 175,401
TOTAL INCOME TARGET LOANS: RAISED IN RAISED BETWEEN
TARGET BY END FOR 2021: $50,000 2021 SO FAR: 2016 & 31
OF 2021: $75,000 $25,000 DECEMBER 2020:
$410,000 $260,000
TSCF INCOME The bulk of TSCF income comes from dona-
tions received from individual supporters,
partner churches and trusts. A portion is
TSCF DONATIONS BY SOURCE TSCF 2020 EXPENDITURE
Individuals Field staff ministry costs
INCOME 2020 2019 also generated by core activities, events Overseas support (UK, Australia & USA) Core, office and leadership
such as our national Summit conference,
Donations 1,587,816 1,648,769 Trusts Student communities
and student residential communities. The
annual review 2020
Churches Regional activities
Revenue from core activities, events majority of these funds are spent directly
290,430 288,948 Legacies Conferences
and student communities on the costs of the project they are gener-
Image Captions
ated from, or on related projects.
Total income 1,878,246 1,937,717
Note: The figures on these pages are provisional, subject to audit. If you would like a copy of our full
24 25 Finance Officer – johnr@tscf.org.nz.
financial reports when available, please contact John Riley,TERTIARY STUDENTS
CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP STAFF
NATIONAL STRATEGY TEAM NATIONAL BOARD:
Dennis Fountain Roger Moses
(Acting Chair) Bruce Robertson
Ben Carswell Yvonne Sng
(National Director) Ronji Tanielu
Tom Broughton Paul Windsor
Janice Cheng
Ben Carswell Tim Hodge Caitlin Ormiston Mark Santich
True Witness Coordinator
Kim Shaw
Global Reach
Aimee Mai
National Director Head of Training & Chief Operating
Development Officer & Canterbury Team Leader Coordinator
NATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM
UPDATE ON CECE, ECUADOR Robyn Drake
Auckland
Dave Hodgkinson
Waikato/BOP
Scott Mackay
Manawatū
Matthias Loong
Wellington
Kate McClelland
Lincoln
Simon Sim
Otago
Chris Hay
Minty
Bex Allen
Communications
NATIONAL RESOURCE TEAM STAFF WORKERS
Over the past year, Global Reach for TSCF has focused more on supporting our partners
overseas. We actively partner with CECE in Ecuador, where Ruth Hicks from NZ is the General
Secretary. Ecuador has been profoundly affected by COVID-19. Ruth shares an update here,
with requests for prayer.
Mike Doragh Vicky Chang John Riley Nicole Kwon Maggie Barker Rachel Hay Jeff Lane Nadine Liddle
Systems & Projects Administrator Finance Officer Financial Assistant PA to National Director Graphic Designer Auckland Waikato
“All classes have been online since March 2020, and will continue to be for the foreseeable STAFF WORKERS ASSOCIATE STAFF
future. A higher percentage of students are excluded from the option of university study,
either through lack of access to a stable internet connection in rural areas, or not having a
computer. Also, many are not able to pay fees due to the deepening economic crisis.
Geoff Robson Renee Santich Michael Bresler Rosie Sim Ian Reid Annette Lane Bena Tanielu Hanli Liu
Canterbury Canterbury Otago Otago Special Projects Auckland Auckland Auckland
Many CECE students, staff and graduates have lost family members to COVID. The impact
ASSOCIATE STAFF
of not saying goodbyes and no possibility of communal mourning impacts many. Walking
with and caring for grieving staff and students, and the impact of extended COVID restric-
tions on mental health is challenging.
Michael Drake Steve Turner Nick Goodwin Robert Hunt Max Rideout Mei Rideout Ani Kartikasari Penny Keast
PLEASE PRAY FOR:
Auckland Auckland Waikato Manawatū Wellington Wellington Lincoln Otago
FAREWELLED STAFF
CECE Instaproxi training workshop VICE PRESIDENTS: STUDENT
Andrew Becroft COORDINATORS:
• Comfort and provision for those processing the loss of loved ones, and the ongoing impact (President) Melissa Hennessy
Jonathan Boston (2019-2020)
of COVID with overloaded hospitals, and little hope of vaccines in the near future. Daniel Sim
annual review 2020
Efeso Collins
• Groups that have struggled to stay connected (Loja and Ibarra). Val Goold (2018-2020)
Candy Grice David Bruner Gareth Jones Peter Boyd David Beukes
• The mission partners to support three interns we have beginning to serve for a year in April.” Auckland Auckland ASW Auckland ASW Auckland ASW Lincoln ASW Hilary Hague Zara Zafar
Jessica Palmer (2019-2020)
Find out more about our staff and their Andrew Saunders
Paul Trebilco
OVERSEAS STAFF:
regions on our website. Ruth Hicks (Ecuador)
Geoff Troughton
tscf.org.nz Rubee Yee
Zach & Alice Smith (Italy)Reaching students for Christ, changing students for life.
He ākonga ki ngā ākonga hei ara whakawhiti mō te Karaiti.
tscf.nz www.tscf.org.nz tscf.nzYou can also read
