Trailer
This new series seeks to demonstrate the depth of influence of the Gospel message on Australia. The team drove from the cities to the outback of Australia in an iconic Holden ute, unearthing stories from history and today of people whose lives have been changed by Jesus, and who have deeply influenced this nation.
Episode 01 - Faith Runs Deep
Welcome to Faith Runs Deep! While Christian faith is often seen as having a minimal or even a negative effect on Australian history and culture, we find through this series that is not the case. People of faith have so often been the forerunners in many aspects of our culture, including business, politics, sport and philanthropy. The first episode of this series introduces a number of our guests and how they see faith running deep in Australia, and Duncan Brown shares his personal story.
26 mins
Episode 02 - Ends of the Earth
Australia was once seen as ‘the ends of the earth’, a distant continent where convicts from overflowing prison ships in England were sent as an alternative to the death penalty. As a missionary to the South Seas, Richard Johnson was the chaplain on the First Fleet. This episode looks at Johnson’s and others commitment to the Gospel. We also hear of the remarkable and miraculous personal story of artist Bindi Cole Chocka.
26 mins
Episode 03 - Second Chance
Lachlan Macquarie and his wife Elizabeth were dedicated Christians who believed in forgiveness and giving second chances. As governor of New South Wales from 1810 to 1821, Macquarie emancipated or set free more convicts than any governor before him. This episode of Faith Runs Deep shows how Christian faith and practice underpins many key values in Australian society. Roy Williams also tells his personal story, his self-confessed ignorance of God, and how he came to realise the truth of the Gospel.
26 mins
Episode 04 - Eternity in our Hearts
The history of the treatment of the First Nations people of this nation is an awful story, full of injustice, which continues to impact lives and communities today. The Christian Church was seen as complicit and at times active in the process of colonisation. Yet, in the complexity of history, we find that the only people speaking out about the injustice of the time were Christians and those like John Gribble and Lancelot Threlkeld sought to bring the message and love of Jesus to the Indigenous people. This episode of Faith Runs Deep explores the painful past and the hope for the future that many have for reconciliation and restoration. Indigenous elder, Riverbank Frank speaks about Indigenous activist Bill Ferguson, as well as his own personal story of coming to faith in Christ and finding the stories of Jesus were not as he had once believed, hollow.
26 mins
Episode 05 - Melting Pot
Australia is a melting pot of cultures. People from all over the world have come to call Australia home and have often brought with them aspects from their own cultures. While the First Fleet was forced immigration, the free settlers that came later started waves of immigration that continue to today. This episode looks at people such as JD Lang and George Fife Angas who came to this country as people of faith, and who helped shape this nation. We also hear Tony Hoang’s incredible personal story, who as a second-generation immigrant, became a drug-dealer at 14, was jailed, came to the end of himself, and had God break into his life in a miraculous way.
26 mins
Episode 06 - That Other Religion
Australia is a sports-mad nation, often showing a religious-like zeal when it comes to competition. And yet, sports has not taken the place of Christianity in Australia. This episode introduces a number of sporting professionals, both from history and today, who found winning does not deliver true fulfillment and joy. We hear from Olympian Eloise Wellings, bull rider Tim Kelly, former AFL player Shaun Hart and racing car driver Andrew Fisher. Former NRL player, Peter Gibbs, also shares his own rise and fall story and how finding faith in Jesus saved his life.
26 mins
Episode 07 - My Brother's Keeper
Christian faith has often motivated people to make remarkable sacrifices for others. Founder of the Royal Flying Doctor Service, John Flynn, was an outback preacher who saw a need for practical medical help for those living in the bush. His faith motivated him to find a solution, bringing about incredible innovations and inventions that served wider purposes than those he had started out with. John Flynn’s story is just one of thousands in this nation where people of faith have decided to use their life and resources to aid others. In this episode we hear from Red Frogs founder Andy Gourley, Director of Fusion on the Mornington Peninsula Gemma Bell, and Bernadette Black tells her personal story of being a teen-parent and going on to found a charity devoted to helping expecting and parenting teens around Australia.
