Pastor Barry began his vocation as a missionary in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, where he served for 21 years.

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After his family returned to Australia he continued to lead local church congregations in Newcastle and on the Central Coast.

Most recently Barry and Joy spent eight years in ministry at East Hills Baptist Church in Sydney.

“We are both very happy to have been invited to serve here in Nelson Bay,” said Pastor Barry.

“It’s a beautiful part of the world to live in, but more important is that there is a great sense of community here, and we’ve both been welcomed so warmly.”

Barry and Joy are determined not to simply ‘fill a gap’ for twelve months, assuring the local community that they want to give all they can to see the church become a positive influence in Nelson Bay.

“We very much feel that God has called us for this time of service,” said Barry.

“We want to honour him and this church community by serving faithfully for as long as we’re here.”

Lighthouse Baptist Church in Nelson Bay is a member of the Baptist Association of Church in NSW, and has been planted in the area for almost 60 years.

Historically the church has had good associations with the community and involvement with local charitable organisations including the Yacaaba Centre.

The past three years, however, have been heavily impacted by the social restrictions imposed because of the coronavirus pandemic, and the congregation is looking for new ways to serve the people in the surrounding suburbs.

“The church exists to be God’s hands and feet to the world around them,” shared one congregation member.

“We’re looking forward to the work that God has in store for us, and we’re encouraged that Barry and Joy will help us to discover that.”

By Lindsay HALL