Why the Illawarra Needs Hope

It’s no surprise to anyone that the Illawarra needs hope. But the question that catches us off guard is, where does that hope come from? Just yesterday’s headlines in the Illawarra Mercury reveal the restlessness and unease many are facing: a Wollongong cocaine kingpin’s courier arrested, a local child abuser sentenced, struggling businesses, a tragic accident involving a young student, and shocking accounts of crime. It’s clear that something isn’t right. Amidst such chaos, it can feel like there’s no rhyme or reason to the world people are simply trying to survive.

As we look around at people we love, neighbors, friends, and even ourselves, we can see a desperate need for hope. Yet, this world offers hopes that come and go, failing to give us anything firm or lasting. The problem is that the Illawarra’s hope is not anchored in anything solid. And without a secure foundation, only uncertainty and hardship remain.

But as members of Dapto Anglican, we know the true hope the Illawarra needs—a hope anchored in Jesus Christ. Hebrews 6:19 tells us, “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” Jesus is unchanging, eternal, and the one foundation we can rely on.

In 2025, we have an exciting opportunity to share this hope across the Illawarra. The Hope for the Illawarra outreach event will be a time for us to introduce our friends, family, and neighbors to Jesus. Churches throughout the Illawarra, in partnership with Leading the Way ministries and Dr. Michael Youssef, will invite people to hear the Gospel and experience the hope only Christ can provide. And in the months leading up, our church will be offering training to equip us all to reach out effectively and confidently.

This is an incredible opportunity to bring hope to a region that desperately needs it. Together, let’s prepare to bring those we love to hear the Good News, disciple new believers, and share in the joy of seeing lives transformed by the hope that anchors our souls—Jesus Christ.