Today we started the day by heading down to the Strand in town and setting up a giant blue “1”. We were seeking to ask people as they came past what they thought Townsville’s biggest need was. Rachel was also ready with the paintbrush to offer free face painting as others offered helium filled balloons to passersby.
Many stopped, albeit briefly, and we were able to provide a smile and hello from Ross River Anglican (and a balloon if there was a child around!). As kids got their faces painted (from Rachel’s mammoth effort across the morning!), parents were able to speak with people about life in Townsville. It was great to get out in the community with the church as it is not something that other churches do. Hopefully this will help connect people in with the church, so please pray that our interactions today would do this.
So, what do people think that Townsville’s greatest need is? There were three main answers, each telling you a bit about Townsville.
- A new footy stadium for the Cowboys (who had just won last night). Townsville is sports mad, which can be an idol (as in most places where this is the case).
- Rain. The town has not had serious rain for a while and more and more stringent water restrictions are being enforced.
- Jobs. There is a very high rate of unemployment (around 15%) in Townsville. The closing of the nearby copper mine has hit the town hard. Many are struggling to find work. This is a significant cause of worry as most people we’ve encountered have been personally impacted by this, either by losing a job or having someone close struggle to find work.
Please pray for those in Townsville. Ask God to send rain to replenish their supplies. Ask God to also provide for the needs of those without work. Ask him to generously provide jobs for those looking, and to supply the emotional needs of those who are struggling as they look for work. And most importantly, pray for Townsville’s greatest need, that they would come to know Jesus.
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