The launch of digital mission has already taken place years ago. Several of the digital channels that have been in operation have already achieved high viewing figures. But now the initiative is gaining momentum in new areas. With funds from the mission collection, new opportunities open up to help fulfil the mission Jesus gave all disciples.

The result of the collection, which has been ongoing in the months leading up to the feast, is massive. Over NOK 26.8 million has been raised by members for the Hidden Treasures Foundation Publishers to drive digital mission. The list of donors includes over 100 churches and fellowships. The collection was budgeted at 25 million. It is the Assembly of Representatives that decides what purpose the collection will be used for, based on proposals put forward by the Elders.

– The task we have been given by the Elders is to put the church in “Go therefore” mode, Espen Kyllevik says referring to the great commission. He is the producer of the feast.

– We are experiencing a tremendous response. Many have been waiting for this. Everyone we talk to thinks it’s fantastic that what we hear at each meeting, and not least our songs, will now be much more accessible out there for anyone who wants to find it.

Go therefore – digitally

Since 1912, the Hidden Treasures publication has been published monthly. Even during the Second World War, when paper was rationed, production was kept up.

The magazine was to function as a snowplough, “because people can’t see the road”, Johan Oscar Smith wrote to his brother in December 1911.

From the beginning, the publication had most of its readership outside what was then the beginning of the church. Johan Oscar Smith encouraged people to spread the early issues of the publication.

The need to be able to see the way and spread the message of a life of sanctification is highly relevant today. The time has come to continue the line Johan Oscar Smith held from the beginning, to reach as many people as possible who have an ear for the truth, also on digital platforms.

Where can we read the publication?

A new website for Hidden Treasures is already in the making. The content on the site will be new and old literature, media and video content as well as study tools, which can spread the gospel and provide guidance in living in sanctification, as the Bible and Paul encourage us to do.

The funds will be used for publishing digital content. The existing paywall will be removed, making content easier to find, easier to share and easier for search engines to pick up.

According to the plan, the new website will be up and running in the autumn of 2024. We look forward to updating our readers at bcc.no and bcc.us.

Recently, I sat down with Phil Lee who is the lead project manager on the North American side of the planning committee and Rob Cheetham, who has responsibility for the feast content. Both are from Ottawa, Canada, and they are communicating both remotely and in person with other volunteers from the seven churches that are involved in planning.

Phil, what was your reaction when you learned that North America was being offered the opportunity to contribute and plan for the Brothers Conference?

 “I initially had mixed feelings of anticipation, excitement, but I think most of all, thankfulness. We from North America have traveled to Brunstad so many times over the years. However we are always there as ‘guests,’ with others doing most of the planning, and organizing of the many tasks that make such a large event run smoothly. 

To have an opportunity to work with many people from different countries, cultures and languages at Brunstad and contribute in a tangible way to an event is very special. As we began the project, I realized how much work it takes. This gave me such a greater appreciation for the effort that goes into making these events the best possible for our friends.”

Event planning for BCC events begins six months before the event date. This is an important aspect for the North American team, because they are planning the event entirely remotely in collaboration with two guides who work for BCC Event. This must present some unique challenges.  

“I think we all understood from the beginning that the international aspect of this was going to present a unique set of circumstances and challenges. However, everyone just dove in and worked. We were determined and confident that there was nothing too challenging to overcome.

One challenge that is actually quite significant is that the team in North America is spread all over the east coast from Connecticut to Delaware, Ohio, Michigan, New York, Ontario, and as far west as Manitoba. These events are usually managed by a team in one location, but we are spread all over. Endless early morning Zoom calls and a myriad of messenger chats resulted. There are many times that it would have been so much easier to have been together in person but we leverage technology for what we could. We do enjoy the few times we can meet as a team during conferences at Victory (in New York State). It is always special to see our ‘Zoom buddies’ and to have the chance to plan in person!”

Phil, did the event staff at BCC have any guidelines for you as you went through the process?   

“To begin with, we met with the representatives of the organizing team from BCC Events that we would be liaise with. This was the producer and the project manager. We were provided a framework for the organization we had to put in place locally here. The various roles and the general associated responsibilities were described to us in general level detail: Vision, Concept, Production, and Execution.

