Holy Week marks the highest Bible engagement days in YouVersion history for Australia, as new data reveals deeper spiritual curiosity.

In Australia, Bible engagement increased by 17.6% across the YouVersion Family of Apps during Holy Week compared to last year, with more than a quarter of a million Australians engaging in the Bible on Good Friday. In fact, Easter Friday and Saturday are ranked as the highest days for Bible engagement ever recorded nationally, and Easter Sunday also ranking among the highest days in YouVersion Australia’s history.

The surge reflects not just a seasonal moment, but a broader pattern emerging in how Australians are engaging with questions of meaning, hope and faith. The Bible App has now been installed more than 8.2 million times in Australia and is opened more than 200,000 times every day.

While Easter has long been a focal point, in 2026 it has coincided with an unusual and sustained surge in engagement. Nine of the top ten days for daily active users in Australia have all occurred this year. Even outside traditional peaks, engagement has remained elevated, pointing to a deeper shift beyond seasonal patterns.

YouVersion Australia Hub Leader Dave Adamson said the data points to a shift not always captured in headlines or census data.

“This data suggests a shift in how Australians are engaging with the Bible,” he said. “While public narratives often emphasise decline, everyday habits are pointing to something more.”

Part of this reflects the rhythm of Lent, a season historically associated with reflection and return. It also coincides with a broader global atmosphere of uncertainty, where people are often drawn to deeper questions of hope, peace and meaning.

“Faith tends to surface most clearly in lived experience and it often becomes visible in how people navigate uncertain or challenging moments. We’ve never had more access to information, yet many people feel more uncertain about what it all means,” Adamson said. 

“And increasingly, their deeper questions are showing up in search bars. In fact, four of the top five searches are positive: love, hope, healing and peace. That’s not people running from something. That’s people reaching for something deeper.”

Easter remains one of the most significant moments for Bible engagement each year, with Australians, from lifelong Christians to the spiritually curious, turning to Scripture during Holy Week. Last year, the most read verse in Australia during this period was John 15:13: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” In 2026, Matthew 28:6 emerged as the most popular Holy Week passage. 

Globally, 21.6 million people engaged with the Bible on Easter Sunday across the YouVersion Family of Apps, continuing a series of record-breaking days following an historic milestone of one billion installs last year.

YouVersion Founder and CEO Bobby Gruenewald says: “Over the last several months, worldwide interest in the Bible has continued to increase. It’s encouraging to see people searching for and consistently coming back to Scripture for guidance, encouragement and answers. We especially see this at Easter where more people are either reflecting on their faith or trying to understand who Jesus was for themselves. Seeing people around the world encounter Scripture, many for the first time, is exactly why we exist.”

About YouVersion

Created by Life.Church, YouVersion designs free, biblically centered experiences that encourage and challenge people to seek God throughout each day. The YouVersion Family of Apps—including the Bible App, Bible App Lite, and Bible App for Kids—has been installed on more than one billion devices worldwide. The Bible App offers a Bible experience in more than 2,400 languages and helps people deepen their relationship with God. Bible App Lite is optimized for offline use and helps people access God’s Word in markets with device and data limitations. Bible engagement is measured by Daily Active Users (DAU) across these three apps, an industry-standard data point reflecting the number of unique users opening one of the apps on a given day. Developed in partnership with OneHope, the Bible App for Kids helps children engage with the Bible through interactive animations and fun activities. For more information about YouVersion, visit youversion.com. 

Article supplied with thanks to YouVersion Australia.

About the Author: Dave Adamson is the Australia Hub Leader for YouVersion. A former TV reporter turned digital ministry pioneer, he was one of the world’s first online pastors and now helps global audiences engage with the Bible in a digital age.

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Last week I looked at the journey from loneliness to solitude, the first of the three movements towards spiritual growth outlined in Henri Nouwen’s inspiring book Reaching Out.

Today we look at the second transformation – a journey described by Nouwen as being from hostility to hospitality.

When Hostility Hides in Plain Sight

Perhaps like me, your first response to this invitation is a defensive, “No, I don’t think this one has anything in it for me. I’m not an aggressive person, and what’s more, I like a wide range of people (I genuinely do), and my natural posture towards others tends to be open not closed. In short, I think I can tick the ‘already achieved’ box on this one.” Fortunately our first response does not have to be defining, and the more I have mulled this over the more I realise I still have some way to go.

