I never imagined I would one day plant a new ministry in one of the most iconic places in Melbourne. But one afternoon, as my husband Pedram and I stood in St Paul’s Cathedral, we watched people stream in—tourists, students, and families, wandering the building, taking photos, admiring its beauty. Then we heard it: Farsi, Turkish, Arabic. Familiar languages that stirred something deep in us. When we later learned that over 1,500 people visit the Cathedral every day, it sparked something in our hearts. How, we wondered, could we share the Gospel with even a few of them?

We began praying, listening, and discerning with others. Some people encouraged us to start a new outreach. After seeking the Spirit’s guidance and receiving confirmation, we knew God was opening a door. That vision became reality on 16 March 2024, when we launched a new multicultural midday service at the Cathedral, beginning with a celebration of Nowruz (Persian New Year). I never expected to start this new ministry. But when I thought about the deep spiritual hunger among those who speak my own language, I realised God had been preparing me all along.

My journey began far from here. I was born and raised in Iran in a Muslim family. I came to faith in Jesus through my husband, Pedram, and my early days as a believer were marked by quiet questions and courageous decisions. Like many, I had to leave my homeland because of my faith. I spent nearly six years in Turkey—years of waiting, uncertainty, and hardship. And yet, those wilderness years were not wasted. I was discipled, I served others, and I encountered Jesus in deeper ways than I ever expected. Pedram and I arrived in Melbourne in 2019 with hope and longing. After a season of prayer and discernment, we began the Anglican ordination process, and in 2023 we were both ordained. Stepping into ordained ministry as a woman—especially one from a Muslim background—was something I never saw coming. But I have learned that God doesn’t always lead us where we expect. He leads us where we are needed.

At our Saturday 12:15pm service, the liturgy is spoken in Farsi, English, Arabic, and Turkish. Scripture is read in translation. Prayers rise from many voices. The Gospel is shared clearly, joyfully, and accessibly. After the service, we hold a Farsi Bible Study, often continuing for hours as people ask questions, study the Bible, and share their stories. Most who attend come from Muslim or non- Christian backgrounds. Together, we explore what it means to follow Jesus in a new land.

Since launching, we’ve shared the Gospel with over 140 individuals and given Farsi Bibles to all who desire one— many for the very first time. For those preparing for baptism, we run ‘Knowing Christ’ sessions. On May 2024, we celebrated our first baptism service in the Cathedral, surrounded by tears, testimonies, and joy. God is drawing people to Himself—in every language and from every culture.

As a young female minister, I often see the surprise in people’s eyes when they learn I’m a priest. When I approach Farsi-speaking visitors and begin speaking in their language, they’re usually shocked. Many say they never expected a young woman—especially one from a Muslim background—to become a priest. Even those who aren’t Christian say they feel proud when they see me serving. These moments remind me that my role matters—not only as a minister but as a sign of what God can do with a life surrendered to Him.

This process has grown me more than I ever imagined. Living in three different countries, serving people from different cultures, and learning to lead in unfamiliar spaces has stretched and shaped me. I’ve learned that ministry is not about having all the answers—it’s about walking faithfully with others. My own training and ordination journey has included moments of doubt and tension, but God has continued to affirm: your place is here. Your voice is needed.

Many women are part of our weekly gatherings—some new to faith, some still exploring. Others are grandmothers with deep wells of wisdom. Though I am younger than many of them, they often say that seeing me in clergy attire encourages them. I teach, but I also learn. I bring presence, and I receive it back. We are growing together.

At both St Paul’s Cathedral and Deep Creek Anglican Church—where we also serve—we work hard to build relationships of trust. We offer pastoral care in a welcoming, non-judgmental space. People often come to us carrying trauma, fear, or religious confusion. Our hope is that they leave having experienced the love of God. We’re committed to helping people find healing and belonging in Christ.

Church planting is never easy. And launching a new ministry is never the work of one or two people. It requires deep prayer, practical support, and a community that believes in the vision. We are so thankful for the encouragement and wisdom we’ve received from both churches. We’ve had many training sessions, sought advice from wise people, and asked for ongoing prayer. Hearing the stories of others who’ve planted churches has also been deeply encouraging. We have not done this alone. My prayer for the future is simple and bold: that God would raise up more Farsi-speaking disciples, leaders, and servants. That we would continue to be a community where those from Muslim backgrounds can encounter the living Christ and find a new family in His name. We long to see the Gospel flourish not only in our gatherings but in homes, workplaces, and across this city. We believe that Melbourne is a mission field—and the nations are already here.

If God can use my story—one of displacement, fear, and unexpected calling—He can use yours too. Church planting is not reserved for the extraordinary. It is for the willing. For those who say “yes” even when the path is unclear. And if you are a woman wondering whether you are called, let me say this: you are.

Rev Leili Shirmast serves at Deep Creek Anglican Church and St Paul’s Cathedral Melbourne.