Third Choice Ministry is headed by Matt - read the Confessions of a Gang Member.
At Third Choice Ministry, our aim is to reach across the Dengie and South East Essex where the lack of transport, youth clubs and Church influence has found many of youngsters outcast, with only gang culture, drink and drugs to turn to.
Third Choice Ministry comes under the accountability, guidance and support of New Life Church. In unity we aim to break through the barriers of society and deal with the issues facing young people today.
"You shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free" - John 8 verse 32
Today we see gang culture glorified though gansta rap, gang movies and gangster autobiographies. Throughout London alone there are over 2000 organised gangs and crime families controlling violence, crime, drugs and prostitution. Drugs, knives and guns are now part of our culture. It is easy to judge and condemn these gangs, but having been part of this lifestyle I see that gangs are about acceptance, image, pride, status and fear. To be feared is to have power. Living by codes and rules, honouring gang names and postcodes gives structure and acceptance to lives torn apart by poverty, rejection, hatred, lonliness and abuse.
They say there are two choices: a prison or a grave. But there is a third choice: Jesus Christ.
Our aims and vision
Third Choice Ministry is a voluntary evangelistic team within New Life Church, reaching out to the youth gangs and groups of South East Essex and the Dengie.
Third Choice Ministry works with secondary schools, youth clubs and youth workers.
We are helping to prevent crime, violence, drug abuse and gang culture.
We create a contact point, base or camp of safety for anyone to call or come along to.
We facilitate a Youth Council Meeting open to gang members, drug users, the young and unemployed to openly discuss important issues and offering advice on jobs, careers and a way out of violence, drugs, crime and gangs.
Third Choice Ministry promotes living by Matthew 28 - "The Great Commission".
We provide an outreach where there are no youth clubs, Church involvement or even transport. We offer support and provide where there is need.
We are believing to see the youth ask Christ into their lives as their Lord and Saviour.
Long term vision
Our long term vision for 2011 is to create a youth street service every month aimed at 12 - 18 year-olds.
In 2012 we aim to document and film street gangs, creating a free DVD for schools, youth clubs and youth churches preaching the Gospel message of hope and salvation.
In 2013 we aim to raise money to bu a minibus to take youth groups and gangs out across Britain for weekend trips and days out and to bring them to Sunday services.
If you would like Matt and Third Choice Ministry to visit and share God's vision and what they are fulfilling with the youth groups and gangs, or you would like to hear Matt's testimony please feel free to contact us. We will be pleased to visit schools, youth groups, churches, conferences and open days.
Everyone serving Third Choice Ministry is doing so voluntarily, so we thank them for their generosity and kindness in maintaining this this outreach to street gangs.
Meet the Team
Leadership: Rob Purnell
Street leader: Matt Leach
Street Volunteers:
Zara Saboula, Sam Saboula, Jackie Saboula (NLC)
Sam and Nettie (DNA Trainees, NLC)
Chris Kitchen (Bethal Church)
Shane (Bethal Church)
Ann Roberts (NLC)
Chris Sparrow (NLC)
Becky Purnell (NLC)
Kirstie Tomlin (NLC)
Dave Smith (NLC)
Lesley Bentley (NLC)
Ministry Volunteers:
Dave Hawkins (NLC)
Kathy Sparrow (NLC)
Hannah Shewan (NLC)
Thursday nights 7.15pm to 9pm Street Evangilisim Wickford, South Woodham.
Matt Leach - 07511 379961 - This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Lord Jesus, you are the rock on which this ministry is founded. Be in all we choose and believe is of you. Hear and bless each of our visions and bring all glory to you. Amen.