26 mins
Episode 08 - For Love of Country
Anzac Day has been identified as Australia’s most important calendar day, demonstrating the reverence and respect many Australians grant the values of sacrifice and bravery. The sacrifice of those who fight for our country allows us a freedom and security, for which we honour them. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross allows us eternal freedom and security. This episode of Faith Runs Deep looks at how Jesus is often found in the darkest and most desperate of places, as many courageous military chaplains throughout time have brought His light and love to the warfront. Former Army soldier Dave Jensen and former Army chaplain Tim Booker tell Dave’s amazing prodigal-son story, showing Jesus is always there and ready to welcome you home, no matter how far you go.
26 mins
Episode 09 - Grassroots
The relationship between the Christian Church and the powers of state has always been difficult. The separation of church and state is often talked about, but one thing to remember is that phrase was actually about a wall of protection for the church from the state, not the other way around. Christian faith has always had an influence in the political life of Australia, whether it was our first governors, the foundational values of our laws or even the present beliefs of our politicians. This episode explores the beginnings of politics in Australia, and the instrumental men and women of faith involved. Former Deputy Prime Minister John Anderson tells his personal story and how he came to the conclusion that he ‘can’t not believe’ in Christ.
26 mins
Episode 10 - For the Glory of God
Creativity has always been a part of our nation, whether that is Indigenous art that has been here for thousands of years or more recent expressions, creativity in all forms is often celebrated and lauded. As Christians, we believe in a creative God, and believe creative abilities and passions are gifts from Him. When people of faith use their creative abilities to produce works of art, music, media or other forms of expression, they are reflecting the very heart and nature of God. In this episode we hear from musician Colin Buchanan, creative director Cass Langton and creative director and artist Jane Faase. Artist Narelle Urquhart also shares her personal story of incredible hardship leading to a remarkable transformation, and how she expresses herself through art.
26 mins
Episode 11 - Changed Lives
While large-scale revivals like those of John Wesley in England in the 18th century have not been as evident in Australian history, there have been times of significant revival and change throughout the years. Billy Graham came to Australia in 1959, preaching to over 300,000 people in both Melbourne and Sydney, impacting thousands of individual lives and starting new lineages of faith as people chose to accept Christ in their lives. Mining communities along the Illawarra coastline experienced revival in the early 1900’s, which led to amazing changes of behaviour and work ethic. In this episode, Indigenous elder Uncle Ossie Cruse tells his personal story of coming to faith in Christ at a crusade in 1962, and finding himself radically changed overnight. Karl also shares how his father was transformed when a faithful servant of Christ sought to bring revival to the small town of Tambar Springs.
26 mins
Episode 12 - Off the Sheep's Back
The term business is often associated with the CBD of our nation’s major cities, tall skyscrapers and millions of dollars traded on the stock market in businesses like retail, manufacturing and mining. Yet, the beginnings of business in Australia have much humbler origins in the wool industry, which was started in Australia in 1797 with people of faith, John Macarthur and the Reverend Samuel Marsden. Throughout our history, people of faith like Samuel McCaughey have innovated new ways of doing things and expanded the business world, solidifying Australia’s mark on the world. In this episode, winemaker Tim Kirk shares his personal story and how he runs his business with his belief in Christ at the forefront.
26 mins
Faith Runs Deep is an Australian made documentary series and resource hosted by Karl Faase – unearthing stories of faith Down Under. Karl and Jane Faase travelled across Australia to meet and hear about men and women who have made an imprint on our country – Christian leaders, missionaries, indigenous elders, sports people and armed service personnel. They told stories of sacrifice, courage, forgiveness, acceptance and faith which has grown Australia. Our hope is that through these 12 episodes, you will be inspired by our history and these remarkable stories and that you will be part of faith continuing to run deep in the generations to come.
Amanda Stoker
During her political career, Amanda held a number of ministerial positions including Assistant Minister to the Attorney-General, Assistant Minister for Women and Assistant Minister for Industrial Relations. She is a former lawyer and former director of the non-profit Australian Institute for Progress.
