Faith & Music: The Sacred Convergence
For many of us, faith and music are not just hobbies; they are the very threads that weave through the fabric of our souls, profoundly shaping our identity and purpose. At AChA, we embark on the profound journey of bringing these two deeply personal — often sacred — aspects of life together. It's an ambitious undertaking, one that recognises the potential for both sublime harmony and the echoes of past discord. We understand this isn't just about notes and hymns; it's about heart and spirit.
People from diverse traditions, with unique expectations and artistic styles, gather here. When something means so much, the idea of compromise can feel profoundly challenging, even costly. We deeply understand these sentiments. Yet, we believe our collective existence, fostering this extraordinary blend of faith and art, offers a richness and impact far greater than if we were to remain separate. The beauty emerges when we choose to build something larger than ourselves.
Our aim is not to diminish our unique expressions or seek the lowest common denominator. Instead, we call upon Christians who are willing to lay aside personal preferences — even cherished ones — for the sake of a transcendent purpose: to build the Kingdom of God through the transformative power of the arts. This requires humility and a shared vision, much like the early church unified in spirit. (Read Acts 4:32)
"Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them." — Matthew 18:20
When we embrace this unity, the reward is immeasurable. Members discover a unique space where their faith is deepened, their musical gifts are elevated, and they become part of a powerful, unified voice. It's a place where individual talents converge to create something truly divine, inspiring both ourselves and the world around us. This collaborative spirit transforms perceived compromises into shared triumphs. Join us in this inspiring mission.
We're All About Jesus Christ
Keeping Jesus at the Centre
We are all about Jesus: who He is, what He has done, and what He is still doing today. We proclaim Jesus Christ as God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, eternally begotten of the Father and of one being with Him, who for our salvation came down from heaven and was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary. He alone is the eternal Word of God made flesh, fully divine and fully human, existing in two natures without confusion, change, division, or separation. Everything we do flows from Him, points to Him, and invites others to begin a beautiful journey with Him. As part of our mission to reclaim the arts for Christ to build, grow, nourish, and unite His Church. Because of our value of Eternity, we live and work with eternity in view, believing that Jesus is the only one who saves and that we have one opportunity to serve God and invite others into His Kingdom. We keep each other and our leadership accountable for ensuring that our focus always remains supremely on Him. (Read Colossians 1:15–20)
Christ Crucified
We proclaim Christ crucified, as He is the power and wisdom of God (Read 1 Corinthians 1:23–24). At the cross, we see the fullness of His love, the depth of His sacrifice, and the hope of redemption for all who believe. Our focus remains there, where salvation was won and new life begins.
Christ Resurrected
We proclaim Christ risen from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep (Read 1 Corinthians 15:20). By His resurrection, death has been defeated and the new creation has begun. Our hope and our joy are rooted in the empty tomb, where life triumphed over death and the promise of eternity was secured.
Christ Ascended
We proclaim Christ ascended into heaven, seated at the right hand of the Father (Read Mark 16:19). He who humbled Himself on the cross is now exalted above every name (Read Philippians 2:9). From there, He intercedes for us (Read Romans 8:34) and has poured out the promised Holy Spirit upon His people (Read Acts 2:33). Our eyes are lifted to Him, who reigns and will come again in glory.
Christ Returning
We proclaim Christ who will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead (Read 2 Timothy 4:1). Just as He ascended, so He will return (Read Acts 1:11). We wait in hope for His appearing, when every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (Read Philippians 2:10–11). Our eyes look forward to the day when He makes all things new (Read Revelation 21:5).
Our Cross-Denominational Heart
We work across traditions, expressions, and theological streams, anchored by a shared belief in Christ and a deep love for His Church. Because of our value of Interconnectedness, we are intentionally interdenominational: Protestants, Catholics, Orthodox believers, and others come together as one body. We recognise that beyond the core truths of the gospel, different Christians hold different convictions.
It's About Christ Alone
Romans 6:4 says "Therefore we have been buried with him by baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life." This is the gospel we profess: dead to sin, but alive in Christ through the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus. This is our focal point, our one and only message.
No Concert Is The Same
As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 9:22–23, "To the weak I became weak, so that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, so that I might by any means save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, so that I may share in its blessings." In the same way, some of our concerts may be more lively, some more reflective, and others comparatively neutral in tone. One concert does not always set a precedent for the next. It is our aim to weave adaptability into our shared culture, enabling us to reach many kinds of people with the gospel from event to event.
