Homechurch reaches out
Willie Mason shares at a recent REACH homechurch service. (Photo courtesy of Benjamin Moyes)
Five years ago, the REACH team, an outreach initiative of Bonnells Bay Salvation Army, started REACH homechurch to connect with men in recovery at the Miracle Haven rehabilitation centre.
In 2010, the REACH team were approached by the Miracle Haven Rehabilitation Centre to conduct a bible study every Monday night to help men in recovery. However, as homechurch leader Benjamin Moyes explains, he knew they needed to offer more to those attending.
“We were honoured to be invited to do a bible study, but I knew instantly that the group needed to be more than a ‘bible study’. It needed to be a homechurch where we could come alongside them to support and encourage them and build friendships,” says Mr Moyes.
Five years since homechurch began, the men and women from Dooralong Transformation Centre now attend after Miracle Haven closed.
“We are really committed and for us it’s not just about Monday nights. We become friends with the men and women. We go to their birthday parties, share as they get married and have kids, and go through the good and the bad times in their lives.”
The REACH homechurch has been able to run three NSW mission trips since it began, with two to Leura and one to Hannam Vale. These mission trips are designed to empower the men to serve, give back and help others in a practical way.
“It’s one thing for us to encourage them, but to empower and disciple is what we really try to do. I have seen over and over how opening up opportunities in service has had a life changing impact on their lives,” says Benjamin. “Regardless of what we do on Monday night, one thing remains – God is at the center.”
Homechurch recently had a special guest with NRL star Willie Mason attending. The footie star is a great supporter of The Salvation Army and has a heart for people in early recovery.
“Willie came and supported our community Christmas carols at Bonnells Bay in December where he met some members of our homechurch and heard their stories. Instantly he wanted to hear more stories and connect,” says Benjamin.
Willie talked about the importance of goal setting and determination in achieving his dreams as a professional footballer. He also spoke about the impact of having great mentors in your life to guide and support you.
“We love the men and women that come to our homechurch,” says Mr Moyes. “We see the potential within them and try to help them reach that. One thing I know for sure is, without willing servant hearted leaders like we have in Viv, Dave, Matt, Geoff, Marty, Sean, Dallas and Sharon, we would not have anything.”
“I’ll finish in the words of our eldest leader, Matt Blessington: ‘The glory goes to God, but joy is ours!’”
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