He describes himself as someone who has “always had one foot in Christianity and one foot out,” learning over time how to live faithfully within that tension.

Through chaplaincy, study, family life, and community, faith has become something honest, reflective, and deeply lived.

Beginning.
Not every journey starts in an easy place.

When Dave first walked through the doors of Newtown Mission, he had just been released from prison and was trying to find his footing again.

But something felt different here.
Something told him he could belong.

This is where his story begins.

41 years in Australia. No family contact. No friends at first.
Just one heart, one routine, one steady walk to Newtown Mission, a place that became home. ❤️

In this Soul Story, a member of the Newtown Mission community reflects on finding friendship, belonging, and hope through the everyday moments of kindness, hospitality, and shared faith. 🌿

Home isn’t always a place you’re born into.
Sometimes it’s a place that opens its doors and says, you belong here.

From coastal Australia to a 1000km pilgrimage along the Camino de Santiago, Emma’s story is one of sisterhood, service, and searching for a faith that feels expansive and grounded.