Statement of Faith
We uphold the Niceno-Constantinopolitan Creed (381 AD) as our shared confession and authoritative summary of the Apostolic faith, received across time, culture, and denomination. This creed unites Christians across traditions as our common rule of faith. For our internal use, we adopt the sixty-six books of the Old and New Testaments as a common scriptural foundation, while recognising that some traditions also receive additional books as part of their wider canonical heritage. The New Revised Standard Version Anglicised (NRSVA) is used for its scholarly rigour and broad acceptance across Christian traditions.
Diversity of Believers
In our gatherings and rehearsals, a Catholic might sit beside a Pentecostal. An Orthodox believer might serve alongside a Baptist. We see this not as a challenge, but as a beautiful glimpse of heaven, a chance to learn and glean from one another, and an opportunity to develop greater levels of Christ-like humility. Because of our culture of Embracing Community, we are not only building ensembles, but communities where everyone feels valued, accepted, and supported. (Read Galatians 3:28)
Unity Is Not Uniformity
Unity is not uniformity. It means holding our own convictions while making room for others. It means valuing the Church not as my tradition, but as part of our shared inheritance in Christ. (Read 1 Corinthians 12:4, 12)
Which Canon We Use
We use the biblical canon recognised across the broadest range of Christian traditions: the 66 books of the Old and New Testaments. This shared foundation gives us a basis for scriptural unity, providing common ground for moments of teaching, prayer, and reflection. We use the New Revised Standard Version Anglicised (NRSVA) due to its broad interdenominational acceptance.
Our Statement of Faith
We affirm the Nicene Creed as formulated at the Council of Constantinople in 381 AD. This creed unites Christians across denominations and traditions as a shared statement of faith.
Note on the Filioque
Some Western Christian traditions include the phrase "and the Son" (filioque) in their confession of the Holy Spirit. In this document, we present the Niceno-Constantinopolitan Creed in its original 381 AD form as a point of shared confession, recognising it as a common reference received across the historic Church and suitable for our ecumenical purpose.
The Nicene Creed (381 AD)
We believe in one God,
the Father almighty,
maker of heaven and earth,
of all things visible and invisible.And in one Lord Jesus Christ,
the only Son of God,
begotten from the Father before all ages,
God from God,
Light from Light,
true God from true God,
begotten, not made;
of the same essence as the Father.
Through him all things were made.
For us and for our salvation
he came down from heaven;
he became incarnate by the Holy Spirit and the virgin Mary,
and was made human.
He was crucified for us under Pontius Pilate;
he suffered and was buried.
The third day he rose again, according to the Scriptures.
He ascended to heaven
and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again with glory
to judge the living and the dead.
His kingdom will never end.And we believe in the Holy Spirit,
the Lord, the giver of life.
He proceeds from the Father.
With the Father and the Son he is worshipped and glorified.
He spoke through the prophets.
We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church.
We affirm one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.
We look forward to the resurrection of the dead,
and to life in the world to come. Amen.
Who We Are, What We're Not
We're Not a Church
AChA is not a church. We are a non-profit Christian arts organisation, and that distinction matters. We are not here to promote or enforce a particular set of denominational doctrines. Instead, our focus is on Christ and the gospel, which we aim to express to the best of our ability through the creative arts. Because of our value of Ownership, we take responsibility for this mission: when we see a gap, we seek to fill it, never outsourcing our care or truth-telling.
(Read Matthew 7:16)
We Have a "Creative Company" Model
Think of us less as a church that does the arts, and more as a theatre company with a Kingdom purpose. We exist to establish, grow, and maintain healthy, world-class, industry-leading Christian Creative Arts Companies. Because we value Craftsmanship, we are committed to the significant investment the creative process demands. We believe that clarity surrounding who we are called to be, and who we are not, allows us to serve in one accord, for as long as the Lord wills each of us to do so.
(Read Exodus 31:2–5, Exodus 35:30–35 & Exodus 36:1)
We Value the Fruits of the Spirit More Than Talent
At AChA, we recognise that our service isn't ultimately to an organisation, but to Christ Himself. While some of our musicians and vocalists work professionally in paid contexts elsewhere, and occasionally we may compensate certain roles, we approach all our work with the same dedication.
We recognise that in most secular arts organisations (at least initially), talent is often rewarded above all else. At AChA, while we deeply value and nurture talent, we believe it is character — in heart and in action — that ultimately shapes trust, leadership opportunities, and musical promotion.
"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." — Colossians 3:23–24
"Therefore, we're not looking for people who already think they're great and asking how AChA can serve them."
"We want to locate, then cultivate, a posture of humility in our team at every rank to create a culture of mutual service."
