MARCH 2008 NOVEMBER 2015

W

Church people can join other volunteers to help refugees start a new life in New Zealand. Volunteers help refugees

By Sophie Parish make NZ home ending a helping hand arrive into New Zealand, they receive is very special.” the church at that time and asked after WWII. to a refugee make a new are placed at the Red Cross This year Rachel says the if we could help the family find “We would like to see the life in New Zealand can resettlement programme in greatest need is for refugee accommodation. New Zealand quota for refugee be a rewarding Auckland. support volunteers, who help “Our whole church came assistance increased. We have a extension of the There they go through six refugees during their transition together to find furniture, successful resettlement program Methodist tradition of weeks of orientation to help them to living in their new home and bedding and home supplies to mission. integrate into Kiwi life, culture community. help the refugees they and we think that as a country LEach year 750 refugees arrive and language. Qualified Red efugee resettlement volunteers volunteered to support. It helped we have the capacity to do in New Zealand and over the Cross social workers, case attend a training course through them but it was also a way to more.” next two years an additional 600 workers and trained volunteers the Red Cross in their pull the church people together,” In the next six months the Syrian refugees will be help with this initial transition. region, and are often paired Robin says. New Zealand government will welcomed here. Most arrive After the six week with another volunteer to Parish steward Margaret make a decision about the current without the basics of life but the orientation, refugee families are R help families during the Ziegler visited the family and refugee response and whether chance for a peaceful life away then placed in communities in first three to six months in taught the parents and five they will increase the refugee from war and persecution is an Auckland, Manawatu, Nelson, New Zealand. children English. answered prayer. Waikato and Wellington. Some of the tasks volunteers “The congregation followed quota. Volunteers play a big part in Red Cross national do include helping families enrol the family through the years as You can support increasing helping refugees find their feet programme development their children into schools, going they moved around the the New Zealand refugee quota and settle into life in Aotearoa, manager says Rachel O'Connor grocery shopping with them, Manurewa community. Eight by contacting your local MPs or and churches may want to says one of the most rewarding showing them the local libraries years ago the family had saved you can help to raise awareness consider how they could parts of working with refugees and playgrounds, and just being enough to buy the Manurewa about New Zealand's role in contribute to this effort. is that you get to see people at a friendly face in their new parsonage. They said they helping address the global The Red Cross is the primary the start of their new life. country. wanted to live in a place refugee crisis. provider for refugee resettlement “I remember dropping off Manurewa Methodist dedicated to God,” Robin says. To become a resettlement in New Zealand. When refugees one family to their first home parishioner Robin Ziegler had When asked about the current and pulling onto the drive way. the opportunity to assist a Syrian crisis affecting Syrians fleeing volunteer contact your local Red The father got out of the car and refugee family resettle here in to Europe for survival, Rachel Cross branch by visiting pointed to the house and asked 1990s. says the humanitarian disaster www.redcross.org.nz or phoning INSIDE who lived there? The thanks you The Red Cross approached has displaced more people than 0800 7332 7677.

