Discovering community and purpose on beach mission

For many, the idea of sharing the gospel can be daunting. For Joel, a young man who battles with anxiety and has been diagnosed with Asperger’s, it seemed an almost impossible challenge. 

But God has a history of making the seemingly impossible, possible. 

Since joining an SU beach mission team in 2021, Joel has not only discovered community and overcome his fears, but he’s also found his calling. 

Hearing about SUFM (Scripture Union Family Missions) from a church friend, Joel was drawn to the program’s unique take on sharing God’s message of love and hope.

“It sounded like a really practical way to spread the gospel in a way that’s engaging and relevant for today’s youth,” says Joel. “Before this, I didn’t really know what it was to evangelise. I read about the Great Commission and thought ‘Okay, but what do I even do?’”

Since joining the McCrae SUFM team, Joel’s found his niche. 

“It’s really fulfilling, connecting with families and making a positive impact on their lives.”

Joel was particularly moved by seeing the impact the team had on families who attended the program. “I know that if Mum and I had come to this program when I was little, it would really have made a difference in our lives.”

Joel believes serving on ministry teams is an important step in his faith journey, and intends to keep doing it. “I feel that this is God’s calling for my life.”

Being part of a missional community has been a highlight of his experience to date. 

“As someone with anxiety and Asperger’s, adjusting was challenging,” says Joel. “But the team is nothing short of supportive.”

“It’s as though I’ve found a second church family. I’ve definitely found a place where I belong.”

Your support is helping young people like Joel discover community and find their place in God’s big story. To financially support the ongoing work of SU in local communities like McCrae, visit su.org.au/donate.