Jesus models a radically different pattern for living where strength is worn lightly in the service of others. Because of our value of Humility, every day of the week we would rather take someone who loves to be a part of AChA and asks how they can serve, than a virtuosic musician without the character to match their talent.
Personality, Style, and Denomination
A pastoral clarification for our community
At times, differences in personality or communication style can be misunderstood as indicators of theological or denominational identity. A high-energy, expressive leader may be assumed to be Pentecostal, while a quieter, more reserved presence may be assumed to be Catholic, Anglican, or "less charismatic." These assumptions are understandable, but they are ultimately inaccurate and unhelpful. Because of our value of Mutual Honour, we recognise and respect the unique gifts, personalities, and the image of God in every individual within our community.
"In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity." (Rupertus Meldenius)
Personality and theology are not the same thing. Style, energy, tone, and expressiveness are human traits, not doctrinal statements. There are lively and outspoken Catholics, Anglicans, and Orthodox Christians, just as there are reflective, introverted Pentecostals and Evangelicals. Every tradition of the Church contains a wide range of personalities and ways of worshipping God. (Read Philippians 1:18 and 1 Corinthians 12)
Our leadership reflects this reality. For example, our leader Ryan is an enthusiastic and expressive communicator. On first impression, some may assume he is Pentecostal. Yet his formation spans Catholic schooling, Pentecostal ministry training, philosophical study within a Catholic theological institution, and ongoing life in an Anglican church. His energy reflects his personality and calling, not a narrow denominational label. His story reminds us that there is always more beneath the surface. Because of our value of Humility, we speak truth always in love, staying curious and aware that there is often more going on than we can see.
Our calling is to listen well, assume generously, and discern by fruit rather than flavour. If Christ is being honoured, if love is present, and if unity is being preserved, then the style through which that occurs is secondary. As Paul urges us, "make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."
Involvement Doesn't Mean Total Agreement: A Space for Grace
At Australian Christian Arts, we understand that true unity flourishes not in uniformity, but in shared purpose and mutual respect. We want you to feel genuinely welcome and at home here, knowing that your involvement doesn't require total agreement on every single detail. This approach is rooted in grace, freeing you to participate authentically, just as the Spirit leads. (Read Colossians 3:13–14)
We believe that joining hands in areas where we share purpose is paramount, even if our perspectives differ on secondary matters. This isn't a compromise of conviction, but a demonstration of mature faith that allows for healthy growth and collaboration. Because of our value of Interconnectedness, we are not only building ensembles but communities. And because of our culture of Sincerity, we cultivate authentic and vulnerable relationships, believing that true connection empowers deeper artistic expression.
Freedom to Question
You're encouraged to bring your whole self, including your questions and evolving perspectives. This is a safe space to grow without fear of judgment.
Rich Diversity
Our community thrives on the richness of diverse backgrounds and interpretations. We believe every voice contributes to a fuller understanding of Christ.
Shared Mission
We unite around our core mission: to honour Christ through the arts. Our shared commitment to this purpose transcends minor differences, fostering deep connection.
This means that while we uphold core biblical truths, such as those in the Niceno-Constantinopolitan Creed (381 AD), we also recognise the vast spectrum of Christian experience and belief on non-essential issues. For instance, one member might feel a strong call to emphasise particular theological traditions, while another might advocate for different expressions of worship or artistic approaches. We embrace these discussions, seeing them not as threats, but as opportunities for deeper learning and spiritual maturity.
As we navigate these differences, we practise our value of a Listening Ear: we listen before we speak — to leaders, to one another, and to the Lord. We are attentive in rehearsals, careful with words, diligent in communication, and open to feedback. This commitment to unity in diversity reflects the spirit of the early church, where believers from varied backgrounds came together, bearing with one another in love (Read Ephesians 4:2). It cultivates an environment where patience and temperance are practised, and where the Holy Spirit equips us to live out these virtues in community (Read Galatians 5:16). This enables us to remain motivated and connected, even when we don't completely align on every point.
Your unique insights and concerns are deeply valued here. We believe this approach is not a weakness, but a profound strength, creating a truly inclusive and resilient community where everyone can belong, contribute, and flourish.