Difference and Distance: The Breeding Ground of Suspicion

There are many reasons we might not see another person well. I have previously written about the dangers of difference and distance, so soberly unpacked in the biblical story of Joseph, where his brothers sell him into slavery because his coat of many colours marked him as being different, while his father’s decision to keep him at home created distance between him and his siblings. If people seem a bit different and we don’t bump into them in any meaningful way, suspicion and hostility is often an automatic response. “You are not one of us” we quickly conclude, and when we view someone as being an outsider, it is only a short step to thinking that the respect, affection and concern we show to those in our circle can be dropped.

Creating Space for Strangers

Nouwen talks about providing space for strangers to “cast off their strangeness and become fellow human beings.” It is about spotting what we have in common, rather than what keeps us apart. It might take a bit of time, especially if our different cultural backgrounds mean humour is not understood, and priorities seem to be different. It can take a while before we see how superficial these differences are.

A Counter Cultural Kind of Love

At a time when many Christians are stridently insisting that Christians should be seen to be different to the prevailing culture, I wonder if this is a way we can do it. Loving the stranger is rather Jesus like – and it is counter cultural – especially at this perplexing time. After all, in Luke 10:25-37 Jesus weaves a story where the dreaded Samaritan is the hero of the day. Despite the “otherness” of being Samaritan, when confronted by a beaten and broken man on a lonely road, he immediately realised that love demanded that he stop and help. Others passing by had more compelling agendas. Their tasks seemed more important to them, so they hurried on to make sure they did not miss their appointment with trivia. It’s pretty counter cultural to love those who aren’t part of your circle. It’s challenging to tell stories where the supposed villain turns out to be the saint, and the home team is portrayed as mean and small. Jesus took that risk – and risk it was… certainly it impacted his poll ratings to the point where the majority cried out “crucify him crucify him”. We really don’t like it when people tell us to love our enemies.

Moving Beyond Labels

There is a trickiness to this for Christians. Ironically, because we follow Jesus, we often divide the world into Christians and non-Christians. I grew up in apartheid South Africa. It was a society where people were classified as “white” or “non-white”. It’s both alienating and insulting to classify people as “non” something, especially if the thing that is getting all the nods of approval is what they are not. To be honest, I don’t know what to do about this. Following Jesus is a big deal and does make a real difference. If you think it doesn’t, it could be that it’s not Jesus you are following. Can we be genuinely open hearted and hospitable to those we consider to not have made the most significant and important decision of all – the decision to follow Jesus?

Actually, I suspect that is where the magic of Christian witness begins. If I am truly hospitable, I see what Jesus wants me to see. Here is someone originally made in God’s own image, loved by God, and having endless dignity and worth because of this. What is more, this is someone God has brought across my path – so of course I must be open to them. I look for what unites us – our common humanity – and celebrate this. I remember that I was once a seeker – and to be honest, still am – not because I think there is someone other than Jesus to be found, but because I want to know Jesus more deeply. There is a hunger that leads us into God’s kingdom, and there is a hunger that leads us on in God’s kingdom. We are probably both hungry for more. And yes, we have both made mistakes and need forgiveness.

Does that lead to words of witness and gentle persuasion to at least give God a chance? How can it possibly not? It is not my own life I am sharing if I let you into everything except that which matters most to me. And if you reject it… well love is not conditional, and we can still joke about the footie, and marvel at rainbows, and weep together over the dreaded C word, or tut tut over the price of fuel. And in God’s own good time – well actually it is up to God what God does in God’s own very good time.

For my part, I am called to journey from hostility to hospitality. That means I don’t lean in to “othering” stories that tell how awful “they” are. Actually, the more confronting “they” are, the more I ask that Jesus would open my eyes and heart, and that there would be a way to turn the enemy into a beloved friend.

Article supplied with thanks to Brian Harris.

About the Author: Brian is a speaker, teacher, leader, writer, author and respected theologian who is founding director of the AVENIR Leadership Institute, fostering leaders who will make a positive impact on the world.

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God’s Church has a vital role to play in ending the isolation of financial struggle

After 25 years of partnering with churches nationwide, Christians Against Poverty (CAP) Australia is launching a new name and brand: Hope Economy.

Chief Executive Officer Rosie Kendall said the brand change reflects a deep, multi-year evolution of the organisation in response to the significant problem of people in Australia struggling with financial pressure in isolation.

