The interviewer was the Australian Missionary News anchorman Mark Tronson who first up, asked Peter Nelson how the AIS ministry was established in those first few years in 1989.
Peter Nelson explained that he was the second AIS Chaplain. The Reverend Ken Bond had been appointed by Mark Tronson eighteen months previously and he had, in large measure, smoothed the pathway.
As to his daily routine at the AIS, he explained that he arrives early in the morning and visits the various sports groups, and ascertains those who have been injured and attempts to spend some time with them. Peter Nelson has found that injury tends to be a time for reflection.
Peter Nelson was also a chaplain at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and the Sydney 2000 Olympics. He related an example of this Atlanta ministry. The USA Track & Field team heard from the chaplains that the Comoros Island team (off the coast of Africa) had inadequate running spikes, shoes, clothing, and equipment in general.
Two large cartons were filled by the US team with every type of athletic gear and given to the Comoros team, who responded with much rejoicing and tears.
Peter nelson also supports athlete respite. The Basil Sellers Moruya athlete respite facility for AIS athletes and coaches run by Well-Being Australia is only a two hour drive to the coast. He explained that many athletes have reported to him how delighted they have been with the respite experience, refreshed in spirit and body.
Peter Nelson has a very special place in his heart for young Christian athletes who leave home for the very first time for the AIS. In this Peter Nelson says it is a very important part of his ministry to ensure they are encouraged in their Christian walk, and help them settle into a local church.
It is interesting to note that Peter Nelson was selected to play cricket for Tasmania in 1970, but his mother forgot to pass on the message that he was to play the West Indies on their tour match.
Although a huge disappointment, Nelson Nelson expressed in his heart the Grace to deal with this, and it is this same Gracious spirit and understanding that exemplifies his ministry at the AIS.
This interview of Peter Nelson on the Australian Missionary News IPTV
tv.bushorchestra.com/Sport/videopages/peter_nelson.html and www.safeworlds.net