Will Thorburn

Will was brought up in foster care and struggled as a young child through the difficulties that brings. But as a teenager Will found Jesus and for the first time ever experienced peace, certainty and a secure sense of identity.

“I can look back on my life now, and see that God has worked it all together for good! I am now thankful that although I experienced suffering, I am able to sit on the street with young guys who I can understand and relate to.”

Will now works as a missionary in Croydon, reaching people who are homeless and marginalised. He is equipping local churches to lovingly bring a message of hope in Christ to those least likely to hear it.

Croydon is the largest borough in London by population, and is a melting pot of many different nationalities and ethnicities spread across many lower-income areas. The area has sadly seen a lot of growth in homelessness, with high levels of poverty and knife crime. Will sees a vast spiritual need in the surrounding communities as people either feel apathetic towards God, or frustrated for the situations they find themselves in.

“I want people on the very outskirts of society to feel welcomed, loved and accepted by the church so they can come to know Jesus as their Saviour. I want to see them find new life, new hope and an eternal destination, seeing the church as that place of welcome. As more Christians share their faith, I pray this will mean many more having the chance to hear about Jesus.”

Will is a big fan of train travelling, particularly interrailing in the UK and other parts of Europe.