MARCH 2008 SEPTEMBER 2015

InvestmentInvestment futureproofsfutureproofs MethodistMethodist

dairydairy farmfarm By Paul Titus he old milking shed property, Maire Farm. features automatic cup on Robert Gibson Together, Totara and Maire removal. When a cow's milk Methodist Trust's Farm are 250 hectares, and stops flowing the milking Totara farm was each of properties has a 50/50 cups comes off by themselves. built 50 years ago sharemilker who owns a herd This eliminates the chance and had a of about 350 cows. that the cups continue sucking T reputation as one “We invested $1.65 when there is no milk to draw, of the 10 worst in Taranaki. million to purchase the Maire which can cause teat damage It used to take more than two Farm. While the milk prices or mastitis. hours to milk 180 cows each have been good we paid down A ceremony was held in morning and evening. that debt to about $250,000,” July to officially open and Now the old shed has been Bill says. bless the new milking shed. replaced by a state-of-the-art, Until two years ago, 40-aside herringbone shed, Totara Farm had two Bill says Totara Farm's and, despite the cloud hanging inefficient milking sheds each sharemilkers, Justin and over the dairy industry, of which handled 180 cows. Naomi Freek are delighted everyone is happier including In 2013 the decision was with the new milking system. the sharemilker, the Board of made to consolidate them A few glitches had to be Trustees, and not least…the onto a single milking worked out over its first cows. platform. weeks of operation but by The Trust oversees two “Our intent was to August 1st, when it was time dairy farms at Riverlea, one futureproof the farm,” John to start sending new season of which was a gift in says. “We sought the consent milk to Fonterra it was perpetuity from Robert of Conference to borrow the working fine. Gibson to provide financial money to invest in a new The financial pressures on support for young people in shed. the dairy industry are not the Methodist Church. “The cost of the new shed without concern to the Each year Robert Gibson is about $700,000, and we Trustees. John says when the Trust makes grants of about have made other decision to make the $160,000 for Wesley College improvements that have investment was made the scholarships, tertiary brought the total investment price of milk was about $5.25 scholarships, youth work in up to $1.1 million.” per kilo. Taranaki, and the upkeep of The other improvements “The price we need to be the Robert Gibson Hall in to Totara Farm's infrastructure financially secure is $4.25- Manaia. include new cow races, new $4.50 but the latest payout Bill Yateman is Robert water lines and a new effluent was $3.85. We believe that Gibson Trust chairperson and disposal system. John Chittenden is a member The effluent system has the price is unlikely to stay at of the Trust board. settling ponds, pond stirrers that level for a prolonged Bill says while Robert and a permanent spray period. With careful Gibson's original farm (now irrigation system that spreads management we should not called the Totara Farm) has the effluent onto paddocks so be adversely affected.” always stayed in the Trust's that none of it is discharged Despite the lower milk hands there have been a into streams. prices, the Trust Board has number of changes over the “It is all completely agreed that it will continue to years to the properties it owns. compliant with environmental fund its grants and bursaries Sharemilker Justin In 2004 the Trust regulations,” Bill says. to Wesley College and other Freek at work in Totara purchased an adjacent The new milking system institutions. INSIDE Farm's milking shed.

METHODIST CHURCH IN MESSY CHURCH – PAGE 11 BRITAIN CONFERENCE – PAGE 2

KIRCHENTAG 2015 – PAGE 6 2 TOUCHSTONE • SEPTEMBER 2015 NEWS Green light for Wesley College housing development By Hilaire Campbell teamwork and thorough preparation. Chris Johnston is jubilant. The “We've had to fight bureaucracy Auckland City Council has all the way. Our advantage was that approved the Wesley College Trust we came to the hearing very well Board's application for a plan prepared. The Council hadn't variation to rezone its rural property anticipated, as we had, the projected to allow for a major housing growth in the Pukekohe area.” development. The next step is to gain As the Board's general secretary development consent. This is likely Chris has overseen the whole process to be just as difficult but should take with project director Ross Taylor. “Our less than eight months. “As I see it, team has battled for 10 years so we're we've got all the puzzle pieces, it's very, very pleased the hearing went just a matter of putting them together,” so well. It's a major milestone.” Chris says. Wesley College sits on a 30 “After that we just have to work hectare site at Paerata, near Pukekohe. out such details as how the houses Officials, priest and Auckland Zoo staff at Anjalee's blessing. Rev Prince Devanandan is third from right. It is surrounded by a 211 hectare dairy will look and the placement of internal farm which is owned by a charitable roads. Then we can start cutting dirt.” company, Grafton Downs Limited (a None of this has come cheap. It Multi faith blessing trumpets joint venture owned by the Wesley has cost $50,000 alone on the legal College Trust Board and the PACT hearing for the plan variation, and 2086 Trust). around $10 million to gain Anjalee's arrival Grafton Downs Ltd drew up the development consent. August 23rd was a big day for Anjalee the coming to New Zealand. She arrived in Auckland plans for the housing project. Chris But Chris says the returns will be elephant. Not only was it her ninth birthday, it on 21 June. says it might take 30 years to complete well worth it. Wesley College has a special obligation to students of Maori was also the day that the government of Sri Methodist Mission & Ecumenical director Rev “but within the next 15 years we will have the beginnings of a small town.” and Pacific Island descent, and those Lanka officially presented her to Auckland Zoo. Devanandan gave the Christian blessing during the The Council’s decision to rezone facing difficult family and personal Sri Lanka Consul General to New Zealand ceremony. the land raises its value from less than circumstances. Aruna Abeygooneseakera led the ceremony that Prince says the blessings were for all the animals $10/sqm to more than $80/sqm. The “The debate going forward is marked the handover. The ceremony included of the Zoo and the staff who work with them, as plan is for 4500 sections at a cost of whether or not to include a joint blessings by Sri Lankan clerics representing the well as a special blessing for Anjalee. about $250,000 a section. venture partner. The last thing we wanted to do was sell the land to a country's four major religions - Buddhism, “The ceremony included some delicious food The development, known as the Hinduism, Islam and Christianity. Franklin 2 Precinct, is one of three developer,” says Chris. treats for Anjalee and Burma. The birthday Anjalee was born in the elephant orphanage in sites identified by the Council for Wesley College has been on its celebration also featured cultural dances depicting Pinnawala, Sri Lanka on 23 August 2006. The Sri development in the wider Pukekohe current site since 1923. Some buildings need seismic strengthening Lankan government gifted her to Auckland Zoo to the Sinhala and Tamil cultures, including one Sri area. The development will be fast- and others show leaky building be a companion to Burma, the Asian elephant who Lankan hip-hop dance.” tracked under its Housing Accord and The Buddhist blessing was done by Ven. Special Housing Areas Act to help syndrome. Hundreds of people were was already in residence. consulted in the development process, Kagama Chandawimala and Ven. Devalegama combat the city's housing crisis. Anjalee's journey to her new home began in “The Council has given priority including three local iwi and 48 March. She was first flown from Sri Lanka to Niue, Vineetha. Sri Venkatraman gave the Hindu blessing, to our proposal because it is a 'transit neighbours. where she spent a 90-day quarantine period before and Mohammed Nallar gave the Islamic blessing. oriented' development,” says Chris. Most were very supportive. The “We've got a disused rail station right only opposition has come from a on our boundary. When we reopen it, group of former students who want to residents will have a direct line to preserve the College's sacred school Auckland.” on Puhitahi Hill. The development will provide However Chris says development stand-alone family houses, terrace was inevitable due to the housing houses and apartments as well as shortage. The building that is being schools, a retail centre and hopefully saved is the College's historic chapel. a retirement village. In line with the It will feature in the new development. Council's vision of Auckland as a The Board plans to rebuild Wesley 'liveable city' the development will College on a site that retains its rural MEDICAL include 13 hectares for walking and character. cycling, as well as five hectares of If the Board did not have the neighbourhood reserves and 30 foresight to take the steps it did, Chris INSURANCE hectares of green riparian zones. believes it might have been the end Chris says it's been a long haul to of Wesley College's ability to fund its Only for members of the get to this stage. He attributes the students. “As it is we're leaving a Methodist Church and project's success thus far to great legacy that we can be very proud of.” Methodist Uniting Congregations Medical insurance One-time offer for Methodists Opportunity Methodist Church of New period of 90 days for new claims from Zealand employees and presbyters all applicants, but after a person has During currently enjoy medical insurance belonged to the scheme for three coverage thanks to a contract with consecutive years, cover will be OCTOBER 2015 the insurance company Accuro. extended to all qualifying pre-existing Accuro is a New Zealand conditions. Special company that operates on a not-for- The policy Accuro is offering Includes cover for qualifying profit basis, which means it can provides up to $100,000 cover per pre-existing conditions after provide insurance coverage at lower year for general surgery and any three years. premiums. diagnostic tests or consultations that Offer Insurance broker Craig Gudsell take place pre and post approved from The Brokerage Limited surgery. administers the Accuro account for Optional coverage can be the Methodist Church of NZ. purchased to cover standalone tests, Now Accuro is extending a special doctor's visits and dental care. offer of insurance coverage to all The offer is only for people who members of the Methodist Church. do not already have an Accuro policy. Contact details: Many people have not considered Methodist members will be able private medical coverage because of to apply during the month of October Chris White at The Brokerage Ltd their pre-existing medical conditions. with a closing date of 31st October T 0800 Insurance (0800 467 872 ) However, the offer from Accuro will 2015. Details of the offer are being E [email protected] cover qualifying pre-existing made to the churches during August Methodist Church Office conditions after three years continuous and September. T (03) 366 6049 cover. Further details can be obtained E [email protected] The offer from Accuro is available from Chris White at The Brokerage to all people who attend a Methodist Ltd on 0800 Insurance (0800 467 872) Church or Methodist Uniting or [email protected] or (Terms and conditions apply) congregation as well as their families. from the Methodist Church Office (03 There will be an initial stand down 366 6049). TOUCHSTONE • SEPTEMBER 2015 3 NEWS Lessons from British Methodist Conference Methodist Church of NZ a visioning movement that general secretary Rev David encourages congregations to take Bush says attending the annual local initiatives. Conference of the Methodist “They also found it somewhat Church in Britain was a chance novel that the Connexion is to step back and put our own providing small grants for groups ways of doing things in a wider to do this work rather than perspective. seeking funds from It provided an opportunity to congregations to do the work of learn new approaches but also to the Connexion.” share some of the innovative Among the major decisions things Te Haahi Weteriana is of the 2015 British Conference doing. was to accept the 'Courage, Cost The Methodist Church in and Hope' report on past cases Britain's Conference was held in of abuse in the Church. Southport and ran from June 27th Following in the steps of the to July 2nd. The Conference British Anglican Church, the received 49 new presbyters and Methodist Church reviewed all nine deacons into Full 'safeguarding cases' of harm to Connexion. children and adults by both clergy Safe churches and ethical investment were big issues at Methodist Church in Britain Conference 2015. David also attended a pre- and laypeople dating back to Conference gathering of the 1950. ask ourselves if there is sufficient sustaining circuit structures with because of its unethical practices British Church's overseas The aims of the report were awareness in New Zealand fewer volunteers. This is taking in regards to the advertising and partners. 1) to examine how church leaders congregations on how to keep place at a time when there is sale of breast milk substitutes. “Each Conference the responded to reports of abuse, 2) people safe and whether we have greater theological diversity in Conference decided to hold Methodist Church in Britain to determine whether any further the right protocols in place to the British Church and some onto its Nestle’s shares and invites 20 of its overseas partners action is required, and 3) to ensure incidents are reported. We Connexional agencies are actively lobby the Nestle board to attend the pre-Conference ensure safe practices are put in also need to be sure leaders shutting down. to change its practices. meeting, which is a chance for place in future. understand what is expected of David says he expected a David says the debate has detailed conversations. “Some 1800 cases of past their behaviour and their spirited debate on ethical implications for New Zealand “I was asked to make a abuse were uncovered. There was obligations to report the actions investments and fossil fuels but because many Chinese milk presentation at the pre- a moving display called Broken of others.” the report on the topic was companies have not signed the Conference on our Let the Biscuits in which there was one David picked up a number of adopted largely unchallenged. international accord of breast Children Live initiative. The other tips and talking points at The Methodist Church in Britain broken biscuit for each of the milk substitutes. He wonders if Methodist Church in Britain has cases in the report to convey the British Conference. will divest from the most just held a major review of how something of the brokenness in He was impressed that the polluting industries as a priority New Zealand companies well it safeguards children, young people's lives that has occurred,” whole Conference was and engage with other companies partnering with Chinese people and vulnerable adults so David says. livestreamed over the Internet to reduce their emissions. companies could be tainted by they were interested in our “I was pleased that two of the and says at least the opening It was noted that the this. campaign.” recommendations in the report - worship services at this year's Methodist Church itself and Another topic the Conference David says he received good to have structured supervision Conference in Blenheim will be individuals have to reduce their addressed was whether Holy feedback on Let the Children of ministers and a code of available on-line. own carbon footprints. Communion can be mediated Live. People were interested that conduct for ministers - are steps Some of the big issues the Another divestment debate through social media. Faith and it is not a pre-packaged national the Methodist Church of NZ has British Conference addressed the Conference had was whether Order's report rejected the programme that tells already taken. were Connexionalism in the 21st the Church should sell its £1 practice but Conference sent it congregations what to do but is “However, we should also Century and difficulty of million worth of shares in Nestle back for further consideration. British Methodist Church documents abuse, vows to change When the Methodist Church in Britain published its Courage, Cost and Hope report on past cases of abuse in the church earlier this year, it offered a “full and unreserved apology” for its past failings. It also made a commitment to change. When Conference 2015 accepted the report, it also accepted its 23 recommendations to make the Church a safer place in future. Conference appointed Rev Gwyneth Owen to chair the group that will ensure the recommendations are implemented. In 2010 the British Methodist Conference accepted the need to review past child protection cases and two years later it expanded the review to include cases of abuses against adults. The review focused on two types of abuse: incidents that occurred within a church body, and matters that took place outside the Church but were reported to a church leader out of pastoral concern. Rev Gwyneth Owen is leading the group that will implement the A display of broken biscuits at the Methodist Church Issues covered in the report included report's recommendations to make the Church safer. in Britain's 2015 Conference depicted the harm sexual, physical or emotional abuse against caused to people through abuse in the church. a child or adult, domestic abuse, financial demonstrate high standards of moral and viewing child pornography. and institutional abuse of vulnerable adults, sexual integrity. The report states that the church's culture programmes. and accessing abusive images. A distinction The report found that the number of was at times unsafe, not only due to the Accountability is another theme to was made between inappropriate sexual cases of abuse by ministers indicates the actions of the perpetrators but also due to emerge from the review. Systems will be behaviour (such as adultery) and more culture of the Church does not always match the actions of colleagues or people in established to ensure policies are followed serious, potentially criminal behaviour. in practice what it claims in words. authority who failed to respond and address and church leaders put into practice the The review went back to 1950 and 200 Methodist ministers were identified the fact that abuse has taken place. principles they learn in training. involved independent experts who as perpetrators or alleged perpetrators. There Some ministers have difficulty Supervision is an important part of this. considered cases against ministers, lay were also 386 cases involving lay and youth recognising and accepting that abuse has Studies show one of the most effective leaders, church employees and members of leaders, 275 involving lay employees, and taken place when the perpetrator is a safeguards within organisations is frequent, Methodist Churches. The Church spent more 494 involving worshippers. These numbers colleague or familiar lay person. Some open and supportive supervision. than NZ$500,000 to carry out the review. have been consistent over the last decade ministers recognised the abuse but felt they The group charged with implementing The fundamental premise behind the and have shown no sign of decline. were ignored when they have raised it with the recommendations will report to the 2016 review was that sexual harassment and abuse The most serious case studies in the those in power. and 2017 Conferences. The review is a misuse of authority committed by the report describe ministers and youth workers To address the issue will require training. recommends a training course be developed more powerful person in an unequal with convictions for indecent assaults against The British Methodist Church will review by December and piloted in 2016. The final relationship. Ministry carries with it spiritual children, accusations of rape and its current safeguarding training and add version of the course should roll out across authority and clergy are expected to inappropriate touching against adults, and more leadership modules to its training the Connexion from January 2017. 4 TOUCHSTONE • SEPTEMBER 2015 OPINION The miracle of women's fellowship To the editor, education in a variety of ways which made life The article in August Touchstone about the richer. The men gave their permission for them gathering of Solomon Islands United Church to continue to meet and gave money to buy Women's Fellowship at Sasamunga brought uniforms. great joy and warmth to the heart of Nancy Now we see how the influence has grown. Carter. God was performing miracles in so many hearts Seeing all those United Church women and minds. gathered to celebrate reminded Nancy of the The women were able to dedicate time to beginning of the MWF in the Solomon Islands the work of their Lord and Saviour and not in 1961. Little did Nancy know that the very detract from the position of the men of the area small effort that started at Munda would spread by doing so. to all other areas of the then Methodist District, and grow to such an enormous extent. The first miracle was that the menfolk soon The men of Sasamunga were initially realised that nothing had changed in their reluctant to allow their women to join, arguing households but the women were happy and that their meals would not be prepared and the looking forward to their time together. children neglected while the women enjoyed Nancy, together with other missionary wives, themselves. After much talk they finally agreed planted the seed of the UCWF and God has to let the women try it out for two months. given the increase. Through their fellowship, the women gained Val Payne, Mangere Bridge Message to Israel's critics To the editor, For example, the late Palestinian Christian If some in the Church are bent on apologist Edward Said adopted the dhimmi demonising and boycotting Israel, they had worldview and propaganda of the ancient Arab better get used to the term, dhimmi and its churches' Islamic oppressors. application under Sharia law. It’s time Israel's boycott, disinvest and After Moslem conquests, People of the Book sanctions (BDS) critics in the Church (Jews and Christians), faced three alternatives rediscovered their Biblical heritage. - convert, die by the sword, or become dhimmi St Paul urged the early Christians to make By Jan Fogg who pay the compulsory jizya poll tax, for the a priority of the opposite. Every church Paul demeaning right to survive as second class established was commanded to daily put aside citizens in the Moslem caliphates. For all others a small sum to regularly bless Jerusalem and Ageing - a choir with (including leftists, atheists, and agnostics), Sharia the Jewish saints. To rediscover this forgotten more than sopranos law dictates only two options - convert or die. apostolic commandment read again 1 When applied fully, Sharia law allows Corinthians 16:1-3, Romans 15:26-27, and dhimmis' Moslem neighbours to expropriate Galatians 2:9-10. Successful ageing is an individual had a gift and she used it to affirm her with impunity dhimmis' homes and businesses, journey and there are many pathways community. She was involved and Why? In Paul's mind, supporting Israel, and and trash their synagogues and churches, as is because each person ages differently. valued. understanding where our spiritual roots and the regularly done to Egypt's Coptic Christians, and Twenty years ago, the focus on This is not about denial (which we to Bethlehem's ancient Arab Christians, who Church had come from, was an integral part of ageing was mostly about bodies, that know can happen) but about giving numbered 70 percent in Bethlehem in 1967. following Christ. As the early Church had is, about physical function and disease greater emphasis to the other processes. As people become older dimensions of our being. It involves Under Palestine Liberation Organisation's rule, received the scriptures, the Messiah, the covenants, and much more from the Jews they will likely face the greatest coping, adapting, growing in they today number 5 percent. The rest have fled. demands in their life on their physical resilience, and expanding spiritually. Sharia requires dhimmi to wear distinctive (Romans 3:1; 9:4-5), it was appropriate to bless the source of her spiritual blessings with material health. The young, fast and fit can It is easier to read such words than dress with Nazi-like yellow labels, cross the look with some dismay on the ageing, it is to live them out. No wonder we street when approached by a Moslem, and not gifts to the poor in Jerusalem. achy and slow. are given 70 to 80 years to grow into to stand or build taller. In Pakistan, Nigeria, and Instead of demonising and boycotting Israel, In recent years, however, society these demands. England, it encourages young Moslem men to our Church should be like Wesley and Spurgeon. has changed, and a deeper Pain is among the singers in kidnap under-age non-Moslem girls, marry or Their sermons many times started with or understanding is growing about what ageing's choir. The problem with pain rape them, and forcibly convert them and their inserted a brief comment on the Jews' future it means to age successfully. There is is that it hurts. Indeed, pain is babies. restoration. Thus were their ministries blessed a realisation that while physical sometimes such a distraction, that Perhaps, worst of all, after centuries of this as God, as promised, blessed them in return. wellbeing is important, other areas are instead of a choir we have a solo. oppression, the Stockholm Syndrome kicks in. Gary Clover, Richmond equally so. Although we tend to think of pain The multiple dimensions of life at as a physical symptom, the pain any age - physical, psychological, experienced by older adults can be Deaf ministry finances reconciled social, and spiritual - become more complex and involve all aspects of apparent in older age. We might ask, life. To the editor: from Lifewise, which is topped up with an 'Is age a disease, or is it a normal Pain may be a source of impaired I am writing to you with regard to the article amount from the Auckland Deaf Christian process, the way God made us as function and mobility, reduced in the May Touchstone concerning the generous Fellowship and a gift from the Ministry with humankind?' If the latter is the case, socialising, anxiety, depression, fear grant given by PAC to the Ministry with Deaf Deaf Trust. then what is in God's 'mind'? What is or lower self-esteem and confidence. Trust. The Methodist Church doesn't contribute the purpose of ageing? Older people with pain are This money is much appreciated by those Studies of those who reach the age significantly unhappier than those towards this. The amount that was generously of 100 years have shown that it is without pain. who are working with Deaf people. It provides given by Auckland Synod to help with this help in an area of very special needs. almost impossible to get to an Are we able to bring into specialist ministry for a number of years has advanced age and maintain a disease- conversation together (or are we able While the Touchstone article provided some now ceased, as the money was required for other free body and/or mind, or to have to build our choir with all ) the excellent information, there were a few needs. complete self-control and be a fully processes of ageing, coping and our discrepancies that need to be corrected. Because ministry with Deaf people is a very self-determining person. The plan religious faith? Older age can be a These concern some of the financial details. special one and the needs of Deaf people are wasn't for a perfect body at age 90! time when the nature of one's religious It would be wonderful to think that we have the Yet compensations might be made faith is challenged to move from the kind of resources mentioned but unfortunately many, I usually donate half of my time and other for physical deficits or limitations. I abstract to sing in the very concrete this is not the case. resources to ensure the ministry is cared for to think of 'Evelyn', a woman in her 90s situations of life. The article mentions a small stipend for eight the best of my ability. who was limited in her physical We may 'use' religion simply to people who provide pastoral care. In actuality, I hope this helps to sort out the few small functions. But it was Evelyn's joy to find comfort. But our faith has a voice the Committee receives some reimbursements mistakes but I also want to take another write letters and cards to people in her with deeper spiritual meaning - when opportunity to thank PAC again for their church community and beyond. we open our ears to this deeper voice for expenses such as petrol if people ask for At times of celebration, sadness, those base notes will enrich the choir them. They are not stipended in any way. wonderful donation. or achievement, Evelyn wrote. She of our ageing life. The majority of my own half stipend comes Rev Sandra Gibbons, Waiuku

