Fred Vanderbom

Born in the Netherlands, my parents moved their young family to Australia in 1951 and since then I have lived in four Australian States, my home since 1997 having been in Adelaide in South Australia, where I pastored the fourth Christian congregation during my 40 years of full-time work. The church changed and flourished during these 13+ years, so my 65th birthday in 2010 was a good time to hand over this beautiful but demanding work.

I also served very happily with a Christian-based aged care services organization as their chaplain from 1997 until 2013.

Since 1969 I have shared my life with Helen and we have raised 4 children who have now given us 11 grandchildren: all give us gratitude, pride and much joy.

In retirement Helen and I volunteer, and keep in touch with our nearby and far-flung family and friends. We have helped out churches and colleague pastors for six periods as locums, and of course enjoy enjoy our home and some travel.

I also like to follow some of my interests: Helen and I stay fit by walking and swimming, I have long enjoyed following Australian and New Zealand shipping history, building model ships and reading and writing for my two blogs. Together we take a keen interest in Australia's ethos, politics and national development, and also enjoy music, gardening and photography.

When just 10 days old my life was saved by life-saving but traumatic surgery - an ugly but vital intervention. This grace-filled beginning mirrors the Christian faith which also offers a rich life on the basis of an ugly crucifixion and a personal recognition that we need the God whom we see reflected in Jesus Christ.

These foundations have motivated me to serve others - just as I believe that God in Jesus came to serve us.

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