Building relationships… one BBQ at a time

Building relationships… one BBQ at a time

For many years, the Our Saviour Lutheran congregation in Rochedale has been intentionally building meaningful relationships with Redeemer Lutheran College. One of the most impactful ways this partnership has grown is through the BBQ breakfasts the congregation hosts twice a year for Year 11 and 12 students.

These breakfasts take place just before the mid‑year and end‑of‑year exams at a time when stress andanxiety are at their peak. The congregation saw an opportunity to support students by creating a moment of calm and connection. Sharing a BBQ breakfast outdoors has become a simple but powerful way to ease pressure and remind students they’re not facing this season alone.

Around 120 students attend each time, and a dozen congregation members come along to cook, serve, chat, and pray with students and staff. It has become a beautiful expression of faith in action and a way for people of faith to make a tangible difference in the lives of young people; bringing love to life in the community.

More recently, a new initiative has grown from the students themselves: a monthly morning tea with congregation members. The first gathering was held in June, with several congregation members joining six students for conversation and connection. What makes this especially meaningful is that it is student‑led, where young people are inviting adults into their space to share stories, listen, and build relationships.

These are spaces where love comes to life in connection with our communities. Appreciation and respect for each other comes when we do something small yet meaningful out of God’s love for us.