“Over the past seven years we’ve been through a significant season of rebuilding and alignment, internally, culturally and strategically,” Rosie said.

“This moment is the final step of that journey.

“Our conviction is as strong as ever: Jesus offers whole-life transformation, and God’s Church has a vital role to play in ending the isolation of financial struggle in our nation.”

Research highlights the urgency of this moment. Almost one in two Australians report experiencing distress from financial pressure, with financial challenges identified as the leading cause of distress impacting mental health and wellbeing nationwide (Beyond Blue, 2024).

At the same time, financial hardship and loneliness are increasingly linked, with people whose financial needs are poorly met far more likely to experience persistent isolation (Ending Loneliness Together, 2024).

According to Foodbank’s 2025 Hunger Report, almost 3.5 million Australian households experienced food insecurity in the past year, with rising living costs placing increasing pressure on families and individuals across every community.

Rosie said these realities sit at the heart of why Hope Economy exists.

“Financial struggle is rarely just about numbers on a page,” Rosie said.

“It’s deeply connected to anxiety, shame and isolation. We believe the love of Jesus transforms the way we see and respond to that struggle and that the local Church is God’s answer to people feeling alone.”

Founded in Australia in 2000, CAP Australia began with partnering with churches to provide debt management assistance to people facing financial hardship. In recent years, the ministry has intentionally broadened its focus, moving beyond an emphasis on debt alone to partnering with churches and equipping God’s people to walk alongside anyone who may be struggling with their financial situation.

Rosie said the new name ‘Hope Economy’ reflects how the ministry has grown and diversified in Australia.

“Our core mission hasn’t changed, and Jesus remains at the centre of everything we do,” she said.

“What has changed is our desire to speak more clearly into the realities people are facing today, and to invite the Church into a hopeful, counter-cultural way of responding.”

Rosie said the new brand is intended to help the organisation partner with churches across the country, equipping everyday Christians to confidently and compassionately support people who are financially vulnerable in their communities.

“We are passionate about people coming to know Jesus and want to help churches be places of healing and connection for people currently experiencing isolation,” Rosie said.

Hope Economy will continue equipping local churches with training and resources to support people experiencing financial pressure, while calling the wider church to a deeper discipleship journey that reshapes how Christians relate to money and leads them toward deeper care for those who are financially vulnerable.

The rebrand follows a 12-month process of research, testing and consultation with church leaders, supporters, staff and the Board, supported by external expert agencies.

Hope Economy remains an active and committed member of the global CAP community, with CAP International offering its full support for the change.

Rosie said the launch of Hope Economy is ultimately an invitation.

“This isn’t about re-inventing ourselves,” she said.

“It’s about opening new doors, reaching new audiences, and helping the Church in Australia be known for the hope it stands for, especially in a time when so many are struggling.

“Money can be complicated. And when it’s tangled up in shame, isolation, and systems that feel too big to change, it’s easy to feel disempowered. “It’s about opening new doors, reaching new audiences, and helping the Church in Australia be known for the hope it stands for, especially in a time when so many are struggling.

“Money can be complicated. And when it’s tangled up in shame, isolation, and systems that feel too big to change, it’s easy to feel disempowered. But in God’s Kingdom, money can tell a different story, not of lack, but of love. And that’s what Hope Economy is all about.”

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With thousands of charities to choose from, how do you decide which one is right for you? Here’s what to look for and why it matters.

With over 60,000 registered charities in Australia, the not-for-profit sector plays a vital role in supporting communities and causes across the nation, but how do you choose which charity to support?

That is one of many questions discussed with Marion Bennett (Mission Australia‘s Executive of Practice, Evidence and Impact), Joe Ware (CEO of the Chatleigh Foundation), and Pip Kiernan (Chair of Clean Up Australia and daughter of late founder Ian Kiernan).

Why Charities Matter

Joe explains that charities often excel where government and private entities cannot. 

“Charities are really good at the learning process,” he says, noting how organisations like Mission Australia gather evidence on what works and adapt their programs and services accordingly. 

Marion continues by focusing on the people who work in the charity sector, saying, “They understand the communities that they live [and work] in, and they’re able to respond in a nuanced way” that government agencies and private entities are not equipped to respond to.

The Power of Volunteers

Clean Up Australia exemplifies volunteer power. With just 12 staff, it mobilises over one million Australians to pick up rubbish every year. 