Of course, technology plays a large part in this type of project. Early in the process we realized that the organization at BCC Events was also very much still under development. At one point, it became painfully clear that we were really off track and to be honest, quite, quite lost. However, with really good communications, the teams on both sides of the ocean were able to identify the gaps in the process, and within one week the Miro template we were working on was overhauled and relaunched. Immediately, things worked so much better and we again found our way. That was an interesting experience of problem solving and teamwork.”

Phil, in the past few years at Brunstad, there has been a noticeable effort by BCC to encourage diversity and to celebrate the many cultures that make up the members of BCC. Through food, and activities the participants are able to experience and share other cultures and to gain an appreciation and understanding of unique aspects of their international members. How will you be choosing to share North American culture at Brunstad? 

“We are unique as people, and as lands. We all have so many different life’s experiences and these perspectives can bring out a totally unique flavor to an organization. This year, we will have a giant outdoor rib fest followed by a corn hole tournament. Though, I have to say, finding good quality ribs in Norway is a bit more of a challenge than it is here in Canada!”

Rob Cheetham was responsible for overseeing the organization and content for a feast meeting that took place during the event.  During these feasts, the entire group gathers for edifying messages delivered through sermons and testimonies, music and songs and multimedia content.

Rob, what was the theme for the feast? How did this become the theme (what was the process)?

“The theme chosen was ‘Hammerslag og Lovsang’ (‘Hammer blows and songs of praise’ in English). The first step in the process was initiated by a video message sent to all the local congregations in which one of the church elders asked for ideas from all members, both male and female.  The goal in doing this was to encourage participation in the brainstorming period and to gather many different ideas before choosing the final theme. 

The theme we chose was a representation of the whole work we did together to plan this event. The sense was very clear to urge the congregation to offer ‘sacrifices:’ their time, body and thoughts to serve the others. The hammer blows represent the work that is being done wholeheartedly and joyfully, so that each person can participate in the blessing that comes from being part of the work (the songs of praise that result from such a life).” 

When you were planning for the feast, how did you take the theme into consideration?  

“The theme affected many aspects. The film subject and the questions we prepared for the brothers to answer were of course in connection with the theme. The songs that were selected for the choirs to sing were related to the theme. And even the color scheme and font and the graphics selected were done with the theme in mind.”

How did the planning and execution go during the event?

“There are always challenges and unexpected things to deal with when planning for a event like this. We had a schedule and a timeline in mind – but we also needed to be flexible, and be willing to change things with little notice. When everyone working on such a project is focussed on fulfilling their responsibilities and working together to overcome challenges that arise then it creates a good environment and the participants notice this.”

Following the event, I caught up with both Phil and Rob. Back from Norway now, they both agreed that overall, the event went really well, despite some challenges with planning an international event from afar. 

They reported that participants really enjoyed the classic American steak and ribfest, the American style games, and especially the theme evening. And while they are looking forward to perhaps being a little less busy for awhile, both are also excited for the next time they can contribute to events in the future.

Annual Women’s Conference

Each year on the weekend of International Women’s Day, women of all ages from around the globe gather at Brunstad Christian Conference Center in Norway for an International Sisters’ Conference.

This year, a record number of 5,700 women are gathering there on March 10-12, to hear God’s Word and to be strengthened in their Christian faith. Among those who have prioritized the event and are excitedly looking forward to the conference are several women from Winnipeg, Canada. We asked them what their expectations are for the weekend and why they chose to come.

An opportunity to hear God’s Word

Shannon, a busy mother of four, is here with several friends to embrace the special opportunity, as she puts it, to “soak up God’s word, uninterrupted.” When in the regular Sunday services back home, “I try to get one thing to remember and work with – more than that can be difficult while keeping my children occupied,” she adds. It’s clear she’s expecting to receive a ‘vitamin-boost’ for her spirit during her two or three days at Brunstad. “I love the natural fellowship we can have here with many others who may have similar home situations.”

Surrounded by those with the same interest

Angela is a supervisor at a personal care home. She tells of her need to be together with people who have the same interest in life. “I felt that I needed to come. It is always an encouraging time together! I need to surround myself with positive people who encourage me in my faith, and this is where it happens.”

Help for the daily life

Elizabeth, 40, is specific about her expectations regarding this conference: “I need help to do everything I do with my kids in patience and love. And I need faith to put my life in God’s hands, in my daily situations.”

Unity and connections across cultures

The theme of this year’s sisters conference is “Joined Together in One Body.” Unity and fellowship with other followers of Jesus Christ is important to these women, and they look forward to hearing how to make use of the Gospel more perfectly in their daily lives in order to experience unity with the other members, including those in their local churches and families.

