Today I’m delighted to announce that in 2025 we will welcome back to BCA David & Joanne Piper along with their sons Daniel, Luke and Matthew. David will take over the reins of the Parish of Emerald/Blackwater from Daniel & Jenni Avenell.

Those of you who have been BCA supporters for some time, will remember that the Piper family served with us in Lightning Ridge from 2013–2019. Since then, the family has served in Gunnedah in the Northwest Slopes Region of New South Wales.

While both David & Joanne grew up in Sydney, they really enjoy working in the bush and are keen to serve in remote locations because of the great need there.

“At the same time, we're both super sad to be leaving superb sunny Gunny, and super excited to follow the yellow brick road to the Emerald city!” said David & Joanne “We've had a wonderful report about the saints in Emerald, and we're looking forward to working with them to sow God's Good News and grow fruitful followers. Being part of the BCA family again is a huge bonus and we look forward to reconnecting with supporters we knew from the Ridge and partnering with new ones. Also, we are praying that God is preparing new friends for our three boys to help them adjust quickly to a new town.”

I’d like to give my sincere thanks to Daniel & Jenni Avenell for their service in Emerald/Blackwater over the past year. Daniel’s work as an intentional locum, and before that the work of Jen Hercott, has set the groundwork for the Pipers to build on in 2025 and beyond.

Please pray with me for the Pipers as they finish serving in Gunnedah and prepare to move to Emerald. Pray especially for the sadness that comes with leaving behind friends and the church community. Pray also for the Avenells as they finish up in Emerald/Blackwater and continue to locum in the Diocese of Central Queensland.

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