“Volunteers are the lifeblood of our organisation,” says Pip. “It started with Dad seeing a problem … and 40,000 Sydneysiders joined him.” Today, Clean Up Australia has volunteers in every state who pick up thousands of tonnes of rubbish and waste, helping the environment and building friendships as well. 

Volunteers help charities across Australia to deliver many of their services, and provide exponential returns. In any given year, volunteers provide over $20 billion of value to the Australian economy.

Evidence and Impact

Marion explains Mission Australia’s approach to measuring their impact and reporting on their effectiveness. “We design well, we measure well, and we act well,” she says.

Mission Australia uses their feedback to develop programs across their range of services, which are more likely to deliver desired outcomes, and they continually reassess and adapt programs based on their ongoing evaluation processes. 

Joe says donors should expect the charities they support to continually evaluate their programs and processes, to ensure they are effective. “Most of the work that charities are trying to do is really difficult,” he says, “Donors should expect their charities to take that work really seriously and be constantly measuring it.” 

For Clean Up Australia, measurement includes volunteer numbers and an annual litter report. Recognising plastics make up around 80 per cent of items collected, they lobbied the government to start the Return and Earn glass and plastic bottle recycling program – which rewards Australians for recycling drink bottles and cans that would otherwise go to landfill.

Building Community Connections

Beyond financial and logistical measurable outcomes, charities can also build social cohesion in ways that government programs and private enterprises cannot. 

Clean Up Australia, for example, has an 89 per cent brand trust in the community, making it one of Australia’s most trusted organisations. This has been achieved over the many years of bringing people together in their communities to work towards a common goal, and creating personal connections along the way. 

“[Volunteering at Clean Up Australia is] a great antidote for loneliness,” Pip says. “You never forget the name of the person you cleaned up with.”

Choosing Where to Give and Who to Support

Joe, Marion and Pip agree on four common areas to consider when deciding which charity to support: 

• Follow your heart and choose a cause that resonates with you. 
• Look at impact and ask what difference the charity makes. 
• Check the sustainability and transparency of their services and programs, ensuring they do what they say they do. 
• Ask for evidence and data about their effectiveness.

Article supplied with thanks to Helping Hands TV.

About the Author: Helping Hands is an Australian produced TV program that airs on 9GEM, Channel 9 and 9NOW, and showcases people and organisations who make the world a better place.

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Some of my most precious memories of my dad revolve around a car—like picking me up from roller skating when I was twelve, and driving me to my first job out of school, and. . . the night I called him at 1am to say I’d missed the last train home.

He drove an hour in to the city to get me and went to work bleary-eyed the next morning. I promised I’d never do it again.

A few days later, I did it again.

A car, it turns out, plays a special role in my family history. My father first locked eyes on my mother at a party in London, and later asked her out for a country drive, picking her up in his 1950s Rover sedan. That car was his treasured possession. Mum and dad soon became an item, but there was a problem. Mum was about to move to Peru. Dad took her to the airport, then five months later arrived in Peru himself—to propose. And the best part of the story? 

He’d sold his beloved Rover to pay for the plane ticket.

Giving Up Something, Changing Everything

It makes me wonder what my own treasured possession is and who I’d give it up for. For my mum, dad selling his Rover wasn’t just about a plane ticket—it was a sign of her worth in his eyes.

Two biblical stories come to mind—the first, about a wealthy young professional who asks Jesus what he has to do to get to heaven. When Jesus tells him to sell his possessions and follow him, the guy walks away—he can’t let go of his goods. The second is about Jesus’ friend, Mary, who throws him a dinner party, and halfway through brings in a bottle of precious perfume worth a year’s wages. It’s probably a family heirloom, passed down through generations, deeply treasured. She breaks open the jar and pours it on Jesus—signifying his worth in her eyes.

The Question That Reveals What We Truly Treasure

I sometimes wonder what would’ve happened if dad had kept his Rover instead of buying that plane ticket. My brother and I might not even be here. If the direction of our lives depends on the quality of our questions, maybe this one holds the power to shape not just our own destinies but others’: 

What is my most treasured possession and who would I give it up for?

The answer would have to reveal where our true treasure lies.

Article supplied with thanks to Sheridan Voysey.

About the Author: Sheridan Voysey is an author and broadcaster on faith and spirituality. His latest book is called Reflect with Sheridan. Download his FREE inspirational printable The Creed here.

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There was a constant background noise in my head.
Quiet thoughts saying, “You don’t really believe.”
“You’re a fake.”

