PEOPLE are often quick to comment that there is no community spirit anymore.

The Street Pastors, a voluntary and church based organisation which walks the streets at night to help those in need, are proof that is not the case.

There are now 12 groups across Essex, with the most recent being launched in Basildon.

I was lucky enough to be invited to the official launch at the Salvation Army, in Fauners, Basildon. and joined the volunteers as they patrolled the town centre for the first time.

At the launch the room was packed full of representatives from Essex Police, councillors and members of churches across the town.

Every new street pastor took part in a commissioning service- similar to a graduation- following months of intense training.

The group lined up and in turn received their full uniform, complete with cap, manuals and official certificated.

I have been out with the street pastors on patrol in Billericay before, so I knew all about the wonderful work these volunteers do.

As someone who doesn't attend church, I must admit I was sceptical at first about how the service would work.

I was particular unsure about how the organisation would be received on the streets of Basildon.

Before the volunteers stepped out for their first patrol, the group sat and prayed and I must admit, I was really moved.

As the sun set and it began to turn dark outside we were split up into five groups of four people, and set off for the evening.

We walked slowly around the town centre approaching people we met on our way and I was surprised, but pleased, with how well the street pastors- and even a trainee like me- were welcomed.

Many people we met already knew about the street pastors, and showed their appreciated by giving us 'high fives.'

They appeared comforted in the knowledge these people were giving up their Friday night to make sure complete strangers were safe.

‘We are carrying on the work of Jesus by caring for others’

BASILDON’S new street pastors told the Echo the joined the voluntary organisation because they simply wanted to help others.
Robert Mills, 41, said he had a calling about ten years ago.

He said: “I attend the Living Word Community Church in Pitsea and I had been speaking with other people at my church about getting people together for a street pastor group in Basildon, and its finally come around. It’s been a long time coming.

“I went out with the Southend Street Pastors last November as an observer to find out and more, and I was so impressed. I knew I had to join the new group forming for Basildon.

“I want to help change the spiritual atmosphere in Basildon by making people know that we are here to help and to spread the word about the Street Pastors.”

Jill Candy, 60, believes the volunteers are continuing the work of Jesus.

She added: “I think that people will feel reassured that there are volunteers like us around on hand to take care of people, I think girls will especially feel this way.

“I think that the Street Pastors are important as we are the churches in action as we are out and meeting and helping people.

I think also it shows another side to religious and Christian people, we are not just sitting behind closed doors and going to church on Sundays we are out in the community helping others.”