Andrew Fisher
After working in the corporate sector for many years and holding the position of Executive Chairman, Andrew decided to bravely put the name ‘Jesus’ on the side of his racing car – racing was something he did as a passion and hobby. Andrew now goes into schools and prisons full-time, sharing his story and sharing the message of Jesus.
Andy Gourley
In his previous life, he was an accountant by day and a skateboarding youth worker by night – but he saw a real need amongst the young schoolies crowd gathering at Surfers Paradise each year. He founded the Red Frogs network that seeks to provide early intervention and support in places where youth gather – from schoolies, to universities, festivals and frat houses.
Anne Pattel-Gray
A descendant of the Bidjara/Kari Kari people of Queensland, Anne was the first Aboriginal person to earn a PhD from Sydney University and in 1997 she earned a Doctor of Divinity in India. She campaigns for justice and equal representation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and is a recognised expert on Black Theology.
Bernadette Black
Bernadette’s passion for assisting teens who are pregnant or parenting came out of finding herself in that position as a 16 year old. She went on to study nursing before founding Australia’s only national organisation supporting this sector. She has been named Barnardos Australian Mother of the Year and Telstra Tasmanian Woman of the Year.
Bindi Cole Chocka
From Melbourne Australia, Bindi overcame a difficult and turbulent upbringing to become a celebrated artist who has won awards and hosted exhibitions for more than a decade. She has indigenous identity and heritage and through her art, she seeks to express her views on life, faith, racism and politics. She now leads a church with her husband in Victoria.
Cass Langton
For many years, Cass oversaw Hillsong’s global worship team, artists, technicians and writers. She is a passionate and gifted communicator, using her faith and creativity to share the Gospel and empower those in creative ministries.
Cindy Shay
From dreaming of being a farmer, Cindy has actually spent most of her working life working to improve systems and care for people through hospitals, distribution and health insurance. She did a six month stint in Tanzania, initially thinking she would go for holidays before allowing the Archbishop to convince her to resign from her job and help change lives.
Colin Buchanan
Formerly a teacher and while exploring the possibility of heading into ministry, Colin Buchanan ended up forging a career in the music industry. Initially recognised for his unique songwriting and country music genius, he is highly acclaimed for his decades of Children’s Christian Music, which he stumbled into whilst serving in his local church.
Dave Jensen
As the youngest son of the then Archbishop of Sydney, Dave wasn’t always going to follow the ‘family trade’ and be a Pastor. He signed up for the Australian Army after becoming a teen father and wasn’t able to hold down a job to support his family. He had a turbulent few years in the Army and in his personal life before he re-committed his life to Jesus.
Duncan Brown
Duncan Brown is a former journalist, pastor and head of Scripture Union. After years of varying roles in ministry and business, he has returned to his home state of Queensland to run an agribusiness with his sister. Their love of the land and entrepreneurial skills allow them to build a successful business with social purpose objectives.
Eloise Wellings
Eloise grew up running and from the age of 10, had her eyes on the Olympics. After years of setbacks and injuries, she finally walked onto the track at the London Olympics in 2012, many years after first qualifying at 16. Through her teenage years, she found faith in Jesus and after meeting olympian Julian Achon from Uganda, she co-founded Love Mercy – a charity that empowers Northern Ugandans to overcome poverty.
Gemma Bell
Gemma, her husband and their daughter live onsite at a home built to support youth experiencing and at risk of homelessness. She facilitates a space where teens can be supported to finish their education, find jobs and grow to become responsible adults.
George Savvides
George has spent 30 years leading and working in the healthcare sector – with major leadership roles that involved listing two of those companies on the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX). George also lends his expertise on numerous company and charity boards, serving as Chairman and as patron.
Guy Barnett
Born and bred in Tasmania, Guy gained a Masters of Law before practicing in both Australia and the US. He then established and managed an award winning government and public affairs business back in Australia before beginning his political career – representing first in the Senate before being elected to the Tasmanian State Parliament in 2014.
Hugh Chilton
Hugh is an educator, historian, author and holds a PhD from the University of Sydney. His first book is titled ‘Evangelicals and the End of Christendom’ and he speaks and writes about intellectual, cultural and religious history. His current role is at the Presbyterian boys’ school, The Scots College and he leads research and development initiatives, professional learning, and strategic partnerships.