It’s strange to look back now and realise how much I struggled with that.

Doubt wasn’t something we talked about much back then. Maybe by 2026, we’ve grown a bit more grace for our weaknesses, but as a teenager I found it hard to feel confident in my relationship with Jesus. I assumed everyone else had it sorted. They seemed so sure. So close to God. And then there was me.

If I had to describe that season, it was a mix of guilt and shame. And honestly, it was exhausting. Everyone talked about joy, but I couldn’t find it, so I tried for it. I worked harder at faith. I did the right things. I apologised to God for my nagging doubts, assuming they were proof that my faith just wasn’t strong enough.

Around that time, my health fell apart. It got bad enough that I had to stop university and step away from everything I was “doing for” God. For months, I was just Chloe. Not Chloe the worker. Just me. And it wasn’t comfortable.

I couldn’t distract myself anymore by trying to work my way out of feeling guilt and shame, and doubt in my connection to God was a dark cloud constantly hovering over me.

I needed a full reset.

Slowly, through months of sitting, reading, and praying, God taught me something I didn’t know I needed to learn. I actually did love Him. That might sound odd, but I had to learn to believe that I did. Guilt had convinced me that my heart was never quite right, that I was always falling short. But that was a lie. An accusation. And I had to stop agreeing with it.

I had to accept that I was made right with God because of what He had done, not because I could finally feel the right thing.

I stopped fighting the doubt and started resting in the truth that I was loved, and that I loved Him too. The accusations didn’t get the final say anymore.

Did the “you’re a fake” thoughts disappear overnight? No. But looking back now, that younger version of me feels almost unrecognisable.

About ten years ago, I shared this story with a group of people. I worried I’d sound unstable or overly dramatic. Instead, people came up to me saying, “I thought that was just me.”

So let’s bring it into the light.

If you’ve struggled to feel right with God, hear this. He genuinely loves you. And like a good parent, He wants you to feel safe and secure with Him.

Maybe it’s time to stop fighting the doubt and start resting in His love.

Article supplied with thanks to Rhema 99.7.

About the Author: Audrey Waugh is a writer who works in marketing at Rhema 99.7.

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Melanie’s parents divorced when she was 8 years old and her father moved out. Six years later, her mum was diagnosed with brain cancer. The cancer was aggressive and had already spread through her body. Over the coming year, Melanie’s mum was in and out of hospital, being treated with different therapies but with little success. The cancer was progressing fast and the prognosis was dismal.

Questions now turned to Melanie’s future. She was 14 years old and unable to fend for herself. Living with her father was not an option so the decision was made for Melanie to move in with her Aunt Anni.

Hurting, Angry and Finished with God

From then on, Melanie started visiting her aunt’s home regularly. Aunt Anni was a Christian and took her to church where she heard about God, but it had little – if any – impact on her. She does remember one Sunday though.

On this occasion, an older woman testified to being miraculously healed of breast cancer. While everyone in the congregation celebrated, Melanie was enraged. What kind of God would heal an old woman while leaving a young mother to die and abandon her daughter? God became the ultimate enemy. Every night, Melanie cried into her pillow saturating it with tears of anger and hatred.

That summer, Melanie was sent away to a Christian camp. A day after she arrived, her mother’s condition deteriorated, and she was placed in an induced coma. Knowing that her mother could die at any moment and unable to reach her, the camp was the last place she wanted to be.

The Night God Showed Up

One night at the camp, Melanie couldn’t sleep. Thoughts of her mother’s impending death plagued her. Would she even be able to say goodbye? She stepped outside her tent and began to unleash her pain to God. She had so many questions. “Are you even real? I really hate you for doing this!”

Suddenly through her tears, Melanie had a vision. She saw her mother’s hospital room and knew that Jesus was standing beside her. Written across the scene of the vision like a subtitle was a bible reference: “Luke 23:43.”

Melanie didn’t know the Bible; nor did she know what the verse meant. Afterwards, she returned to the the tent and woke up the girl beside her: “Can you help me find Luke 23:43 in your Bible?”

There they read Luke’s words describing the scene of the two thieves on the cross next to Jesus – and then Jesus’ words to one of them: “Today you will be with me in Paradise.”

