To describe Campsie, in Sydney's South West, as multicultural is something of an understatement. Approximately half the population were born outside of Australia and about 100 nationalities are represented in the suburb. One of Campsie's newest residents is Argentinean-born Moore College graduate Omar Anheluk and his family.
Omar will be working at St John's Campsie running their "Welcome Service' " a Sunday service aimed at reaching out to those with little English and little knowledge of God. It's a key role at a church with members from over 30 different countries.
A second part of Omar's work is funded by the Archbishop's Community Care and Development program. Among Campsie's residents are significant numbers of new migrants and refugees. Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) both in classes and one-to-one is a key part of his role. Another important facet is assisting new migrants in accessing social services.
While he is looking forward to starting his new job " he is reluctant even to call it work " Omar admits to feeling daunted.
"It's very exciting," he says. "But at the same time I'm a bit anxious. It's such a big responsibility. But I really want to reach out " it's a privilege to be able to do this."
He will not be alone. About half a dozen members of St John's volunteer their time to help with this ministry including a former missionary who has moved into the Campsie area to teach ESL.
Omar Anheluk knows what it is to be a stranger in a different country.
"We emigrated here in 1974 and we arrived with twenty dollars in my father's back pocket. We knew no English but we were treated very well," he recalls.
Fluent in both Spanish and English, Omar and wife Jem are teaching both languages to their three sons, Caleb, Noah and Isaac.
In light of recent racial tensions in Sydney, Omar believes it is vital for the Church be an example of inter-racial harmony.
"You can't legislate peace," he explains. "But the Church can be a light in the community. We want to be a beacon."
