Earlier this week Open House got to celebrate alongside a great Aussie Christian institute, in their commemoration of a great work of service spanning over 200 years.
Beginning in 1812, a group of men who called themselves ‘Wesleyans’ were motivated by faith and hope to bring the Word of God to a newly settled nation which we now call Australia. These men would meet at The Rocks in Sydneyand was the first Australian Methodist gathering and today, two centuries later, the Wesley Mission has staged a historical re-enactment marching through the streets of Sydney.
Leigh Hatcher was lucky enough to catch up with the Wesleyan’s Superintendent Keith Garner, to chat about the institutions fascinating history and share some great highlights.
Wesley Mission continues to be a prominent voice in the community not only in Sydney but around the country. Keith speaks of how the success of the institute comes from the willingness to sit on the edge and take risks, initiating a proactive and outspoken voice when a Christian prophetic influence in the community has been needed.
Keith says,“It’s also the realisation the institution is combining both word and deed from the gospel of Jesus Christ and His saving grace,” the institute is about caring for people with a real compassionate spirit alongside a passion for spreading faith.
Keith Garner gives us a real history lesson on the roots of the Methodist congregation which lead to the beginning of Wesley Mission with its core values still shining through its works today. Check out this informative and exciting journey exploring 200 years of Wesleyan history.