Burdekin Uniting Church member, Judy Chatham's Faith Journey

My faith journey started with the Church of England, following my parents and maternal grandparents’ footsteps. When my children were little, there was a challenging season, and I attended church but came away empty. My neighbour supported and encouraged me, and I attended a Catholic church in the Gold Coast. I always hoped that God would see me. I moved to Blackwater where I met Chris, and we raised 5 kids together. As my kids were growing up, I helped with Sunday School, but over time stopped going to Church and life went on, but there was an emptiness.

A move to Brisbane and work had me driving from Graceville to Indooroopilly, past Sherwood Uniting Church which had a big billboard at the front. After 18 months, I made a decision to attend a service. When I walked up the stairs on that Sunday, it felt as if the people knew you were coming, and it was very welcoming. I continued attending and through this season, I learnt what it meant to have a personal relationship with Jesus – it was what I was missing.

With a move to Townsville, I attended Aitkenvale Uniting Church for 12 years. I served in small ways and got more confident meeting different people. My relationship with God strengthened, as I learnt how to listen to God and feel His presence. I grew in confidence in knowing Him, praying when I felt led, and made a habit of reading my Bible. All of this helped increase my sense of peace, which further increased the more I did it.

For the last 5 years I have been part of Burdekin Uniting Church. It was a change moving to a small church, but I’ve embraced the community. What I’ve realised is that if you are in a small church, you need to be involved - it’s important to turn up and to step outside your comfort zone.  I serve in our library, as Home Hill church maintenance coordinator, and as a worship leader. Reflecting on my faith journey, I have seen how God has opened my eyes and provided direction.

Our congregation reaches out to the community in unique ways. We have a beautiful relationship with the Pacific Island workers who come to our area. It’s a time of growth as we are enriched by their faith and the community that is formed. We try and help where possible, providing blankets and warm clothes in winter. The thing I love most about our congregation is that every single person is Christ-driven about anything they commit to.  I love it as it motivates me and keeps me on task. I love their can-do attitude.