What is really happening with faith in Australia?

In this insightful conversation, Karl Faase sits down with leading researcher Ruth Powell to explore the shifting spiritual landscape which is moving from church decline and cultural distrust to surprising signs of curiosity and hope among younger generations. Drawing on decades of research through the National Church Life Survey, Ruth offers a nuanced perspective.

While the church has lost confidence and cultural influence, there are fresh opportunities emerging - particularly among Gen Z and young men. This episode is both honest and hopeful, calling the church to rediscover its message, reimagine its methods, and step boldly into a new season.

Takeaways

• The cultural moment is not just hostile — it’s open.
• Hope is a powerful entry point for faith conversations.
• The next generation needs new language, not just old answers.
• Churches must move from preservation to mission again.
• Innovation (“new wineskins”) is no longer optional.

Chapters and Key Moments

00:00 — Introduction

02:00 — A Childhood in Papua New Guinea

06:00 — Mission, Transformation & Cultural Change

10:30 — The Role of Women & the Message of Worth

18:00 — Wrestling with Colonialism

27:00 — From Psychology to Church Research

31:00 — 30 Years of Church Trends in Australia

36:00 — Is There a Quiet Revival?

40:30 — The Rise of Spiritual Curiosity in Gen Z

42:30 — Young Men & Faith

48:00 — We’re Wired for Hope

50:00 — Advice for Church Leaders

Find Out More

Olive Tree Media: www.olivetreemedia.com.au

Watch+ Platform: www.olivetreemedia.com.au/watch

Daily Nudge: www.dailynudge.org

Special Thanks To Excelsia University College

Christian Finance

Vision Christian Media

In this episode, Greg Attwells discusses the 36-month campaign, a movement aimed at delaying children's access to social media until age 16. A campaigned that massed over 150,000 signatures of concerned parents; a campaign that changed the law; a campaign that was profiled at the UN. Greg shares insights on parenting challenges in the digital age, the impact of technology on youth, and the importance of creating a supportive environment for teens. Greg also reflects on his personal journey, including his upbringing, faith, and experiences in church leadership.

Takeaways

• Let's give our kids another 36 months to get to know themselves before the world does.
• Healthy teens don't raise themselves; they're raised by adults brave enough to build better systems.
• The 36-month campaign successfully pushed for change in social media laws, helping protect kids by delaying their access to social platforms until the age of 16.
• Social media trades in comparison, not belonging, and it's not community, not the way that community should be for a young person.
• The campaign was built on hope, not fear, focusing on what we are for, not against.
• Parents needed the ability to say, 'Not yet, it's against the law,' to their kids regarding social media.
• The campaign amassed about 150,000 signatures from parents across the country, showing overwhelming public support.
• Greg shares his personal journey, including being raised by a single mum and his experiences in church leadership.
• He emphasizes the importance of being a non-judgmental presence for his children, fostering intimacy in their relationship.
• Greg reflects on the challenges of learning to be a husband and father without having role models growing up.

Chapters and Key Moments:

00.00 Introduction to Greg Attwells and the 36-Month Campaign

03.00 Parenting Challenges in the Digital Age

09:00 The Impact of Technology on Youth

15:00 Greg Attwells' Personal Journey and Faith

21.00 Building Supportive Environments for Teens

Find Out More

Olive Tree Media: www.olivetreemedia.com.au

Watch+ Platform: www.olivetreemedia.com.au/watch

Daily Nudge: www.dailynudge.org

Special Thanks To Excelsia University College

Christian Finance

Vision Christian Media

Colin Buchanan shares his remarkable journey from his childhood in Dublin to becoming a celebrated country music artist and children's songwriter in Australia. He reflects on the crossroads he faced between pursuing a stable teaching career and following his passion for music, ultimately choosing the latter. Colin discusses the importance of faith in his life and music, the legacy of his children's songs, and how he navigates being a public Christian in the music industry. He emphasises the significance of writing songs that resonate with people and the joy of connecting with audiences through his music.

Takeaways

• Colin's journey began in Dublin before moving to Australia.
• He faced a crossroads between teaching and music.
• His faith played a crucial role in his life decisions.
• Colin's children's songs are designed to be propositional and meaningful.
• He values the connection his music creates with audiences.
• The importance of family and integrity in his career choices.
• Colin's music reflects his personal experiences and observations.
• He believes in the significance of children's music in shaping values.
• Colin navigates his public faith with respect and authenticity.
• Success for Colin is defined by meaningful connections through music.

Chapters and Key Moments

00:00 The Journey Begins: From Dublin to Australia 02:45 Finding Faith and Community in Burke 06:00 The Crossroads: Music or Teaching? 08:55 The Birth of a Songwriter: Early Inspirations 11:40 The Rise of Country Music Career 14:44 Transition to Children's Music 18:01 Legacy of Children's Songs 20:50 Navigating Public Faith and Music 23:59 Defining Success in Music and Life

Find Out More

Olive Tree Media: www.olivetreemedia.com.au

Watch+ Platform: www.olivetreemedia.com.au/watch

Daily Nudge: www.dailynudge.org

Special Thanks To Excelsia University College

Christian Finance

Vision Christian Media