The Street Pastors, launched in Newport in August, aim to engage with people on the streets and to support those who are vulnerable through alcohol, emotional trauma or other issues, preventing them from becoming victims of crime. Each Friday night is different and we have no idea what to expect when we walk out through the doors and onto the streets of Newport. Since our first night, we have all grown in confidence and faith; our presence, as well as the intercessions of the prayer team, has made a real and immediate impact.
To many revellers, the word ‘pastor’ is unfamiliar. Nevertheless, they have been eager to find out why we have volunteered to serve on the streets, sharing our faith in a practical way. We have had many interesting conversations with teenagers and young adults who want to talk about their own faith and share their experiences with us.
In some situations, they have asked us to pray for them. On one occasion we talked to a young woman who was obviously quite distressed. She had no money to pay for a taxi home, so we telephoned her parents and waited with her until someone could collect her. She asked if we would pray for her and she was pleased that we were there to offer care and support.
The team of Street Pastors in Newport has been joined by eight new recruits; this will enable us to carry out our ministry on a Saturday nights as well as Fridays and increase the Church’s presence on the streets in the weeks leading up to Christmas, making it an enjoyable and safe time for everyone.
Richard Morgan, Senior Street Pastor
Some forty people are training in other parts of the diocese. Please pray for them and for the growth of this initiative.