Ross Georgiou, National Director from Capernwray

Ross, first and foremost, is a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ and firmly believes in His transforming presence. Ross has served full-time in many capacities, both here in New Zealand and overseas. He is the National Director of Capernwray NZ, joining us after serving as the CEO of the Global Sports Chaplaincy Association. He brings strengths in faith, mission and vision setting. Ross has founded and pioneered Sport Chaplaincy New Zealand and Engage (the 2011 Rugby World Cup ministry). He has led Athletes in Action Europe, and has been an active member of Tandem Ministries and Operation Mobilisation. Ross attends Windsor Park Baptist Church along with his wife Roula. He has a Bachelor of Divinity degree (BCNZ) and Graduate Diploma in Theology (Melbourne). He speaks English, German and Greek. Born in Cambridge in the Waikato, Ross has lived in NZ, PNG, Germany, Greece and England. Ross is married to Roula, from Thessaloniki Greece, who has been very much a partner in all that Ross has been involved with. They have two adult sons and one daughter-in-law.

Capernwray New Zealand has its roots in the UK at a place called Capernwray Hall, a large property near the Lakes District in England. It was formed immediately after the Second World War by Major W. Ian Thomas as part of the broader movement for reconciliation between nations that had been at war. Thomas gave insightful teaching from the Bible helping youth / young adults discover the adventure of knowing Jesus Christ personally. The work spread throughout Europe and then to the rest of the world, reaching New Zealand in the late 60’s. Howick was the first NZ location then it moved to Henderson. In 1995, it transferred to its current location at the Monavale Homestead in Cambridge. The Adventure Bible School programme started in 1999, with its base on Lake Karapiro opening in 2006. There are now over 25 different Torchbearers (Capernwray) centres around the world. Approximately, 120 – 150 students attend our courses annually. Mission – What do we do? Our mission is to embrace Jesus Christ, through biblical teaching, equipping people for life and service in the world. Values – What is important to us? Christ’s life in and through all Shaped and led by Scripture Holistic growth through discipleship and community Preparing for mission in every vocation Embracing the unique NZ experience

Prayer Points:

Praise

  • For a large and ongoing interest and demand on our programs that prioritise the abiding life of Christ. For two students who came to faith and 11 who were baptised over the last few months.

Prayer

  • For the annual cycle and recruitment of 11 staff who are both called and equipped – in both leadership and bible school and adventure bible school roles.
  • For the need and the growing deep desire for students and staff not just to be in Christ, but on mission with Christ. For the development of a international program, The Apostle Paul’s Second Missionary Journey.
  • For the cross-pollination and strengthening with other Capernwray and other Christian ministries around NZ, the Pacific, Asia and the World.
  • For a regional youth festival ‘Break-through’ hosted by the bible school in May, that it would make lasting impact and fruit in the lives of youth in the region.