Philip and Deanne Gerber

The church in the Northern Territory
The Anglican Church in the Northern Territory has had a long connection with the Aboriginal people of Groote Eylandt, Minyerri, Ngukurr, Numbulwar and Oenpelli. There is also a growing Indigenous ministry in Darwin. These ministries, along with the seven parishes in Darwin and the other towns in the Territory, generally have fewer people and material resources than churches in other parts of Australia.

Less than 1000 people attend an Anglican church in the Northern Territory each Sunday. Also, there is a massive turnover of church membership as people come and go from the Territory. Any additional diocesan support to parishes and ministry units can only assist them to proclaim life through Christ in their communities.

Where Philip and Deanne fit in
Philip and Deanne have been invited to the Northern Territory to support Anglican Church ministry there. Philip has a background in law and church administration, and he will be assisting the Bishop in the areas of clergy and church worker training, partnership development and property administration.

Deanne hopes to use her Early Childhood teacher training, Christian writing skills and experience in hospital chaplaincy as she serves God alongside Philip. The Gerbers will be based in Darwin.
Philip and Deanne are hoping to make many new friends, and are praying that God will encourage and support them in his service. As they adapt to living and serving in the Northern Territory, the Gerbers will be looking for opportunities to share their faith and to tell people about God and his son, Jesus. They believe that for all the problems and challenges life throws up in the Northern Territory and beyond, the ultimate answer is found in reconciliation and eternal life through Jesus Christ.

CMS has a long and faithful history of serving the Anglican Church of the Northern Territory. Philip and Deanne welcome the opportunity to continue this great tradition. It is their hope that you will support them during their first term of missionary service, by praying and caring for them and providing for them financially as you are able.

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