What is a Town Pastor?
Town Pastors, working in pairs, wearing bright distinctive jackets and headgear, are out on busy weekend nights. Their aim is to provide a positive influence in the town – backed by prayer.
The Police and local council are keen to see Town Pastors on the streets of Stowmarket on a regular basis. We are seeking to add to our Town Pastors’ Team with a view to staying out later on Friday nights and possibly doing Saturday nights as well.
Expectations and Commitment
A team of 2 or 4 Town Pastors will be out on the streets at any one time. The team will then divide and patrol in pairs. The desire and ability to work as part of a team is therefore essential.
To be a Town Pastor you must be over 18 and a Christian who is part of a local church. Currently Town Pastors teams are out in the town centre on most Friday nights from 8pm until around 11pm. On average, each Town Pastor is expected to be out one night a month.
Training
Training is an essential part of becoming a Town Pastor. Effective training also ensures we can deliver a quality service in a consistent way. Each Town Pastor must have completed the basic training programme before joining a team and going out. Additional training will also be delivered and it is important that Town Pastors commit to participating in their ongoing training and development.
The basic training package will cover:
- The values, role and responsibilities of a Town Pastor;
- Alcohol and drug awareness training;
- Conflict management and personal safety;
- Basic First Aid;
- Safeguarding Children (if working with under 18’s).
- Prayer Training (to include Prayer Team).
