OCTOBER 2006: The vision of having
Christian Street Pastors in Norwich city centre late on Friday and Saturday nights has moved a significant step forward with the appointment of a project co-ordinator.
Val Dodsworth (pictured right) has now been appointed to the role and has already started to bring energy and enthusiasm to getting the work going, according to John Betts who leads the project steering group.
“Since hearing of the Street Pastors’ work in other places and the desire to bring it to Norwich, Val has wanted to be involved in it and feels privileged to be in this key role,” said John. “Her heart has always been to take the action and compassion of the gospel out to where people are in the daily highs and lows of life.
“My aim,” said Val “is to be part of a recognisable Christian presence in the places where people meet together, so that Jesus may be seen to be relevant in everyday life.”
Val brings a wealth of experience to the role. In the past she has worked as a probation officer, and with the Chaplaincy in Norwich Prison. She also was a founder of the House of Genesis, a ministry to homeless young men.
Training sessions for Norwich’s potential Street Pastors are scheduled to begin in the New Year and Val is keen to hear from anyone who might be interested in learning more about the role. You must be 18 years or over, a member of a local church and able to undertake a 12-session training course.
John said: “We are absolutely delighted with the appointment of Val. We believe she is ideally placed to be the co-ordinator of Street Pastors. We are confident she will do a great job on behalf of the church in Norwich and for our city.
“I would like Christians to pray that this new initiative will enjoy the blessing of God as we work to establish it,” said John.
If you would like more details, Val Dodsworth can be contacted on Norwich (01603) 472753 or by e-mail:
v.dodsworth@ntlworld.com