Melanie looked at her watch. It was 1:45am. With the vision came a surge of hope. A deep sense of peace and security settled over her whole being. She was not alone. Even though she might be losing her mother, her home and friends, everything was going to be okay. For the first time in a long while, Melanie tucked herself into her sleeping bag and fell soundlessly asleep.

Hope After Goodbye

Next morning, Melanie was woken by one of the camp leaders. Melanie’s dad was on the phone. Her mum had passed away. Melanie had only one question; “What time did she die?” Her dad answered, “1:45am.”

In that moment, Melanie knew God had met her mum. But she also knew that God had met her.

When she arrived home, Melanie’s aunt Anni took her aside and shared her story. At 1.45am the morning her mother had died, Anni had woken to hear God say the same words as Melanie; “Today you will be with me in Paradise.”

It was a turning point for Melanie’s life. All her questions fell away. Her anger dissolved. In the months to come, as she mourned the loss of her mother and faced all the adjustments that had to be made, Melanie was sustained by a deep sense of hope. She had lost her mother, but she had also found faith. She knew that God held both her mother and her in his hands.

Article supplied with thanks to God Conversations.

About the Author: Tania Harris is a pastor, speaker, author and the founder of God Conversations.

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During her fourth pregnancy, Adjowa feared that she and her baby wouldn’t survive.

Her husband was unable to work after a serious accident and the family was living in extreme poverty in Togo, often only eating a meal every three or four days. 

With no income and no access to medical care, Adjowa was malnourished and desperate. As her due date approached, she feared giving birth at home, alone, with no trained support. 

“I thought my life was doomed and I would not survive,” she says. 

Everything changed when Adjowa was connected to a local Compassion centre running a Mums and Babies program. The staff stepped in immediately, providing food parcels, covering her medical costs and ensuring she had essential supplies for her baby. 

When she went into labour, the staff rushed her to the hospital. Her baby girl was born silent and unresponsive, but because the costs were covered and trained help was available, she could receive life-saving care. 

“My daughter and I would not have made it if the Compassion centre had not helped. I am sure I would be dead by this time and my baby too,” says Adjowa.

Adjowa’s story is confronting, yet sadly not rare. It reflects the challenges faced by millions of mothers living in poverty and highlights how much is at stake during pregnancy, birth and the earliest days of a child’s life. 

The first 1,000 days: a critical window

The first 1,000 days, from conception to a child’s second birthday, are a time of incredible vulnerability and immense potential. During this period, rapid brain and physical development occur. A child’s survival, immune system and long-term health are shaped by the nutrition, care and support they receive. 

For mothers living in poverty, limited access to healthcare, poor nutrition, harmful cultural beliefs and a lack of support can lead to serious consequences for maternal health. 

In 2023, sub-Saharan Africa recorded 454 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births, compared with just 3 per 100,000 in Australia and New Zealand. According to UNICEF, sub-Saharan Africa alone accounted for 70 per cent of global maternal deaths, mostly from preventable causes. 

The risks for babies are equally stark. Babies born in sub-Saharan Africa are 11 times more likely to die than those born in Australia, and nearly one-third of births occur without a skilled birth attendant, according to the World Health Organisation. 

Yet early intervention for babies can change everything. With the right support, a child born in poverty has a far greater chance not only to survive, but to thrive. 

Why investing in a child’s earliest years changes everything

Kate Naliaka, Compassion International’s Global Health Advisor based in Kenya, has seen the impact of early intervention firsthand. 

“We understand the importance of starting early and investing in child survival and early childhood because it is the foundation of lifelong health,” she says. “If the foundation is strong, a child is more likely to withstand stress later in life. If we don’t start early, we don’t reduce the burden of poverty and allow these children to reach their God-given potential.” 

Poverty is multidimensional, affecting far more than a family’s income. It shapes every part of life. Without enough food, mothers become malnourished and babies are born underweight. Without support, harmful beliefs can take hold. In some communities, for example, mothers are told that the first breastmilk is dirty, so they delay breastfeeding and miss a vital source of early nutrition and immunity. 

These layers of physical, emotional and social barriers combine to make pregnancy, birth and early childhood even more vulnerable for families living in poverty. 

As Kate explains, that’s why Compassion’s intervention is holistic, supporting a mother and her baby physically, socio-emotionally, cognitively and spiritually. 

“An educated mother is an empowered mother, and an empowered mother translates to an empowered family, community and society at large.” 

Children who are nurtured holistically in their earliest years can grow up believing that change is possible and that they can break the cycle of poverty. 

