My name is Jessica

I grew up on the Northern Beaches, but it wasn’t until my university years when I moved to Newtown that I felt like I lived in a community where I could be myself. My family was not Christian, but I felt God’s hand in my life from a very early age. I started to love and follow Jesus when I was sixteen, and when I became part of Newtown Mission a couple of years later, my faith blossomed. This was a place I could be nurtured and grow. 

I started the Creative Arts ministry of Newtown Mission in the mid 1990s, with theatrical café services, art exhibitions, and a poetry journal. It is truly amazing to see how that ministry has been extended over the last thirty years!

In my early twenties I had a lot of questions about the nature of men (specifically) and the truth of my faith. I also thought, “If the Bible is really the Word of God, why don’t I know it all, from cover to cover?” I decided to go to Bible College to find answers. I was worried that I was choosing Moore College just so I could stay close to home! But it turned out to be the right choice, as I found myself prepared for ministry in ways I never expected.

A few years later I headed out to teach the Bible and make disciples in India, and that was where I met my husband Shine. Throughout all these years Newtown Mission has supported me. I am so grateful to continue being part of the Newtown Mission family, even though I live so far away.

Shine and I have two teenage sons, and we have lived in Chiangmai Thailand for fifteen years. Shine is the team leader for our mission organization, Interserve. I am a Bible translation consultant, supporting local people who want to hear God speaking to them in their own heart language.

We are excited that we have the opportunity to visit Newtown Mission on 28 June while we are on our Home Assignment. We hope to see you there!