Besides the faith-strengthening meetings, the women here have opportunities for fun and reconnection with friends over coffee, during meals, sports events, and other activities, as well as at the customary Saturday banquet: an evening filled with live music and edification – which is often a highlight of these annual events. The hall buzzes with conversation before and after each meeting as new friendships are forged, and old ones reaffirmed.

Takeaways – Inspiration to a personal life with God

In each meeting, the conference attendees hear and share messages that inspire them not only to know God’s word as a teaching, but to live it as it is written. A personal life with God leads to godliness in daily life.

These words from John’s letter are in focus at the close of the weekend:

“That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, concerning the Word of life—the life was manifested, and we have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Father and was manifested to us—that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ.” 1 John 1:1-3.

Sitting together in the big auditorium at Brunstad, God’s word is preached with such clarity that faith for an overcoming Christian life fills many hearts with a hope for the future, and provides ‘tools’ to work with when each one goes home.

Was the trip worth it?

We catch up with the Canadians afterwards, to get their take on the weekend: Were your expectations met? Was the long trip really worth it in the end?

“Definitely. I’d do it again!” Elizabeth responds enthusiastically. “There was such an inspiring atmosphere there. The words I heard, especially in the meetings, but also in a lot of conversations in-between the meetings, were really encouraging. To get help in having the right perspective in life makes all the difference in my personal everyday life!”

“It was incredible to see how smoothly everything ran, with nearly 6,000 women there; and the unity and joy that was present was amazing,” Angela shares. “Also, I was really strengthened to live the gospel that we hear about, in my everyday life, where God has put me. I can have victory over suspicious thoughts, for example. I can overcome.”

“It was very worth it,” Shannon shares, emphatically. “The money spent on the trip and the ensuing jet-lag doesn’t even compare to the worth of being able to be there! Being with so many others who share my faith is always so edifying. I left the conference feeling very encouraged to use my time and my days to be faithful and zealous for my Christian calling.”

Presently, the cheerful chatter hushes as music starts playing. Everyone heads into the chandelier-lit sanctuary to find a place to sit. Children usually sit with their parents, quietly playing and whispering to each other.

Working with a clear goal in mind

The leader, Barry Couts, chuckles as he talks with another member sitting with him in the front row. It is natural for the congregation to look to Barry as their leader. He has gained their confidence by genuine care and wisdom, and his depth of personal Christian integrity. All Barry’s service to the church is voluntary. He is a working man with a growing business, but he takes the responsibility for shepherding the group seriously, in spite of the many other demands on his time. 

“… that all may learn and all may be encouraged.“

The goal of each meeting is the fulfillment of the verse 1 Corinthians 14:31: “… that all may learn and all may be encouraged.” Barry works in collaboration with several other members to make sure that this goal is being met. Not all the members have the same responsibilities during the service, but everything flows harmoniously as each one finds their opportunity to serve.

Music, announcements and special events

In the music section at the front of the sanctuary, some committed musicians provide uplifting accompaniment for the congregational singing. Today the various instruments include a piano, guitars, a trumpet, and drums that add lively rhythm.

The song leader announces the first song from the BCC songbook called, “Ways of the Lord.” The lyrics are projected onto a large LED screen behind the podium, so everyone who’d like to can sing along. 

After a couple of songs have been sung, Nick reads the announcements which are projected onto the LED screen. On the agenda are special events for different age groups. The children look forward to a chaperoned trip to the zoo in a nearby city. The youth anticipate a sports evening, with pizza and treats to follow. A ripple of interest goes through the audience when a board game evening with refreshments is announced for the seniors.

Prayer

After the announcements, Barry says it’s time to pray. Everyone stands and a few people pray earnestly to God. An older man prays that God will bless the meeting. Another prays for our country and leaders so that we can live a quiet and peaceful life (1 Timothy 2:2). A young person prays for help from God to overcome the temptations of sin. 

A hopeful message

After another song is sung, it’s time to hear a message from God’s Word. Often Barry speaks first, but sometimes another member opens with something from their heart to give to the assembly. Each one shares scriptures from the Bible that have been illuminated for them, and have been a personal help in their lives. The central focus is always the gospel that gives the hope of becoming like Jesus. 

Barry goes up to the podium and opens by reading Colossians 3:1: “If you, then, be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above where Christ sits on the right hand of the throne of God.”