How Compassion supports mothers and babies holistically

Compassion’s local church partners ensure mothers receive vital support during pregnancy and beyond, offering medical care, nutritional support, emotional and spiritual guidance, and a loving community. 

Through home visits, peer group activities and community networks, new mums are not left to face the journey alone. When a mum joins the program, she receives: 

• Home‑based care: Perinatal and postpartum support delivered in her own home, helping with health, nutrition and wellbeing. 
• Advocacy and resources: Assistance to access skilled birth attendants, healthcare services and fair treatment. 
• Community networks: Monthly group activities where mothers share, learn and encourage one another. 
• Practical and life skills: Guidance in literacy, numeracy and small income-generating activities to build self-reliance. 

Following the birth of her baby, the Compassion centre continues to be a place of refuge and joy for Adjowa. She has regained confidence and her faith has grown stronger. 

“I still can’t believe the centre paid for all the medical expenses. I thought they would be tired of me as I am always in need,” Adjowa says. 

“I will never forget what they have done for me. The centre workers and other mothers of the program have become my family. I’m so grateful to have them.” 

It’s this kind of holistic support that inspires long-time Compassion supporters like Dr Virginia McPherson. A consultant radiologist based in Melbourne, Virginia has sponsored multiple children and funded entire Mums and Babies projects. 

She has visited programs in the Philippines, Tanzania and Sri Lanka, seeing firsthand how they are transforming lives.

“I saw women receiving quality healthcare during pregnancy and guidance. They could go to hospital for safe deliveries, but it was more than that—each week, they gathered to connect, learn practical skills and build a community. They were no longer alone and their babies had regular check-ups. 

“I was impressed by the care from the staff. They visited each mother regularly at home and supported them at the centre. I simply could not imagine raising my children in the conditions many of these women live in. The program provides rich, holistic care, lifting women above the poverty line while slowly healing the trauma they’ve endured. It was a privilege to see,” Virginia says. 

A brighter future starts with survival

Every child, fearfully and wonderfully made, deserves the best possible start to life. As Psalm 139 reminds us, each of us is “knit together in our mother’s womb,” a reflection of God’s love from the very beginning. 

Through the support of Compassion’s global neighbourhood, we continue to invest in the first 1,000 days, knowing how crucial they are to infant survival, early childhood development and lifelong health. 

This is the measurable impact from the 2025 financial year: 

• 37,841 babies and mums received care during pregnancy and the first year of life 
• 14,228 babies were welcomed safely 
• 93.2 per cent of babies were born at a healthy birthweight 
• 80.3 per cent of women had a skilled birth attendant 
• 90.6 per cent of mothers were able to breastfeed, helping prevent malnutrition

Article Supplied with Thanks to Compassion

Written by Bridget Hadfield, Compassion Australia, with local reporting by Akpene, Compassion Togo.

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At just 16 years old, Ryan Oosthuizen is doing something remarkable. He’s not just starting a business, he’s starting a ministry.

Ryan is the founder of BoTL – Blessings of the Lord, a Christian fragrance brand based in Perth. What began as a prayer, when he was just 15, has become a purpose-driven business designed to spread faith in a subtle but powerful way.

From Prayer to Purpose

Ryan didn’t wake up one day with a business plan. Instead, he started with a question.

“What am I meant to do with my life?”

Like many young people, he felt uncertain about the future. So he did something simple but bold. He prayed. He asked God for direction. According to Ryan, the answer was clear.

God gave him a vision. That vision became BoTL.

With support from his parents and a strong Christian upbringing, Ryan stepped out in faith. His goal was not profit alone, it was impact.

Turning Pain Into Purpose

Ryan Oosthuizen’s journey has not been easy. He lost his brother, and the grief was deep. The questions were heavy. Yet, instead of stopping, Ryan chose to move forward.

He decided to honour his brother by living with purpose. He committed to showing others that no matter what happens, faith can carry you through. With God at the centre, Ryan believes nothing is impossible.

That belief now fuels everything BoTL stands for.

What Does BoTL Mean?

BoTL stands for Blessings of the Lord. But it is more than a name.

Ryan describes BoTL as a message in a bottle. Each fragrance is designed to spark curiosity, start conversations, and gently introduce people to faith.

It is not about preaching, it’s about presence. “It’s a subtle way to help people encounter God,” Ryan says. “Even through something as simple as smelling good.”

Why Fragrance?

