The service was conducted in Yalata by Lutheran Church national president Mike Semmler in front of community members, visiting pastors and other visitors.

Reverend Bryant grew up in Yalata and Wingellina in Western Australia and has completed a Certificate III in Theology from Nungalinya College in Darwin to become a pastor.

He has been helped by his cousin Keith Peters, who is also from Yalata.

“People really like to see young fellas working, like Keith was saying,” Reverend Bryant said.

“He’s getting sick. He was happy to see me do it.”

Reverend Bryant will conduct services in English and Pitjantjatjara, which he said was important.

“It’s good to teach my people about God because some people don’t understand English, especially old people, so I use my language,” he said.

“The main thing is to read the Gospel to the people.”

Reverend Bryant was supported by his wife, Doris, and children Renelle, Shiranda and Clayton.

He is also an accomplished footballer, recently playing with indigenous teams at AAMI Stadium in Adelaide and the MCG in Melbourne, as well as with Thevenard in the Far West Football League.

The service was followed by lunch.