Coledale Community Pastoral Worker

Coledale is home to a large proportion off Tamworth's Indigenous community with a population of roughly 3000 people. The area has high rates of unemployment and substance abuse. Many young people in Coledale lack purpose and some get themselves into trouble with the law.

However there are a growing number of people who follow Jesus and Christian love is being expressed and shared.

It is in this context that the Coledale Community Pastoral Worker, working with St Peter's Anglican church, reaches out to the Indigenous community practically and pastorally, encouraging people to make good choices for the future and being there to support families and individuals in the challenges of life.

The Pastoral Worker is involved in the Anglicare mobile pantry, a breakfast club at Hillvue school and Wednesday evening's dinner and gathering. He also provides pastoral support to families who are grieving or doing it tough. Door knocking to get to know the community and to be the friendly, trusted face is another way the pastoral worker engages with the community. He offers a holistic ministry that seeks to care for people's material, social, emotional and spiritual needs building on the hundreds of relationships that St Peter's has developed through being in the community for over 10 years. Wherever possible the Pastoral Worker introduces people to the Coledale Frontyard Church, a loving church community where they will hear the gospel and refers people to services that will be beneficial for them.

Please pray for the ministry in Coledale; that Jesus' love will be made known throughout this community.

Key Facts:

• Roughly 3000 Indigenous Australians live in Coledale
• About 100 people are fed each Wednesday night at the Coledale gathering