Christians should be involved in the local community because it is an opportunity to show love and care for others. The teaching of Jesus, for example in the parable of Sheep and the Goats shows that Christians should not ignore the needs of society because showing agape love is part of the Christian way of life.
Street Pastors is an initiative that was started in London in 2003 by Les Isaac. It is a Christian response to urban problems, engaging with people on the streets to care for them, listen to them and help them. Street Pastors are trained volunteers from local churches who care about their community. They patrol in teams of men and women, usually from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. on a Friday or Saturday night, to care for, listen to and help people who are out on the streets. They are there to get to know people in the community and build relationships in order to find out their needs and offer support or guidance. Some examples of what they do include providing flip-flops for girls who have lost their shoes, blankets for those who are cold, water for those who are thirsty and lollipops for those who are in need of some sugar. They also work closely with other partners such as the police, ambulance service and local council.