Postal PO Box 931 Editor Paul Titus Advertising Pieter van den Berg Circulation Karen Isaacs Christchurch Phone (03) 381 6912 Phone (03) 310 7781, Fax (03) 310 7782 Phone (03) 381-4315 Fax (03) 366-6009 Mobile (021) 655 092 Email [email protected] Email [email protected]@xtra.co.nz E-mail [email protected] Printer The Ashburton Guardian Opinions in Touchstone do not necessarily reflect Production Julian Doesburg [email protected] Ad Deadline 15th of the month preceeding publication the offical views of the Methodist Church of NZ. Publisher The Methodist Publishing Company Letters Deadline 15th of the month preceeding publication Subscription Changes 10th of the month preceeding publication TOUCHSTONE • SEPTEMBER 2015 5 OPINION

CONVERSATION WITH THE CONNEXION Passing the baton for the race ahead Ex-president Rev Rex Nathan likened and they led the coronation because 'that is the way in which the the retirement of Rev Aso Saleupolu from commemorative service on Friday August government has always negotiated trans- the role of director of Mission Resourcing, 21st. The service was shared with Maori national trade deals'. Snippets of Pacific Ministries and the induction of members from the other mainstream conversations of those seated near me, Rev Setaita Veikune into that position to denominations as well as from the Ratana included: 'That's because they think they two runners in a relay race, passing the and Ringatu Churches. know what's best for us.' 'Just because baton from one to the other. The Panmure Methodist Samoan Choir that's what they've always done doesn't For several weeks Setaita shadowed supported the karakia along with the Hatea mean to say that's the way it ought to be.' President Vice-President the work of this directorship, so Aso has Anglican Choir. The Tongan parishes of And 'Just like the treaty, making a poor Rev Tovia Aumua Dr Arapera Ngaha passed on the legacy of Pacific ministry Hamilton led by Rev Tevita Finau translation into Maori just the night before.' into safe hands. In many respects the entertained the crowd, presented gifts to All these comments were accompanied by training our successors, and what more imagery of a relay race is precisely what the King and pledged support for sniggers! can we do? the church needs to consider as we continue Kingitanga and the monarchy of Tonga The Maori community is a tough These are questions that we must our journey here in Aotearoa. represented that day by Princess Pilolevu audience in forums such as Koroneihana answer and we must act on them now. Setaita's induction was held at Wesley and her husband. and Waitangi celebrations. The Prime Succession planning is more than College and celebrated in great style with John Key arrived just as the service Minister made no response to the other simply choosing those who might take wonderful choral singing and brass bands. had concluded and it was time for Maori matters but said he would take these over after us. We must also ensure that We were privileged to have in attendance orators from across the land to place the concerns back to his people. they are equipped with the proper tools to members of the Royal house of Tonga, concerns of the people before him. Not On both these occasions rangatahi were carry out their roles and will be ready to Princess Pilolevu and her husband and surprisingly, the swift and almost present and strategically positioned. King pick up the baton as it is passed on. representation from Te Arikinui, Kingi conspiratorial manner in which the Trans- Tuheitia's son Whatumoana is already On behalf of the whole church, we Tuheitia. Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPPA) is being groomed for leadership and Pacific acknowledge and thank Aso for his Later in August we were also privileged being negotiated was to the fore. youth were a vital part of the induction magnificent contribution to the church and to participate in the ninth Koroneihana Concerns were also raised about the event at Wesley College. Pacific ministry. He took on the task, celebrations of King Tuheitia at slow pace of settlements for treaty claims To grow our church we must consider massaged and moulded it to best meet the Ngaruawahia. Koroheihana is a major via the Office of Treaty Settlements and ways to futureproof our church. How are needs of our Pasifika congregations. political forum for Maoridom. about issues around poor housing that we preparing for leadership changes? Who Aso, we wish you and Vaotane God's Representatives of iwi across the land serve to further marginalise poor and will take our places in the future and how blessings in your retirement in your come to share in the occasion. dispossessed whanau. prepared will they be to pick up the baton beloved Samoa. Our own Te Taha Maori members are John Key defended the way that TPPA and run with it? What are we doing to Kia piki te ora, kia mau tonu ki te part of the King's spiritual advisory group, details are negotiated behind closed doors secure our church's future? How are we whakapono, kia marie tonu to wa whakata.

Cheers for churches as chaplains To the editor, my part when I found my level of A theological perspective In moments of exhilaration I am given emotional energy insufficient to fully to the expression of the 'yahoo!' sound. engage in the internal working necessary on clerical sexual abuse As I read Trevor Hoggard's article to support the structure. By Anne Stephenson natures to protect children or the right to speak unlike the Churches as Chaplains in the August It became untenable for me to The heart of the Good outcomes of the relationship. powerless and the victim. edition of Touchstone, my small living News is that there is a God Society sanctions A bad shepherd will do continue and, with gestures on both sides, who cares about us, who marriage and signs that the everything to destroy the space resounded. my covenant was allowed to lapse. I identify with the universal Christian protects and who leads us. 'coupling' is socially 'other' if outed or if the 'other' church, and in particular with the ethos I applaud the sentiments Trevor That God is called the acceptable. This is a core begins to wake up to what of the Methodist faith stream. I hold in expressed and consider myself affirmed Good Shepherd, as is Jesus. understanding of a stable has happened. The pastoral high regard the people called Methodists because, with careful attention to my It is a relational image where society. tie is destroyed, often in its in this city. physical and emotional health, I the sheep are known and When a person has the fullest sense, i.e., the sacred Having served for some years in a endeavour to engage in unofficial ministry called by name. spiritual power of the trust and the relationship with outside of any formal structure. Ordination is seen as a shepherd, the time spent with God and Jesus have been covenanted ministry in an organised calling. The calling involves another can become broken. parish structure, it was with sadness on Heather Kelly, Invercargill building up the body of Christ grooming for a sexual The world calls people to be the Good Shepherd. So encounter. The parishioner is with a professional power to Facts from science, meaning from religion an ordained person is likely quite unaware that their recognise their 'fiduciary duty' To the editor, bulbs, and the stories and teachings in expected to relate to physical and emotional - their duty of care and this In regards to the letter titled, Look to the Bible enable me to see the world as parishioners in order to lead boundaries are being worn is never so crucial as it is for the Bible, Not to Science, in the July issue them forward for the sake of down. It is for the pastoral Christian ministers. 'Feed my God's world and to live in it as a child of the sheep, not for the sake of person to be self-aware sheep,' says Jesus. of Touchstone, I wonder if Geoffrey God. the shepherd. enough that this does not Jesus got angry at the Stubbs is confusing two separate issues In the end, it doesn't really matter how This relationship should happen or that they do not exploitation at the temple, a - the rise of science and a “falling away the earth or the universe or even assist people hear the voice see the sexualisation coming place people should be able from the faith”? multiverses were formed or originated. within themselves, where the until they are enmeshed. to go for prayer and The one is not necessarily a corollary What does matter, it seems to me, is how 'Kingdom of God' resides. When a leader sexualizes grounding their lives. There of the other. I live my life as a member of the immense Ordination is a sign that this a relationship, the joy and were many social ills of The Bible does not fail completely and varied commonwealth of life that person can lead in the bonding that comes about Jesus's day which he did not and utterly because its creation stories shepherding wisdom and cannot be recognized. If it is appear to get angry about. inhabits this planet so that all life is are told in different language and from a tradition. The relationship is hidden, the victim's deep Sexualization of the different perspective than those of our respected and valued. called a 'pastoral tie', and the natural feelings for bonding pastoral relationship is modern scientific understanding, or Scientific facts are one thing and the aim of the tie is for a person's can be distorted and seen as another exploitation. because our modern scientific spiritual and ethical values applied to spiritual development and the shameful for they cannot be We are raised with the understanding of the origins of life is those facts are surely far more important application of their faith for socially sanctioned as a images of the Good Shepherd predicated on more measurable, in the overall scheme of things. others' sake. couple or part of the fabric of and yet gloss over the images replicable, mathematical models than the This is where “an enthusiastic study The Kingdom of God is society. of the bad shepherd. within us. We are fed through Christian trust and ability Biblically they are pointed Biblical accounts. of the Holy Scriptures” together with an application of what we learn therein is so the Eucharist and scripture to grow is destroyed by out quite clearly, sometimes For example, science enables me to but most importantly by clerical abuse. It can destroy with the understanding of read the Bible at any time of day or night important. learning to listen to the voice a person's primary 'coupling' being 'hypocrites'. We are told with the aid of eco-friendly electric light Valerie Marshall, Christchurch of God within. to a spouse. This can bring to beware of the wolf in This relationship is open chaos to the victim. The sheep's clothing, i.e., what is to every man and woman. It Christian minister who has shown on the outside, is very Housing a bigger challenge is a gift that is ours. It is not gained the coupling rights by different to what is happening To the editor, such conditions face than we, as a Church, earned, not ours by good deceit has destroyed another's within. Amid the number of letters regarding appear to be. deeds but just ours because life but it seldom destroys It is always beholden of creation and evolution, I would like to we are graced with a their own. the called and the ordained, Would it not be a good venture for relationship with the Divine. If the Church forgets its to act in regard for the make a plea to the Church to consider a churches, individual ministers, and matter raised in the July 16th Listener. So what happens when a pastoral calling, it can all too pastoral calling of the Church. associations to purchase and refurbish a minister crosses the boundary easily become a game of The pastoral calling of the An article exposing the appalling state group of units or flats (or even build a line and sexualizes the power and status. Patterns of Church needs to take of the rental housing sector describes pastoral relationship? Sexual control and manipulation precedence over all other cold, damp rooms, unhygienic facilities, block) to provide dry, insulated and pleasant affordable accommodation? love entails feelings and become the norm. Yet the understandings of the Church. high rates of children's illnesses and hormones that create deep power to gossip and demean When the Church fails to hospital admissions, and high rents. I challenge people to read the article bonding and a 'coupling' of the other belongs to the be offended at clergy sexual I feel that Jesus would be more and this letter, and to respond. two people. This coupling is person with the most power, abuse, it has failed in its own concerned with the situation people in Jill Richards, Auckland deep enough for our given for the powerful often have calling. 6 TOUCHSTONE • SEPTEMBER 2015 NEWS AND VIEWS

