From the Archives: The History of Conference

There is something special about coming together with people who share a common vision, purpose, and passion for their community. For generations, gathering in fellowship has been at the heart of Churches of Christ, creating opportunities to strengthen connections, share ideas, and encourage one another in faith and service.

This November, Churches of Christ in Queensland will once again come together for its annual State Conference, known as Summit, at Kenmore. Over two days, ministry leaders and church members from across the state will gather to listen, learn, worship, and share their stories. This year's theme, Reimagine, invites attendees to explore new possibilities for ministry, mission, and community.

While Summit continues to evolve, its roots stretch back more than 140 years.

The concept of an Annual Conference began on 9 August 1883, when a meeting was held in Toowoomba at the home of minister Frederick W. Troy. Troy played a key role in bringing evangelist Stephen Cheek to Queensland and establishing a Churches of Christ presence in the region. At that meeting, a committee was appointed to support and guide the growth of the movement, laying the foundation for what would become the annual Conference tradition.

^{1883-First-Conference-Delegates}

Over the decades, Conference has been hosted by churches and venues across Queensland.

Many of the early gatherings took place at the Ann Street Church of Christ in Brisbane. In 1962, Conference was held at Brisbane City Hall, with attendees enjoying a picnic lunch in the Botanic Gardens following the Sunday service. In 1983, the centenary of that first meeting in Toowoomba, delegates gathered at the Cultural Centre in South Brisbane to mark 100 years of shared history and fellowship.

^{1952 State Conference, Ann St}

Two years later, in 1985, Conference events were hosted at the Sleeman Sports Complex in Chandler, reflecting the continued growth of the movement and the need for larger gathering spaces.

Churches of Christ conferences have also extended beyond the state level. In 1954, the Federal Conference was held at Brisbane City Hall under the leadership of Clive Burdeu. Running for a full week, the event featured a large, united choir that sang each evening, while approximately 1,600 people attended the Sunday service.

Queensland has also played host on the world stage. In 2000, Brisbane welcomed the World Convention of Churches of Christ at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. The event marked the 70th anniversary of the global fellowship and brought together representatives from Churches of Christ communities around the world.

^{1952 Federal Conference Choir}

From humble beginnings in a Toowoomba home to major state, national, and international gatherings, conference has long been woven into the fabric of Churches of Christ. These events continue to provide opportunities for fellowship, encouragement, learning, and shared purpose, strengthening the connections that unite communities across Queensland and beyond.

For those interested in learning more, the Historical Resource Centre at Kenmore head office houses a collection of artefacts, photographs, and articles relating to these conferences and other significant Churches of Christ gatherings. The centre is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and visitors are always welcome.