Grateful Living
Allan and Maria’s Mower’s Journey of Faith
Part 2: Faith, Friendship and Fresh Purpose
Settling in Burrum Heads has brought Allan and Maria full circle—to community, connection and fresh purpose. “It’s amazing how God weaves people and places together,” Maria shared. “Before we knew it, friends from our past were suddenly part of our present again!”
Alongside Keith and Sylvia, their Forster friends Frank and Kim, and another passionate believer, Terry, Allan and Maria saw something special begin to form. “We were all from the same church back in Forster-Tuncurry,” Allan said. “So, we thought—why not start a Life Group right here in Burrum Heads?”
That’s precisely what they did. The group has become a space for studying God’s Word, encouraging one another, and sharing life. “It’s clear God has a purpose for bringing us all together,” Allan said. “And it’s been a real joy seeing how He’s building community right where we are.”
But this season has also brought challenges. Over the past few years, Allan has faced ongoing health struggles, including a stage four prostate cancer diagnosis. “That really got me thinking about how and when God heals,” he said. “I’ve come to see that healing can happen in many ways—naturally, medically, miraculously, and eternally.” It’s a perspective born of faith, reflection, and a deep trust in God’s goodness.
Despite everything, Allan and Maria continue to find creative ways to share hope with others. This Christmas, they’re planning a “Carols in the Caravan Park” event where they live in Hillcrest Caravan Park—home to more than 200 permanent residents. “It’s a quiet community,” Maria said. “We just want to bring a bit of joy, connection, and the story of Jesus to people right where they are.”
Looking back, Allan and Maria see only God’s faithfulness. “Through every challenge, He’s never left us,” Allan said. “He’s lifted us with His love and grace. Whatever you’re facing, that same promise is for you too—God walks every step with you.”
That’s precisely what they did. The group has become a space for studying God’s Word, encouraging one another, and sharing life. “It’s clear God has a purpose for bringing us all together,” Allan said. “And it’s been a real joy seeing how He’s building community right where we are.”
But this season has also brought challenges. Over the past few years, Allan has faced ongoing health struggles, including a stage four prostate cancer diagnosis. “That really got me thinking about how and when God heals,” he said. “I’ve come to see that healing can happen in many ways—naturally, medically, miraculously, and eternally.” It’s a perspective born of faith, reflection, and a deep trust in God’s goodness.
Despite everything, Allan and Maria continue to find creative ways to share hope with others. This Christmas, they’re planning a “Carols in the Caravan Park” event where they live in Hillcrest Caravan Park—home to more than 200 permanent residents. “It’s a quiet community,” Maria said. “We just want to bring a bit of joy, connection, and the story of Jesus to people right where they are.”
Looking back, Allan and Maria see only God’s faithfulness. “Through every challenge, He’s never left us,” Allan said. “He’s lifted us with His love and grace. Whatever you’re facing, that same promise is for you too—God walks every step with you.”
Posted in Grateful Living