Tom Postlethwaite’s journey into ministry began during his tertiary studies, when he sensed God calling him to serve in full-time ministry. From those early days of discernment to his recent appointment as Youth Pastor at Kyneton Baptist Church, his story is one of faith, growth and significant discipleship moments that have shaped the person and leader he is today.
How did God draw you to become a Christian?
Faith has always been the air I’ve breathed. My relationship with God became my own when I attended a regional Youth Alive event in 2007. Since then, I have learnt more about grace and my own need for a Saviour and was baptised at Sale Baptist Church (SBC) when I was 16.
When did you feel the call to step into ministry, and how did that unfold?
I felt the call into ministry while struggling through a science degree. I sat down for coffee with SBC Senior Pastor Brad Hayman and told him I was thinking of dropping out of the degree and going to Bible College. He affirmed the call in me first and since that afternoon, in a cafe in Sale, many more people along the journey have affirmed me in this calling.
Have you studied in vocational ministry, and how did this help you to grow?
I studied ministry at Ridley Theological College, and it was a beautiful environment to explore the faith. As an Anglican College, it was different to my experience of church so far. It truly elevated my understanding of theology and pastoral care, while developing in me a framework for studying the biblical text deeply.
What relationships and habits have helped you to grow as a leader?
Having some key friendships has been a source of endless gratitude for me. SBC Generations Pastor Lauren Pearce has been particularly instrumental. Her husband, Ben, and so many others have also encouraged me and ministered to me in good times and bad – more people than I could comfortably fit into this profile. Finding moments to worship and pray on my own has been a regular rhythm for me; spending time in the early morning before services at Sale, tapping on a drum kit while listening to worship music and pouring my heart out to God.
What have been some highlights and challenges of this journey so far?
The little transitions and conversations along the way have been such joys for me. Sitting down with Pastor Brad while changing degrees; walking with Youth Pastor Way Lim (Syndal Baptist Church) while beginning a ministry role; and chatting about this pastoral appointment with Discipleship Pastor Katie Mawson and the church council at Kyneton Baptist Church – they’ve all been opportunities that I haven’t realised the magnitude of in the moment.
Leaving familiar community has been the biggest challenge. Staying connected to valued friends I’ve moved further away from has been difficult, while forming new relationships on the other side always takes time.
What are you looking forward to about the role at Kyneton?
There is a feeling in the air at Kyneton Baptist that new growth is coming soon and, having moved here, I can feel it too. Finding opportunities to disciple the young people so they stay connected to Christian community after they graduate is a fruit I cannot wait to see appear!