HONEST TO GOD By Ian Harris God and the right to die well Some moral choices are and death now tussle with increasingly take responsibility for things hundreds, generation after generation. black and white - it's wrong religious convictions, that were once God's sole prerogative. We If we bring together concepts of God to lie, steal, assault or kill. individualist imperatives with decide whether and when to have children, as enhancer of life rather than its origin, Not always, though. those of community. and we intervene in natural processes to life as a gift of the planet finding fulfilment Confronting an enemy in “Isn't this my body? My cure disease, prolong life, and now, in community, and ever-increasing human war, most would probably life?” asked Seales. Sure, but perhaps, end it. The absolute sanctity of power, what do they suggest in relation to think it right to lie, steal, “my body, my life” are still life, rooted in God as the giver of life, is dying well (which is what euthanasia assault or kill - maybe not set within the context of a undermined by more human-oriented means)? right in an absolute sense wider community, and that notions of life's 'quality', 'dignity', First, life is an awe-inspiring privilege. but justified in the doesn't suddenly become 'autonomy' and 'freedom'. But our right to life is not a purely circumstances. Context irrelevant when someone is In my understanding it is we humans individual matter. Each life has meaning matters. afflicted by illness, despair who, for the best of reasons, create our only within the connectedness of personal The same applies to the debate on or decay. Quite the contrary, the community concepts of God. Over aeons, the creative relationships, without which we would euthanasia, which has been brought into and its resources can be well-springs of imagination has repeatedly generated a never be born, and of community, without focus anew by Wellington lawyer Lecretia support, compassion, healing and hope. supreme symbol for the highest values which we could never reach our potential. Seales' court plea to allow her doctor to Then there's God. In traditional people aspire to, one which touches all Second, the instinct and responsibility help her die should her suffering from theology, a God beyond created the they affirm as ultimate and brings a sense of doctors should always be to intervene cancer become unbearable. universe and everything in it, including of meaning, cohesion and purpose. The judge ruled the law allowed him each human life. God knows best, and As concepts of God change, so do on the side of life by relieving disease, no such jurisdiction, and Seales died before since life is God's gift, it is not for any people's attitudes to life itself. That effect pain and suffering. Palliative care must her worst fears were realised. But the issues lesser being to cut it short. That means a is magnified by our continually expanding surely be the default setting for the she raised about end-of-life choice grow blanket 'no' to euthanasia - not now, not knowledge about every aspect of life - terminally ill. more acute with every passing year. ever. physical, psychological, social, spiritual. Sadly, there are cases where that falls I see three underlying reasons for that: But that is not the only way to conceive This embraces the realisation that it is the short. Then the question becomes: What a secularising society, an evolving of God. In the modern world, it is more earth itself, through its processes of does love require in this unique situation? understanding of God, and a changing constructive to recognise God-talk as a evolution, that gave rise to all life, including Continued suffering when all hope is gone? perspective on life itself. very human way of probing life's deep our own. Or assistance to a gentler death? Secularisation colours everything. As questions of meaning, mystery and Indeed, the fact that any of us is alive If we answer yes to this last question, our culture loses the binding power of a purpose. Every culture and every at all is a miracle. Our individual then on whose say-so? By what criteria? shared religious consciousness which generation grapples with these. uniqueness is the end result of thousands With what safeguards? Christianity once gave, restraints that used As human knowledge expands, not of chance meetings and matings over This leads to the conclusion that helping to seem self-evident have weakened and only do old certainties about God seem 200,000 years, one spermatozoon among someone to die well must be a moral option grown blurry. Secular perspectives on life less convincing, but men and women billions fertilising one ovum among but only out of love, after all else has failed. Balance principles with wisdom Kirchentag - That we may become wise To the editor, What happens when an extremist uses Laurie Michie makes a very good the same freedoms to promote destructive By Pam and Arthur Davis point in arguing for the balance between philosophies such as racial hatred? Do This year the 35th German freedom and responsibility. Principles are we protect their freedom in the same Protestant Kirchentag was held not perfect and often come into conflict way? June 3-7 in Stuttgart. The with each other. Even in New Zealand we are familiar Kirchentag is a festival held Treating a principle as an absolute, with the destructive effects of the misuse every two years to address as was done in the case of the Charlie of freedom of expression in verbal theological, social and political Hebdo affair, often leads to destructive bullying, particularly using mobile themes. It has become an results. Tragically, the French government phones. exploited the catastrophe of the slaughter Principles are often a valuable guide international event that draws of the cartoonists to suppress criticism of to living, but wisdom is always required. religious and political leaders this extreme interpretation. Gray Southon, Tauranga from around the world. The slogan for 2015 Open doors to young people Kirchentag was from Psalm 90:12 - Damit wir klug warden Guests at the international reception. To the editor, be responsible for the style of the whole (That we may become wise). minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier. Kofi urged In the August edition of Touchstone worship service. More than 100,000 people took part in his listeners to free the world of conflict. His Rev Ikilifi Pope seeks reasons why young On White Sunday the children take Kirchentag but we were the only two from quiet, patient arguments to work for peace people and their families are leaving the the service but this happens under the New Zealand. The presence of young people, were greeted with a long standing ovation. Methodist Church in increasing numbers close oversight of the parents. for popular mass churches. I suggest the young be give a including 5,000 volunteers, created an Pam was impressed with philosopher I think one of the reasons is that the completely free hand in taking worship, atmosphere of vitality. Michael Sandel, who conducted an excellent elders do not give them a part to play in and hopefully the elders will take up some Before leaving New Zealand we received interactive session on what money can't buy. the service. I would encourage the idea of their innovations on other Sundays. a 620-page programme book in German but Pam also heard Amnesty International that once a month, young people should Rev Phil Taylor, Whangaparoa fortunately also a shorter version in English. secretary general Salil Shetty. He and human The task of choosing which events to go to rights advocate Alice Nkom from Cameroon was mind-boggling. spoke about the rights of lesbians and gays. We attended one of three opening services, What is happening in Cameroon is horrifying. which was followed by a welcome for Music played a big part in the festival. It international visitors. The day ended with was thrilling to be upstairs at one church candle-lit prayers turning the city centre into service looking down at composer John Bell a sea of light. playing the piano and leading the choir. Each day started with a range of Bible Music was the highlight of an Anglican Studies. John Bell, of the Iona Community, evensong service we attended. It included a challenged us about the taboo of not talking choir, soloist, trumpeter, and organist. about money, wealth and financial injustice. Brass bands are big in Germany and they • Only Church Groups can invest Brother Richard of the Taize Community performed in the streets. A brass band of expounded Matthew 25:1-13 in French but 4,000 accompanied the hymns at the final we had translation headsets and the Taize Sunday morning Eucharist. • Interest only and capital growth investments music was wonderful. Work has started for the next Kirchentag The list of speakers was impressive. in May, 2017. It will be held in Berlin but Arthur heard German Chancellor Angela there will be events in other places associated • Depositors select type of investment and term Merkel, herself the daughter of a Protestant with the life of Martin Luther. It will be the pastor. She took part in a debate about the 500th anniversary year of the Reformation. opportunities and responsibilities of the digital Thanks to the Methodist Church of New • Income distributions may be paid out or compounded age. She recalled Luther's words relating to Zealand for making our attendance at the invention of printing: that every generation Kirchentag possible. At a formal gathering had to develop its own wisdom. we mingled with people who seemed amazed Arthur also heard former secretary general we had travelled so far to come to this festival. of the United Nations Kofi Annan, who shared It was well worth it! the platform with the Bishop of Leeds Rt Pam and Arthur attend Waiwhetu Uniting Rev Nick Baines and former German foreign Church, Lower Hutt. TOUCHSTONE • SEPTEMBER 2015 7 NEWS AND VIEWS Sharing hard lessons across the Tasman By Cory Miller New Zealand and Australia share a similar tales of colonisation. The indigenous people of both lands have stories that speak of the challenges brought by new comers with their different way of talking, thinking and living. New Zealand continues to work towards redressing Maori grievances but we have made some positive steps, including the recognition of the Maori language as a national language. In Australia, there is a growing recognition of indigenous rights but the Aboriginal people remain excluded from the country's constitution. In both the New Zealand Methodist Church, and the Uniting Church of Australia, indigenous Brian McLaren challenges Christians to take another look at the Bible. people and other cultural minorities have been given a stronger voice. Just as MCNZ has Te Taha Maori and ethnic synods, the Uniting Church has the Christians dancing Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian congress. Rex Nathan presented a wakahuia and kete to the Aboriginal people at the Uniting Church to a 21st century tune Given these similar multi-cultural journeys, Australia General Assembly in Perth. church leaders from both sides of the Tasman By David Hill attempts to tell the story of the Bible in has started a dialogue that will look at the leaders,” Rex says. Touchstone writer David Hill 52 short chapters. Each chapter is issues indigenous groups face within the church The Uniting Church has a growing attended a cafe evening with American designed to be read aloud in 10 minutes. and the wider society. relationship with the Aboriginal community theologian Brian McLaren in He describes it as a fresh, new way of Christchurch last month. Here is his telling the Bible story. Former Methodist Church president Rev and is striving for greater recognition of the Rex Nathan and current president, Rev Tovia report. “I thought about how would we tell indigenous group within Australia's Brian McLaren is keen to get the story knowing what we know now? Aumua met with Aboriginal church leaders in constitution. Perth earlier this year to start off the evangelical and liberal Christians What are the themes we would track But Stuart acknowledged during the conversation. dancing to a new tune. through the story? Rex and Tovia were there in July for the assembly more work is needed to engage the The American author visited New “People have such different Uniting Church of Australia's 14th Assembly. Aboriginal community. Zealand last month on his 'Dancing to approaches, so I couldn't keep everybody They spoke with the church leaders about the “As a Church we have recognized a New Tune' speaking tour. He brought happy.” work being done in regard to incorporating indigenous peoples. Now we need to think his own brand of intellectual Christianity Brian does not shy away from the indigenous groups and cultural minorities about how we take that further,” he said. “We designed to challenge and spark a deeper violence and genocide portrayed in the within the church. need to have that conversation. and wider conversation about Christian Bible. faith in the 21st century. “In the aftermath of September 2001 Tovia says the Australian leaders were If we recognise First People as sovereign, interested in how we dealt with the indigenous Brian comes from a fundamentalist we are being faced with the violence in what does that mean? It is not just about saying evangelical Christian background but our past and with extremism today. We community in New Zealand, given they were the words, it's about what that means for the in the early stages of setting up a working has thought outside the square from a used to justify a lot of violence. Few way we engage with one another, the way we relationship with the indigenous community young age. He once told his pastor that Christians understand that today.” in the church. deal with property, and all those things.” if the universe was not big enough for Today people are posing such “The main purpose of the meeting was to Rex hopes through future meetings, the both God and evolution, he would questions as Did Moses really exist? Did learn from us, our structure, history and our Australian church can learn from New choose evolution. Exodus really happen? And people can bi-cultural journey.” Zealand's own bi-cultural journey and how it's His published works include such do their own historical research on the Rex says he had met with the Uniting established itself as a multi-cultural church. provocative titles as 'Why did Jesus, Internet. Christians need to address this, Church's current president, Stuart Macmillan, While a formal relationship is yet to be Moses, the Buddha and Mohammed Brian says. Cross the Road?' (2012) and 'Naked Terms such as 'kingdom of God', and was impressed by his work with the established, Rex hopes the initial meeting will Aboriginal communities in the Northern Spirituality' (2011). 'heaven', 'Son of Man', 'saved', 'salvation' turn into something more long-term. Last year Brian published 'We Make and 'Christ' are difficult for people to Territories. “Let's see how we can support and learn “I went to begin to talk as to how we can the Road by Walking', in which he fully understand in our 21st century from each other.” best exchange ideas with other indigenous world, Brian says. “A lot of people think Christ was Jesus' last name but actually it means ST NINIAN'S KARORI 100 Year Messiah and it's not easy to define what it actually means in today's terms.” Celebration Brian says probably the closest OPPORTUNITY definition is to anoint or smear with oil, FOR MINISTRY 17 & 18 OCTOBER, 2015. which seems strange to many young people today. In the context of ancient The Methodist Parish of TE Palestine it meant anointing Jesus as a St Ninian's is a uniting parish (Presbyterian AWAMUTU, PIRONGIA and and Methodist) situated in the heart of king, which was a revolutionary idea, Karori, Wellington's largest suburb. It is a OTOROHANGA will celebrate as there was already a king. warm, friendly and inclusive church. 100 years of worship in the Salvation, Brian says, derives from Our vision is more children and adults growing present historic building in a word in the book of Exodus “which has nothing to do with what happens in faith and having a life-long relationship Bank Street, Te Awamutu. after you die, but what happens while with God. Saturday afternoon informal gathering time, you live”. Salvation or being saved is We are seeking a minister (or ministers) to sharing memories in the church hall from about “liberation from evil”. assist us reach out and engage with the 1.30pm onwards. “We are all in the process of being community in new ways. A light afternoon tea will be served. liberated and the challenge is to join This is a collective challenge that will require Sunday 10am church service followed by a with God in working for the liberation energy, passion, courage and compassion. catered lunch. ($30 per person) of others.” To Register please contact: While some Christians read the Bible Enquiries by 30 Sept to Rev. Paul Prestidge: Mrs Chris Astridge 517 Puniu Rd, literally and others see contradictions, [email protected] Te Awamutu 3800. Email: [email protected] Brian prefers to see the Bible as a library, or phone 027 575 8892. Or leave a message at parish “a collection of documents that show office on 07 871 5376 an evolution of arguments”. 8 TOUCHSTONE • SEPTEMBER 2015 NEWS & VIEWS

GREG HUGHSON Who is the greatest? REFLECTS ON JESUS AND CHILDREN During September, the Lectionary with each other who was the greatest (Mark to be the defining characteristic of girls and one-in-seven boys experience invites us to journey with Jesus through 9:34). greatness. Great followers of Jesus live abuse before the age of 15. ancient Palestine, according to the Gospel It seems they did not think Jesus would lives characterised by self-denial, humility NZ is also in the top six for youth of Mark. approve of such an argument. They were and servanthood. suicide, youth unemployment and teenage Jesus heals the daughter of an right. But Jesus did not condemn them. This is the way of Christ. Picture Jesus pregnancy. One-in-seven children go to appropriately assertive Syrophonecian Rather, he took advantage of this teachable holding a child in his arms and referring school without breakfast, 40 percent under woman (Mark 7:24-29), and he heals a moment. He sat down, called the 12, and to the child. Hold this image in your mind the age of 17 binge drink to get drunk once deaf man (Mark 7:31-37). Continuing on said to them “Whoever wants to be first as you reflect on what it means for you to a week. his journey with his disciples to the villages must be last of all and servant of all.” be a follower of Jesus today. The mission focus of our Church is to of Caesarea Philippi, Jesus asks his Then he took a little child and put the We follow a Lord and Saviour who let the children live. And not only to live, disciples “Who do you say that I am?” child in among them; and taking the child sincerely welcomes children, and invites but to be warmly welcomed, nourished, He foretells his death and resurrection in his arms he said to his disciples, us to do the same. Jesus is indeed the protected, and affirmed. (Mark 8:31) and teaches that if anyone “Whoever welcomes one such child in my children's saviour, the children's friend. In During September, and on into the wants to follow him they will need to be name, welcomes me, and whoever developing the capacity to be welcoming future may we remember and live out this prepared to deny themselves and take up welcomes me, welcomes not me but the and supportive of children, we become teaching of Jesus “Whoever welcomes one their cross, as pre-requisites of discipleship one who sent me,” (Mk 9:37). truly great and loving people. such child in my name welcomes me, and (Mark 8:34). The teaching of Jesus in response to The children and young people in our whoever welcomes me, welcomes not me In Capernaum, Jesus asks his disciples the question 'Who is the greatest?' is to nation desperately need our love and but the one who sent me.” When we what they were arguing about on the way, reframe greatness as servanthood. support. Of the OECD countries, NZ is in sincerely welcome, embrace, love and but they are silent because they had argued Servanthood, for the followers of Jesus is the top six for child abuse. One-in-four support children, we know God's presence.