John Anderson
– Australian Politician and Commentator John Anderson served as the 11th Deputy Prime Minister of Australia and leader of the National Party 1999-2005. He was a member of the House of Representatives 1989-2007. After politics, John launched a web-based program, Conversations with John Anderson and is well known for his social commentary on politics and faith. He is also a farmer in Regional NSW.
John Harris
For many decades, John has dedicated his life to understanding, appreciating and chronicling Aboriginal history, language and Christian experience. After a career teaching and leading schools in Indigenous communities and writing his award-winning book One Blood, John continues his active involvement in Aboriginal issues through Bible translation, writing, and speaking.
Julianne McMaster
Julianne, with her husband Phil, work in Military Ministry leading Solid Rock Defence Ministry. Having been part of the Australian Army for 24 years, they understand the demands and challenges of being part of the defence force and are passionate about supporting this community. Their ministry is specifically designed to support military spouses and female serving members.
Justin Moffatt
A former Taxi Driver in Sydney, Justin is an ordained Anglican Minister who has served in the United States and in Australia. He currently leads Church Hill Anglican which is in the heart of Sydney’s CBD and the oldest church in Australia, having been established over 2 centuries ago.
Kent Mayo
Kent has begged, borrowed and paid up for some unusual pieces of history that he has curated and displayed in the McCrossin’s Mill Museum, Uralla. One of his main passions is Australia’s first sporting world champion, Ned Trickett, who was the son of a convict and won the World Sculling Championship on the River Thames.
Laura Rademaker
Dr Laura Rademaker works and studies with the Australian National University, Canberra. She completed her Doctor of Philosophy in 2015 and wrote the award-winning book ‘Found in Translation’. It is the first study of the history of Aboriginal languages in Australia and is an innovative and fresh approach to mission history in Australia.
Laurel Gore
Over 30 years ago, Laurel began work with women in the youth justice system. She worked with various non profits and agencies supporting women who were incarcerated and post release. Over time, she saw the limited resources offered for women in adult prisons and decided to work with prison agencies supporting incarcerated adults.
Mark McCrindle
Founder and lead of McCrindle Research, Mark is a well known face and voice as a regular social and demographic commentator. He has authored numerous books on generations, the world of work, trends and the future. His team provides research for many organisations and non-profits and is a leading voice in social research.
Michael Gladwin
Dr Michael Gladwin is a history lecturer at St Mark’s National Theological Centre, Charles Sturt University and author of the award-winning book ‘Captains of the Soul: a History of Australian Army Chaplains’. For many years, his research interests have particularly centered on religious and cultural history and the relationship between religion and war.
Narelle Urquhart
Narelle is a talented Aboriginal artist, whose work tells the story of her people, our land and faith. She also manages the First Nations Cultural Engagement office at Bond University. She has forged an incredible life and career for herself and her children, emerging from homelessness and the struggles of her earlier life.
Nicole Starling
Nicole has recently completed her PhD in Australian religious history and is a lecturer in Sydney. Her research and publications include works on evangelical history, the temperance movement, and the ministry of women in early colonial Australia.
Paul Roe
Paul Roe is referred to as the Outback Historian because he has researched, interviewed and written on some of Australia’s greatest Christian heroes from the bush. He has an infectious passion for storytelling and a desire for Australia’s history to be captured and re-told to the next generation.
Peter Bolt
Professor Peter Bolt has studied and graduated from Moore Theological College, Macquarie University and King’s College London. He has spent much of his time studying the Gospels and Acts, mission and he has also documented the history of the Australian Anglican Church.
Peter Gibbs
Peter is a Gamillaroi man from the small community of Weilmoringle in far west NSW. Once an aspiring first grade Rugby League Player, he found faith when he was in his darkest place having returned to his community after injuries halted his career. He is a leader in his community and has especially helped forge a path of forgiveness between his people and the NSW Police Force.