UCANZ FORUM - PAGES 3, 8 SEISMIC SHAKEUP - PAGE 11

CYF REVIEW - PAGES 6, 7 2 TOUCHSTONE • NOVEMBER 2015 NEWS Christian World Service - Small change makes big change By Gillian Southey way the economy works to address the The highlight of Christian World widespread damage human activity is doing Service's 70th anniversary celebrations to the planet. last month was a lecture by Rod Oram in The loss of biodiversity, climate change, Christchurch's Transitional Cathedral increasingly rapacious habits of banks, and St Matthew's in the City, Auckland. record numbers of refugees, practices such Both gatherings were attended by long- as Volkswagen's deliberate falsification of term supporters of CWS and others emissions and other crises are all leading interested in Rod Oram's reflections on the to the world's sixth extinction, he said. challenges the global community faces. The way forward is to focus on As the audience mingled before the restoring relationships with each other and proceedings, there were many comments between us and the planet. It is imperative as people recognised old CWS Christmas that we work with nature, not against it. Appeal posters. The events culminated in Drawing on economist Kate Raworth's a collection to assist Syrian refugees in radical revisioning of economics, Rod Jordan and Lebanon. spoke of the need to build a safe and just CWS national director Pauline McKay space for humanity under the welcomed people to the event and environmental ceiling. The solution to highlighted the organisation's early history, issues that are increasingly global is to its transition from relief work to community focus on the local. CWS director Pauline McKay addresses the audience at the Transitional development, and the way its work Change will come from strong Cathedral in Christchurch. Seated (from left) are David Tombs and Rod Oram. addresses unjust structures and poverty. communities where individuals are valued, that CWS has been doing for the last 70 funds to help war torn Greece in the name Pauline cited the Sustainable helped and encouraged. years and that will be needed for a long of the National Council of Churches.. Development Goals agreed at this year's Quoting scientist Gus Speth, he argued time to come. Money raised helped four relief teams United Nations General Summit as an for a spiritual and cultural transformation The future agenda needs to be inspiring organised by CORSO. important benchmark. She said CWS's to deal with what he called the and it needs to be faithful in all senses of The anniversary celebrations included work is more important than ever given environmental problems of selfishness, the word. The care of creation unites people videoed messages of congratulations and the complex problems of inequality, greed and apathy. Rod touched on Pope across all faiths. thanks from CWS partners around the conflict and insecurity. Francis's latest Encyclical Laudato Si and Rod argued for small, incremental steps world. Sparks in the Stubble its unequivocal argument for a reorienting to rebalance the ecosystem to support more The video culminated in a message of In his talks Rod aimed to ignite action of human life. life. His faith in the ability of people to congratulations from Helen Clark, now for social change. He took inspiration from The need for radical transformation in make big change from small change was head of the United Nations Development US Episcopal Church bishop Katharine the way we live together within the matched by the sense of urgency for action. Programme. Helen strongly affirmed Jefferts Schori as he encouraged Christians ecosystem is urgent. First Appeal CWS's pioneering work and encouraged to be “sparks in the stubble” and clear Churches too need to learn to work The first CWS Christmas Appeal was us to work together to address the drivers away the old growth and regenerate the together more effectively. Inspiration and launched by Archbishop West Watson in of poverty. world. strength will be found as we learn from a letter to the Christchurch Press on 15 “Hasn't CWS proven to be on the right He argued for a radical revision of the one another. In many ways this is the work December 1945. The letter appealed for side of history?” she asked. Ecumenical dialogue bears fruit The New Zealand Anglican, with each other to express more other faiths,” Philip says. National Church Leaders, a much Catholic and Methodist Churches visibly the unity willed by Christ Former Methodist president more diverse group with a number have agreed to form an for his church; and Rev John Roberts served as a of smaller and more conservative ecumenical trust to pursue closer 3) Working together towards facilitator during the eight years churches. ties and share understandings. our common mission of worship, of dialogue that has led to the It was decided that The National Dialogue for witness, and service in the world. formation of the NDCU. representatives of the churches in Christian Unity (NDCU) will hold Anglican archbishop Most Rev John says the Methodist the dialogue should be responsible its inaugural annual forum in Philip Randerson says forming the Church initiated the dialogue after to their own national church Wellington on 25 February 2016, NDCU gives hope that dialogue the demise of the Conference of structures, and that the NDCU as followed by a service of will lead to formal ecumenical Churches in Aotearoa New a whole was accountable to the John Roberts celebration at the Sacred Heart collaboration among the churches Zealand in 2005. structures and courts of the Cathedral at 5:00 pm. and other groups in society that In 2007, Methodist Conference participating churches. The aim of the group is to want to see progress on issues that agreed that then president Rev September 2011 the group decided explore the significance of Jesus' are a concern of all New Brian Turner would convene a to move beyond dialogue and form prayer for unity and truth by: Zealanders. meeting of the leaders of the a Churches Forum for Christian 1) Moving beyond what we “This includes child poverty, traditionally ecumenically minded Unity (CFCU). Their agreement can do within our own access to affordable good quality churches to discuss a way forward. stated that the CFCU would be a denominations and theological housing, and responding with This led to a meeting in 2008 of gathering of churches that confess traditions and journey into generosity to the refugee crisis. leaders of the Anglican, Baptist, Jesus Christ as God and Saviour uncharted territory with the Establishing the trust reflects the Catholic, Christian Churches NZ, according to the scriptures and company of others on the same responsibility we have to find a Methodist, Presbyterian, Quakers, commit themselves through the journey guided by the Holy Spirit; way forward and open dialogue and Salvation Army. Holy Spirit to fulfil Jesus' prayer 2) Deepening our relationship not only with other churches but Later leaders of the Apostolic “that they may all be one so that Church, Congregational Union the world will believe” (John and the Wesleyan Methodist 17:21). Philip Randerson Church joined the dialogue. The participating churches then of the NDCU and to take custody “This and the decision to give considered the CFCU's terms of of the proposal for a CFCU. observer status to the executive reference and whether they would Representatives of the Salvation officer of the evangelical New seek membership. Army and Uniting Congregations Zealand Christian Network was Responses from the Baptist, in Aotearoa New Zealand have to profoundly affect the outcome Christian Churches NZ, also participated in the ongoing Results to 30 September 2015 of a proposal to form a wider Presbyterian, Salvation Army, and dialogue.” ecumenical grouping,” John says. Wesleyan Methodist churches were The initial focus of the “Initially the discussions negative. 6 Mths to 12 Mths to continuing dialogue was to look focussed on a theological basis “It became clear that the NZ at the progress made in the bilateral for ecumenism. Some objected to Christian Network was a sufficient 31/3/15 30/9/15 conversations of the three the term 'ecumenism' so it was ecumenical vehicle for them, in a Income Fund 5.39% 5.41% agreed to use the term 'Christian way that it was not for the churches. unity'. A statement - Towards a Anglican, Catholic and Methodist The NDCU agreed to look into Growth and Income Fund 4.10% 4.25% Theology of Christian Unity - was Churches,” John says. how the participating churches approved by consensus in “While they dropped out of the celebrate the Eucharist and to Income Distributions for the quarter totalled $3,254,797 September 2010.” conversation the Anglican, explore the World Council of John says there was Catholic and Methodist Churches Churches' statements on mission, disagreement over the approved the proposal and agreed evangelism and a common vision. accountability of the dialogue to consult further about its future. The members of the dialogue are group. Some wanted to make the “We three churches agreed to also learning from one another dialogue accountable to the continue to meet under the banner how they handle sexual abuse. TOUCHSTONE • NOVEMBER 2015 3 NEWS Uniting Congregations Forum - Big ideas for small churches By Hilaire Campbell imagine a day when there is no and then support them to give Member of Uniting ordained minister, hymn book or their best.” Congregations Aotearoa NZ organ? That day will surely “But be warned there will be (UCANZ) who attended the come.” obstacles. Coming together brings biennial Forum in Lower Hutt In his talk Anglican Bishop diverse expectations and that last month were treated to a of Wellington Justin Duckworth requires extra love. “But how can potpourri of ideas on how to be asked why. Why isn't Jesus in our we do God's work if we can't more effective and enthused. conversations? Why is our work together?” The Forum was held at St passion dying? Presbyterian minister Mary Marks Wesley Church in Lower Victim mentality stops Petersen supports ministry in Hutt October 15-18. About 85 growth, he says. “We have lost small churches in the Waikato people attended the event, which confidence in the gospel. We can't and Canterbury. Her workshop included two days of workshops wait for a guru; we have to be the on community connections, aimed at boosting smaller change.” explored how churches can congregations with plenty of Justin is optimistic about minister deeply into their encouragement and suggestions. church renewal. “There is 2000 community. Mary asks how the wider Tawa Union Church minister years' proof of that.” Leadership Forum gave Uniting Congregations members a chance Rev Clare Lind says the speakers is vital, and this includes team Church supports locally-led to explore ways to spark up church life. and workshop leaders entertained ministry. ministry and she provided data and inspired everyone. “The UCANZ executive officer on 40 small churches which led Forum was well structured and Peter MacKenzie likened church to some alarming conclusions. with no decision making there renewal to a restaurant makeover. “Churches without a resident was lots of time to reconnect.” “If you follow Jamie Oliver, you minister feel ignored and despised Presbyterian Church will know that you have to source despite good local leadership. moderator Rt Rev Andrew Norton local produce so don't go to Many feel they don't count...but small churches can be strong, was one of three guest speakers sermon central. vibrant and deeply connected to at the Forum. Andrew told his “Find your passion. For a the heart of community. They audience the young ethnic restaurateur it might be truffles, deserve support and practical help congregations in our churches are for you it may be pastoral care or from Presbytery and Synod.” sources of hope but we should a mission project. Don't be afraid Nutrition consultant Delwyn not beat up on congregations in to ask for help. The red tape gets MacKenzie's workshop on decline. stickier every day, and you can't Healthy Congregations offered “That's life. If the grain of keep ignoring those IRD another take on spirituality. wheat doesn't fall to the ground envelopes. “Spiritual health depends on and die it won't bear fruit.” “Spring clean. Change your physical health,” Delwyn says. Andrew emphasised the decor. It helps rekindle passion. The body is a temple but we Methodist president Rev Tovia Aumua (left) was one of the speakers at Forum. important role churches have to Above all, don't try to 'youngify'. are not treating it as such. play in our society. You won't attract 18 year olds so Churches have a great opportunity “New Zealanders are so put your energy into current to promote good health. blessed but the Kiwi dream is customers.” UCANZ co-chairperson Lyn flawed. Every year 35 people die Methodist president Rev Heine says the Forum was a year as a result of family Tovia Aumua spoke about the catalyst for conversations about