In the Blacktown area of Sydney, New Life Christian Church is a local church passionate about growing and maintaining a gospel mission culture. In early February, the church held a service celebrating all God has done over the past two years, and looked to the future of gospel mission in their community.
A big part of this service was the commissioning of two recently graduated MTS Apprentices who completed their apprenticeships in 2024 and are now heading to Bible College! They’re continuing with New Life in this next stage as student ministers.
This is an exciting picture of the great fruit of MTS in raising up and equipping healthy gospel workers. We spoke to New Life Pastor Glenn Dillon, and the two recent graduates, Nedd Prigg and David Abela, about their experience with MTS.
Trainer: Glenn Dillon
“The value of MTS has been foundational to our vision and mission here at New Life, particularly in raising up the next generation of gospel workers.
As pastors, we recognise that we can’t do everything ourselves, but with the support of MTS, our church leadership has been empowered to do just that.
MTS provides a solid grounding in biblical knowledge, helping apprentices accurately interpret and apply scripture, which is essential for effective ministry.
It also offers apprentices the opportunity to develop hands-on ministry skills—such as preaching, leading small groups, and running Bible studies—while working closely with real people who face real challenges. This practical experience is crucial for preparing them to handle the complexities of ministry.
MTS emphasises personal growth through mentoring relationships with experienced leaders, ensuring that apprentices are not only academically equipped but also spiritually prepared to navigate the pastoral challenges and practical demands of ministry.
MTS will always hold a vital place at New Life, as it continues to support our mission to equip and send out individuals with a heart for evangelism and discipleship, to serve and lead in their communities, churches, and missions—locally and globally.”
Graduated Apprentice: Ned Prigg
“My time at MTS was incredibly valuable in preparing me for future full-time ministry. I made many mistakes along the way, but those mistakes were essential in helping me identify areas where I will likely struggle in ministry. This awareness is already proving to be beneficial as it gives me the opportunity to grow and address those challenges before fully stepping into my calling.
While MTS opened my eyes to the difficult realities of ministry, it also revealed the many amazing things God is doing, which has only increased my excitement and passion for ministry in the future.
Additionally, the MTS Timothy partnership was incredibly helpful in equipping me for college, especially with practical skills like referencing essays and other academic tasks. It’s these kinds of details that can make a big difference in both my academic and ministry journey moving forward.”
Graduated Apprentice: David Abela
“I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity to have been part of MTS over the past two years. The hands-on experience has given me a true sense of what ministry, particularly pastoral ministry, is all about.
I’ve developed practical skills, learned from my mistakes, grown in character, and witnessed firsthand the deep need for Christ in the world.
These experiences have not only equipped me for theological study at Reformed Theological College (RTC) but have also laid a strong foundation for a lifetime of ministry. I am truly grateful for the ways MTS has shaped me and prepared me for what lies ahead.”
Praise God for how He has worked through Glen, Ned and David! Please be praying for Ned and David as they commence theological study through Reformed Theological College. Pray for Glen and Lisa, a new apprentice, as a new two-year cycle of training gets underway.