By Agnes Wilson

Former Bishop of North Sydney Paul Barnett said by following the Apostle Paul’s lead, Anglican churches could do much to address the long-term causes of poverty.
Speaking at Anglicare’s Festival Celebration last month, Bishop Barnett said two factors enable a family to emerge from poverty: a commitment to spouse and children, and a commitment to work.
He drew these observations directly from Paul’s letter to the new church in Thessalonica.
While acknowledging some parishes already provide food relief to the poor, Bishop Barnett urged Sydney Anglican churches to follow Paul’s example and educate people, both in and out of the church, about family and work.
“I do not suggest for a moment that this will address [the poverty crisis] … But for the long term we serve people best by offering our fellow Australians the gospel of Christ and new life changing motivation and values.”
In line with Bishop Barnett’s comments on Paul’s teachings, a number of parishes in partnership with Anglicare have been involved in pre-marital and marriage enrichment education for some time and are providing support for families.
According to Tony Molyneux, Anglicare Education and Training Manager, there have also been expressions of interest from churches and community groups in a new Anglicare family skills program that promotes healthy family relationships.
“Shellharbour City Church, for instance, has run our new family program called Survival Skills for Healthy Families and we hope to run the step family program there next year,” Mr Molyneux said.