Dave & Margie became Christians in their late teens through youth group and ISCF (Inter School Christian Fellowship). They married, raised four children and are now grandparents to six.
The Woods both recently completed a two-year associate degree in ministry from Sydney Missionary and Bible College (SMBC) and were excited to commence serving God in Coober Pedy in March 2024. Dave is the Minister in Charge of the Parish of Coober Pedy and Margie assists Dave in his role. The focus of the ministry is encouraging and feeding the small congregation, varied ministries in Coober Pedy itself which are emerging and continuing, Aboriginal ministry and a significant tourist/visitor ministry.
Coober Pedy is an iconic opal mining town in the beautiful arid lands of northern South Australia, 850kms north of Adelaide and 700kms south of Alice Springs. It’s desert setting, isolation and underground homes, motels and churches as well as a landscape dotted with what look like anthills from the air, give it a surreal feeling. The population of 1800 is one third Aboriginal, with around 40 nationalities represented as well. Many tourists and other travellers visit Coober Pedy and there are many rich opportunities to tell people about the Gospel and encourage those who already believe.
The Woods' September 2025 Prayer Points
Please pray over our planning for October school holiday activities and our involvement and interactions with kids and youth.
Pray that we can attend some pastoral stations events and get to know station workers.
Give thanks that RICE (Remote Isolated Children's Exercise) are coming to Coober Pedy (24-25 September) and will be using our church hall for activities for pastoral station families and children. Please pray for good interactions with them.
Please pray for faith leaders in town who are involved with us in setting up a Suicide Prevention Network in Coober Pedy.
Give thanks for an event for the Suicide Prevention Network on Friday night 12 September at the Drive In and pray people will put their hands up to be involved in the network.
Please pray for people in town who are grieving this month due to certain difficult anniversaries and recent tragic events in the town. Pray they will reach out to God and find Him.
The Woods' October 2025 Prayer Points
Give thanks for the two youth mission groups coming to Coober Pedy in November. Please pray for wisdom as we plan the program and for a time of growth for those involved as well as encouragement for the town.
The Woods' November 2025 Prayer Points
Please pray for energy as we near the end of the year and for continued guidance for our Aboriginal ministry.
Pray for our Christmas seminar in the school in late November; may many kids come and hear the Gospel.