CONNECTIONS

Make room for the wisdom of the old By Jim Stuart My mother was did. I have forgotten what happened but that does not work as well as it once did. sustain one father.” fiery woman of my mother was very angry. She began to I now find that I can take nothing for I am very aware that I am moving into Irish descent. Her lecture him. Nick was in his final year at granted in life. Every day comes as a gift that phase myself, and I want to remind father was a dentist high school. Tall and strong, he walked of grace and the challenge is to make my the church of the wealth of wisdom and from County Cork over and picked her up. Lifting her off the way through it. insight to be gained from listening to the who moved to the floor, he said, “Now Mom, calm down”. Thanks to medical advances, more old. This is something Pakeha need to USA. The family This of course made her even angrier. people are growing older and living longer. learn from Maori and Pacific cultures. settled in Freeland, At the time she must have been The speed at which change is happening With many churches made up of older Pennsylvania where humiliated but she quickly returned to often means we fall further behind and the people, it is something we can share with he set up business and became a well- form. gap between generations grows wider. others. We can show the wider community known local citizen. Looking back today, I now understand Where will we find the wisdom needed how to value and include everyone, making Only four foot eleven inches tall with what she was trying to tell us. When we to live in a world where instability is sure that every person is valued and bright red hair my mother was formidable. are young and fit and have a whole life to becoming more evident in political, respected. As Heschel reminds us: My father died young and she was left to look forward to, it is hard to imagine what economic and environmental spaces? The Old have a vision, manage alone. The owners of the business old age is like. It is easy to ignore the The Jewish theologian Abraham The Old have a dream for which my father worked had raided wisdom older people gained from years Heschel observed half a century ago: It takes three things to attain a sense of the pension fund, leaving little for my of hard work, raising families and being “What we owe the old is reverence, but significant being: widowed mother. part of a community. all they ask for is consideration, attention, God In her later years she often reminded As the years go by, we discover it is and not to be discarded and forgotten. A Soul my two brothers and me that “Old age isn't not as easy as we thought it would be when What they deserve is preference, yet we And a Moment for wusses”. we were young. A new kind of wisdom do not even grant them equality. One father And the three are always there I still have memories of her losing her emerges, born out of our life experiences finds it possible to sustain a dozen children, Just to be is a blessing. temper over something my brother Nick and tempered by the challenges of a body yet a dozen children find it impossible to Just to live is holy.

By Robyn Daniels WANTED - big ideas for small churches UCANZ Administrative Assistant Spring is in the air. The sun is place? Are our Partners helping us to Not many are in the under 25 age be hosting us for the occasion. shining, magnolias in the Botanical be the face of God in our group, and this means that somewhere The business of Uniting Gardens are flowering, and the birds communities? along the line we have not been Congregations includes electing a new Are we working with other local successful at succession planning, were singing when I walked down Standing Committee. This will be the hill to catch the bus this morning. churches in our area to help support which is the 'in thing' for Lions Clubs The sun had even come up from people in our communities who are (at least the one I belong to) to at the conducted on Thursday evening. The behind the hill that shades the bus less able to help themselves? Is moment. events on Friday and Saturday are stop in the middle of winter at 8:00 Uniting Congregations of Aotearoa We will soon be discussing these open for anyone. You do not need to a.m. New Zealand issues and other be a member of a Cooperative The sunshine made everything the ecumenical ideas at St Marks Venture. seem better and the fact that I had organisation it Church, Woburn If you have an interest in smaller started out to Road, Lower Hutt. washed our breakfast dishes in the churches and would like to attend, tub in the laundry did not seem so be? What about This is where bad, especially because I know my our youth? What Uniting come and join us. There is a new kitchen is in our garage. Soon about our rural Congregations registration form on the Uniting the empty room with holes in the walls communities? Biennial Forum will Congregations website and wires hanging around will be What about our diverse cultures? be held from 15-18 October 2015. www.ucanz.org.nz. transformed into a sparkling new I don't have the answers to any of 'Big Ideas for smaller churches' is As spring brings new growth and kitchen with shiny new appliances these questions but I am putting the the theme for Forum and it will give transformation and my kitchen is statistical data that local churches have attendees an opportunity to hear and a Ferrari-red splashback behind being transformed, will we find spring, the hob. recently completed into my computer, interesting speakers, attend workshops Is spring in the air for Uniting and I see that local churches are that will address some of the issues new growth and transformations for Congregations? Are we about to see generally quite small. In some a raised above, and enjoy cultural Uniting Congregations? Will we be some new growth, new ideas significant number of members are in entertainment from members of Hutt inspired to find new ways of being emerging of ways to be church in our the 65+ age group. City Uniting Congregations who will church in our communities? Trinity Methodist Theological College T 09 521 2073 • E [email protected]

Trinity College students in Nuku'alofa for Tongan Methodist Conference (from left) Trinity College students Sekope Moli (left) and Moimoi Kaufononga Sione Tapueluelu, Ika Vea, Makelesi Ngata, Dorothy Vaipulu, and Paula Moala. (right), with former Free Wesleyan Church president Rev Dr Alifeleti Mone inside Centennial Church. Trinity students experience Tongan Conference The 2015 Conference of the Free were able to attend both, however. practices of the Tongan Methodist Church The Trinity College delegation led one of the Wesleyan Church in Tonga was a momentous The Trinity College delegation of 22 students without realising that the church back in Tonga Conference services and sang a hymn at one given that it took place just after the was led by Rev Val Nicholls, Rev Siosifa Pole has moved on. morning devotions at Centenary Church. coronation of the King Tupou VI. A delegation and the student leader Rev Moimoi Kaufononga. “Along with exposure to the Tongan Church, Nasili says the College received an invitation of Trinity College students was fortunate “The idea behind the visit was for Trinity's the trip helped strengthen the bonds amongst from the general secretary of the Tongan enough to attend the Conference. Tongan students to observe how the Methodist the Trinity College students. I hope that College's Conference to attend whenever they want to in Students paid their own way to attend the Church in Tonga conducts its conference Fijian and Samoan students will do the same.” future. The students were also given permission Conference and Trinity College principal Rev Dr meetings, and to evaluate what works for Methodist Church of NZ president Rev Tovia to attend all Conference sessions including Nasili Vaka'uta says the initial plan was for the Vahefonua ministry here in New Zealand,” Nasili Aumua and Nasili presented a koha to the Free ministerial sessions. group to attend the coronation and conference. says. Wesleyan Church Conference, which was “Overall, it was a good experience for the The high cost of travel meant only some students “The Vahefonua tends to keep some received by the president, Rev Dr 'Ahio. group and planning for future trips has begun.” Meet Sikeli Cawanikawai New courses, new lecturers Candidate for Methodist ministry Sikeli regretted it.” Cawanikawai is a telecommunication Studying at Trinity College has greatly heading to Trinity College technician who immigrated to New Zealand broadened Sikeli's views and understanding of To match changes in New Zealand's “We will apply to deliver that Diploma from Fiji in 2008. the contextual applications of Church culture. “I was recruited as a skilled “My greatest challenge at qualifications structure Trinity College with strands in our four programme areas.” migrant to work on the upgrade present is to balance my staff are adding new teaching positions Nasili says in addition to the Diploma of Telecom's networks. I was spiritual journey, studies and and working hard to finalise the study in Christian Studies, there will be two based in Wellington and attended work. I am trying my best to programmes for 2016. additional qualifications. Wesley Wellington Methodist make the most out of them and Trinity College principal Rev Dr Nasili One is a Level 5 Diploma in Methodist Church in Taranaki Street before control the gap between my Vaka'uta says the NZ Qualifications Authority Studies with endorsements in Children and I shifted up to Auckland in 2014. outer life and the inner reality.” has reviewed qualifications, members of Youth Ministry, Diaconal Ministry, Women's I now attend the Pitt Street Sikeli hopes to graduate this the Christian Theological and Ministries Ministry and Methodist Leadership. Methodist Fijian Congregation,” year with a Licentiate in Ministry Education Society (CTMES) are now allowed The other programme is a Level 7 he says. Studies (LIMS) and a Diploma only five qualifications at the Certificate and Advanced Diploma in Religious Studies. It Sikeli began his ministry in Practical Theology. He wants Diploma Levels. is designed to cater for professional training when he was in to continue his studies to gain Wellington. He had a placement an Advanced Diploma in “We will revise our staffing model to development and to create an alternative for a year at Taranaki Street then Religious Studies. match the programme structure. We intend pathway to university studies. Trinity College was at Tawa Union Church for a year and a half. “I now understand that my coming to to have at least one full-time lecturer in staff will approach a university that runs “As the son of a clergyman, my curiosity Aotearoa was not only to work in the each of the four areas of the new Religious Studies to benchmark and endorse about spirituality drove me to study at Trinity telecommunications industry but also to serve programme structure - Biblical Studies, this Level 7 programme. College. the Church and to continue the good work my Pastoral Studies, Theological Studies and “The details for each programme will “I am married and have four adult children. late father started. I am grateful to be able to Maori Studies,” Nasili says. be finalised soon and will be sent to all My wife still lives in Wellington with our daughter serve the Church in teaching the Good News. “Because all of our courses and synods for feedback and comments. We and son, and I live in Auckland with my other “My work as a telecommunications programmes are expiring, we are required expect to have everything ready for the two sons.” to submit an application to provide beginning of 2016 enrolment on 1st “When I applied to Trinity College in 2010, technician has taken me to many places in Fiji, principal Rev Dr David Bell described me as New Zealand and Australia. I have longed to programmes and for accreditation. The October,” Nasili says. someone who just came up and knocked on return to some of those places, not as a newly approved qualification from NZQA is More details will be uploaded to Trinity the door of the College. I was fortunate enough technician but to connect as a changed person a New Zealand Diploma in Christian Studies College's new website which will be that the door was opened. I believe that I have spreading the Good News of the Gospel. I have with strands in various areas. launched soon. knocked on the right door and have never vowed to do this for the rest of my life.”

COLLEGE WORSHIP BS512 - READING THE BIBLE IN AOTEAROA AND OCEANIA Sunday 13th September, Trinity College, Meadowbank 19th - 23rd October, Trinity St Johns College, Meadowbank. This paper explores PT512 - LIVING OUR FAITH IN AOTEAROA AND OCEANIA alternative ways to read the Bible in Oceania. Students will be given an 13th - 17th September, Trinity St Johns College, Meadowbank. This paper is an exploration orientation to hermeneutics, development in biblical interpretation, and the of the development of Te Haahi Weteriana o Aotearoa with a particular focus on the various modes of contextual hermeneutics. That will allow them to have a basic establishment of the Bi-Cultural Journey, Connexionalism, and agents of change. understanding of the hermeneutical task and its requirements. College 2016 ENROLMENTS Snippets If you would like to attend any of these Open on the 1st October 2015 and will close on the 5th December. block courses, please email [email protected]. For an application form contact [email protected]. 10 TOUCHSTONE • SEPTEMBER 2015 AROUND THE CONNEXION Methodist Missions move Wesley Broadway says it is fun to get messy closer to national alliance For the past six months The members of Methodist Missions managers of other faith-based services. Palmerston North's Wesley Aotearoa have held a workshop to map out how There is widespread support for a formal Broadway Church has been they will achieve their proposed national alliance that would enhance the effectiveness of running Messy Church as a way alliance. each Mission and increase their visibility and to connect with families who An alliance would provide Methodist social influence. normally wouldn't come to church. services a louder voice and greater capacity to Themes that have emerged from the The initiative is about carry out their work but still allow them to retain discussions include: their independence to provide services appropriate • The need to have a clear national identity or establishing relationships rather than to their own communities. 'brand' alongside local brands. the 'things' we do as church. Since In addition to the Missions in the major cities • The importance of retaining a strong Methodist it started the number of people the group has expanded to include representatives ethos of social justice and a strong link between attending has grown steadily. of Tamahere Home, Hamilton Methodist City words and deeds. Messy Church is held once a Action and Palmerston North Methodist Social • Support for a stronger national voice and position month early on a Friday evening. Services. on social and development issues. The evening starts with activities • The advantages of having greater collective Currently each Mission has a governing board based on a Bible theme such as that guides and oversees the work and direction influence in government. • The need to define clear benefits for clients, Joseph, Jonah and Jesus walking on of the mission. Methodist Missions Aotearoa communities and Missions. the water. (MMA) links the services together and can review • The ability of Missions to retain their autonomy There are games and craft the performance of each Mission. to fulfil their cultural roles within agreed activities for about an hour. Then Conference 2013 recognised that the Missions standards of practice. everyone heads down to the worship are no longer parishes. Some of them are run by • An opportunity to share resources and expertise Messy Church at Wesley centre for stories, music and plays Broadway includes activities, directors who are not ordained ministers, and are between Missions to improve their effectiveness stories, and food. overseen by boards rather parish councils. This and manage costs. based on the same theme. is now reflected in the Methodist Law Book. • An opportunity to develop better relationships After this comes the most how things went and to plan the MMA acting chair John Murray says the laws between parishes and Missions important part of Messy Church - theme of the next one. and regulation also need to be redrafted to reflect The next step is for MMA to prepare a report the meal! This is a wonderful time A number of adults who don't the nature of the Methodist social services. for Conference 2015 which sets out a pathway of fellowship with everyone around have families have also joined in John says the discussion is now moving away forward. This will include setting out the goals tables, chatting and enjoying the with Messy Church because they from a focus on big city missions to emphasise of an alliance, how it would work, and what it food that is provided by a great like to play a grandparent role. well-resourced, accountable local services linked would need to be effective, and developing an bunch of people in the kitchen. The concept of Messy Church together through common goals and shared implementation programme. A different team is responsible started in the UK and now has support structures. John Murray says MMA members are pleased for each of the three parts that make spread through 18 countries and MMA consultant Lester Wolfreys has that many people have made comments which discussed a more formal alliance with the directors have provided valuable perspectives. MMA up Messy Church - activities, continues to grow. and chairs of all the Missions, and with leaders welcomes further input and comments and these worship and meal. These tasks are The notion behind it is that of Te Taha Maori, Sinoti Samoa, Vahefonua will receive full consideration during the shared around and we always get a everyone from two to 92 likes to Tonga, and the Methodist Connexion. He has formulation phase that will produce a proposal great bunch of volunteers to help. have fun, learn something about the also met with senior government officials and to Conference in November. After each Messy Church the Bible and enjoy each other's team leaders get together and share company in an informal setting.