violence...a child is killed every importance of the multicultural and among the Partner Churches. five weeks. The government must church in today's New Zealand “There is no other place where provide just laws but it can't care. because it reflects God's vision. you get together across Only you and I can.” He quoted Revelation 7:9 as his denominations...it was lots of He recommended guiding principle: “I looked, and fun.” congregations use the behold, a great multitude...of all Thanks must go to members Presbyterian workshop booklet nations, tribes, peoples and of the St Marks Wesley Samoan Justice and Action, and he tongues”. and Tongan congregations for exhorted churches to work more Tovia says it is important to their moving performances on the closely together. encourage members of all cultural cultural evening. One of their “The Church's biggest crisis groups to be leaders. “Train them, songs, Ulufale (Our house) had is lack of imagination. Can you ensure fair selection processes, special meaning for the Forum. St Marks Union Church in Lower Hutt hosted Forum 2015. Push to raise age of leaving state care Methodist Lifewise is leading a nationwide alliance the skills or support needed to navigate the adult world. of agencies who are calling on the government to raise Lifewise, Youthline, Child Poverty Action Group, the age of leaving age for state care from 17 to 21. Action Station and agencies from all around the country In New Zealand, young people leave state care on have teamed up for the campaign We Don't Stop Caring. their 17th birthday, an age when they can't even sign a They are asking the public to sign a petition to increase tenancy agreement. the age of leaving state care from 17 to 21. Lifewise general manager Moira Lawler says the Nearly 6000 people have already signed the petition, consequences of this are visible every day. and the group is hoping to get at least 10,000 signatures “Young people who end up homeless, living on the before presenting the results to the Select Committee. streets because they have nowhere to go. “Young people are in state care through no fault of “We are pleased to hear that the Minister can see the their own. Somehow we have got to a point where people need for the age to be raised, and we hope that she will are quick to judge young people in foster care but they consider international research that shows are the innocent victims of sometimes horrific abuse overwhelmingly positive results for young people leaving and neglect. care at 21.” “Our government is responsible for young people Research from Monash University in Australia shows in state care, and we as members of the community have that for each 17 year old who leaves state care, it can a role to play in making sure that they have the support An online petition urges the government to cost the state more than $700,000 due to homelessness, they need to thrive,” says Moira. increase the age of leaving state care from 17 to 21 justice and correction costs, and long-term welfare Tupua Urlich, now 19, left state care at 15. “For me, care would give young people more chance to learn the dependence. leaving state care was a horrible and heart-breaking skills they need to be independent. Most Kiwi families support their children well past experience. You have so much expectation that grows Moira says raising the age of foster care from 17 to 17, and most young people now leave home at 23. Even throughout your childhood of returning to a loving 21 is in everyone's best interest. With better support, then, those who leave the nest can come back for support environment with your family. Sadly that was not the more young people will be able to make the transition if times get tough. case for me.” to adulthood successfully, resulting in long-term That isn't the case for young people raised in the state Moving into life as an independent adult is harder economic, social and health benefits for us all. care system. They don't have the option to come home when a young person has had a disrupted life in-and-out To sign the petition, visit the website if something goes wrong. They are left isolated, without of the state care system. Raising the age of leaving foster actionstation.org.nz. 4 TOUCHSTONE • NOVEMBER 2015 OPINION Bible in Schools part of NZ heritage To the editor, about all of the faiths on our planet, I suggest The July edition of Touchstone carried two a good start would be a Google search or one articles on Bible in Schools. To summarise, it of the many excellent books readily available. appears from them that the Secular Education I wonder how many SEN principles would Network (SEN) is not happy with our existing work in Indonesia, a Muslim country, or in India, Bible in Schools programme. which is predominantly Hindu. I am sure they For goodness sake, we are a Christian nation would readily move aside for the teaching of founded on Christian principles and faith. I see no problem in teaching about this in our schools Christianity as well. as we have done for the past 150 years. I guess SEN's next mission will be to remove Our Christian principles are being eroded the opening prayer of Parliament or maybe to and it is the old story that we are often too busy replace all the Gideon Bibles in motels with to care when extremists threaten our way of life. readings from all the faiths and so on. If a young person is really keen to learn Ron Panckhurst, West Melton Science and the truth of Scripture To the editor, great floods, storms, fires, earthquakes and other While I totally respect the position taken by perfectly natural phenomena. To humanity Geoffrey Stubbs on the relationship between without knowledge of the scientific truth behind evolution and Scripture as outlined in the October such events, it would be natural to believe a Touchstone, I think it is important to recognise 'supernatural order' was in action. the position that the truth of Scripture is not Then there is the story of the discovery of necessarily to be found in scientific or historical chariot wheels in the Gulf of Aqaba in the Red terms. Sea. I watched a documentary by a Christian The truth of Scripture lies in revelations researcher who made the discovery in the 1990s. about the relationship that exists between God Much of his presentation was conjectural and and God's creation, especially from a human the only explanations he gave were scientifically perspective. totally implausible. From my perspective, the scientific The phenomenon of erosion is a constantly awareness of the fact of evolution has been occurring process related to the recently clouded by the use of the word 'theory' in relation discovered fact of tectonic plate movement so to the fact. The theory is an attempt at explaining that while mountain ranges are being constantly By Jan Fogg the fact. raised by this movement, so erosion returns Because the process is so slow and them, eventually to the sea as sand and then conditional upon so many factors, all of evolution again to rock as the process continues. The strength of is in reality microevolution. Perhaps there is a I find my evolving God in all of the amazing problem when we use our micro knowledge to scientific discoveries we are making, just as I eagle's wings confront a macro problem because, in doing so, find God in my relationships with the living. we believe we see impossibility. I think it is important to allow the truths of One of the beautiful things about is the one in hospital, the one at home What we are actually confronting is the Scripture to maintain their own relevance and some couples who have grown may suffer. boundaries of our own knowledge. not to be confused with the truths of science together over many years is the way Sudden change and uncertainty Likewise, in ancient myths of various and history. they depend and lean on one another. can send us deep into our inner self cultures we must expect to discover stories of Brian Kendrick, Nelson They can be amazing to watch as to reflect on life. What has it meant? they share love with grandchildren What have we learnt that can serve us and children. Together, they give life now? Biblical truths that matter to each other. Where does the strength of the To the editor, earth by climate change. They are still vulnerable though. eagle come from at a time like this? In response to Geoffrey Stubbs' letter in your We see social dysfunction, domestic violence, When something major goes wrong Will someone be 'the Christ with skin last issue, I doubt very much whether “the truth and the increasing prevalence of suicide. For for one, ironically the other can be on' and support the one alone at home? of the Scriptures” is dependent on the historical many, poverty is the result of living in a world flooded with a sense of helplessness. Before this point arrives people verification of a Great Flood, the exact location in which meaning has been lost as the few have It is ironic because after long years can ensure that their mate of many of life and struggles together we might years is competent to take up some of of the wheels of Pharaoh's chariot, the age of acquired an obscene amount of wealth. think we could cope with most things the tasks that the other has always the earth, or where the top of seven Mt Everests The truth of the Scripture, it seems to me, but that very experience of done. Can we all cook nutritious went to after all that erosion. is contained and revealed in the meta-narrative togetherness can mean being alone is meals? Pay the accounts? Keep the I also doubt very much whether such truth of the all-encompassing, all-embracing love and more frightening. car running? Quickly find important is at all relevant to the ways in which we live grace of God extended to all without merit or When a man says 'My wife runs telephone numbers and addresses? our lives in this day and age. favour. This message is to be found in the stories, the home and without her here I'm Keep in touch with friends? Today 5.5 percent own 80 percent of the poems, parables and prophecies in the Bible. helpless,' what he might really mean Remember the family's birthdays? world's wealth, millions of people have been By comparison, concerns about the Great is that without her life has lost its A mother eagle prepares her young meaning; even with supportive ones for flying by 'unpreparing' their killed, injured or displaced as a result of war Flood, the location of the wheels of Pharaoh's whanau it can be an emotional road. comfortable nest. She makes sure it and civil unrest, and our continued use of fossil chariot, etc., seem quite insignificant and I think of the verses from the end isn't such a good place to be - sticks fuels and consequent pollution of the air and unimportant in the overall scheme of things. of Isaiah 40: “Those who wait for the poke up, her beak is often empty, and water we depend on for life is destroying the Valerie Marshall, Christchurch Lord shall renew their strength, they she hovers above the nest creating a shall mount up with wings like eagles, draft but also showing what wings Hard words for John Key they shall run and not be weary, and can do. they shall walk and not faint.” Eaglets will never learn to be To the editor, of the Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement These are great words to take into independent and fly as long as the It is high time to initiate a vote of 'no (TPPA). our hearts, yet the human reality of nest provides everything. They have confidence' in Prime Minister John Key in light 4) The lack of support he and his party give helplessness is a sense of being lost, to change emotionally. This is a great of his apathy and neglect of those in greatest to charitable institutions in NZ. adrift in a sea of fear about the future. image for couples who love one need in New Zealand. Such arrogant, irresponsible immorality does It can seem that the suffering another enough to train their partner To date we have seen 1) His initiative to not truly represent the attitudes of decent NZers. spend $25 million to change the NZ flag while caused by a partner's ill-health is in the tasks they don't usually do. ignoring the needs of 260,000 Kiwi children in John Key's attitudes, personal wealth, and greater than suffering our own ill- So couples have to gain the poverty. attention-seeking self-centeredness have health. The person in hospital is, security of independence whilst 2) His endorsement of the costly plan to dominated for long enough. As New Zealand hopefully, well-supported by friends keeping the real connection even bring pandas into NZ, again while belittling the citizens we need to put a stop the trends John and church family but it is not unusual stronger. Letting go and holding on needs of desperate families and children. Key follows. to have only one of a couple deeply at the same time - what wisdom and 3) His wilful obscuring of the consequences HJ Hoskin, Whanganui involved in the church family. If she courage is needed for older age!

