It is a remarkable story: sex offenders, supported by Dick Witherow’s Christian Ministry, are responsible for the running of their village including the screening of potential residents and maintaining good conduct and order. They are strict about not accepting people with a history of violence or drugs, or diagnosed as paedophiles, and “normal” life is encouraged including taking jobs and becoming involved in church life, whether a Christian or not. The idea is to help them to rebuild their lives and to feel wanted.
Before it became Miracle Village, the place was known as Pelican Lake – sugar cane country – and families from those days live there still, largely accepting the changes and their new neighbours with tolerance; the sex offenders are monitored by the police so they feel safe, and there is a sense of acceptance without judgment. In an era where there is so much judgment and narrow-mindedness, it is heartening to hear about Miracle Village and its success in helping individuals work through their frailties compassionately. It is community at work in an inspirational way, balancing the needs of all the residents to achieve, as far as possible, a place of harmony.
As long as it continues to work, long may the concept, and the place, last.
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