Support Methodist Poverty steals Missions Every child has a right to a from Kiwi kids good start in life. All our kids need a fair go so they can flourish and become good citizens. Creating ‘Cycles of Hope’ is Volunteers from Lindisfarne Methodist Church make Friday Club happen. the work of your Methodist Missions. Clubbing in Invercargill We do this every day by By Raewyn Birss Two teams of adult volunteer working with families and Invercargill Methodist Parish helpers from the Church make has a Friday Club that is a twist Friday Club happen. One team children who need extra on what we normally think of as works with the children on their support. clubbing. activities in the multi-purpose room, Friday Club takes place once a and the other prepares and serves month during the school term on a the meal. A donation or bequest can Friday evening. It is a social group The intention of the programme originally designed for children is to develop children's confidence help Methodist Missions aged 9 to 11 years. and interactions with others of all Aotearoa make a lasting As it has gained in popularity ages. It provides the opportunity to younger children have asked to difference to New Zealand sit down at a table, use cutlery and come along and older children want converse with adults and other families. to continue, sometimes as helpers. children. We do not turn anyone away. Most children come from lower They love the variety of food decile schools which have we provide and especially pudding. developed a close association with There are lots of 'Can we please Lindisfarne Church through have some more?' and the answer Storyroom, another programme held is always 'Yes!' at the church. The children are asked for a gold Friday Club usually attracts coin donation towards the cost of from 15 to 30 young people on any the meal and activities and the one night. remaining costs are subsidised by The programme lasts about two the church. hours and can include stories, We are very grateful for the For more information contact the chairperson of Methodist Mission Aotearoa, Michael Greer games, and craft activities, which support of the Let the Children Live 12A Stuart Street, Levin 5510 • P 06 368 0386 • 021 632 716 • E [email protected] are followed by a sit-down two- project, which helps us sustain and course meal. develop the programme further. TOUCHSTONE • SEPTEMBER 2015 11 AROUND THE CONNEXION Tuvalu's battle with climate change By Cory Miller unpredictable weather patterns With its highest point a mere damage crops, and invade their four metres above sea level, natural fresh-water supplies with Tuvalu is at risk of becoming salt water.” the Pacific's own Atlantis as The impact of climate change climate change and global has become a pointed reality for warming cause sea levels to rise. the 12,000 people scattered across While the submerged island the three reef islands and six atolls of Atlantis is confined to mythical that make up Tuvalu's 26 square folklore, Tuvalu's experience of kilometres of land. They are an ever-rising sea level is very lashed by the unpredictable much a reality. The small weather patterns, rising sea-levels archipelago, in the Pacific Ocean and the increasingly frequent, midway between Hawaii and violent storms. Rev Tafua Lusama says other Pacific nations are also threatened by climate Australia, is at risk of being “We are looking at the end of change. completely submerged within the our life as a people,” Tafua says. next century. “Land is the only thing we can problematic given there is no Its plight was shared during pass onto our children so they international convention in place a Tuvaluan church leader's recent can live sustainably. to protect the rights of such Unpredictable and more violent weather is making life on Tuvalu difficult. tour of New Zealand, organised “We have to adapt our refugees. by a number of NGOs and church traditional skills on how to fish, “Tuvaluans need a place to communities apart with more TEAR Fund education and groups in their efforts to raise and where to plant, because of belong, otherwise they risk force than ever.” advocacy manager Dr Murray awareness of the impact of the unpredictable weather becoming a homeless, roaming Tafua hopes that sharing Sheard says climate change climate change on our smaller patterns we are facing.” people on the face of the planet.” Tuvalu's story will garner threatens to inhibit or even undo Pacific neighbours. Tafua says it wasn't as simple While Tafua is speaking on attention that will turn into action. progress made in aid and General secretary of the as re-locating to another land. behalf of his people, he also “I'm very privileged to present development in the Pacific. Christian Church of Tuvalu and “It's not just about the land. draws attention to the plight of you our story, of my people and “It's an injustice because the other low-lying nations in the other low-lying countries in the founder of the Pacific Islands It is about the loss of our identity. people most at risk contribute Pacific. hope it will ripple into action,” Climate Action Network, Rev We cannot create a country, least to the problem,” Murray Tafua Lusama, says his people's within a country.” “The sea-level rises and he says. way of life and their very identity The experience of refugees changes to crops and fisheries are “We can't sit back and look says. is at significant risk if nothing is in other nations around the world not unique to Tuvalu alone. They at our big brother turning its back “For Christians it's a spiritual done. shows just how challenging it can are happening across the Pacific,” on us. We need to tap on the crisis because we need to discover “We live a sustainable be to try to make a new life in a he says. “We are seeing increased shoulder of New Zealand to look new ways of living that honour lifestyle,” Tafua says. “This very foreign land. For climate change suffering in our homelands as back at us and do more, than what the world gifted to us rather than lifestyle is being threatened as refugees this could be more storms such as Cyclone Pam tear it is doing now.” depleting and polluting it.” Future of Woodend church hangs in the balance By David Hill other funding sources may be local Anglicans and combine The future of an historic available. resources in developing the St Woodend Church hangs in the Parishioner Evelyn Wilson Barnabas Church site. balance due to the cost of says she hopes a way forward “My first priority would be earthquake repairs. can be found in partnership with forming a co-operative parish, as The 104-year-old brick the community. I'm an ecumenist. But another Woodend Methodist Church is “It could be restored as a option would be a shared building one of only four buildings in the community building. We arrangement. town with heritage status. The envisaged from the beginning, “The Methodists have a congregation faces a hefty $1.3 after the September 2010 proud history in the area. Today, million bill to strengthen and earthquake, that it could be however, the community doesn't restore it to its former glory. restored for performing arts.” recognise denominations, but Rangiora-Woodend Philo says one option is to rather effective churches.” Methodist minister Rev Philo establish a community trust, Woodend Anglican vicar Kinera says some money for the where the local community takes Lynnette Lightfoot says she Woodend Methodist Church members (from left) Rev Barry Harkness, work is available from insurance ownership of the building in would welcome a shared site Rev Philo Kinera, Evelyn Wilson and Greta Vis. and other funding sources but the partnership with the church. The arrangement. Her parish is small congregation is still facing congregation's alternative is to already exploring options for a shortfall of up to $500,000. demolish the church and extending the church building, Before making a final redevelop the hall. Sing a which would make it possible for decision on the building's future, The Methodist Church has two church services to be held at the congregation called a had a presence in Woodend since New Zealand Song! the same time. community meeting to discuss 1858, when several families Retired minister and options for the building's future. arrived in the area and established Woodend Methodist parishioner Four collections of hymns, songs Waimakariri mayor David a Methodist school. and carols: Ayers is a member of the Parishioner John Harris says Rev Barry Harkness says there Rangiora-Woodend parish and the first church services were have been past attempts for the Alleluia Aotearoa (1993) serves on the Methodist Church's held in private residences until a two congregations to work Carol our Christmas (1996) national property committee. wooden church building was built together in the past but they have David says turnout for meeting on the present site in 1864 at a not worked out. Faith Forever Singing (2000) was “not huge”. cost of £1050. It was replaced by Philo says the Methodists Hope is our Song (2009) “What can the community the brick building in 1911. have a commitment to their site Also: Six CDs, choral and karaokes. do? You can't have enough cake Former Rangiora-Woodend to look after the cemetery. stalls to raise that sort of money Methodist minister Rev Brian For more information about Further Information/Orders: - although those are important.” Turner now lives up the road in the Woodend Methodist Church Either: NZ Hymnbook Trust Website: www.hymns.org.nz David has contacted Heritage Waikuku. Brian believes the contact Or: Epworth Books: Freephone 0800 755 355 New Zealand to enquire what parish should negotiate with the [email protected]. 12 TOUCHSTONE • SEPTEMBER 2015 CWS UN aims high for Steps towards reconciliation in Sri Lanka global development Critical parlimentary election strengthened President The United Nations is due to Sirisena and his allies in Sri adopt a major plan for sustainable Lanka last month. development when the General A campaign by former Assembly meets later this month. president Mahinda Rajapaksa At the core of the agreement are to return as prime minister was 17 Sustainable Development Goals defeated at the polls. The high (SDGs) that seek to eradicate all turnout has given Prime forms of poverty by 2030. The new Minister Wickremesinghe a goals and their 169 targets will frame mandate for reconciliation. the global development agenda and He opposed Rajapaksa's provide fresh momentum under the policies that increased ethnic banner Leave No One Behind. tensions and human rights The SDGs present a list of 169 violations. In a country divided targets that aim to eradicate global by decades of war, there is hope poverty. Unlike the earlier for further steps towards peace Millennium Development Goals, and more space for civil society. A refugee in South Sudan. The more moderate Sirisena they are universal. All countries are Conflict is a major obstacle to social development in many is expected to take further steps expected to set their own targets and parts of the world. to strengthen democracy and priorities under these headline goals. agreed 15 years ago at the UN. The promote good governance Christian World Service national first MDG goal was to halve poverty according to one of Christian director Pauline McKay says that in in developing countries but the new In July Tamil and Sinhala working women enjoyed a cultural World Service's partners. He many countries the government, civil goals reach across geographic and exchange in Koggala. Photo courtesy of The Women's Centre. will also need to respond to the society and business leaders have economic divides. The New Zealand report from the United Nations Koggala. Tamil and Sinhala network of small farmer already begun the process but in New government will set its own goals High Rights Council critical on factory workers value this organisations and advocates Zealand the conversation has barely and report to the UN. war crimes due next month. opportunity to learn about each sustainable agricultural practices started. In 2000 the UN adopted the Rajapaksa's government other's cultural traditions. and policies that are good for “Officials from the Ministry of MDGs with measurable indicators to defeated the Liberation Tigers There are few income the farmer and the land. Foreign Affairs and Trade have been monitor progress on poverty and of Tamil Eelam or Tamil Tigers earning opportunities after They are planning a 'seed involved in negotiations overseas but hunger, education, gender equality, in 2009. During his nine year decades of war, and women are and food sovereignty' caravan the debate needs to come home.” health, environmental sustainability presidency he promoted coming to the free trade zones to promote an alternative seed CWS supports the efforts of the and global partnerships. nationalist politics at the for work. policy, and to prevent and treat Council for International There have been significant expense of the Tamil and The Women's Centre kidney disease which is linked Development, which has played a achievements under the MDG. The Muslim populations. He could provides crucial health and to heavy chemical use. leading role in debate so far. number of people living in extreme now face corruption charges as education services and it is Monlar wants to see a “The first goal is to end poverty poverty has halved - from 1.9 billion there are allegations he siphoned campaigning against the complete ban on all agro- in all its forms everywhere. New in 1990 to 836 million in 2015. millions of dollars while in violence and exploitation many chemicals and policy reforms Zealand will sign up and it is up to Worldwide maternal mortality has office. may face. They are also helping that benefit small farmers. They us to make sure that we meet our declined by 45 percent and 2.1 million Over many years CWS women in the north and east are planning street theatre, obligations, here and overseas. people have access to improved partners have worked hard to find income earning leafleting, puppet shows, Focusing on economic growth is no sanitation. build understanding between opportunities at home. workshops and seminars to guarantee of attaining this goal. We But progress has been uneven. different groups within Sri Another CWS partner, highlight the need to protect the need to confront the power interests Many of the world's poorest countries Lanka. Monlar is hopes there will be rights of small farmers to water, that keep people poor,” Pauline says. have made few gains. According to In July the Women's Centre more opportunities to participate seeds, and land security and The SDGs follow on from the the UN conflict is the biggest threat organised a cultural exchange in policy making under the new their right to say how the food eight Millennium Development Goals to development. amongst women workers in government. Monlar is a they eat is grown. Send students back to school

Rod Oram Seven decades of work Christian World Service has worked for 70 years to help people in need and build a fairer world. To mark the anniversary business journalist and prominent Anglican Rod Oram will address the theme: 'How your small change makes big change'. Rod will speak in Christchurch at the PLEASE DONATE NOW Transitional Cathedral at 6:30pm on October 13 and at St Matthew's in the City in Auckland Fighting on their doorstep left Maridi schools without books and furniture. at 5:30pm on October 29. CWS national director Pauline McKay says If you would like to help, please donate to our South Sudan Appeal. for 70 years the Christmas Appeal has funded local community groups making change happen CREDIT CARD Phone 0800 74 73 72 or online www.cws.org.nz/donate in their communities. DIRECT DEPOSIT Name of Account: Christian World Service “This is an opportunity to tell our story. Account number: ANZ 06 0817 0318646 00, ref: South Sudan Appeal. You are warmly invited to attend the lecture Email postal details to [email protected] if you would like a tax receipt. and bring your friends,” says. POST Christian World Service, PO Box 22652 Christchurch 8140 The 70th CWS Christmas Appeal will be launched this year on Advent Sunday. TOUCHSTONE • SEPTEMBER 2015 13

A humble giant who is aiming high By Filo Tu “the old man” told him that he could no With a metabolism that isn't When you meet Atunaisa Moli you longer play rugby because education was easily quenched, Atunaisa are confronted with a smile and more important, that Atunaisa eased into snickers at the thoughts of a infectious laugh. his natural reflexes of balancing the two. normal breakfast, which would Like most young people, Atunaisa has Did I mention that he cried? have normally consisted of last aspirations and dreams but this is no A formidable prop at 1.88m and night's leftovers. But with his ordinary young man. 125kg, Atunaisa has shifted into the goals in mind he starts the day Atunaisa was born in Gisborne and Mooloo territory with a two year contract with toast, baked beans, eggs, raised in Blenheim. He fell in love with at the bidding of the Waikato Rugby Union yoghurt and muesli to get into rugby whilst growing up though he didn't and he is now studying at the University the strenuous day ahead. take up the sport seriously until he was of Waikato. In 2014 Atunaisa represented in Marlborough Boys' College. With the aspirations to balance sports New Zealand at the Under-20 Identifying himself as a Tongan, he is and academics, Atunaisa is in his second World Cup. The Marlborough definitely a family man through and year of a Bachelor of Sport and Leisure Express reported that “After through. The love and passion for the Studies (BSpLS). beginning the sport was through family and his greatest “With sports and leisure becoming tournament…ranked behind support networks for his thriving rugby increasingly important parts of the New some more experienced front- career stems from the same roots. Zealand economy and lifestyle, it is only rowers, Moli played his way into All credit goes to his parents as his appropriate to be equipped to shape the the starting line-up for the team's big influences both on and off the field. industry by being educated as a vitally main encounter, a semi-final New Zealand Under-20 captain Atunaisa Moli. He reminisces about watching rugby on good leader within such a dynamic and against South Africa.” has claimed the World Rugby Under-20 the telly with them and cheering for the fast-moving environment,” according to This year, however, as the captain of Championship title since 2011. likes of Jonah Lomu. the University. the New Zealand Under-20 team, Atunaisa In his closing words of inspiration to Atunaisa laughed as he recalled being His immediate aim is to give the ITM returned home from the World Champions young people throughout the Connexion, Year 11 and his grades beginning to fail Cup a good nudge and build from there, victorious after defeating England 21-16 Atunaisa says, “Do something that you whilst his commitment and love for the with the ultimate aim of donning the black in a hard fought final in Cremona, Italy. would feel happy with - follow your heart game continued to grow. It wasn't until jersey for New Zealand. It has been the first time that New Zealand - believe in what you want.”

WELCOME KIDZ COMMUNION Once a term, the children at TO KIDZ KORNA Chartwell Church join the adult service for a 'Kids Communion'. SEPTEMBER 2015! It's great to see the church filled It really is spring now and daffodils are with really young people. everywhere. After the service the children bless There are some really exciting things the congregation with a song. This happening around the country and this month we hear from the young people at Chartwell service helps our children to Children at Chartwell Co-operating Parish. develop a sense of belonging to the Church join in Kids church family. Communion. NOT A Word Search BOOK The Can you find all these words in the Word Search? For your BLOOD, BODY, BREAD, COME, EAT, ETERNAL, FAMILY, FORGIVE, HEAVEN, Bookshelf Communion JESUS, LIFE, PRAY, TABLE, WELCOME REVIEW! Cube This ingenious little cube opens up and takes children through the Communion service explaining in detail what happens and why we celebrate Communion. It is a great introduction to the meaning of this very special service. It is colourful and easy to hold in small hands. It begins by saying 'We gather as God's people' and ends with 'We go out to love and serve God'. Suitable for children from 3 - 8 I have found that older children also really enjoy using it. Available from Epworth books although you may have to order it.

What are the kids in your church up to? Kidz Korna wants to hear from you so we can share your stories. Send stories and photos of your activities to Doreen Lennox at [email protected] or to [email protected] 14 TOUCHSTONE • SEPTEMBER 2015 REVIEWS

ON SCREEN A Film Review by Steve Taylor

Last Cab to Darwin is a visual Last Cab to Darwin introduces two introduction to contemporary Australian indigenous women. Polly (Ningali stereotypes. Indigenous men drink and LAST CAB TO DARWIN Lawford) is Rex's neighbour, and they fight. White fella Australians drink and are having an affair they are both afraid fumble emotionally. Blonde women to make public. Sally (Leah Purcell) is tourists are willing to sleep around. Tilly's wife. Death strides into the midst of these The movie provides stereotypical caricatures. Rex (Michael Caton), a taxi similarities between these indigenous driver from Broken Hill, is diagnosed women. Both are abandoned by their with terminal cancer. With three months menfolk. Both approach conflict by to live and afraid of hospitals, he hears shouting angrily at those they love. of Dr Farmer (Jacki Weaver), advocating Such is the simplicity of stereotype. in the Northern Territory of Australia for In contrast, when Denise Champion tells the right to euthanize. the story of Awi-irtanha, the Rain Bird, Last Cab to Darwin is based on a true we encounter a more complex story. In story that depicts the gaps in Australian her story indigenous resources, law between Territory, State and Federal considered in light of Jesus, avoid the parliaments. It offers the potential to ugly consequences of unresolved conflict. dwell in complexity but the reality is that Watching Last Cab to Darwin I kept the road trip genre becomes an excuse waiting for the road trip to engage these to speed past rich cultural complexity. stories on the road between Broken Hill Driving his cab to find Dr Farmer, Rex indigenous men, white Australians and This understanding of outback is and Darwin. The only hint is when Tilly encounters Tilly (Mark Coles Smith), who English women tourists simplify the beautifully depicted in the recently locates Sally's mob as fighters against proceeds to fight and drink his way with complexity that could ennoble Australia published Yarta Wandatha. It is a rarity, a colonial invasion. Once again, 40,000 Rex toward Darwin. Their narrative today. theology book with colour photographs years of rich and storied memory is lost, journey is broken by a set of clichés, I refer to the lens through which the of outback landscape. Unlike Last Cab to replaced by the stereotypes of recent including watches that stop, feral cats hung outback is viewed. The desert landscape Darwin, the scenes in Yarta Wandatha are arrival. from outback trees and Tilly's salvation depicted in Last Cab to Darwin is simply not backdrops on a trip to somewhere. Rev Dr Steve Taylor is the new through sport, if he can beat the bottle. a dusty red backdrop through which Rather, each is a story, around which principal of Knox College for Ministry Speeding toward yet another visitors pass, collecting experiences on a memory is wrapped. Interpreted in Yarta and Leadership, Dunedin. He is the author stereotypical scene (Darwin sunsets), Tilly road to somewhere. There is no sense of Wandatha by indigenous woman Denise of The Out of Bounds Church? (Zondervan, has a one night stand with English barmaid, another story, of “anhangha idla Champion in creative dialogue with the 2005) and writes widely in areas of Julie (Emma Hamilton), who wraps herself ngukanandhakai,” the indigenous Christian story, we find the unfolding of theology and popular culture, including into their journey. These images, of understanding of living in memory. a very different outback story. regularly at www.emergentkiwi.org.nz.