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 • NOVEMBER 2015 5 OPINION

CONVERSATION WITH THE CONNEXION Mourning, celebrating, looking ahead It is now approaching the end of the friend. A good leader inspires others to be because of disagreements over issues and first half of our presidential term for the like them and to exercise their own gifts. events at the time. years 2015-2016. On reflecting over the Lana did that for many people. This is what The latest meeting between the past 11 months of our journey, we have Connexional leadership is about. Methodists and Wesleyans took up where experienced mixed emotions. Lana was laid to rest in her beloved the first two meetings left off, exploring new We have participated in some joyful Taheke, Northland, in the Pukewheki urupa, ways to reconcile the two churches. This President Vice-President events and celebrations and also experienced on Sunday, October 4th. President Tovia and effort at reconciliation reflects the theme of Rev Tovia Aumua Dr Arapera Ngaha some sad times. We have already shared Vice President Arapera, Tumuaki Diana Tana, the Presidential Team's second year, 'A time some of those in past issues of the past president Alan Upson and Waikato to Re-Sow, A time to Re-Grow'. If the building could speak, what Touchstone. Waiariki Synod superintendent Susan On Sunday 20th October, Bella and Tovia wonderful stories it would tell. From earnest This month, we had the sad news of the Thompson presided over her funeral service participated in the 100th year anniversary young preachers to the antics of small unexpected passing of former Methodist vice and burial. celebrations of the Te Awamutu Methodist children, to the melodious tones from the president Lana Lazarus. Later in October President Tovia was one church building. choir and congregation. We were shocked and left feeling what of four representatives from the Methodist It was an enjoyable celebration, and it We look back and give thanks for those a great loss it will be to her whanau, her Church of New Zealand to attend the third was great to meet the past members and who dared to dream dreams and share visions. community, Te Taha Maori and the Methodist meeting with leaders of the Wesleyan presbyters, who attended the celebration and We give thanks for those who went Church as a whole. Methodist Church of NZ. The initial meeting shared their memories of the building and through endless fundraising to make the Lana was so dedicated and efficient in was held in 2008, and the second 2009. the parish. all the things she did. She was always willing The long break between the second and In her foreword in the celebration booklet, dream come true. to stay with the issues and remained true to third meetings was because of the earthquakes Rev Jo Durrant wrote: We give thanks for those who spent many her understandings of the Bi-cultural that struck Christchurch in 2010 and 2011 Wesleyan Methodism came to Te hours doing the labour to create the building partnership of the Church. and the involvement of leaders in their Awamutu 140 years ago, and this year marks and for those who gave of time and talents She was willing to share her personal aftermath. the 100th anniversary of the building at 261 in the inner furbishing of the church. insights with the wider church insights. And The initial purpose of this forum was to Bank Street. No church is complete without a she had a wealth of knowledge of the Church, explore ways to reconcile the two churches, The congregations from Pirongia and worshipping, loving, caring and welcoming not only in New Zealand but also overseas. which split after a number of people left the Otorohanga have now joined with Te congregation whose life is both within the We pay tribute to Lana as mentor and Methodist Church of NZ in the late 1990s Awamutu to form one congregation. church and community. Israel's right to be Does Christianity Jewish homeland have a future? By Gary Clover which is the State of Israel, the Holy I'm dismayed that ex-President Brian Land. I want to say to all the Arabs of Turner (October Touchstone) repeated Israel to wake up. Comparing us to other A response the Palestinian Liberation countries, to Arab countries, we live in By Geoffrey Stubbs the Lord than to put as they were faithful to Jesus Organisation's slander that Israel is an paradise. [There is no] place better than John Peat raised an confidence in man (in and preached (Mark 16:20). “apartheid state”. Israel.” extremely valid point in the ourselves, in our own The disciples also had a Despite its many and transparent What does Brian say to the Greek October Touchstone when resources).” I am quite sure great interest in God's Word flaws, Israel is the one remaining multi- Orthodox priest who broke ranks with he asked whether that if we try to leave God (2 Peter 1:16-19). Peter was religious, multi-cultural, and multi- his dhimmi-cowed colleagues to call on national, democratic haven for oppressed Christianity has a future. out of it, we are doomed to looking for a little comfort Arab Christians to take up their full role Although I am mostly a failure. just prior to his impending minorities and their different faiths in the and responsibilities within Israel because Middle East. It is the one place where theological conservative, I John Peat divides martyrdom. He returns to the it is the only Middle Eastern safe haven feel I have a great deal in Christians into three importance of the Scriptures: Jews, Arab Christians, Druze, Baha'i, and Christians have? other Middle Eastern minorities are not common with his thinking. categories: 1) Hebrew “And so we have the The Bethlehem wall and the John wrote, “We must put Christians or Old Testament prophetic word confirmed, oppressed as dhimmis, and all have access checkpoints surrounding Jerusalem are to redress under the rule of law. into modern idioms the Christians. There is a danger which you do well to heed as inhumane monstrosities. But they beat wonder, spiritual power and that the members of many of a light that shines in a dark Playing fast and loose with the term being bombed in buses or restaurants or apartheid, and using it out of context to desire to serve that Jesus our denominations in NZ fall place”. being sniper shot from nearby hills. evoked in His original into this category. Finally the disciples knew de-legitimize and demonize Israel and Checkpoints are a necessary feature bully Israel's defenders into silence has followers. If not Christianity 2) 1st Century Christians, Jesus' beautiful love for them of life for everyone throughout today's will disappear.” who interpret the New individually. Jesus pointed no place in our Church's life. We can do Israel, not just for Palestinians, because better than that. I couldn't agree with him Testament literally. I pretty out the most important thing of unrelenting Muslim Arab terrorism. more. much fall into this category. in our lives when He told Why doesn't Brian know that Even as I write, in northern Judea, denigrating Israel is a worldwide leftist I would say that in my I believe it is absolutely Martha that Mary had chosen Fatah drive-by shooters have shot dead ploy that began as a 1964 KGB initiation own personal experience, the essential for us as Christians, the “good part”, of sitting at a mother and father before their children's of Soviet leader Yuri Andropov to give major thing which blocks us to study the Bible. his feet and listening to his eyes. In Old Jerusalem another Jewish Yasser Arafat and the Palestine Liberation from reaching out to others 3) 21st Century teaching (Luke 10:38-42). couple were stabbed to death by a Organisation (PLO) a respectable, secular, is fear. I have had to pray Christians. John points out I sincerely believe that we Palestinian youth. And in Judea and Marxist, ideological under-pinning as regarding different spiritual that the 21st century as a church need to return to Samaria there were three other cases of anti-colonialist freedom fighters within issues over the years, and worldview is ruled by science daily Bible reading and study. drive-by shootings - all endorsed by the the Soviet-led Second World bloc of post- those prayers helped a lot. and technology. That is fine “For whoever is ashamed of colonial nations? Fatah Party of Palestinian Authority Last year, in the August up to a point. I myself almost Me and My words in this Brian needs to address his own president Mahmud Abbas. 2014 Touchstone, Rex graduated from the Otago adulterous and sinful liberation theology blinkers. How can he This official racial hatred and Nathan wrote, “Holy Spirit, Medical School years ago. generation, of him the Son of promote the lie that Israel persecutes and demonising of the Jewish people, carried revive our church.” I feel Rex But for me, it is patently Man also will be ashamed drives Palestinian Muslims and Christians on day and night in the Palestinian made an important point, that obvious that there is a God. when He comes in the glory from their ancestral homeland when Israel territories, is the real apartheid. It has to only with God's help can we How can we be Christians if of His Father with the holy is the one Middle Eastern nation where stop before any meaningful peace talks make the changes needed in we do not believe in God? angels,” (Mark 8:36-38). the Christian population is actually can progress. our own lives to find this How can science explain the It is very possible that the growing? The PLO is not a partner for peace. “new language, new Holy Spirit? How can science decline in Bible reading today In a recent poll Jerusalem Palestinians, Three times in the last 20 years its leaders evangelism, new warming of explain the resurrection of is because many of us are by a majority of 56 percent, preferred rejected Israeli offers of 95 percent of the heart”. Christ? intimidated by modern Israeli to PLO rule. Under the PLO, their territorial demands and land swops Rex wrote that we need At the end of his article, science and the news media. Bethlehem's Christian population to cover the other 5 percent to follow the major teachings John wrote, “We must put As John wrote, decreased from 75 percent in 1993 to Brian, I base Israel's right to be the of John Wesley, and the 10 into modern idioms the “Christianity only has a future around 20 percent today. Jewish homeland on the loyalty given Commandments (I would wonder, spiritual power and if we can find a new How does Brian answer the Arab her by unlikely people like Sarah Zoabi, prefer the commandments of desire to serve that Jesus language, a new evangelism, mother from Nazareth and 2015 Israeli the evidence - archaeological, historical, Jesus in Matthew 22:37-40). evoked in His original a new warming of the heart.” Master Chef Sarah Zoabi, who in her and scriptural - of her 4000 year-long As the Scripture says, followers.” I couldn't agree more. winner's speech on nation-wide TV continuous connection to the Holy Land, “Obedience brings down the I suggest that what gave Thank you, John. As we declared: “I am an Arab, Muslim, Israeli, and the declarations made by the post- Spirit of God.” the disciples their power and do our part, however halting proud Zionist”? In her victory speech World War I imperial powers, the League The middle verse of the fervour included their our steps, the Lord will do Sarah said: “I believe in the right of the of Nations, and international treaties. whole Bible, Psalm 118:8, experience of the miracles His, I am sure of it, (John Jewish people to have their own country, Gary Clover, Nelson says, “It is better to trust in (signs) which followed them 14:21). 6 TOUCHSTONE • NOVEMBER 2015 NEWS AND VIEWS HONES T TO GOD By Ian Harris A Visit For secular Christians to Lincoln What on energy will begin to flow between them, Sometimes they obscure it. They are earth is a secular to the enrichment of both. quite irrelevant to the way secular people Cathedral understand the world and live their lives. Christian? Surely Naturally, this means rethinking a By Desmond Cooper if you're secular great deal of what has been handed down This applies even to the once pivotal you can't be to us from pre-secular eras. That includes notion of theism - that is, in the words Christian, and if the quaint idea of reducing Christianity of one of my priestly critics, “a God who When the silence takes hold you're Christian to a package of beliefs which, if you is independent of this world and universe, All is suspended you can't be assent, makes you a Christian, and if you who has planned it and keeps it in secular! don't, rules you out. existence, and has involved himself in Night and day; need and want That was the puzzled reaction to a As usually expressed, those beliefs its history”. Dread and desire; life and death. comment that I thought of myself as a are really the time-bound and culture- That is a time-honoured concept of “secular Christian”. An explanation bound answers to the ultimate questions God but it is not the only one. It was seems timely. of life. In every other field of knowledge challenged early in the life of the church As the horizontal gives First, though, I must acknowledge people of the third millennium have gone by the conviction that Jesus showed in the attempts of others to answer the way beyond the science, medicine, law, a unique way what God is like, to the Way to the vertical question for me. Three priests, two education, technology and worldview of point where Christians were spurred to So the spirit is released Catholic and an Anglican, have written past ages. refine the notion of God by catching that it is dishonest to claim to be both. They build on the new knowledge Christ up into it. Suspended; all is suspended The first insists: “There is no such thing that has been won. But there is something But these creative exercises are best or person, because 'secular Christian' is about religion with its claims to final seen as interpretations of experience, not a contradiction, like 'a square circle'... truth and ultimate authority that makes dogmas fixed for all eternity. Embraced by a For you and others to come along now many of its adherents reluctant to follow. In a secular world, people have to be and try to appropriate for yourselves the It is necessary at the outset to free to explore the core tradition and to Divine ecstasy; a sense term Christian is quite unjust and distinguish between the core tradition of attempt new interpretations. That all else is trivia takes hold. dishonest.” Christian faith and the many lesser Why should it be considered atheistic, Another says: “If you are an atheist, traditions that have accumulated around dishonest or demonic to try to make Compassion, laced by grace be an atheist and don't obfuscate this it. One way to express the core tradition sense of faith in the light of the new with pseudo-theological language.” is that through his life, ministry, death knowledge and insights of the past 400 And the third: “[You are] merely and resurrection Jesus expressed with a years, and vice versa? Embraces all with it's spreading confusion, concealing the startling clarity and freshness the Secular men and women look for Indelible touch a Gospel truths by many empty words, possibilities for Godness that lie within meaning, purpose and fulfilment within which is properly the domain and each of us. this world of space and time, because Perfectly proportioned eternity objective of Satan, the arch-deceiver, To preserve that core and pass it on they are not convinced there is another A silent, reverent joy reigns whom Christ called 'a liar, and the father the church developed a host of forms world beyond it. That makes them thereof'.” and practices - creeds, rituals, systems secular. Oh dear. Here was I thinking there of ministry and government, hymns, Many would say Jesus is decisive in All is contained, all of is virtue in trying to be honest in matters robes, architecture - that helped people their lives (which is another way of of religion, and good sense in exploring of former times to understand and saying “Jesus is Lord”). This makes them Heaven and earth in this ways to hold the Judaeo-Christian embrace the core tradition. Christian. heritage and our contemporary secular Effective as these lesser traditions It seems odd that instead of building confined clarity. culture together in positive tension. At were in their day, many of them now on that, some priests are more intent on Even a little imp least that offers the hope that currents of cling to the core like barnacles. chasing us out of the church. Moulded high in the corner. We can do better than foster care By Moira Lawler, emotional scars. This prevented but our team believed that the Lifewise general manager them from trusting people and parents could provide a loving building and maintaining home. They just needed to learn The main finding of the relationships. how. current Child Youth and Family Despite abuse and neglect, We asked CYF if we could test review is completely sound: New children naturally feel a sense of out a different way of doing things. Zealand's most vulnerable young belonging to their birth families. Rather than removing children people are being let down by a We are all naturally wired to love from the home, we removed the system that traumatises them. the people who raise us, even if parents. But the conversations we are they may not be the best person We set the children up in a new hearing from the review are all for the job. And most parents want home where the family wanted to about blaming families. That won't their children to come home. put down their roots. get us anywhere. We have a broken In fact, research shows that Our foster carer moved into the system. children who remain with their new home full-time, and the There's no question that some parents fare better than children parents were slowly brought back people are not capable of being removed from care. The more into family life, learning the ins- loving parents but most parents contact children in care have with can provide a stable and safe home and-outs of establishing routines, their biological parents, the better setting boundaries, and having fun if they are given the right support. they do later in life. Taking children away from That could be because children with parenting. their families is treating the in state care are often badly treated. It was a long process, but today symptom, not the cause. It is They are handed from home to the parents have full custody of entirely possible to do a better job. home, and multiple social workers their children, and all reports show The focus on the review should that some parents simply can't familiar to them, including their manage their case over the years. that the children are happy and not be on how we can keep cope. school, friends and the Or it could be because children well cared for. children safe from their families, Many parents who have communities where they have been simply do better when they are We need to stop focussing our it should be how we can make children removed from them have raised. with their family, no matter how efforts on what happens to children families safer. themselves been in care. They don't The research shows that dysfunctional. once they've been removed from Our system has everything have role models for how to set up removing children from their It's clear that state care needs their parents, and shift towards backwards. We give young parents a loving home. families can damage them. It to change - we can definitely do giving parents the support they everything they need to know When children are removed creates disruption, confusion, and better. need so that children don't have to about how to give birth but there from their home, not only are they feelings of abandonment. Lifewise has piloted an be removed in the first place. is no manual for what to do with removed from their parents, they The transient nature of foster approach that turns the foster care The young people who talked babies and children once they go are often separated from their care can also harm children. When paradigm on its head. We were to the Children's Commission for home. siblings, further traumatising them. interviewed, adults who have been working with a family that had all their recent report were New Zealanders are becoming These children have to go in foster care remember moving five children removed from them. unequivocal: They want to stay increasingly isolated from each wherever a placement can be between placements as a series of CYF concluded that the children with their parents. It's time we other, and lack of support means found, leaving behind everything significant losses that left should never return to their parents listen to them. TOUCHSTONE • NOVEMBER 2015 7 NEWS AND VIEWS

