CHRISTIAN SURFERS AUSTRALIA NATIONAL GATHERING

The Christian Surfers National Gathering is held every year over the Easter period. The conference is held in a different location each year and attracts from two to three hundred participants.

The highlight of the conference is the Easter Sunday dawn paddle out. A paddle out is a traditional Hawaiian tribute to honor the life and legacy of a person who has passed away, particularly within the surfing community. It involves surfers paddling out to sea to form a circle, share memories, and sometimes spread the ashes of the deceased.

Christian Surfers paddle out on Easter Sunday to remember and reflect on the death of Jesus. The ceremony is simple, a short talk from a respected elder in the Christian Surfers community, Amazing Grace is sung, and the surfers paddle out, forming the shape of a cross in the water.  

After a minute’s silence is held to reflect, the surfers shout, ‘He has risen’, above the roar of the ocean and as the sun rises. This is a powerful moment for all involved as they splash the water and celebrate that Jesus died but then he rose again to life.  

Steve Bailey, Christian Surfers National Director, has been participating in Christian Surfers Paddle outs for the past 30 years. According to Steve “Christian Surfers is not big on traditions but this is a really important one that we as a mission, family and as surfers culturally remember that Christ rose three days after being crucified. It brings us together and builds unity of purpose and connection. It is such a unique experience to be a part of that words just don't cover.”  

What to expect at CSA National Gathering?

Check out Rach’s experience of National Gathering in 2022 to get a feel of what to expect.

PARTNERS

Thank you to our generous partners who help to make National Gathering possible.

Your business can PARTNER with CSA to make National Gathering possible. For more information and to receive a sponsorship proposal. Email Jono Bailey at jono@christiansurfers.org.au