this article appeared in pioneer in October 2009

About 18 months ago Ray and Di took over leadership of lead a small team that holds a service in the yard of North Forbes Primary School each month (featured in Pioneer July 2007). They also teach scripture in the school and take groups of people on outings. On court days they sit with people waiting for their cases to be heard, or take them over to the park for a walk and to pray.

Ray and Di saw the ‘Adopt-a-Block’ program at work in Berkeley and drove around North Forbes praying about a street in which to begin. They settled on a street, but little did they know the formidable reputation of that street for anti-social behaviour. “Within a few weeks we were immersed in the chaotic culture of the area. We don’t go door-to door anymore. All we have to do is turn up and the conversations begin, then one door leads to another and another,” remarks Ray.

In March last year Ray and Di started a short devotion time over a meal at the local Hostel, and seemingly overnight it’s grown to about 50 kids and about 20 adults. It’s noisy and chaotic at times, but people are responding and a number have committed their lives to Jesus. “They call it ‘Wednesday Night Church’ and they seem to want to bring their friends.”

“Teachers in the local schools have commented on the change in North Forbes since Church In The Schoolyard commenced.” reports Ray “Students have calmed down, and a lot more of them are doing their homework, and their results are improving.” This is just one measure of what God is doing in this community.

Church Army projects like Church In The Schoolyard change lives, and over time change whole communities. These ministries continue because friends like you pray faithfully and give generously.

Leaders

Ray and Di Flint

The team

Slowly growing

Commenced

2007

Location

North Forbes

Vital Stats

CITS began when a small team began monthly services in the yard of North Forbes Primary School. North Forbes is located about 350km West of Sydney and is a predominantly welfare-dependent neighbourhood.

What We Do

We run a montly service in the school, teach Scripture, take groups on outings plus a myriad of other activities involving supporting the local community through many challenges.