PUBLIC ISSUES NETWORK Government rethinking policies on children. What does it mean By Betsan Martin education, health, and housing. Instead of whanau. An array of important information on simply focusing on bringing down the It raises the question as to whether ? children has emerged in recent weeks. number of people on unemployment benefits there are business opportunities for those The Children's Commission State of Care it would look at a longer term programs for who develop big data software. 2015 report and the Rebstock review of beneficiaries. And we might ask what happens children in state care are part of a wider For example, teen parents are projected when the judgement of social workers picture of state sector reform and a new to be on benefits for 17 or so years. Social clashes with the data sets. approach called 'Social Investment'. Investment would ensure they are in school Another problem is that children can Taking a Christian justice lens to welfare or training, and supervised to strengthen their be put at risk if their parents do not and investment means looking at how prospects for employment and independence. comply with the obligations tied to their families are supported, how communities This would reduce costs to taxpayers. benefits. Radio NZ found that nearly help children achieve, and how we support Bill English's paper on social investment 2000 children are in families that have cultural and spiritual values. sets out a long term approach to welfare and lost half of their benefit income. Justice includes social services that are the need for children to reach their potential This can happen if the parent misses trustworthy and accountable for the quality but it emphasises the cost of welfare. The an appointment or a training course of services they provide and the money they paper states that the Ministry of Social because they have no transport. spend. Development aims to reduce the $78 billion The Rebstock report says that children Care 2015 report say that social welfare It means looking at the whole picture: welfare liability. and young people under the care of the Child systems do not place children and their needs school, health, crime, abuse, and housing. It His proposals suggest working with data Youth and Family have dramatically worse at the centre of their work. also means recognising the principles that collection programmes to identify children outcomes as young adults than the rest of Most of the focus of government policy shape policies. at risk. IT software known as 'big data' will the population. Child Youth and Family deals with a use information from education, health, Complex issues arise when a child passes is on services and what is missing from the plethora of programmes, policies, ministries, welfare and corrections to identify behaviour into state care. This includes dependency, Social Investment paper is a long term vision legislation, and statistics. The numbers are patterns likely to lead to welfare. deprivation and psychological damage that for investment in wellbeing by eliminating difficult to deal with. Here are a few: There It would provide information on those pass from one generation to another. For poverty and providing adequate childcare, are 250,000 children in poverty, the police likely to pose the 'risk' of being on benefits Maori children it is part of the legacy of parenting, and housing. made 58,000 referrals to CYF in 2014, and or needing intense social work. It would colonial alienation. Countries with better outcomes for 68 percent of young people in CYF identify when children risk being exposed The question we face is how we can residences are Maori. to abuse or neglect. build communities, heal and create the children than ours spend more on early Finance minister Bill English explains This raises concerns about privacy, multiplier effects of love for children taken childhood education. Denmark spends Social Investment as taking account of all stigmatisation, state surveillance and profiling from their families? $50,000 per child, the Netherlands $24,000 the contributors to a good life for children - children and families, in particular Maori The Rebstock report and the State of and New Zealand $14,000. Trip to Hamilton Zoo 'best day ever' Flat Bush church land for houses By Julie Thomas By Cory Miller Tuesday September 29th dawned fine and Church land that has lain dormant clear and continued to be a hot, sunny day for more than half a century in Auckland's under a cloudless blue sky. Flat Bush is to be sold to a developer and It was most definitely an answer to a prayer transformed into a cluster of much-needed as this was the day the parishioners of the new homes. Anglican Methodist Co-operating Parish of St The land at 169 Chapel Road is where Pauls in Putaruru took a large number of very the former Flat Bush Methodist Church excited people to Hamilton Zoo. was built back in 1882. It remained on the St Pauls has more than children on the roll site till its doors were forced to close in the for regular Sunday 'Fun, Faith and Food' ministry, 1960s when the decision was made to move and every six weeks or so the number of children the congregation elsewhere. and adults swells to 75 for a Saturday afternoon At its rear sits a cemetery plot where of Messy Church. some of the city's first settlers are buried. It is a flourishing ministry and a vital one. The earliest grave belongs to Horace David The Methodist Church will maintain These children often lead difficult lives and the the Flat Bush Cemetery. Whitten who died from blood poisoning at care and attention, smiles and hugs, and It has taken about eight years, but Greg wholesome food they at St Pauls is very age six, on July 12, 1886. important to them. In the 1970s the church building was says plans are finally on track to put the The trip to the zoo was part of this ministry moved off site and sold to a private owner block of land up for sale. and those who joined the trip assembled outside who transformed it into a home on Gillies Church records indicate the land was the church, many for more than an hour. There The giraffes were a big hit Ave in Epsom. bought for £20 in 1882 but today will likely were 55 people in a bus and 25 joined in a with the kids from Putararu. For the last half century the 3,200 sqm go for well over $1 million. collection of vans and cars. raced around their enclosure and swung by their plot of land has gone largely unused barring Howick-Pakuranga Methodist Parish As the bus made its way to Hamilton there tails as they ate fruit. the occasional animal grazer. elder Brian Jones has looked after the empty was lots of enthusiasm at seeing Lake Karapiro, Local ladies from the parish had supplied For years the Howick-Pakuranga Parish land for several years is pleased that things horses in paddocks and all the houses in baking for morning tea and the fact that it was paid the cost of its general upkeep, were finally coming together. Hamilton. It brought home to the trip leaders homemade really impressed some of the children. maintaining the land, trimming trees and “It took an act of parliament to separate the fact that some of the children had never been Lunch was a picnic of bacon and egg and cutting grass. the two pieces of land,” he says. out of Putaruru before. sausage and egg pies, more baking, fruit and Methodist Church Connexional The roughly quarter acre of land the The 'Let the Children Live' fund paid for the muesli bars. The other groups watched us sing property chief executive Greg Wright says cemetery sits on will still be owned and bus and it was a huge part of the day for the grace and marvelled at our well-behaved because the whole plot was designated as maintained by the church. children who rode on it. children. Tables groaned with food and hungry a cemetery it was not possible to just sell Greg planned to have the land ready After morning tea, family groups of delighted tummies were soon filled. off the land. for sale at the end of October. Once sold, children with parents, grandparents or caregivers The trip home was more subdued as some “The land had lain fallow with just a it will be divided into housing plots for up made their way to the animals. little ones slept on the shoulders of caregivers. couple of horses and sheep grazing on it.” to 18 new homes. Some, like the playful lemurs, put on a real The day was declared 'the best day ever!' by Greg says eventually the parish decided While Greg can't say how much each show, and some, like the chimpanzees, snoozed several as they disembarked back at the church. it was a valuable asset that could be put to new home was likely to cost, he said the in the sun and eyed us while we eyed them. The shining eyes, smiling faces, happy better use. density of the area suggested these would The giraffes were a huge hit and the children laughter and little hands slipped into ours with To make it available for residential be in the affordable bracket. laughed uproariously at the young giraffes such trust and happiness will stay with those development the church had to prove there “It's a parcel of land that will be able whacking each other with their long necks. The lucky enough to accompany these children for were no bodies outside of the cemetery to provide houses in an area that is so tiger inspired awe and fear and the monkeys a very long time. area. desperately in need of it.”

