Our story

From a small church in Boulia to a ministry without borders

Two school chaplains, an old church building, and a mission that's outgrown four walls.

Timeline

How we got here

  1. July 2018

    The old Anglican church is purchased

    Two school chaplains, Peter and Christine, purchased the historic Anglican Church building in Boulia, with a vision for renewed community life in the town.

  2. 2019

    Boulia Outback Chapel opens its doors

    Following renovations, the building reopened as Boulia Outback Chapel, holding weekly services under the Queensland Baptist Family of Churches, and welcoming visitors from every background.

  3. 2019 – November 2025

    Six years of weekly services

    The chapel became a gathering place for the Boulia community and travellers passing through the outback, offering encouragement, fellowship and a place to belong.

  4. November 2025

    The building changes hands

    The physical chapel building was sold to new owners and ceased operating as a church. Rather than end the ministry, Peter and Christine took it online.

  5. Today

    Outback Chapel, online

    Now known simply as Outback Chapel, the ministry continues through Words of Encouragement — reaching people well beyond Boulia's town limits.

The Boulia Outback Chapel building, a small church with a cross-shaped window and a sign reading 'All Welcome'
The Boulia Outback Chapel building, before it changed hands in November 2025.
Who's behind it

Chappy Peter & Chappy Christine

Long before Boulia, Peter and Christine served in pastoral ministry in Cooktown, where Peter was pastor of Cooktown Baptist Church.

Chappy Peter

Chappy Peter

Pastor & Chaplain

Formerly pastor of Cooktown Baptist Church, Peter has spent years as a school chaplain and pastor, now sharing Words of Encouragement each week online.

Chappy Christine

Chappy Christine

Chaplain & Co-founder

Alongside Peter, Christine has served the Boulia community as a school chaplain and co-founder of Outback Chapel, continuing the ministry online today.

Keep in touch

Follow the journey online

Words of Encouragement continues on YouTube — join us there, or reach out directly.

Watch & Connect