2.9 church in the local community : street pastors

When was street pastors set up ? Who was it set up by ?

set up in Brixton, south London in 2003 by Rev. Les Isaac, with 18 volunteers

How did street pastors start ?

it was an initiative of Ascension trust - a christian charity - where Christian adult volunteers receive training in order to patrol the streets in urban areas

What was the initial aim ? What did the aim widen too ?

the main aim was to challenge gang culture and the use of knives in some areas of London but as christians elsewhere began in their own groups, the focus widened to include responding to drunkness, anti-social behaviour and fear of crime

What do street pastors wear ?

a blue, reflective street pastor unifrom

Summarise the aim of street pastors in bullet points ? What do they do ?

• to not actively preach but to provide a positive service to their local areas

• their work includes listening to people’s problems giving guidance regarding agencies which might be able to help and discourage anti-social behaviour

• they are backed up by prayer partners - prayer pastors - who pray for street pastors and the work they do

Inspired by street pastors, a sister organisation was set up ? What was it called ? What do they do ?

• School Pastors set up in 2011

• they aim to reduce anti-social behaviour, illegal drug use and bullying

• within and around schools they mentor young people and patrol to help prevent behaviour problems

What bible verse supports the work of street pastors in general ?

JAMES 2:17 ‘Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.’

What is parish nursing ? What is their aim ?

Parish Nursing Ministries UK is a christian charity which supports whole person healthcare through the local church

• they promote well being in body, mind, and spirit

• they diagnose early signs of health problems, training and coordinating volunteers to help alleviate loneliness or provide support during time of crisis

• they focus on the person rather than the medical condition itself