Riverbank Frank
Once a tough and angry man who wanted to cause trouble on the streets of Redfern in Sydney, Riverbank is now a man of faith, who is inspired by Jesus to pursue reconciliation and extend the hand of friendship. He is one of the founding members of Dubbo Community Men’s Shed and is a proud Wiradjuri elder and community worker.
Rosemary Kariuki
A number of years ago, Rosemary was a Kenyan refugee, who was fleeing domestic violence and looking for a fresh start in Australia. She is now the Multicultural Community Liaison Officer with NSW Police, helping other migrant women rebuild their lives. She has a passion for connection and community, running a cultural exchange program to overcome isolation especially for migrating families and it is for this work that she was named 2021 Australia’s Local Hero.
Roy Williams
Roy Williams was a Sydney-based lawyer for many decades, practicing with one of Australia’s leading firms. He set aside his career in law when a life-changing illness required him to take time out and it was then that he decided to pursue writing. He wrote ‘God, Actually’ primarily as a way for him to hone his own thinking as he converted to faith as an adult.
Sandra Dumas
Pastor Sandra is the first Indigenous female pastor ordained in New South Wales through Australian Christian Churches and leads Ganggalah Church and Training Centre with her husband Willy. They lead a diverse community and have a particular passion for Indigneous Australians and are training up a new generation of Indigenous Christian leaders.
Shaun Hart
Shaun Hart was a first grade Brisbane Bears/Lions player in the Australian Football League (AFL). Hart played 273 games, had seven top 10 finishes in the club championship, won a thoroughly-deserved Victorian State of Origin jumper at the peak of his career, and received Life Membership. He was also one of the players in Brisbane’s Hatrick of premierships from 2001 to 2003.
Stephen Chavura
Dr Stephen Chavura teaches European and Australian History at Campion College, Australia and has authored numerous books including a book on Sir Robert Menzies – which the Sydney Morning Herald listed as one of the “Most Anticipated Books of 2021”.
Stephen Tomkins
Stephen Tomkins is the author of eight books on Christian history, including biographies of William Wilberforce and John Wesley. He has been able to communicate stories and truths from history in a way that shows the impact of these people and events on our modern world.
Stuart Piggin
Stuart Piggin is an academic and prolific author whose work has spanned the full range of critical, social and political studies of Evangelical Christianity in the English-speaking world. He was part of establishing the Centre for the Study of Australian Christianity during the period he was Master of Robert Menzies College at Macquarie University.
Tim Booker
Tim Booker is the senior pastor at St Luke’s Liverpool and before that was 15 years at Guildford Anglican Church – a diverse and multicultural community in Sydney. Tim spent three years as the Chaplain to the 3rd Battalion of the Royal Australian Regiment (3RAR) and is passionate about sharing Jesus with people of all backgrounds and cultures.
Tim Kelly
Champion bull and saddle bronc rider Tim Kelly won many national and international titles, taking out an international saddle bronc championship at only 19 years of age. After his decorated career, he set up his riding school in Kingaroy, Queensland where for over 30 years, he has coached other riders, from beginners to professionals.
Tim Kirk
Tim Kirk runs the family vineyard and winery, Clonakilla, originally founded by his father. Tim’s first career was in Melbourne as a teacher and studying theology but his love of the vineyard drew him back eventually. When his father retired, Tim took over running Clonakilla and lives onsite with his wife and children.
Tony Hoang
After a tumultuous early life as a child born to Vietnamese Refugees and rebellious teenage years caught up in gangs, Tony dramatically met Jesus when he asked God ‘for a sign’. That sign was a group from the Potter’s House Church evangelising on the streets of Cabramatta where Tony was a drug dealer. His life took a dramatic turn and he now leads the church that introduced him to Jesus in that dark place.
Uncle Ossie Cruse
Uncle Ossie Cruse has overcome a lot of challenges and obstacles in his lifetime. Finding faith shifted his focus to building a life of purpose for his family and his fellow indigenous Australians. He has had many leadership roles and his service of Aboriginal peoples, social justice, spiritual welfare, health and land rights has been acknowledged with numerous awards including an MBE and the Order of Australia.