KOINONIA KIWISAVER SCHEME If your provider’s www.koinonia.org.nz

KiwiSaver scheme 0508 738 473 | [email protected] OZP^Yɪ_ʭ_dZ`NLY The ethical KiwiSaver Contact us for the eligibility conditions easily transfer to and a copy of the Investment Statement scheme for Christians Koinonia. Administered by The New Zealand Anglican Church Pension Board Trinity Methodist

Theological College T 09 521 2073 • E [email protected]

Conference to ordain strong cohort of Trinity College graduates Methodist Conference will see the ordination of nine Church and been assessed as ready for ministry in Te Hahi Conference. new ministers - one deacon and eight presbyters. Weteriana. This means they have completed their academic “Trinity College Council celebrates with the ordinands and The service these people carry out ranges from Lifewalk study and ministry formation programmes through Trinity rest of the Methodist Church and acknowledges their chaplaincy at a primary school in Auckland, to ministry on College, and probation ministry in their communities, parishes marae, worship centres and parishes from Northland to or rohe. commitment to service. Christchurch. Trinity College Council chairperson David McGeorge says We look forward to accompanying the ordinands on their All the ordinands have met the requirements of the Methodist the ordination service is always one of the highlights of faith journey as we support each other in our ministries.”

MOIMOI 'AHAU KAUFONONGA MELEMA'U MOLITIKA KEITA HOTERE I was born in Tonga in 1949 and in As the saying goes, 'It is not about Tena koutou katoa. I am of Ngapuhi 1972 I left high school for my first job the destination, it is about the journey'. and Te Aupouri descent and currently at the Tonga Electric Power Board. My journey began at Koulo, Ha'apai, live in Whangarei. In 1975 I married my wife Lisia, and Tonga and it has taken me to Aotearoa As a kaikarakia I trained for ministry we had four children. We moved to New New Zealand. as a private student and graduated from Zealand in 1979. Here in New Zealand it has taken Trinity College in 2007 with a diploma I became a lay preacher in 1981 and me from Kirikiriroa (Hamilton) to Otautahi in Practical Theology. In 2012 I was moved to Mangere in 1983. (Christchurch). stationed by Conference to the Taitokerau I joined the Mangere Methodist It has been an experience of Rohe - Northland region as a minita-a- Tongan Congregation (Lotofale'ia) which built its church chapel in searching, exploring, discovering, and iwi. 1987. It was opened by King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV in 1988. learning to continue searching, exploring, discovering and learning! The skills, experiences and knowledge gained through growing I have been the steward for the Lotofale'ia congregation for 15 Last year I moved from being a Trinity College student to a up and working in Te Taha Maori has equipped me well for my years, and I have served as a lay preacher there and at Papatoetoe probationer at Beckenham Methodist Church, Christchurch. present ministry on marae, churches and worship centres in Tongan Parish. When my probationary journey ends and I am ordained will I Northland. I have also served as the administrator of the 'Akoteu Lotofale'ia have arrived? According to a old wise man from Koulo the journey Throughout my teaching career I have been involved in Te Reo child care centre for 14 years and I manage Vahefonua Tonga O continues. Maori language revitalisation programmes, community research Aotearoa's housing project Matanikolo Village in Mangere. I use the words from Micah as my GPS: “To act justly and to and educational initiatives that have shaped the aspirations of my My aim is to continue to serve my Lord and the communities love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” people socially, economically, politically and spiritually. within the Methodist Church of New Zealand as a minister. As a minita-i-tohia my ministry will continue in that vein and offer a service that contributes to the many gifts of all ministries that make up the Methodist Church of New Zeland. HOSEA SOVEA TUPOU “There are different kinds of gifts but the same Spirit distributes I was born and raised in the tiny them. There are different kinds of service but the same Lord,” village called Ha'avakatolo on the western (Corinthians 12:4-11). FALANISESI FUSITU'A end of Tongatapu, the main island of the HAFOKA Kingdom of Tonga. I am blessed through my marriage I moved to New Zealand in 1986 for ALIVERETI ULUDOLE with my husband Lopeti Hafoka and our further education after high school in I am a fitter and turner by trade and six children and nine grandchildren. We Tonga. I have lived in Otara - the heart I am originally from Fiji. I became a lay migrated to New Zealand in 2003. of South Auckland - since moving here. preacher in 1998 and, after three years I graduated with a Bachelor of I was a member of Tokaima'ananga of study at Davuilevu Theological School Education from the University of Auckland - Otara Tongan Methodist Parish for many in Suva, I became a lay pastor in 2004. in 2008 and earned a diploma of Practical years before transferring to Wesley Papatoetoe Methodist. In 2011 I started my training at Trinity Theology from Trinity Theological College I graduated with a Bachelor of Theology from Auckland University. College and I completed my studies in in 2013. In 2012 I candidated and was accepted for general ministry as a 2013. Now I am stationed at the Fiji I also received a lay diploma of Theology and Preaching from the presbyter. My first appointment was as a probationer at Avondale Methodist Circuit in Meadowlands, Free Wesleyan Church of Tonga in 2002 and a diploma in Education Union Parish in 2013 and in 2014 I transferred to Waitakere Parish. Auckland as a probationer. from Tonga Institute of Education in 1992. I wish to acknowledge with thanks the guidance, help and This ordination means a lot to me. It opens an important chapter I am currently a deacon probationer based at Glen Innes Tongan support from all those people whose paths I have crossed. I also of my life and my calling. I look forward to doing pastoral work with Methodist church. I am a Lifewalk chaplain for primary schools wish to thank my parents, sisters, brothers and my wife and children. the Methodist church of New Zealand and its missions. And I look through the Christian Education Commission and I worked as primary May God bless us all. forward to being a helping hand on the Wasewase ko Viti kei Rotuma school teacher for many years. canoe. Deacon Louis Williams said “Part of being a deacon is to ensure that the conscience of the church remains awake to the suffering and needs of the poor and society's unloved.” I am here to develop IEREMIA AMANI AMITUANA'I JOELI DUCIVAKI the gift and grace of God, and to open my heart to those who struggle I was born in Samoa in 1968 and I was born in Bagasau, a business and are rejected. was brought up in a Christian family. I and residential district in central Suva. learned Christian values enriched with As a teenager I accepted Jesus Christ Samoan culture and traditions. to be my saviour while attending a camp I was educated in Samoa and had with the Campus Crusade for Christ with the good fortune to further my high school my elder sister. FINAU HALALEVA and tertiary education in New Zealand, I earned entry to university but I am in my first appointment at where I became a teacher. decided to join Telecom Fiji as a technical Henderson Tongan Fellowship within the While pursuing a teaching career, I cadet. I achieved a diploma in Auckland/Manukau Tongan Parish. felt the call of the Holy Spirit to serve as telecommunication engineering in 1986, I came a long way with many ups a lay preacher. God has also blessed me with the gift of music which which paved the way for 23 years career as telecom engineer and and downs to be here. I echo the disciple's I have utilised to serve Him through the Samoan Methodist Parish administrator. words on the Sea of Galilee: “It is the in Hastings. In 2006 I joined Downer Engineering in NZ and migrated with Lord.” Without the Lord, Jesus Christ, I After 20 years of teaching, five years of lay preaching and many my family. I attended Mt Roskill Fiji Methodist Church and became would not have made it to this stage. years as a musician, I felt the call to offer myself for ordained ministry. the assistant steward. Today, I open a new chapter of my The journey was not easy but through it I learned to cherish and I enrolled at Trinity in 2009 and at the same time took a position life and I am ever so grateful to those who have contributed to my celebrate the successes and achievements. at Air NZ. I acknowledge the guidance and support of the Trinity journey. It started at Sia'atoutai Theological College and now into I thank God because it was through the low periods of life that College staff and past principal Rev Dr David Bell who helped me Trinity Theological College. I came to understand more about myself, life, and His grace and shape a new worldview of God, life and myself. I wish that God will continue to bind and guide us in the field mercy. My experiences in my family, church, education and teaching I am married to Talatoka Tikoirotuma and have five lovely of ministry. have helped to form a solid foundation from which to pursue ordained daughters. They are all very supportive to my calling. Last but not the least, I would like to give thanks to my family ministry with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. In 2013 I was stationed at Mt Albert Parish and last year I was - my wife Fekita, my daughter Melissa, my son Zunien, and my I am currently stationed at Bainbridge Methodist Parish, Rotorua. stationed to Pukekohe Wesley Fiji Parish. youngest daughter Elizabeth. They have walked with me all the way. I recently married Matila Lautasi. My son Latu and I are blessed to A big vinaka vakalevu to the Methodist Church of NZ for affirming Malo 'aupito and may God bless us. have Matila and her daughters, Danielle and Felicia in our lives. my calling.