An alphabet of ancient wisdom This month the Lectionary dips into the Book of Proverbs. It is a collection of folk wisdom and much of it rings true for today. A proverb is defined as: a pithy saying that contains a belief or truth. A typical proverb has two parts; the second phrase complements the first. It is thought this book was compiled primarily as an instruction manual for young men. To make the lessons memorable the last 21 verses (often headed 'The Good Wife') are written in an 'acrostic' form - working through the Hebrew Alphabet in order, each verse begins with a different letter. The Challenge below takes up this concept by compiling an Acrostic List of Proverbs in English.

Connexional staff lunch at the site of the Methodist Church's new national offices. Ground broken for

Connexional offices , Scoffers, Trust, Unjust, Vinegar, Without, 'Xalt, Your, Zion. Your, 'Xalt, Without, Vinegar, Unjust, Trust, Scoffers, , Riches Quarrel, Pride, Open, Now, Make, Let, Keep, Justice, It, Happy, Go, Folly, Even, Discipline, Commit, Better, A, Answers: Bible Challenge Bible © RMS It is said that great things often have small beginnings, so perhaps it is appropriate that to mark the purchase of the land where the new Methodist Connexional office will be built, staff had a humble lunch of fish and chips on August 6th. The site is on Langdons Road in Papanui, Christchurch North. Building consents for the in-ground work have been approved and the main contractor, Higgs Construction, has started work installing screw piles for the foundation. The two storey building will have 1100 sqm of office space. The Methodist Church offices will be on the ground floor and the second floor will be leased out. TOUCHSTONE • SEPTEMBER 2015 15 REVIEWS

By Helena Wisniewska Brow Give Us This Day - A Memoir of Family and Exile 2014, Victoria University Press, 255 pages. Reviewer: Gary Clover. In 1973 at the New Zealand Library School Stefan didn't fit easily into New Zealand. In 1988 she accompanied him on his first pilgrimage back to in Wellington, two of my teachers were In May 1945, a young teenage Kiwi his family's village of Wolynka outside the city of Brest, in refugees from Poland and Hungary. Both had acquaintance found Stefan the saddest boy the vast borderlands of Belarus. His father and oldest brothers unpronounceable names. Both spoke with he'd met. He had survived a terrible 12 day had somehow survived in Poland but despite ties of family, difficult accents. But their foreign mannerisms rail journey in a cattle wagon to central language, religion and nationality, Stefan could not live in excited a curiosity to learn of their stories. Siberia during the summer of 1941 and 18 Communist Poland. Give Us This Day by Helena Wisniewska months of near starvation and forced labour Stefan's story is enhanced by two maps, numerous family (pronounced Vishnyevska) Brow narrates a on a vast collective farm in Central Asia. portraits, a pronunciation guide, and bibliography. Extensive post-war eastern European refugee's journey Exaggerating his age to enlist in Polish use of dialogue helps the reader enter into Stefan's thinking. to New Zealand and his struggle to overcome army units forming in southern Russia, But Helena has not written a straightforward chronological his past in a faraway foreign land. Stefan left his mother and sisters behind in narrative; rather it's a disjointed jumble of chapters and vignettes Towards the close of WWII, Prime Minister Uzbekistan. Eventually he and his family that jump backwards and forwards from the present to the past. Peter Fraser accepted 732 Polish orphans found refuge in Iran where his mother died I longed for a family tree to navigate me around Stefan's wider stranded in Iran. They were survivors of the of a brain tumour. The children were left family. mass deportations to Siberia of a million Polish under Hila's care, bereft, orphaned, and far A Wellington-based former NZPA correspondent, the author citizens from the Kresy region of eastern Poland that Stalin from home. is a graduate of Victoria University's International Institute of annexed after the Nazi invasions of September 1939. In New Zealand, Stefan found work as a fitter and turner Modern Letters, and winner of the 2013 Adam Prize in Creative Aged just 15, Stefan Wisniewski arrived in Wellington in in the Whakatane board mills, married fellow refugee Olga Writing. Through trips to Poland, Central Asia and Iran she November 1944 aboard the American troopship, USS General Zam, and raised two successful daughters. But Stefan, Olga “searches for meaning in the family lives shaped by exile”. Randall, with his 18 year old sister, Helena (Heal) and three and their generation continued to bear the scars of their This is an absorbing, powerful, deeply emotive, celebration younger siblings. They were horribly malnourished, had suffered privations in bouts of depression, mental illness, cancers, of family resilience. un-counted traumas, spoke no English, and longed only to strained relationships, and foreignness. Stefan is still alive today at 85. Perhaps, after all, his return to their homeland after the war. The author is Stefan's New Zealand-born eldest daughter. experiences made him all the stronger.

By Charles Waddell Jesus Matters 2014, St Pauls Publications, 102 pages Reviewer: John Meredith This is not just another book about Jesus. drawn from everyday life. They were often restoration. He was acknowledged as a miracle worker. Rather, it reads as a personal confession of surprising, sometimes even disturbing, in In Waddell's view, miracles may be interpreted faith with clearly expressed ideas. the way they challenged hearers to leave the metaphorically as God breaking in to bring healing and hope The style of writing is attractive and the conventional view of life and accept the life- to people whom orthodox religion regarded as of no account. content is scholarly without being overly changing reign of God. As the author states, Jesus then and now is the restorer to academic. The text is illustrated by stories from For Jesus, God was not the guardian of fullness of life. the author's own experience. laws but one who wooed more than Jesus called people to follow him and embrace in their The author is a priest of the Catholic commanded. God was like a father who own lives the values he taught. Some, like the 12 named Archdiocese of Perth, and he states that in the sacrificed his authority for love of a wayward disciples, were sent out to proclaim the reign of God. Others gospels faith is mingled with fact as the writers child. lived out this reign in their own locality. However they seek to present a convincing account of the Jesus also spoke of God as a shepherd, responded, Jesus' call was for each person to follow him in essence of Jesus' life and teaching. and shepherds were of lowly status. Even Unlike other Jewish teachers, quoting more outlandish in Jesus' male-dominated the life of every day. scripture and law was not a feature of Jesus' world was the image of God as a woman Waddell outlines the last week of Jesus' life, faithful to the teaching. Jesus was not teaching doctrine or morals but seeking a lost, valued coin. end. conveying insights into the nature of God and the meaning of Jesus introduced many of his stories saying, “The kingdom He sees the resurrection as a new era of God's reign, God's reign. (or reign) of God is like this.” He never defined the reign of transforming Jesus' followers into a joyful, faith-filled Waddell points out that Jesus conveyed his insights, not God but painted verbal pictures of life lived under God's reign. community convinced that Jesus must be proclaimed to by argument but in parables and metaphors. While the gospel Under God's reign life is lived without fear; rather mercy and everyone. writers have preserved a sample of Jesus' parables, sometimes compassion influence all relationships. He concludes that we may spend a lifetime growing in they allegorised them or added explanations. Jesus not only spoke about God's reign but lived out its faith and understanding but knowledge of Jesus is inexhaustible. As told by Jesus the parables were simple, vivid stories meaning in astonishing deeds of healing, forgiveness and This book is a resource that may help us think as we grow.

Preventing Suicide - By Karen Mason 2014, IVP Books, 233 pages A Handbook for Pastors, Chaplains and Pastoral Counselors Reviewer: Greg Hughson From 1900 to 2000, approximately 25,000 helpful in my ministry this year. other contexts, so this work is not only valuable in relation to people in New Zealand took their own lives. Chapters include Shattering Myths about suicide prevention. Currently, around 10 people each week die Suicide; Suicide and Christian Theology; This book should be required reading for all Church leaders, in our country as a result of suicide. Theories of Suicide; Helping Someone in and all pastoral carers in our NZ churches. Karen Mason's book is an excellent resource a Crisis; Helping a Survivor of Attempted Jesus came that we might have life in all its fullness. Life for pastors, chaplains, pastoral counsellors and Suicide; Helping the Helpers; and Helping matters! And if we are to bring our high rate of suicide down for any person of faith who has a genuine the Faith Community to Be Effective Agents concern about helping to prevent suicide and of Suicide Prevention. in this country, we need to attend more to the ever present bring these tragic statistics down. There are excellent discussion questions possibility of suicide and learn to better care for each other. Karen is associate professor of counselling at the end of each chapter. This book would After a suicide, we need to know how best to respond, to and psychology at Gordon-Conwell Theological be a good resource for a monthly study reduce the possibility of further deaths. Seminary. She is a psychologist who has been group, reading and discussing a chapter at This book is the best up to date resource I have come working in the mental health field since 1990, a time. across, written specifically for Christian pastoral carers and a person of deep Christian faith. Karen makes the point that even strong concerned with suicide prevention. It has 47 pages of detailed Integrating theology and psychology, she Christians can become depressed and notes and references for further study. shows how pastoral care-givers can be agents consider suicide. She writes to encourage As a biologist I appreciate the way in which Karen of hope to help potentially suicidal people within our churches parents to focus on safety, and thoughtful communication with acknowledges the part which biology, genetics and and in the wider community not to take their own lives. their children and teenagers. She advocates for a holistic “bio-psycho-social-spiritual” Sometimes misunderstandings and wrong information neurotransmitter levels in the brain, play in suicide. approach to suicide prevention, and demonstrates from her about suicide can lead us to hold back and not ask the questions As a Christian minister I value the comprehensively own experience how the Church can play a vital role in suicide that should be asked. intelligent, biblical, theological, practical and compassionate prevention. Karen writes with considerable pastoral awareness. A great approach Karen takes to suicide prevention. Highly This is a practical handbook which I have found very deal of the pastoral advice she offers is of immense value in recommended. Available from Epworth Books. 16 TOUCHSTONE • SEPTEMBER 2015 NOW AND THEN

Unsung Methodists By Donald Phillipps RICHARD BURDSALL LYTH (1810-1887) 'CARPENTER OF SICKNESS' You're a missionary on the other side of vomiting. But we wonder why 1837, and spent two years at included Joel Bula, Paul Vea, and Matthias the world. Such training as you have received mercury, or rhubarb, should Ha'apai. He was then Vave. He was also an accurate and thorough- has been almost solely for the purpose of have been considered transferred to Somosomo, going linguist and took a large share of the saving souls. beneficial. Fiji, and spent the next work of translating the scriptures, while But the people whose souls you We wouldn't want 16 years in those correcting the efforts of his colleagues. desperately want to save are human beings to go back to those islands, mostly When Lyth returned to England in 1859 like you, and they suffer from the same times but we might resident at Lakemba. he spent seven years in the warmer Circuits sicknesses and afflictions as you. There is try to stand with the For seven years he of southern England, before superannuating. no doctor, quite literally within 1000 miles missionaries as they was District During that time he was largely responsible except, maybe, for a passing ship's surgeon. did their best. And we Chairman, and then for revising the whole of the Fijian-language If you are lucky, you have been supplied definitely should for health reasons left Bible being put together by the British and with a case of medicines, some equipment, admire and honour the Fiji and took up the Foreign Bible Society. and a smattering of training. To make up missionary wife who, appointment of He superannuated in 1866, but in 1869 for your ignorance, you fall back on Buchan's almost without Richard Burdsall Lyth Governor/Chaplain at he went to Gibraltar as chaplain to the forces, Domestic Medicine, all 650 pages of it. It exception, became the Wesley College, Queen for four years. Maybe he was chasing the was first published in 1769 and was still midwife at her husband's St., Auckland, for three years sun again. He died at his home city of York going strong nearly a century later. mission station. until his return to England in in 1887. You carry it round with you all day, every The first Wesleyan missionary with 1858. It seems extraordinary that Lyth never day. It fills a pocket of your great-coat, and medical qualifications was Richard Burdsall All references to Richard Burdsall Lyth regarded himself, nor was officially appointed with its help you do your best. For a Wesleyan Lyth. Born in York in 1810 to John, a stress his devotion, sanctity and modesty. by his superiors in London, as a medical missionary, at least, it's a great improvement businessman and Mary Lyth (both of them His professional skills were available to the missionary. In the five-volume History of on John Wesley's own Primitive Physick - Wesleyans), Richard was professionally people of the area and to the missionary the Wesleyan Missionary Society one of the every Wesleyan minister had one of these, trained and entered the ministry as a Member families in Fiji. He was called 'matai-ni- authors stated that he strictly subordinated as well. of the Royal Society of Surgeons of mate', 'carpenter of sickness', by the Fijian “therapeutic to evangelistic interests”. It is easy to smile, or wince, at the Edinburgh (MRCS) and a Licentiate of the people, and is remembered with honour. What does that say to us in 2015? Would rationale behind medical practice 200 years Society of Apothecaries. He was received But he is equally remembered for his we invert the order? Our scientific world ago. We can understand why such medical on probation at the 1836 Conference, and aptitude for training native catechists. His view might assign spiritual health to second men as there were in this part of the world before his departure for the South Pacific stations at Lakemba and Viwa became place after that of physical health. Is that a were so derisive of the missionary's faith in married Mary Ann Hardy. seminaries for preachers. Significant leaders fair comment? Evangelist or therapist - either bleeding and blistering, and in purging and Richard and Mary arrived in Tonga in of Fijian Methodism whom he trained way Richard Burdsall Lyth is to be honoured.

Sleuthing in the archives - How old is this photograph? METHODIST ARCHIVES By Jo Smith, Archivist

Although the Methodist Archives process used indicate that this photograph national collection of photographs is dates from the mid-19th century. This was organised, we have yet to start cataloguing one piece of the puzzle to narrow down individual images, yet alone starting to the date. digitise them. The Presbyterian Archives Looking for clues in the photograph, are more advanced along this path as we can start working out a more exact described in the last edition of Touchstone. date. Researching the building history of The list of files and portraits we hold the Sydney Street Primitive Methodist is published on the Methodist Church of Church is made difficult because few NZ website but to find an image, requires documents have survived. looking at the original photographs, rather Luckily Arthur Olsson has summarised than digital copies. building developments in his useful book One recent request we had was for a Methodism in Wellington 1839-1989. photograph of the Sydney Street Primitive There were a number of buildings on Methodist Church in Wellington. This led the Sydney Street site during the 19th to some detective work to date the only century buildings. As Arthur details: image held in our collection before we 1848 sod church built and destroyed provided a copy for the researcher. same year by earthquake and replaced by To accurately date photographs, “plain weatherboard building”; 1858 knowledge is needed of the particular Church replaced by larger building; 1864 photographic processes at the time. Church enlarged and school room built; In the 19th century, glass plate 1869 New Sydney Street Church built, negatives were used. They were of specific seating 350 people; 1878 Church enlarged; sizes and made of glass. These glass 1883 Church renovated; 1897 Vestry negatives were prepared in a special covered in; 1905 Church and land sold. mixture to be sensitive to light, and loaded Do any of these dates match up with Which of the many buildings on the site of Wellington's into large heavy cameras, one at a time. the appearance of the building in the Sydney Street Primitive Methodist Church is this? Once the lens cap was removed, light photograph? None stands out. More searching on PapersPast locates Putting all the evidence together, we fell on the sensitised plate. It was then In this case, additional evidence comes a written description of the new Sydney date the photograph as being taken between developed and stabilised for printing, using from the reverse of the image. A partial Street Primitive Methodist Church which different mixtures of chemicals. photographer's stamp is on the back opened in 1869. It is described as having 1862 and 1869. I would narrow it down This original photograph of the Sydney “William H..” and “Mulgrave Street, four turrets above the roof with carved further to between 1864 when the Sydney Street Church is very faded. Sometimes Wellington” written by hand. A bit of finials on top and two large gothic doors Street Church was enlarged and 1869 this is because the chemicals used were searching on the digitised newspapers in the front of the building with more old or they had been used too much. website PapersPast establishes that the turrets and finials. Sadly we don't have a before the new building was built. Fading can also be caused by long- photographer's name was W Davis. photograph of this ornate building in our This is an important image of vanished term exposure to light. Without tests by a William HW Davis was based in collection. Wellington, made at a time when conservator, we don't know for sure what Wellington as a photographer from about But this building is definitely not the caused the fading. 1862-1902 so we now know that this image church in our photograph which is much photography in New Zealand was fairly Paper type, size of photograph and is unlikely to have been taken before 1862. simpler in appearance. new. TOUCHSTONE • SEPTEMBER 2015 17 THE VOICE OF SINOTI SAMOA