Building Kingdom Community: Our 'All Hands, Make Light Work' Ethos
At AChA, we believe true spiritual formation extends beyond performance to every act of service. Our unique 'All Hands, Make Light Work' practice is central to this: after events, all members join together to pack down production gear for around 30 minutes, and for 10 minutes after rehearsals. This isn't just about efficiency; it's a profound, spiritual commitment that cultivates a vibrant culture of humility, shared ownership, and genuine community, where earthly titles dissolve in the joy of collective effort. (Read Philippians 2:6–7 & John 13:12–15)
In the Kingdom of God, the way up is indeed the way down. Jesus modelled this for us, and we joyfully follow His lead. Because of our value of Servanthood, this practice reminds us that serving isn't reserved for a few; it's a vital part of everyone's discipleship. It's a simple, yet deeply spiritual act that transforms participation into profound connection.
Why This Matters
This sets us apart from the transactional nature often found in arts organisations. Here, we don't just arrive, perform, and disappear. We are building a distinctive, counter-cultural community where every task — whether stacking chairs or packing cables — becomes an act of worship. It fosters a sense of belonging and breaks down hierarchies, creating space for authentic relationships. (Read Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 & Galatians 3:28)
A Privilege, Not an Obligation
Far from being an obligation, this shared responsibility is a privilege — an opportunity to embody Christ's humility and strengthen our bonds. It creates a space where every voice is heard, every hand is valued, and the mission becomes truly ours. (Read Romans 12:4–5)
What This Looks Like
After every concert or major event: approximately 30 minutes of collective pack-down. After every rehearsal: approximately 10 minutes of collective tidy-up. Leaders go first. No role is too small.
Every Journey Has a Start: A Heartfelt Invitation to Christ
Regardless of our diverse paths and traditions, all Christians share a beautiful truth: life with Jesus is a transformative journey, and every profound journey begins with a first step. Because of our value of Eternity, we live with eternity in view: we believe we have one life and one opportunity to invite others into God's Kingdom. It is this conviction that drives us to create a moment at every concert for people to begin their journey with Jesus, whichever denomination they choose to outwork their journey within. (Read Philippians 1:6)
Creating a Sacred Space for Decision
At every AChA event, we intentionally create a special moment, a sacred space, where individuals can respond to God's call. Whether it's known as a 'sinner's prayer,' an act of contrition, or the 'Jesus Prayer,' this is an opportunity for a personal encounter with Christ. We understand that this direct, public invitation might not be common in all traditions, but for us, it's about acknowledging a fundamental truth: every spiritual journey needs a beginning. It might be the only chance someone has to take that life-changing first step toward Jesus. We are simply planting seeds of faith and pointing to the One who transforms lives. (Read 1 John 1:9)
Authenticity Over Affiliation: Our Invitation to Relationship
When we invite people to begin their journey with Jesus, we choose a clear, accessible way to present that invitation. Our chosen style of communication or presentation is purely a means to an end: a way to extend God's love broadly and effectively. This approach is never about promoting a particular theological stance or denominational view on salvation. Our focus is on the genuine connection with Christ, not on organisational affiliations. We believe in reaching as many as possible with the good news, presenting a genuine opportunity to encounter Jesus in a way that is clear, heartfelt, and culturally relevant. (Read 1 Samuel 16:7)
Nurturing Growth: Connecting to Lasting Community
Our mission extends beyond a single event; we are deeply committed to fostering ongoing discipleship and community. Our vision is to see thousands of people begin, recommence, or recommit to their journey with Jesus, and to see them established in their chosen Church community. After someone takes that first step, we carefully help them find a local church community that aligns with their needs, offering options from a variety of denominations. We don't prescribe how someone's faith journey must unfold or which church they should join. Instead, we empower individuals to make their own informed, prayerful choices. We celebrate our own cherished convictions while wholeheartedly making space for others to follow Jesus in the tradition that they feel best nurtures their walk with Him. (Read Hebrews 10:24–25)
The Joy of the Great Commission: A Privilege We Share
Being a part of someone's spiritual awakening, witnessing them take their first step towards Jesus, is an unparalleled joy and privilege. This practice is a direct reflection of the Great Commission: an invitation to all believers to participate in the most beautiful story ever told, lives transformed by divine love. Every moment of contrition and every connection to a local church is an act of hope and a contribution to eternity. It is an honour to stand alongside individuals as they embark on their journey, knowing that we are playing a small yet significant role in their lifelong relationship with Christ. (Read Matthew 28:19–20)
The 'JIST' of Our Approach to Outreach
At our concerts we provide a moment called the 'Doorway Moment'. Because of our value of Eternity and our vision to see thousands of people begin, recommence, or recommit to their journey with Jesus, this moment is central to everything we do. It consists of two distinct segments: a message and an invitation. We recognise the essential distinction between Kerygma, the exciting, initial "Good News" we share with the world, and Didache, the deep, lifelong teaching of the Church. Our concerts serve as a First Door for people, and our spoken messages are purposefully Kerygmatic: a clear, scripturally grounded witness that shows how Jesus connects to modern life, aiming to elevate the truth of the grace of Jesus above all sin and shame.