The central focus is always the gospel that gives the hope of becoming like Jesus. 

“I have understood in my daily life if I seek the things that are above, and if I set my mind on the things above, then there’s a huge reward waiting for me!” Barry says. “We know that any time we get a word of God and there’s an ‘action,’ for example ‘set your mind on things above,’ then we know that the trials will come: life happens and the vision is not so clear anymore. But then I can pray, ‘Dear God, give me a heavenly vision so I can set my mind on things above.’ It’s a work, it’s not going to happen automatically.”

Barry’s message is simple and compelling. “For example, maybe you have a young family with children. There’s a lot going on, and maybe it’s noisy. Think then, to be able to set your mind on things above!” Barry speaks fervently, “To be able to think like this: I want to be good to my children, I want to serve my children. Maybe I sense my own irritation, but I resist that and pray, ‘God help me to be good to them.’ We need to be freed from what we are by human nature.” The words resonate in the hearts of the listeners, creating a desire to live this kind of a life.

Sunday school

After Barry concludes his message, the assembly’s voices blend together in a congregational song. This is followed by another gripping message from a second member, and the children are dismissed for Sunday school.

Eagerly, they scurry off to their respective Sunday school rooms for an interactive, fun time: singing, making crafts, eating a yummy snack, and participating in a short Bible lesson.

Individual contributions

Back in the sanctuary, after another song, there are a few shorter messages that compliment the theme of the beginning speakers. Everything develops in a positive direction. During a slight pause in the meeting, Barry interjects that the meeting is now open for anyone who wishes to share something from their heart.

Each one shares scriptures from the Bible that have been illuminated for them, and have been a personal help in their lives.

A row of chairs facing the audience fills up with men and women of all ages. One by one they go up to the podium to express their sincere desire to practice God’s Word. Each contribution is unique. A young woman sings a solo, with accompaniment, as her testimony. An older woman shares how she wants to set her mind and heart on things that are above by nourishing herself with God’s word. She reads Romans 12:2: “And be not conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…”

“ I truly believe”, she says, “That my mind can be completely renewed and transformed, and I can be filled with joy.”

After a few more speakers, Barry asks the youth group to come up and sing. They flock to the front and sing together with enthusiasm. The last to speak, a man tells how early in his Christian life he endeavored to set his mind on heavenly things. It was hard and took so much effort. This brought him into great need, and then he realized he could pray, and ask for help before the throne of grace. “I can set myself in heavenly places,” he affirms, “by being there before the throne of grace. I can admit to everything that the Spirit shows me! I can draw down the kingdom of heaven!” His words are spoken with emphatic conviction.

A help for the ‘daily life’

Sarah, a young mom, shares how she experiences the Sunday meetings: “Every time I go to the meetings with an open heart, God meets me where I’m at. Each Sunday I hear something that strengthens my faith. Sometimes it’s a message, or a song, or a simple prayer. Sometimes it is a heartfelt testimony that inspires me to live a daily life that’s pleasing to God.”

“Each Sunday I hear something that strengthens my faith.”

Jim adds his sentiment, “The meetings keep me on course in my Christian walk.”

After the meeting — Coffee bar, visits, & sports

The meeting draws to a close. Everyone stands while several pray. The chorus of a song is sung to conclude the meeting. Children spill happily out of the Sunday school rooms, and the fragrant aroma of coffee drifts from the open coffee bar. The youth are raising money for their camps and other youth activities and today they are offering a delicious meal that families can purchase rather than leaving for lunch. 

Warmer weather beckons people outdoors to eat at the picnic tables under the pavilion. Some choose to chat and relax on comfy leather couches in the indoor fellowship room.

Children play outside in the playground under the trees. Youth play soccer, basketball, or volleyball in the wide open spaces. It’s a carefree scene of people closely knit together by their Christian faith, and it’s clear to this writer that these are people who genuinely enjoy one another’s company.

Victory Conference Center is the main gathering place for members of Brunstad Christian Church on the east coast of North America. Over 1,000 members meet at the grounds to be built up in their faith and experience fellowship with like-minded Christians.

“The ribbon cutting was a great way to kick off the winter season,” shares Jen, a mother of four. “Our kids love coming to Victory to see their friends and I am grateful that now and, especially as they become teens, there will be a variety of fun winter sports and activities they can participate in together with peers who have the same life goal. To me, the new facilities mean another avenue of pure and clean fun that doesn’t lead to regret later in life.”