TOMANATUGA FAAMATAUPU SILISILI Ua faavae lenei tomanatuga i lelei – ao a tatou peleni e feosoosofa’i taafifili e oo mai i lenei aso. Mo nisi o fuaitau o loo i le tusi a le aposetolo ia solo, aua e tele mea tatou te mananao i tatou o le ‘mea matuitui i le tino’ o Korinito. ai. Ma o na mea e tele ua avea lea ma gasegase o loo maua ai. 2 Korinito 12:10-12. Ma ua tuuina faafitauli o loo tatou taafifili pea i taimi O nisi o ni mea o tutupu i totonu o foi iai le Sini faapea: ‘O le mea matuitui uma o le olaga. Ua taafifili pea taafifili aiga, i le va o matua ma fanau. O nisi o I le tino’. pea, ma ua avea ai loa ma mea matuitui le le lava o le faasoasoaina o le Na tusia se solo e se tasi o fitafita o i le tino, o le tagata. tamaoaiga. O nisi o le leai oni galuega. le taua, na ia ta’ua ai faafitauli o loo Ose faafitauli foi faapea sa taafifili O nisi o aitalafu. tatou taafifili pea ina ua tatou taumafai ma le aposetolo o Paulo. O se faafitauli Poo le a lava se faafitauli o loo fetaiai e fai atu i le Atua i mea ua tatou mananao na natia i totonu o lona loto – e leai se ma le tagata lava ia, o ‘mea matuitui i ai, ae le o le finagalo lea o le Atua mo tasi na ia iloaina, ae ua na’o le Atua lava le tino’ ia o loo ta’ua e le aposetolo, o i tatou. Fai mai le solo a le fitafita: na ia silafiaina. loo tatou taafifili i le lalolagi. Peitai, ua Na ou manao i le Atua e aumai ia te O le a lea faafitauli? O lona tatou talitonu – E leai se mea e faigata a’u le malosi ina ia ou ausia ou faamaualuga ma lona mitamita ia te ia i le Atua. Afai e talitonu i lena upu – faamoemoega. lava. Peitai, na iai se mea na taofia o ia aisea e le talanoa ai i le Atua. Ae ua faavaivaia a’u, ina ia ou mai le na mitamita ia te ia lava. Sa ia Tuu tasi faafitauli i le Atua e ala i le aoaoina le usitai ma le loto maulalo. ta’ua lea mea o le ‘mea matuitui i le tatalo. E leai lava se isi mea e sili atu i Na ou manao ia ou maua le ola Rev Suiva’aia Te’o tino’. Toatele le aufai tofa o le Tusi paia lo le mana o talosaga. Na’o le tatalo e maloloina, ina ia ou faia ni mea sili. ua le mautinoa poo le a tonu le uiga o mafai ai ona fesoasoani i mea matuitui Ae aumaia ia te a’u le vaivai, ina ia fiafia lo’u olaga. le upu lenei a le aposetolo – ua tuuina i le tino o loo tatou fetaiai. ou faia ai mea lelei. Ae tuuina mai ia te a’u le ola, oute ia te ia e le Atua le ‘mea matuitui i le Fai mai Paulo: faatolu ona ou ole i Na ou manao i le tamaoaiga, ina ia fiafia ai i mea uma. tino’. le Atua ina ia aveeseina lenei mea ou maua le fiafia. E iai taimi peiseai ua tatou manatu, Oute manatu ua tatou le mailoa foi matuitui, ao le tali na ia maua: Ua lava Ae faamativaina a’u ina ia ou maua ua sili atu la tatou peleni, i lo le peleni poo le a lenei ‘mea matuitui i le tino’ sa lo’u alofa tunoa e fesoasoani atu i lou le poto. ua tapena e le Atua mo i tatou. E iai i le aposetolo. Peitai, e mafai ona tatou vaivai. Na ou manao i le paoa, ina ia viia taimi e fai ai a tatou peleni, ma lo tatou tutu faatasi ma le aposetolo i lenei lava Tu’u tasi ‘mea matuitui uma’ o loo au e tagata. iloa ua matua taua lava lea mo i tatou, mau e tasi. Aua o loo ia i tatou foi lenei oulua ta’afifili nei i le Atua e ala i le Ae aumai le vaivai ina ia ou lagona ae galo ai, e ese se peleni a le Atua mo lava faafitauli. tatalo, aua e leai se mea e faigata i le le manaomia o le Atua i lou olaga. oe ma a’u. E leai lava se tasi o i tatou e le o iai Atua. Amene. Na ou manao i mea uma lava, ina ia O le peleni a le Atua e atoatoa ma se ‘mea matuitui i le tino’ o loo la Saunia: Rev Suiva’aia Te’o SAUNOAGA AFIOGA I LE SEA O LE SINOTI SAMOA Rev Suiva’aia Te’o iloa ai ua suia foi le tau mo i tatou. ona silafia ua gasegase le susuga ia Aso ma le tele o fesuiaiga i le atunuu nei, Faatalofa atu i le mamalu o le tatou O le Aso Sa mulimuli foi o lenei lava ae maise foi o lea ua iai nei i lona tausaga ma le siosiomaga. Sinoti Samoa, ae maise foi o le toatele masina, aso 27 o le aso foi lea o le a malolo manumalo ai. O lea ua maea ona Ua faigata ai le soifua tautua o le o nai o tatou tama, tina, uso, tuagane ma fanau laiti o e o loo faitau i le tatou suia ai le taimi, o le a amataina ai foi le iloiloina nisi na apalai mai i lenei tofi, tagata atoa ma lana auaunaga i le Atua. itulau. Malo le soifua maua ma le lagi daylight savings. E fesuisuia’i lava le ma o le susuga i le faifeau Tonga o O lea ua tele lava ina tapunia foi nisi o e mama. Malo foi le onosa’i faafetai tau ma ona vaaiga i lo tatou siosiomaga, Setaita Veikune lea ua tulai mai ai nei. tatou matagaluega papalagi ma nisi o le tauatai mo le Atua ma lona finagalo. ae tumau lava le alofa o le Atua ia. E le Na auai atu le tatou aufaipese a le falesa ua faatau atu ona ua le o O lenei ua tatou iai i le iva o masina liliu o ananafi o nei e o’o lava i le Sinoti na tapenaina lea e itumalo o faaaogaina. o la tatou malaga, ma e ua mamao foi fa’avavau. Manukau ma Aukilani, faapea ma le fue Ona vaai lea o le Sinoti latou pe le le ala ua tatou savalia nei. Atonu ua maea ona fofogaina ni iuga ma le to’oto’o na momoliina lea aua la o se taimi foi lea ua tatau ona silasila Talitonu toatele e na faataotolia mai fono mai le tatou Sinoti o lenei tausaga, tatou meaalofa i le susuga i le Faatonu toto’a tatou I la tatou foi galuega aua le apulusia o tofaga ona o gasegase ma e pei ona alofaiva iai le paia o le fou o Galuega a le Pasefika. lumanai. O lea ua tofia ai se komiti e faama’i na taia ai pea le soifua ma lo Aufaigaluega faapea usufono uma o le Faiga meaalofa: o lenei mataupu e ta’ua o le TOFA MAMAO o lenei tatou ola. Na iai foi nisi na feagai ma tatou Sinoti i Ueligitone. Ma o nisi o le laititi lona aoga, aua ua tuuina mai se komiti e fai miti mo le Sinoti, ae faanoanoaga ona o e pele ia i latou ua nei iugafono aua le vaai atu i le lumanai pepa e talanoaina ona o le manatu o le faatinoina e le komiti faafoe nisi o ana fai i lagi le tuligasi’a. nao na toe faailoa atu i lenei tusiga e Ekalesia nei afaina se tasi o le faatofalaiga. O le upu moni na le tuulafoaina i faapea: aufaigaluega poo se tasi lava i aiaiga a Miti a le Sinoti: o lo o faagasolo tatou e lo tatou Tapa’au i le lagi, sa Sea Tu Toatasi: na faamanuiaina le le Ofisa o Lafoga e tusa ma faiga pea sailiga tupe aua le tatou miti lea e fesoasoani ma malutia lo outou soifua, tatou talosaga na ave i le PAC aua le meaalofa a tatou le au Pasefika i soo se pei ona gapatia mai ai I le tele o tausaga. na auai ma lotolotoi ia i tatou taitoatasi. fesoasoani mo le faatulagaina o le Sea mea lava o feagai ma tatou, e pei o Lea foi na outou lafoina le tele o tupe i Na faamafanafana foi i taimi na lutia Tu Toatasi. E afa miliona sa talosagaina maliu, faaipoipoga, aso fanau, aso le nei sinoti aua lava lenei faamoemoe. ai i tatou i puapuaga ma mafatiaga. O ma na taliaina foi lena tupe atoa, peitai faailogaina. Ua maea ona fono le komiti faauli ma le mea lea tatou te faapea ane faatasi ai e iai tuutuuga o lenei tupe. O le nei la pepa ua aumai o se le Lifewise, o le Mission a le Ekalesia ma le fai Salamo: ‘O matou agaga e, Nao lona tupe tului [interest] e mafai lapataiga, poo ai lava e tauaaoina se faatasi ma le isi Trust e taua o le Airedale faamanu atu ia Ieova, o mea uma foi o ona faaaogaina, ae inivesi lava le tupe meaalofa tupe tele lona aofaiga, e tatau trust a le Ekalesia foi, ina ia fesoasoani i totonu ia tei matou, ia faamanu atu ai atoa. Tatou te faafetai ai i le Ekalesia e ona faailoa lea e tusa o aiaiga a le ofisa mai I le faamoemoe. i lona suafa paia. tusa o lenei tupe, ma ua iai foi le komiti o lafoga e ala lea i le faatumuina o le Ma o lo o ua iai ni a latou galuega o O matou agaga e, faamanu atu ia filifilia e silasila iai i le faaaogaina o le pepa o le tax credit pe a aumai i lea loo feagai ai ma le tapenaina. Ao le taimi Ieova, aua foi nei galo se mea e tasi o tupe tului o le nei inivesi aua le tausaga ma lea tausaga. nei i le tatou sinoti o loo taumafai pea ana meaalofa’ O le viiga sili lea o lo faaaogaina i le Sea Tu Toatasi. O le faamoemoe maualuga lava, ia tatou sailiga seleni, aua e maua lava tatou Atua. Na tuuina atu ile Sinoti o le nei aua nei afaina se tasi o i tatou ina ua le fanua ae lei taitai se tatou seleni. Ua tatou iai nei i le amataga o le tausaga le Mau a le Komiti ma ua taliaina mafai ona faailoa ni mea faapea. E le o O le mea lea e olega lava ma le vaitau o le tautotogo. O le vaitau tatou e faapea….o le a amata ona galue afa se sailiili la pe su’esu’evale, ao le alofa faaaloalo tele ina ia onosa’i mai ma mau te iloa ai ua le o toe mamao foi le tau taimi le tatou Sea i le tausaga 2017. E moni o le Ekalesia ia i tatou nei tulai pea le to’ovae. Tatou loto tetele ma mafanafana ia. Tatou te vaaia ai le tele oo atu i le taimi lena ua lava le tupe tului mai ai ni faaletonu i le malo po o le taumafai mai, e lei fausia Roma i se aso o la’au ua amata ona fuga mai, ma ua e amata ai le afa taimi lea, ae nofo pea ofisa foi o lafoga i le lumanai. se tasi…..e faapena foi se vaai mamao amata foi ona pa’epa’e pe piniki ona i le fale o le galuega a le Matagaluega Tofa Mamao: na iai se pepa na atu i le tatou faamoemoe lenei. Ia tatou fuala’au tau tutupu ane. o loo galue ai. tuuina mai foi le Ekalesia e silasila iai taufai tatalo e faaaupegaina ai i tatouiI Ua tatou molimauina foi ua ta le 5:00 Ae o le a faaauauina foi le galuega ma faatalanoaina e uiga i le vaai mamao, le tofa mamao mai le Atua aua le pm i le afiafi ao lea lava e ao, pe ua vave a le komiti i le vaaaiga o nisi vaega o le po o le fai miti aua le lumanai o le atinaeina o le Sinoti Samoa i ona foi ona malamalama le taeao ao lei taina Galuega afa taimi, faapea foi ma se fale. ekalesia. Ua maitauina le faatoaititia o matagaluega ma aulotu, ae sili ai ona le 6:00 am. O nai faailoga ia ua tatou Faatonu Galuega Pasefika: pei lava tagata lolotu, ae ua vaai foi I le taugata atinaeina ona tagata faale agaga. 18 TOUCHSTONE • SEPTEMBER 2015

Ko e Fakakoloa ‘a e me’a mai ‘a e Fale ‘o Ha’amoheofo ki he Malanga Vahefonua. ‘Oku hoko ma’u pe ko e tapuaki ki he ‘I he po Falaite na’e tataki ‘e he Lea 4: Cassey Fa’aui – Dominion Ko e taha he ngaahi ma’unga fakamatala Vahefonua ‘a e fa’a me’a mai ‘a e Fale ‘o to’utupu ‘a e po lotu pea sea ai pe ‘a e Kingsland pea mo e ‘ilo ‘a e Vahefonua ko e ngaahi Ha’a Moheofo ke kau fakataha pea mo e Faifekau Sea, Tevita Finau. Na’e Lea 5: Lewin Tupou – Ututa’u siasi ‘i he malanga pea pehe ki he ngaahi kulupu ha’ofanga fakaikiiki ‘a ia ‘oku taki fakamafana ‘a e ngaahi lea pea ko e fanau Kau Hiva ’a e Ngaahi To’utupu taha ‘alu ai ki he ‘ene komiti. Kuo ‘osi fatongia ‘o e fakataha’anga. potungaue talavou pe foki na’a nau • Lotofale’ia vahe pe ‘a e kau taki ke nau tokanga’i ‘a ‘I he fakanofo ‘o e faifekau sea fo’ou, fakahoko. Na’e taki ‘a e kau lea ‘e Dr. • Saione Tevita Finau na’e ha’ele mai ai ‘a e Seini Taufa, ko e finemui mei he potungaue • Tokaima’ananga e ngaahi komiti pea mo ‘omai ‘a e ngaahi ta’ahine Kuini ‘o Tonga, Nanasipau’u talavou ‘a Onehunga pea pehe foki kia • Vahenga Ngaue ’Aokalani mo lipooti mei he ngaahi kulupu taau taha. Tuku’aho pea ko e tapuaki ki he Siliva Havili (tokotaha va’inga he Manukau ‘Oku ‘i ai ‘a e ngaahi fokotu’u ‘oku ‘omai Vahefonua. ‘I he Vahefonua ko ‘eni na’e Warriors) pea mei he potungaue talavou Lotu Hengihengi Sapate Vahefonua mei he ngaahi kulupu ‘oku tokoni ‘aupito me’a mai ki he malanga ‘a Pilinisesi Salote ‘a Papatoetoe, ‘Ioke Taha mo Sisu, Ko e lotu hengihengi Sapate ‘o e Mafile’o Pilolevu Tuita pea pehe ki he ‘a ‘enau ngaahi fokotu’u ki he langa hake Vahenga Ngaue ‘Aokalani/Manukau. Vahefonua ko e ma’unga kelesi mahu’inga ‘a e ngaue ‘a e Vahefonua. ‘Eiki Nopele, Lord Tuita. Ko e fakakoloa Na’e lava foki mo e talaloto ‘a e taha ia ‘oku tokanga ki ai ‘a e fakataha. ‘I he ia ki he fakataha’anga pea mo e siasi ‘a e e to’utupu ‘a Lotofale’ia, Faka’osi Hausia. lotu hengihengi ‘o e Ko e Ngaahi ‘ata mei he Fakataha’anga fakamahino ‘oku poupou mai ‘a e fale ‘o Ko Cassey Fa’aui mei Dominion Vahefonua ko ‘eni na’e ‘ene ‘Afio ki hono kakai. Kingsland na’e faingamalie ke ne lava atu fakahoko ia ‘e he hoa ‘o e ‘I he malanga ‘o e Vahefonua na’e mo e kau folau ‘a e siasi lahi ‘a NZ ki faifekau pule ‘o e tataki ia ‘e he puleako fo’ou ‘o e Kolisi Indonesia ki he ako he ‘apiako tohi tapu Christchurch ko Maa’imoa Tohitapu Trinity, Rev Dr Nasili Vaka’uta. pea nau lava ai pe ‘o kau ki he konifelenisi Moa. ‘Oku fakamafana ‘a Pea ko e Sakalameniti ‘o e ‘Ohomohe na’e fakata’u ‘a ‘Initonisia. Na’e faka’osi ‘ehe e ma’unga kelesi ni neongo tataki ia ‘e he Faifekau Sea, Tevita Finau taha e kau konivina ‘a e To’utupu ‘oku ne hono faingata’a ‘i he pea mo e toenga ‘o e kau faifekau. tokanga’i e To’utupu mei tu’a ‘Aokalani, momoko. ‘Oku ‘i ai ma’u Ko e fakataha kelesi’ia ‘aupito pea Ko Lewin Tupou mei Wellington. Ko e pe foki ‘a e kau hiva ‘a na’e toko lahi ‘a e kau fakafofonga na’e fakafiefia pea fakamafana foki ko e mahino Lotofale’ia ko e ongo me’a mai mei tu’a ‘Aokalani ki he ‘oku tokangaekina ‘e he Vahefonua ‘ene kalasi’aho nai pea mo fanau fakataha. Na’e lahi foki ‘a e ngaahi me’a fanau to’utupu. to’utupu ‘o uiui kelesi. Ko na’e alea’i ai pea mafana foki mo e kau Lea 1: Dr Seini Taufa – Onehunga e fatongia mahu’inga fakafofonga ‘i he ‘enau kau mai ki he Lea 2: Faka’osi Hausia – Lotofale’ia ‘aupito ia pea ‘oku fakataha’anga. Lea 3: Siliva Havili – ’Ioke Taha mo fakamafana foki. Po Hiva Efiafi Falaite Sisu Kulupu Fakaikiiki Ko e kau hiva 'a e Potungaue Talavou 'a Lotofale'ia, Mangere

Ko e kau hiva 'Evangelio 'a Dominion na'a nau fai 'a e Lotu Hu mo e Ko e ni'ihi ena 'o kinautolu 'a e to'utupu na'e kau he hiva fakatahataha Ko e kau faifekau na'a nau lava mai ki he Vahefonua 'a e kau faifekau. Fakafeta'i kimu'a he Malanga 'i he Sapate. 'a e Vahefonua.

