4 June 2020

#storiesofhope – Chappy Karl’s big heart for his small town

Posted in Bring Hope / Chaplaincy


Three years ago Karl felt the call to school chaplaincy – and that call led him to the small town of Marmor, Queensland, where he and his family now live in a renovated old church.

In this remote community of roughly 150 people, Chappy Karl finds gardening is a great way to bring support (and fresh fruit and vegetables) right to the table of the residents.

“I do a lot of work in the community gardens. It’s great for the kids to get involved with it – they go home and ask their parents to plant their own family garden!” says Chappy Karl.

Chappy Karl with school captain and garden-helper, Charlotte O’Grady

 

“We grow watermelons, rockmelons, zucchinis, cucumbers, pumpkins – everything. We also do community cooking with the produce. I know that there have been some rough times in the past, and living so far out, people can’t always get into town for food. These gardens have been a real boost for the community.”

Throughout the COVID19 season, Chappy Karl has been doing everything he can to support students, parents and staff across his two schools.

“I’ve been fitting in where I”m needed. The last few years, I’ve been able to build a good rapport in the community – now it’s about being there for everyone,” says Chappy Karl.

“The role of a chaplain is to be there. It’s about building relationships and providing support and drawing on your strengths. I love that as a chaplain, you can be yourself. You’re there to spend time with the kids and to support their well-being.”

It’s because of you that Chappies like Karl can bring encouragement and support to their communities. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of others – visit suqld.org.au/donate for more ways to show your support.



Sarah Moore

Media and Communications Administrator

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