Needs, problems, trauma and Jesus
6 Jun 2024
Since before we were married (in 1992), we have felt a conviction to serve God full time in His mission, wherever that may be. So far this has included serving as dorm parents for the children of ex-pats in Northern Pakistan and Northern Thailand, helping to spread God’s word in Asia through Reach Beyond Radio (formerly HCJB Australia) in the East Kimberley and, now, reaching out to the Indigenous people of the West Kimberley in North West Australia.
We have been based in the remote town of Derby (population 5000) since August 2011. We currently serve here with Pioneers Australia with a focus on pastoral care, Bible teaching and discipleship. Our main places of ministry are within the town Derby and the nearby community of Mowanjum (approx. 300).
We are both involved in prison visitation/chaplaincy (through Prison Fellowship), and Greg works part time helping to manage the Mowanjum Community Resource Centre which is a great opportunity for him to regularly interact with the community. Linda also leads/teaches women’s Bible studies in Mowanjum and Derby. Besides these things we are available for local relationships and pastoral care.
There are many spiritual needs and social problems due to generational trauma in this area, such as drug and alcohol abuse, child neglect, domestic violence and suicide. There are also a lot of positives, such as open hearts, strong family ties and a vast network of local shared knowledge. We pray that we can make a difference through being available for long term relationships.
This is not just ‘our’ ministry, we feel like an extension of the heart of other Christians reaching out to the people of this area through their prayers and support. When we tell our friends here that there are people elsewhere praying for them it is a fantastic encouragement to them.
Greg and Linda Wilson | Pioneers Members
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