News

The Rev Keith Garner,
Superintendent, Wesley Mission, Sydney

“From the streets of our cities to far-flung rural communities, social isolation is becoming an increasing problem.

It’s an issue which we don’t like to discuss. It challenges the popular idea that Australia is a country built on mateship and mutual support but it also challenges our notions of independence.

Being isolated can lead to deep emotional pain, even depression, showing in a range of physical symptoms. People can feel trapped in their isolation and feelings of loneliness; many finding it hard to break out of this cycle.

A growing number of our elderly population feel this way: and that is why we at Wesley Mission encourage all Australians to visit an elderly person this Christmas –whether it’s a relative, friend or someone you know who needs support - so their lives and contribution might not be forgotten and that they might share in the joy of Christmas, feeling affirmed, encouraged and connected. It is a gift which will outlive the vagaries of the stock market and the world economy.  We are in danger of becoming engulfed by human need and feeling we can do nothing.  We can all look out for those around us.

But there are others in our community who may also feel cut off – the homeless and disadvantaged, and an increasing number of Australians who are struggling with debt or unemployment. Many of these individuals and families feel isolated; too embarrassed to share with others their struggle to make ends meet, pay bills and provide gifts to their children this Christmas.

They feel powerless to change their circumstances.  And at Wesley Mission we are seeing more people than ever turn to us in need.

Many of these people, as a Wesley Mission survey revealed, feel so overwhelmed by debt or financial strife they choose to do nothing, hoping their problems will disappear.  However there is great power and strength in reaching out for help. It is liberating and life changing.

For all people, especially those who feel isolated, the Christmas message is clear: you and your loved ones are not alone. Jesus Christ was born into an uncertain world. It was no party for Mary and Joseph, but they put their trust in God as they journeyed through a difficult period of their lives. This message is as true today as it was 2000 years ago: trusting Christ and reaching out to others to give - and to receive – can enrich, change and provide practical and lasting hope in an uncertain world.”

Graeme Cole,
Public Affairs Manager
Mobile: 0408 470 722