ENROLMENTS FOR 2016 MS510 TE AO TAWHITO. 23 - 27 NOVEMBER. Are you interested in enrolling in a Trinity College Programme for 2016? This paper investigates a distinctive Maori world view and highlights the significance of Maori If so, apply now. mythology and oral tradition in the development of Matauranga Maori. This course also examines the impacts of European contact on Maori society and the manifestation of Maori prophetic ENROLMENTS ARE OPEN FOR: movements of the 19th-century. • Certificate in Lay Preaching • NZ Diploma in Christian Studies • Diploma in Methodist Studies GRADUATION - 13TH DECEMBER

College • Advanced Diploma in Religious Studies 3pm, Wesley Hall, Trinity-St John's College, 202 St John's Road, Remuera. The preacher will be Snippets ENROLMENTS WILL CLOSE ON 1ST DECEMBER. Rev Donald Phillipps. Everyone is welcome. Following the graduation there will be a shared meal. TOUCHSTONE • NOVEMBER 2015 9 NEWS AND VIEWS

DAVID HILL Heaven on Earth REFLECTS ON MARK They say in heaven, love comes first. love the Lord your God with all your heart, Jesus accuses the scribes of being vain, bring a seismic shift in our thinking? We We'll make heaven a place on earth. and with all your soul and with all your hypocritical and lacking in hospitality. don't have to keep doing what has always Belinda Carlisle - Heaven is a mind and with all your strength'. Secondly, Some scholars suggest “devouring been done or accept what has always been Place on Earth. 'You shall love your neighbour as yourself'. widows' households” means “abusing believed. In Mark 12:38-44, Jesus speaks of hospitality”, others say it means “charging As Jim challenged Methodist Living in east Christchurch over the scribes who “devour widows' houses” and excessive fees”. Conference in November 2010 following last five years has given new meaning to the widow who “has put in everything she Either way, it is a charge of hypocrisy those prophetic words “heaven is a place had”. as the care of widows and the fatherless the first Canterbury earthquake, “There is on earth”. Jesus also foretells the destruction of was something the Bible calls for - a unique opportunity to create new forms Rebecca Solnitt's book title A Paradise the Temple (Mark 13:1-8). oppression is condemned. In contrast, the of ministry if the church can recover its Built in Hell suggests that paradise can be By referring to the first two widow gives all she had - her next meal. apostolic priorities and not accommodate built in hell. We can find meaning in a commandments, Jesus is saying the two It reminds us of Wesley's saying: “earn itself to maintenance and survival.” tragedy by turning it into an opportunity are inseparable - loving your neighbour is all you can through honest means, save all In the days and weeks following the to create a paradise where everyone has rooted in loving God. After all, we are you can, give all you can”. February 2011 earthquake, for many in what they need - love, support, food, water, made in God's image and God dwells in Reading the third passage in isolation east Christchurch, New Zealand was closed warmth, shelter. each one of us. could leave one thinking of end times or but Christian groups in Darfield and Passages from Mark in the November In his sermon A Catholic Spirit, John the afterlife but it is clearly not. Rangiora ignored the authorities and Lectionary provide insights into this Wesley calls on us to love and encourage As Jim Stuart writes in The John brought in supplies by helicopter and challenge. people in their love of God and Jesus to Wesley Code, “Wesley learned over and In Mark 12:28-34, Jesus is asked create a “unity of the spirit”. It matters not over again that letting go of the old allows driving on broken roads. 'Which commandment is the first of all?' your opinions, your lifestyle or methods the new to take its place. Isn't that what The message of salvation is not about In response he gives not one but two of worship, so long as you love God and Christian faith is all about, new life and the afterlife, it is liberation from that which commandments. stand for social justice, you can walk with resurrection?” prevents us from being fully human in this Firstly, 'There is one God and you shall me. Should it take a major earthquake to life.

CONNECTIONS

On having a brain scan By Jim Stuart The other day as brain on the computer screen and think In a sense we might say our brains parsonage in which the family lived caught part of my about how much my brain made me who define us: how we think, how we move fire. His parents, Samuel and Susanna, treatment for I am. (in my case increasingly slowly), what we rescued all the children except John. Parkinson's disease For most of my life I took my brain do, and what we become. A Buddhist sage On waking John found himself trapped and in the interests for granted. My life is written somewhere Nagasina once observed, “I can never in his bedroom as the fire waged of medical science in there: my hopes and dreams, the things catch myself at any time without a throughout the house. He stood at the I had my brain I can and can't do. In a way, I am my brain. perception.” window and cried for help. scanned at Through our brains we recognise and One of the reasons I was drawn to a Christchurch's remember the experiences that have shaped lifetime's study of John Wesley was the ”Quick as thought,” wrote Wesley, Brain Research Institute. our lives over the years. simplicity and clarity of his faith. His life “one man placed himself against the wall, The Magnetic Resonance Imaging We treasure the memories of family, of faith began with one basic fundamental and the other stood on his shoulder and (MRI) involved lying absolutely still for the challenges of growing up, the perception: God is love. Out of that just a moment before the roof fell in with one hour on my back inside a cylinder and moment(s) when we fell in love, the jobs fundamental experience, it was as if his a fearful crash,” rescued Wesley from the enduring the unrelenting hammering sound we have done. brain exploded with faith. fire. of the scanner as it literally worked over We remember the love and support we In his essay The Character of a Wesley spoke often of himself as “a my brain. received from others when we were Methodist, Wesley argued that the brand plucked from the burning”. The It was not an easy procedure and I was struggling, the guidance and wise advice distinguishing mark of a Methodist “is not phrase was written on his heart and brain physically and mentally exhausted when we were given when we were confused, opinions!”. Rather, Methodists are - and his tombstone as well! it was over. The experience caused me to the compassion and understanding that distinguished by their experience of love The experience of the MRI has made reflect on my brain and how important its others offered us in those difficult moments - love for God and love for others. functioning is to good physical and mental of loss and pain. This experience of the love of God and me think. The brain has its own mystery health. At the same time our brains enable us others was first written in his brain, before and deserves our attention. In the language After the scan I was given a CD to make sense of the world, to feel it became embedded in his heart. of faith we talk often of the heart but we containing images of my brain. It was compassion for others, and figure out how On February 9, 1709, young John aged must not forget the brain for it has much quite moving to see the pictures of my best to respond to events around us. six years was asleep in his bed when the to teach us.

By Peter MacKenzie Reaching out and following up UCANZ executive officer I've just finished our UCANZ who wanted to be there but had other burn-out opt out of attendance at little time to report back, and even Forum and Big Ideas for Smaller commitments on the day. I can totally church meetings and gatherings. less time to work through the Churches conference in Lower Hutt, understand that. Smaller churches that find they innovative ideas with others in the and I am exhausted. I also had comments from a have no money or energy to connect local church - especially the But it is a satisfied exhaustion. It number of churches saying that they with the wider church often find leadership. feels a bit like the weekend before couldn't afford the time or the cost of themselves more isolated and So two pleas: Firstly, always rate when I spent all day Saturday getting sending people. I am not so sure that struggling hard to build enthusiasm the value of sending members of your the spring garden sorted. I imagine it I can understand this. and generate new ideas. church to resourcing events or national is a bit the same for rugby players but As churches become smaller it is While saving time and money by meetings far higher than just the cost in their case, it is the winners that even more important that they develop not having people go to regional or of travel, accommodation and have the satisfied exhaustion and the strong networks of support. national events seems a good idea, it registration. losers who have a frustrated Retrenching both expenditure and is generally false economy. The value exhaustion. networks is not a positive step. A of networking, inspiration and growth Secondly, if you are spending the Our four days together was a smaller church needs that outside is nearly always higher than the costs money, get even more value from the wonderful time of resourcing, connection to support and provoke of attending. investment by sharing any inspiration fellowship and networking. There new ideas of being church. There also needs to be an as soon as possible and allowing those were great speakers, workshops and A number of ministers have affirmation in the local church. Too who attended to 'infect' others with conversations, and we will provide commented that when times are busier often churches might go to the expense their enthusiasm. more details on the event at a later there is an even greater need to take of sending someone off to a meeting I am going out to water my garden. time. time out in prayer. Research has or conference but then fail to use their If I get too busy to do that, all my But it got me to wondering why shown that an antidote to ministry experience to generate ideas. good work gets undone. As a church there weren't more people there. I burnout is collegial support but People are sent off to national or keep learning and networking. It is received a few emails from people ironically most ministers heading for regional events and are then given a deeply satisfying. 10 TOUCHSTONE • NOVEMBER 2015 AROUND THE CONNEXION

The old roof of Opawa Methodist Church will sit on a new building.