The answer is practical and personal. Ryan loves fragrance – he always has. He also knows that first impressions matter. People respond to scent – it opens doors. More importantly, Ryan believes God can use anything, even perfume.

By combining passion with purpose, Ryan found a way to grow God’s Kingdom through something he genuinely loves.

Building a Fragrance Brand at 15

Starting a fragrance business is no small task. Especially at 15. Ryan learned quickly. He researched online, watched videos, studied scent profiles and fragrance notes. Eventually, he partnered with a fragrance manufacturer in Dubai.

Ryan selected specific accords and notes. From 14 fragrance samples, he narrowed the range down to four signature scents. Those four are now in production, with 1,000 bottles arriving in Perth.

The BoTL Fragrance Range

Each BoTL fragrance carries its own identity:

• Aroma Day – A fresh, uplifting men’s scent with citrus notes
• The Chosen – A deeper men’s fragrance with sandalwood and vanilla
• Jubilation – A sweet women’s scent featuring rum and caramel
• Perfection – A youthful floral blend with grapefruit and spice

The fragrances were tested by more than 50 people. The favourites rose quickly and the choice was clear.

Marketing With Meaning

BoTL’s marketing strategy focuses on social media. Ryan uses TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook to share his story, his faith, and his fragrances. He shares short videos, honest conversations and has a clear purpose.

Some Christian influencers have already partnered with him. The goal is simple. Reach people where they are and let the story speak for itself.

Distribution From a Garage

Ryan Oosthuizen’s operation is hands-on – very hands-on. The stock is being stored in his family garage. Ryan packs every order himself. He labels the boxes. He even sprays fragrance inside so the package smells great on arrival.

Customers can choose local pickup in Mandurah or Australia Post shipping across Australia and New Zealand. International shipping is planned for the future.

A Business With an Eternal Vision

Ryan doesn’t see BoTL as just a brand – he sees it as a ministry.

His long-term vision is global. He hopes the business will fund mission work around the world, from the poorest communities to the wealthiest cities, Ryan wants to share the love of Jesus with anyone willing to listen.

A Message to Young Dreamers

Ryan Oosthuizen’s advice is simple. If God puts something on your heart, do it.

Don’t wait, don’t overthink it. Pray, talk to people, take the step. Ryan believes that if God is behind it, nothing can stop it.

Age doesn’t matter. Background doesn’t matter. Faith does.

Supporting Young Faith-Filled Entrepreneurs

Ryan’s story is a reminder that God can work through anyone, at any age, in any industry.

From loss came purpose. From prayer came vision. BoTL is more than perfume, it is proof that when faith leads, impact follows. Check out the BoTL range here.

Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.

Feature image: Supplied

When you walk into a church service, chances are the first thing you’ll hear is music.

But why do churches start with singing? What’s the point of praise and worship songs? Pastor Simone Mohammed from Courageous Church shares her take.

What Is Praise and Worship?

“Praise usually refers to faster, upbeat songs,” Pastor Simone explained. “Worship is slower and more contemplative.”

But it’s not just about music styles. “The Bible talks about worshiping in spirit and in truth,” she said. “So it’s not limited to a specific type of song. Worship is so much more.”

Worship Prepares Us

In the Bible, people often sang before going into battle. “You’d think they’d send the strongest soldiers first,” Pastor Simone said. “But instead, they sent the worshipers.”

She believes this shows how powerful praise can be. “It’s preparation. It aligns our hearts and minds before we face challenges.”

Singing Shapes Our Perspective

“There’s power in what comes out of our mouths,” Pastor Simone shared. “The Bible says the power of life and death is in the tongue.”

She explained that when we sing, we’re not just repeating lyrics. We’re speaking truth, gratitude, and faith even when we don’t feel like it.

“Our posture matters. What we think about and sing about affects our whole being.”

Does Music Style Matter?

Some love old hymns. Others prefer modern worship songs with electric guitars and drums. But according to Pastor Simone, the style isn’t what counts.

“It’s not about the sound it’s about the heart,” she said. “God looks past the music and into our intentions. The key is the message. What are the lyrics saying? What’s your focus?”

Final Thoughts

So, why do we sing at church?

Because it help connect us with God. It prepares us for life’s battles. And it reminds us who He is, no matter what we’re going through.

As Pastor Simone said, “Worship is more than a song. It’s a powerful act of faith.”

Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.

Feature image: Canva