On Friday 22nd May 2009, the first 22 Street Pastors on the Isle of Wight were commissioned and sent out onto the Streets of Ryde. The Street Pastors were blessed by Caroline Baston, Archdeacon of the Isle of Wight in front of a packed congregation at Ryde Methodist Church. David Ouston, Isle of Wight Street Pastors Co-ordinator; David Pugh, Leader of the Isle of Wight Council; Chief Superintendent David Thomas and Gay Edwards, High Sheriff of the Isle of Wight also addressed the congregation.
Straight after the service the Street Pastors headed out onto the streets of Ryde to meet people and introduce themselves. The Street Pastors will become a regular part of Ryde’s Friday night scene from the end of June.
Well done Martin and David for getting this excellent web site up and running so quickly.
The commissioning evening was an inspiring time, and the comments from those attending as our guests and supporters were very encouraging. To have so many Island congregations cooperating on this exciting project make this a true expression of unity and working together for the good of our community. Congratulations Street Pastors, and thanks to everyone who has contributed so far with the planning, the launch, the training, the funding and the praying. A particular thank you to David Ouston whose energy and vision as our island co-ordinator has turned what is a wonderful idea into a reality.
Rob Whillier.
Chair of Management Team