In the heart of Melbourne’s growing multicultural west lies Catalyst Baptist, a church with a long-standing commitment to global mission. Over the years, Catalyst has engaged in diverse cross-cultural ministry within its community and partnered with SIM to raise and send workers to serve across cultures. 

Stan and Deanna Richey, current pastors of Catalyst Baptist, first connected with SIM over 15 years ago. Their journey began through pastoral ministry in the U.S. and Australia, before moving into leadership roles with SIM Australia. Their transition into leadership at Catalyst Baptist has been meaningful in continuing their church’s vision to raise and send workers. Now these workers serve God through their unique skills, passion and gifts. 

“Fifteen years ago, when we were connected with SIM, we loved the interdenominational aspect. We see the alignment between our church’s values and the values of SIM through fostering cultural diversity in mission and valuing all people,” Deanna shared. 

During the Richey’s time at Catalyst Baptist, they have seen a new workers sent out to serve globally. In their vision to raise and send workers from within, Catalyst has sent members to serve in Thailand, South Asia and West Africa. They now serve in teaching, community development, health using their skills as a bridge to make disciples among the nations. Catalyst has also partnered with workers who have skills in farming. Through resources and mentoring, SIM helps individuals with their churches explore how their God-given skills, passion and gifts can be used for the Gospel. 

Jacqui’s Story 

Jacqui, who serves in Thailand with SIM’s Hope for Life Ministries, shared her journey into mission work:  

“My journey to serving in mission was a gradual process. My church played an active role in mission, where they encouraged members to consider serving both locally and globally. Through this exposure, God really began to work in my heart and direct me to explore mission more seriously,” Jacqui shared. 

Jacqui continued, “With the support of Stan and Deanna and the church’s leadership, I was able to see the diversity of opportunities overseas. I explored opportunities most aligned with my skills and gifts, such as my background in health and community development. Through this we saw that Hope for Life was a good fit for me. It was a God-ordained connection. It was God who led me here.”   

PRAY 

Pray for churches like Catalyst Baptist and for church leaders like Stan and Deanna, as they disciple and send workers into God’s global mission. Ask God to raise and send more people who will use their gifts for His glory. To partner with SIM in praying for its mission workers, visit sim.org.au/churches.

GO 

Wondering how your skills and passions could be used for God’s mission? SIM invites you to explore how God can use you—just as you are. To learn more, visit sim.org.au/skills. 

VISIT

To find out more about the ministry of Catalyst Baptist Church, visit their website at catalystbaptist.org.au.