Gordon Moyes: The Man, The Media, The Mission

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THE story of one of Australia's leading churchmen was launched by NSW Premier Bob Carr on November 14.

Mr Carr did the honours at the release of "Gordon Moyes: The Man, the Media, the Mission", the official biography of current Wesley Mission Superintendent Reverend Dr Gordon Moyes.

Written by prolific author Goldie Down, the book chronicles the circumstances and events that determined the course of Dr Moyes' life, leading him to his current role as the head of one of Australia's largest churches and most respected charities.

As well as Mr Carr, the launch featured speeches by the CEO of Openbook Publishers, which is distributing the book, and the Honorary Secretary of Wesley Mission Dr Jim Pendlebury.

Dr Moyes has been at the helm of Wesley Mission since 1979, after taking over from the now knighted Reverend Alan Walker.

Married, with four adult children, he is a prolific author and preacher, an acclaimed public speaker and a regular commentator on issues of social justice and religion.

He also hosts a weekly television program, on Channel 9.

In one memorable quote contained in the book, Dr Moyes is described as "a damned nuisance" by one State political leader.

"But you're the sort of person government's need," the Premier said.

Wesley Mission operates 450 distinct programs of care and Christian ministry, including retirement villages, unemployment support services, counseling services, homes and work opportunities for people with disabilities and suicide prevention workshops.