Ko Matangi Fonua mo e Setuata, Pauli Ma'afu na'a na fakafofonga mai Ko Maa'imoa Moa (lotomalie) pea na'a ne tataki 'a e failotu pea Ko e Potungaue Talavou 'a Tokaima'ananga, Otara 'a ia na'a 'a e Kainga Lotu Gisborne. mo e kau faifekau na'a nau ma'ulotu he hengihengi. nau kau he po hiva. FAKAMALO MEI TRINITY METHODIST THEOLOGICAL COLLEGE Na’e ma’u ‘a e tohi mei he ‘apiako Trinity Methodist Theological College ‘i he ‘aho 29 ‘o Siulai 2015, ko e fakamal_ ki he Vahefonua ‘i he me’a’ofa ‘oku foaki ange, ko e ngaahi li pa’anga fakasiasi mei he Sapate Trinity ke tokoni ma’ae ‘apiako. ‘Oku ‘oatu ‘a e fakamal_ kiate kimoutolu kotoa ‘a e ngaahi siasi ‘oku fakaa’u mai ho’omou ngaahi tokoni. Ko e ta’u fo’ou ‘e toki fakapapau’i mai he Pule Ako ‘a Ko e ni'ihi 'o e PotungAue Talavou Fakatahataha 'o e Vahefonua na'a nau kau he hiva fakavaha'a lesoni 'o e malanga. e ‘aho ‘i Fepueli 2016 ke hoko ko e ‘aho ia ‘e ‘apiako. Pukolea TOUCHSTONE • SEPTEMBER 2015 19 VAHEFONUA TONGA ‘O AOTEAROA FAKAMAHU'INGA'I 'O E 'EKE'ANGA Matiu 18:20 - “He ko e potu kuo ia fakaekimoua pe. 'Oku 'i ai e ngaahi sitepu 'Oku 'ikai 'aupito ko e 'eke'anga 'oku ne taha kuo fonu mahuohua ia he kelesi. Ko e fakataha ai ha toko ua pe ha toko tolu ki ke muimui'i 'i he potu folofola ni ka e toki fakamo'ui 'a e tangata mo e fefine Metotisi, felingiaki 'i he 'eke'anga te nau foki mei he hoku hingoa, 'oku ou 'i he potu ko ia au fai ha lave ki ai ha taimi, kau fakamahu'inga'i 'ikai 'aupito. Ko Sisu 'oku 'i ai 'a e mo'ui. feohi'anga kuo nau 'inasi tatau kotoa pe 'i 'i honau lotolotonga”. pe heni 'a e 'eke'anga. Sione 14:6 “Ko Au 'a e hala, mo'oni mo e he fu'u ivi 'o e kelesi 'a e 'Otua. Pea ko 'etau fehu'i anga maheni 'oku Kuo manava mai foki mei he ngaahi mo'ui”. Ko e 'eke'anga ko e fo'i fa'unga 'Oku lave'i 'e he fakahoha'a ni kuo peh_: 'Oku f_f_ 'a e anga ho'o mo'ui 'retreat' 'a e kau taki 'a e lea ko e (biblical structural form) 'a e 'ia Mat 18 : 15 matuku mai 'a e kau taki 'o e Metotisi 'i he fakalaum_lie? Ko hono 'omi ki he “FAKATAUTEHINA” 'o mahino ko e fua - 20, 'oku ne pukepuke 'a e va fetauhi'aki 'i fakataha'anga 'a e ngaahi Siasi Metotisi 'o fakakaukau 'o e felongoaki, 'oku mahino lelei eni 'o ha 'eke'anga, ko e fakatautehina. he levolo fakafo'ituitui, fakatautehina e Pasifiki mo e fehu'i kuo fakatokanga'i he ngofua mo faingofua ange pea peh_ hono 'Oku 'ikai lahi ha taha mo si'i ha taha 'oku (primary relationship) 'i he Siasi. potu kotoa pe kuo 'i ai e Metotisi 'a e holo fotunga. 'Oku ke f_f_ hake? 'Oku faka'amu tautehina kotoa pe fakang_ue. 'Oku 'amanaki Na'e tomu'a ma'u 'e Sione Uesil_ ia mo e kau memipa he ngaahi Siasi Metotisi 'i 'a e tokotaha fehu'i ke 'inasi he mo'ui 'a e 'a e fakahoha'a ni ke fakamanava hake 'a e 'ene “takanga tapu” 'o ohi mo ng_ue'aki e mamani. tokotaha te ne tali 'a e fehu'i. fakatautehina he levolo 'o e takanga sipi 'o 'eke'anga, ka ko e nge'esi ia 'o e lotu. 'Oku 'Oku kau heni 'a 'Aositelelia, Nu'usila ni 'Oku fanau'i heni e fe'inasi'aki. Kapau 'oua ngata pe he levolo fakang_ue 'o e kau 'ikai ko e peh_ ko e nge'esi pea 'oku mo e ngaahi motu he Pasifiki. Ne fai pe foki ko ha lava me'a, kapau ko ha monu'ia 'i ha taki. Na'e m_nava'aki 'e Sis_ ki he'ene kau ta'e'aonga ai 'a e nge'esi 'o e lotu. He ko e e fakatokanga mei he Palesiteni, Siasi koloa pe naunau matelie, kapau ko ha tu'unga ako, kapau kuo mou ui au ko e 'eiki mo e nge'esi 'o e fingota 'oku ne malu'i mo tokoni Uesiliana Tau'ataina 'o Tonga, he ngaahi ta'u pe lakanga kuo a'usia, pe ko ha a'usia takimu'a pea kuo u hoko ko e sevaniti 'o hono fakatupulekina 'a e fo'i fingota 'o tali kuo tau toki situ'a ki ai 'a e holo e kakai 'o fakalaum_lie, 'oku faka'amu e tokotaha fehu'i fufulu homou va'e mo holoholo'aki e tauveli ki hano 'aho 'e faka'aonga'i ai. e siasi mei he tohi kakai na'e fai, pea 'ekea ke 'inasi he 'uuni lelei mo e tapuaki ko ia. pea 'oku taau ke mou fai peh_ mo kimoutolu. Ne toki talaloto 'a Sione Uesil_ he 'aho mo e fakahoko fatongia he ngaahi siasi Pea kapau ko ha mamahi pe koe mole ha Ko e 'Eke'anga ko e kupesi ne ho'ata 4 Me, 1738, he 'aho hono fanau'i fo'ou 'ene mo'ui, koloa pe tu'unga ko e 'uhinga ia ke meia Sione Uesil_ mo 'ene ki'i “Holy Club”. a'usia 'a e mo'ui fo'ou 'ia Sisu mo fonu 'i he fakakolo 'a e kau tauhisipi. Tukukehe ange vahevahe mai 'a e kanongatamaki mo e kovi Pea kuo ohi mo fakatoka ai 'a e makatu'unga Laum_lie M_'oni'oni. Ne hoko leva 'a e 'a e mahino he siasi Metotisi 'i Nu'usila 'a e ko ia ke kau atu 'a e tokotaha fehu'i hono malohi mo fefeka 'o e ngaahi feohi'anga 'eke'anga ko e ki'i pununga mo'ui 'o taufetuku tangaengae pea a'u 'o tapuni e ngaahi falelotu fuesia. fakalaumalie 'o e ngaahi takanga Metotisi mei ai 'a e mo'ui, fanau'i fo'ou mo fonu 'e ni'ihi. 'Oku tui 'a e fakahoha'a ni ko e laum_lie mei he senituli 18, ko eni kuo a'u mai ki he Laum_lie M_'oni'oni'ia mo mafola 'i M_l_ mo e kakai nofo mai ke nau eni 'o e 'eke'anga pea 'oku akonaki'aki 'e senituli 21 ni. mamani. faka'aonga'i e ngaahi falelotu kuo tapuni. Sisu 'ia Matiu 18:20 “He ko e potu kuo Na'e mafola vave 'aupito 'a e Metotisi Ko e mafana ko ee hono tauhi 'i he Ko e tokanga 'a e fakahoha'a ni 'oku fefe 'a fakataha ai ha toko u ape ha toko tolu ki mei Pilitania ki 'Amelika, 'Iulope, 'Afilika, 'eke'anga 'a e kelesi 'oku 'i he kau memipa e 'EKE'ANGA. Ka mavae fo'i fingota mei hoku hingoa, 'oku ou 'i he potu ko ia au 'i 'Esia, Saute 'Amelika mo e Pasifiki. Ko e 'o e kalasi 'aho, ko e uho'i mo'ui ia 'oku hono nge'esi pea mahino hono iku'anga. Ko honau lotolotonga”. potu kotoa pe ne a'u ki ai e Metotisi ne 'ave mo'ui ai e Siasi. Ko Sisu Kalaisi 'oku ha e 'eke'anga, ko e nge'esi, 'oku ne fakalekesi Ko e pununga (context) 'oku to'o mei ai ai pe mo e 'Eke'anga. Ko e tapuaki foki 'o sino ai 'a e kelesi ko ia ka ko e fu'u ivi ia 'a e uho'i mo'ui. 'i he kelesi 'a e 'Otua ne 'a Matiu 18:20, 'oku felave'i mo e tauhi va Mele mo 'ene hinalolo 'alapasita. Ko e potu 'oku ng_ue 'i he loto 'o fai hono fakamo'ui. fononga mai mo e Metotisi he 'Holy Club', fakatokoua (primary relationship) 'i he kotoa pe 'oku a'u ki ai e tala 'o e fakamo'ui 'Efeso 2:8-9. He 'e ha'u e taha ne mahua ka ko e fa'unga fakatohitapu pe ia (biblical uhouhonga 'o e Siasi. Kapau 'e fai hala 'e 'e 'ave ai pe 'a e talanoa 'o e lolo takai 'a 'ene ipu kuo maha he kelesi, kae ha'u e taha structural form). ho tokoua, mole pe koe 'o fakamahino kiate Mele. 'oku 'oho'oho, pea fonu 'a e taha pea ko e (Toki hoko atu).

Ko e Youth Outreach Camp na'e fai ki Ngaruawahia Christian Camp Youth Outreach Camp - Battle for the Truth Part III BUILD A BRIDGE AND GET OVER IT: .Na'e lava lelei 'a e kemi 'a e to'utupu he kau talavou) pea ko e Kaveinga: Build 'I he 'aho Pulelulu ne fakahoko 'e Na'e kau eni ha kemi fakafiefia mo ne fakahoko he 'aho 13 ki he 'aho 16 'o a bridge with my friends and get over it. Penisimani Langi 'a e workshop hono 5- fakamafana 'aupito. Ne mamata 'a e Siulai ki Ngaruawahia Christian Camp. 'I he 'aho Tusite ne fakahoko 'e Build a bridge with Jesus and get over it. tokolahi ki he mana 'a e 'Eiki- pea na'e Na'e fe'unga 'a e kau kemi mo e toko 330. Penisimani Langi 'a e workshop hono 3 Pea na'e faka'osi 'aki 'a e workshop hono papitaiso e ni'ihi 'I he laumalie ma'oni'oni Ko Faifekau 'Ilaisaane Langi pea mo kaveinga: God's culture vs. My Culture. 6 'a e Mens and Womens ministry 'e Geoff (manifestation of the Holy Spirit) 'o iku to Faifekau Finau Halaleva pehe foki ki he Workshop hono 4 ne tataki ia 'e Faifekau Wiklund (mei he Promise Keepers- kau Sekelitali mo e komiti ngaue ne nau Saane Langi pea ko e Kaveinga: Build a potungaue ma'ae hou'eiki tangata) pea mo e ni'ihi (Slain by the Spirit) mo lea kehekehe tokanga'i 'a e kemi. bridge with Jesus and get over it. Pastor Lynette Leota (mei he siasi Break e ni'ihi. 'I he 'aho Monite 'aho 13 ne mavahe 'a Hili 'a e houa 'ilo ho'ata 'aho ne through church mo e “WOMEN BY Fakamalo atu he ngaahi hufia kotoa pe e 'u pasi mei 'Otahuhu-Fuakava Ta'engata fakahoko ai 'a e polokalama Creative DESIGN” ministries). ne mou fai 'o lava ai 'a e 'apitanga ni. Ne 'o Kenani he taimi 11am. Na'e fakahoko 'a Corners 'a e fanau pea na'e lava ange 'a e 'I he hili 'a e houa 'ilo ho'ata ne tuku e mau fakamo'oni'i 'a e ivi 'o e lotu mo hono e polokalama Malanga fakaava he taimi kau facilitators mei tu'a: ko Leki Bourke, fanau ke nau ki'I malolo mei he ngaahi hufia 'a e 'apitanga ni. Kuo lava hono to e 2pm pea na'e fakaafe'I 'a Rev. Dr .Foueti Petia & Caroline Wilson (MADD workshops pea nau sipoti. tenga, pea 'oku mau tui 'oku 'ikai ko ha Motuhifonua kene to ha'amau tapuaki. MESSENGER), Sola Vuna, Sisela Latu, Pea toki fakahoko 'a e malanga tapuni laufano e ngaue 'oku tau fai. 'I he taimi 4pm ne fakahoko ai 'e Nick Sisterhood Dance Crew (Nita Latu, Leva hili 'a e houa 'ilo efiafi. Ko e konivina Ne vahevahe 'a e tokolahi 'a e to'utupu Tuitasi 'a e workshop 'uluaki - Kaveinga: Faafua), Mele Ta'e'iloa. 'Ihe efiafi Tusite 'Osaiasi Kupu ne fakahoko 'a e malanga 'enau fiefia 'I he fanongo ki he ngaahi Build a bridge with my Parents and family ne lava ai hono fakahoko 'a e Creative ului fakataha mo e malanga palofisai 'a e and get over it. 'ihe hili e houa 'ilo efiafi 'o corner showcase mo e cultural night 'a e faifekau Saane Langi. Fakafeta'i ne ului 'a talaloto 'a e ni'ihi mei he komiti ngaue mo e 'aho koia ne fakahoko 'e faifekau Saane to'utupu - fakamalo lahi atu ki he kau taki e toko 178, ko e toko 80 ko e kau ului fo'ou e kau sekelitali pea na'e hoko ia ko e Langi mo Penisimani Langi 'a e womens lotu mo e si'I ngaahi matu'a ne mou 'ahia ('uluaki tali ia 'a Kalaisi ki he'enau mo'ui) fakalotolahi kiate kinautolu tautefito ki he and mens ministry workshop ('aia na'e ange 'o tau fakataha he polokalama pea koe toenga ne nau fakafo'ou honau tauhi honau va mo honau. fakamavahevahe ai 'a e kau finemui mei fakafiefia ko 'eni. kovinanite mo e 'Eiki). 'Eiki. 20 TOUCHSTONE • SEPTEMBER 2015

Malanga Faka-Vahefonua Lotofale'ia 'Aokosi 2015

Rev Dr Nasili Vaka'uta