J — Jesus: The Subject of our News
The message presents Jesus as a real Person rather than a list of facts. We use the Bible to show His character and His invitation to us, starting where He meets us in the middle of our messy lives. We ensure the Jesus we talk about is the same one found in the ancient Creeds, but we speak about Him in a Kerygmatic way that makes sense to people today. This moment is not meant to be an exegetical moment of teaching.
I — Invitation: The Decision to Begin
The invitation is the bridge where the Kerygma meets a personal response. We ask participants to start a journey with Jesus, respect their starting place, and offer four specific pathways: starting a journey with Jesus for the first time, recommencing a journey that has stalled, reaffirming a personal faith in Christ, or requesting help to find a local church home.
S — Spirit: The Power of Transformation
We trust the Holy Spirit, the Giver of Life, to do the internal work in people's hearts that our words cannot do. The Spirit takes our simple Kerygma and makes it feel real and personal. We strictly resist any form of coercion or high pressure tactics, trusting that the same Spirit who inspires the message will also lead the seeker into the fullness of the Church's Didache in His own time.
T — Telos: The Local Church
We connect this first encounter to the life of the local community. If a seeker asks for help finding a church, we email them a range of options in their local area from different denominations for them to choose from. The First Door is just the beginning. The local Church is the safe home where the Kerygma matures into Didache, and where exegetical teaching begins. It is within these local congregations and their respective traditions that the deeper work of discipleship, counsel, and the teaching of baptism takes place.
Because of our creative value of Elevation, everything we do in this moment aims to lift heavy and broken hearts towards their one and only Saviour, Jesus Christ.
No Concert Is The Same
When you’re considering a long-term commitment with Australian Christian Arts, we encourage you to join us for at least two concerts. Why? Because no two events are ever the same. Just as people express their faith in different ways, our concerts carry a variety of expressions through everything from the choice of music to the venue, the ensemble, the décor, and the size. Because of our creative value of Magnificence, we do not apologise for beauty, scale, or excellence, and because of our 'Something Old, Something New' philosophy, we balance classical traditions with modern expression to create art that resonates across generations.
Think of it like a book: “don’t judge it by the cover, or even by the first chapter.” Your first concert might not feel like “your thing,” but the second could be the one that captures your heart, and sometimes it’s the other way around. Every event is a different chapter of the same story. (Read 1 Samuel 16:7)
Contemplative Moments
Some of our gatherings lean into a quieter, reflective space. Crafted with careful attention to the senses, these moments utilize lighting and aesthetics to create stillness, depth, and acoustic beauty. They invite you to slow down and meet Jesus in the quiet, reminding us that God is often found in “a gentle whisper” rather than the wind, the fire, or the earthquake. (read 1 Kings 19:11-13).
Joyful Celebrations
Other concerts are alive with music that stirs, through voices raised together in an atmosphere of celebration that reflects the joy and freedom we find in Christ. These nights serve as a holistic artistic experience, reminding us that worship can be bold, creative, and lively, akin to the passages of jubilant and energetic praise found throughout scripture. (read 2 Samuel 6:14-22).
By experiencing the different sides of AChA, you’ll discover not only our breadth as a movement, but also where your gifts and passion might fit within our shared mission: to see the arts reclaimed and used to glorify God.
Our Missional Mandate
Australian Christian Arts operates with a clear mandate to reclaim the arts for Christ: to build, grow, nourish, and unite God's Church while revealing His Kingdom to the world. Because of our value of Servanthood, this mandate is carried out with leaders who serve first and beyond their roles, and because of our value of Advancement, we move wisely but boldly into new cities, art forms, and expressions.
Kingdom Advancing
We are evangelistic in our approach, using the arts to share the Gospel and partnering with the Holy Spirit as He advances God's Kingdom. We serve a vision, not a personality, and believe God is calling us boldly into new cities, art forms, and expressions across Australia and the world.
(Read Matthew 11:12)
Kingdom Uniting
We are ecumenical, bringing together Christians from various traditions and denominations through shared artistic experiences and collaborations, fostering unity as a core expression of our mission.
(Read Ephesians 4:3–6)
Kingdom Revealing
We reveal Jesus and His beauty through our art, making the invisible God visible through creative expression that points to divine truth.
(Read Colossians 1:26–27)