Op-Shop Faith

Last week in my hometown, Biloela, I stopped by the Lutheran church I grew up in. A few years back, the church faced a financial crisis and was at risk of closing its doors. The leadership shared the dire situation with the congregation, hoping for a solution. My mum, a practical and faithful Christian, reached out to her aunty for advice. Her aunty suggested a simple idea: start an op-shop. Despite having no experience, equipment, or items to sell, my mum embraced the challenge with the determination only a mother can muster. Within six weeks, she had transformed the church's small hall, once used for Sunday School, into a fully functioning op-shop. The community rallied, donating clothing and helping to build shelves and clothing racks. Miraculously, the op-shop raised the exact amount needed to save the church. Since then, the church has continued to thrive, raising funds for a new kitchen and planning to renovate the toilet block. This experience taught me that where there's a will, there's a way. My mum is an inspiration. She rose to the occasion, trying something new to solve a problem, embodying the principle of giving your all and trusting that God will provide. As we embark on this journey with A New Way, I am committed to give it all I’ve got and trust God in the process. I have no doubt, this ministry is in His hands.

"All things are possible for one who believes.” - Mark 9:23