Chappy’s to stay in Australian Schools

Today I thought I would share about an amazing ministry happening in Australia that is positively affecting the lives of young people in schools EVERYDAY – SU QLD or as some of you might be more familiar with ‘Scripture Union.’ The last five years have seen an explosion of ‘Christian’ chaplains (chappy’s) entering and working amongst public schools in Australia. It became obvious to Australian politicians that ‘Chaplains’ formerly volunteers or only sponsored by local churches and communities, were having such life changing positive effects on students that they endorsed SU with financial support.

The last few years has seen their chaplaincy service implode with now a dedicated force of 500+ chaplains, currently operating in 46% of state schools, having a direct impact with 330,000 students (67% of total students). More facts…

CEO Tim Mander, a former leading Australian rugby league referee says “What makes us tick is that we want to bring hope to a young generation. And we do this through our school chaplaincy service, camps, holiday programs and kids-at-risk programs.”

Personally, I’m so excited to see chaplains in so many schools all over Australia because having been a teacher, I know how hard it is for students today. Opening up to a teacher is generally seen as ‘uncool’ and almost inappropriate. So I am encouraged that many friends, youth or even students I’ve worked with are now stepping into such roles in schools all over the country and are pouring their lives into students… many of whom do not have stable families or healthy role models.

With changes in leadership, SU was recently unsure of whether government funding would still be provided. However, recently the following statements from different members of parliament and electorates were sent through.

From Tim Mander,

Just last week we received the following responses from the LNP and the ALP. Paul Lucas MP, Deputy Premier and Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, stated:

“The Bligh Government strongly supports the work of organisations like SU Qld in delivering the chaplaincy services that support our school students. Chaplaincy services complement other school support programs, and many schools report that their chaplains play a vital role in addressing students’ spiritual and emotional needs.

I am pleased to advise a re-elected Bligh Government will commit to a further $3 million to continue the current State Government Chaplaincy/Pastoral Care program for another three years.”

John-Paul Langbroek MP, Shadow Minister for Education, Skills and the Arts, released the following statement:

“An LNP Government will spend $1 million every year over the next four years to develop the chaplaincy program to enhance the emotional, ethical and spiritual guidance available to students.

Chaplaincy programs help to strengthen the sense of community at our schools and provide valuable support for students who may be experiencing difficulties with a range of issues, from peer pressure to emotional hardship to just normal problems that are part of growing up.”

So this is an incredible privilege to have so many Christian workers in public schools in Australia and not only that but be recognised by state and federal government for having such positive and life changing impact on students. Please pray that God continues to make this possible and that lives are continually changed.