Dear Friend,

Bobbie and I are deeply saddened by the fires affecting so many Australian families. The Victorian bushfires have decimated nearly 330,000 hectares, and destroyed more than 750 homes leaving thousands of people homeless. As the death toll rises, authorities are saying it could reach to above 200 people.

Our hearts go out to the families whose lives have been so affected by these fires and who still wait to hear from their loved ones in Victoria. Our prayers are with the relief workers and government officials as they work so tirelessly in an effort to bring aid and assistance to those in need.

As a church, 10% of giving in all our services this weekend will go directly towards the bushfire relief efforts. On top of this we will be receiving a special offering at our Leadership Vision Night this week, of which 100% of all donations received will go directly to the bushfire relief efforts. We have also set up an online giving page so that we can pool our resources for you to contribute as well.

Click here to donate online

or alternatively you can send in a cheque made out to the Hillsong Foundation, attention 'Bushfire appeal'. Please post cheques to: Hillsong Bushfire Appeal, PO Box 1195, Castle Hill NSW 1765 Australia. If you would like to give electronically the bank details are:

Account Name: Hillsong Foundation Projects
Account Address: 1-5 Solent Circuit Baulkham Hills NSW 2153
BSB / Sort Code: 082135
Account Number: 833659459

Bank: National Australia Bank
Bank Address: Level 5, 10 Century Circuit, Norwest Business Park, Baulkham Hills NSW 2153
Swift Code: NATAAU3302S

* Donations are tax deductible for Australian residents.

* For direct deposit receipt please email bushfirerelief@hillsong.com with your deposit details.

I would encourage all of you to dig deep, and more than ever, pray for the people affected in such a tragic way.

Brian Houston - Hillsong Church