Listening to Sydneysiders (Moore Mission)

(Totally H/T Michael Nhieu)

"This afternoon the St Philips York Street Moore Mission team was sent out to observe the city with 'spiritually sensitive eyes' and to meet and listen to Sydneysiders to gather information about the people St Philips is trying to serve.

"Armed with a clipboard and friendly smile we surveyed and listened to a variety of people on the streets of Sydney. Here are some of the interesting and insightful responses we’ve been able to gather:

Words that people have chosen to describe Sydney:

Beautiful, Expensive, Opera House, Habour, Fresh, Lovely, Beaches, Oz, Fresh, Sun, Water, Money, Big, Mardi Gras, Food and Wine, Sunshine, Ambience, Wonder of the World, Busy, Sunny, Somewhat friendly, Holiday, Young people

Things that Sydneysiders would like to get out of life, hopes and aspirations:

Happiness, Financial Independence, Freedom, Money, Marriage, Family, Good Health, Friendships, House, Peace, Satisfaction, Fun, Comfortable life, Long life, Health, Good education, Lack of terrorism, Ability to get on, Excel in work and life, Success, Relaxation.

Things Sydneysiders found difficult or dislike about working in the city:

Public transport sucks, Job security, Being bothered by charity workers, Invasion of personal space, Medical care, Education for children, Better salary, Rent and food prices going up, Loneliness, Finding peace of mind, People not content with life, Difficult employers.

Quotes from people in the city:

• “There is no hope or aspiration for Sydney city workers because they are too busy paying off their mortgages”
• “Love Sydney, love the people, hate the violence”
• “I’m having too much fun to look at the bible”
• “Sydney is too noisy, there is too much traffic and the climate is bad”
• “Want to die at the age of 90 walking out of a brothel with a heart attack”
• “Sydney is difficult to live here and find a job”
• “Can’t raise a kid in a unit in the city”
• “All paths lead to God”

“Now while Paul was waiting for them at Athens, his spirit was provoked within him as he saw that the city was full of idols. So he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and the devout persons, and in the marketplace every day with those who happened to be there.” – Acts 17:16-17 (ESV)

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