Baptist Care SA’s WestCare Centre provides safety and warmth for 71 people at risk, and accommodated 37 ‘rough sleepers’ in the State’s first CODE BLUE event of this winter on Tuesday 8 and Wednesday 9 June.
When Adelaide was recently thrust into the depths of winter, most of us were pleased to curl up in our beds and listen to the rain on the roof… whilst staying warm and dry.
Whilst warmth and comfort are great, scripture reminds and challenges us that more is expected of those who have much. Talk of ‘cold comfort’ makes me think about what is required of those who seek to follow Jesus. In John 21:15-19 (NIV), the pivotal interaction between the Lord Jesus and the Apostle that he dearly loved (Simon Peter) is recorded:
15 When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”
“Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”
16 Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”
17 The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Feed my sheep….”
With and on behalf of Baptist Churches of SA, Baptist Care SA seeks to provide a place of sanctuary, warmth, comfort and hope. Many of you know that this, and much more, happens at our WestCare Centre.
But did you know that the warmth and comfort of supportive relationships is also provided through approximately 40 other community services Baptist Care SA provides to those that are homeless or at risk of homelessness every day?
Did you know that Baptist Care SA’s services also currently:
- Supports 450 young people who require Flexible Learning Options because their life circumstances render them unable to attend school regularly?
- Provides supported accommodation for 75 children and young people who cannot live with their birth families and are under State Guardianship?
- Provides critical daily support and accommodation for people living with severe disabilities?
With the generous support of our donors and supporters, our dedicated team of over a thousand staff and volunteers embarks upon the transformational work of ‘feeding the lambs’ every day.
So, when it’s cold outside, we hope that you might find the warmth of compassion that prompts you to consider how you might help support those struggling to keep themselves and their children warm, safe and dry this winter. Can you send food, pray for comfort for vulnerable people or make a donation?
Please give generously to our Winter Appeal via baptistcaresa.org.au or if you require further details please contact Hugh Ballantyne, Manager, Fundraising on 0418 483 087 or hballantyne@baptistcaresa.org.au.
Yours in Christ.
Graham Brown
Chief Executive Officer