Opawa Methodist's ambitious rebuild Thanks to the work of volunteers and financial support By David Hill “There wouldn't be much else like it in from the Church, Red Hill Camp now has a new roof. Opawa's Methodist congregation is seeking to Christchurch. It is a smaller version of Knox Church stay true to its original building. and will have a really nice feel to it,” Andrew says. The southeast Christchurch congregation’s The rebuild is expected to cost $3.4 million, presbyter Rev Andrew Doubleday says foundations which is funded by insurance money, a grant from New lease on life have been laid for a new church building which is the Central South Island Synod's strategic fund, and set to reflect the church's original layout. fundraising. “There was a group people who had a vision for It will also require a $300,000 mortgage but for Red Hill Camp a Methodist church in Opawa more than 100 years Andrew doesn't see this as a bad thing, as the 110 ago and they stepped out faith and made it all member congregation is likely to start growing once The Northland Church Maori gifted $5,000 to the project. possible. Other generations have added to it, so now it has more certainty. The congregation has other community and Te Haahi And there have been other it is our turn to make a contribution.” income streams, including an op shop. Weteriana are rallying to financial gifts from residents and Andrew says the 1908 building was severely “We have been meeting in the Opawa School renovate and reopen a youth parishes in the North. damaged in the earthquakes. The foyer, toilets, hall for the last three years. We set up on Saturday camp that was out of use and A Redhill Camp Committee offices, meeting rooms and hall were demolished evening and take it down on Sunday afternoon. It ready to be sold. has been formed. Rev Kuli in 2011. The church was left standing for some time has been great to have this venue but it's not the Red Hill Camp is at Te Fisi'iahi is its chairperson and it before the roof was lifted off to another part of the same. Korpuru, on the coast between held its first AGM in July. site to be refurbished. “The evidence is that when you build a church Dargaville and Kaipara Harbour. In addition to support from The new foundations include suspended timber it will grow. We have lost numbers since the It sits on 10 acres that was gifted Christian Campsites NZ and Youth and steel screw piles. They lift the new floor 1.5m earthquakes but for the last four years we have had to the church in 1956 as a camp with a Mission (YWAM), offers above the ground. no visibility. for youth development. of help to rejuvenate the camp has “The building is being turned around 180 degrees. “A lot of planning has gone into it and there will Northland Methodist Synod come from other church groups It will have modern windows and will be properly be a few nervous moments, especially when we put co-superintendent Rowan Smiley throughout Northland and beyond. insulated and fire rated.” the roof back on the church. But it will be very says Red Hill Camp ran Neighbours and local The interior of the church will look similar to exciting to see it go back on.” successfully for decades but in businesses have also provided the original built. The exterior will be laid out in A video of the roof being taken off the church recent years, Church use declined support to get Red Hill up and concrete panels, instead of bricks. has been uploaded on YouTube. and the facility was more often running again. hired out to the general public for “Engineer Max Coleman has 21st birthday parties, weddings, been a great help and has offered and other social events. ongoing consultation free of Support Methodist “The complex was not being change. We have had so many Poverty steals used enough on a regular basis to offers of professional labour to do Missions ensure maintenance and upkeep the necessary work, including a were being attended to, and some builder who lives next door,” Every child has a right to a of the buildings had deteriorated,” Rowan says. from Kiwi kids good start in life. Rowan says. “We received a donation of A decision was made to sell 120 second hand vinyl covered All our kids need a fair go so the camp but after a rethink the mattresses from Dilworth School. they can flourish and become Synod held a public meeting and Some of them need small repairs consulted with the Methodist but they are still useful. good citizens. Church and with other Northland “We have had a working bee Church groups. The feedback was to tidy the grounds, and the Creating ‘Cycles of Hope’ is strongly in favour of keeping Red neighbours brought a ride on the work of your Methodist Hill Camp in Church hands. mower and a tractor to tidy up the Missions. “I was astounded and humbled grounds. Work parties have by the degree of support for its repaired rafters and re-roofed the We do this every day by continuance, and its importance hall.” for the Northland community. Rowan says the committee is working with families and Scoping committees found there very grateful to the financial children who need extra was an overwhelming desire from donations and to the work of the churches and the community volunteers, which has saved the support. to refurbish the camp and keep it camp thousands of dollars in going,” Rowan says. labour costs. “An initial assessment found “There are a number of small A donation or bequest can that to restore power and obtain a maintenance jobs that are still help Methodist Missions new warrant of fitness would required to renew our warrant of require about $30,000. At least fitness. The inspection for the Aotearoa make a lasting half of this was needed to renew warrant of fitness will be in difference to New Zealand the roof over one of the halls and November. the girls’ dormitory.” “We continue to seek financial families. Rowan says when efforts and labour support. Once we have began to re-establish Red Hill achieved our warrant of fitness, Camp Christian Campsites NZ the steering committee has CEO Jenni Davies offered recommended that the committee assistance, which has been look at upgrading the wastewater invaluable. plant, repaint the buildings, and Since then generous donations ultimately consider raising of money, expertise, supplies and $150,000 to put a caretaker’s manpower – large and small – residence on the property. have come from the Connexion Red Hill Camp’s working bee and beyond. co-ordinator is Bill Sheppard 09 The Methodist Church of NZ 431 7196. For further information For more information contact the chairperson of Methodist Mission Aotearoa, Michael Greer provided a grant $12,000 from the contact Christine Herald 12A Stuart Street, Levin 5510 • P 06 368 0386 • 021 632 716 • E [email protected] development fund and Te Taha 09 439 1598. TOUCHSTONE • NOVEMBER 2015 11 AROUND THE CONNEXION Seismic issues shake up NI congregations By David Hill because of low numbers, other because of the cost of The Canterbury earthquakes have forced churches strengthening. to rethink how safe buildings are and what is a morally Manawatu Methodist Parish superintendent Rev Bob acceptable risk. Franklyn says rural congregations in Ashhurst, After the earthquakes, Methodist Conference passed Bunnythorpe and Pohangina have faced some tough a motion calling on all church buildings to be brought up decisions. to 67 percent of code. Ashhurst has sold its 1886 church building. Methodist Trust Association executive director Greg Parishioners watched last month as the roof was cut off Wright says 67 percent of code can mean different things and the building and roof were loaded on to separate in different regions, depending on the level of earthquake trucks to be transported to Tauranga. risk. Bunnythorpe's church is just below 33 percent of code Engineering reports have been completed on all and will be put up for sale. Pohangina has an old wooden Methodist Church-owned buildings throughout New church that is used for two hours a month but will be kept Zealand and about eight buildings outside of Canterbury because “it is iconic in a very small rural community and were immediately closed when they were found to be Napier Methodist Parish will strengthen its historic wooden the opportunity for missional growth is strong”. under 20 percent of code. church but has had to demolish an adjacent complex. Bob suggests the requirement around reaching 67 Greg says around two-thirds of buildings were below percent could be relaxed for wooden church buildings. 67 percent and close to half were below 34 percent. The In contrast, Wesley Broadway in Palmerston North minimum legislative requirement is 34 percent for pre- has had a positive experience in visioning for the future. existing buildings. The parish has a concept plan for a $2.8 million “The difference between bringing a building up to 34 development in two stages to develop a social cafe and percent and 67 percent is not necessarily double the cost, a multi-purpose hall and community centre. because some costs will remain the same but the cost can “We have a vision of a social cafe serving a simple be significant.” meal three times a week where people pay what they can Greg is aware of at least 10 churches that have afford.” completed strengthening to 67 percent and another four The cafe would be able to provide training and social to five are going through the process. engagement which fits in well with the parish's Agape An updated report was due to go Conference this year, programme. Leftover food could also be frozen and given however this has been delayed as proposed new legislation away, Bob says. is yet to be presented to Parliament, which is likely to Bob says congregations should look at selling buildings that are “a millstone”. make changes to the building code. The 1886 Ashhurst Methodist Church has been sold and “We're not rushing to enforce anything yet, but if will be transported to Tauranga. “We need to get away from this idea that we need anybody does do any work we are recommending that these buildings so we can have worship. There are other the strengthening needs to be to 67 percent,” Greg says. of parishes are affected and the difficulty they face is options like renting space and I have seen churches in Bringing a building up to code includes other there is no insurance payout money and many don't have pubs, cafes, garden centres and in the open air.” improvements including disabled access but the new any capital to draw on. We have no idea how much it will Napier Methodist minister Rev Tony Franklin-Ross legislation may not require other aspects of the code to cost.” says his congregation's 1920s two-storey Sunday school met when strengthening work is completed, Greg says. Some strengthening bills are likely to be in the millions hall is set to be demolished. This means the congregation of dollars and several buildings are registered heritage will lose a hall, kitchen and office space. Auckland buildings which can add complications. Tony says the 1870s wooden worship centre, one of Auckland Central Methodist minister Rev Dr Lynne the few surviving pre-1931 buildings in downtown Napier, Frith says parishes in her region are “anxiously awaiting Lower North Island barely passed the 34 percent minimum. the government's legislation” as the costs of earthquake Lower North Island synod property secretary Lindsay “In the medium term we will probably look to bring strengthening begin to bite. Taylor says 100 buildings from New Plymouth, across to it to 67 percent but it's a wooden building and it came She wonders whether it is realistic for the Methodist Gisborne and down to Wellington were assessed and six through the 1931 earthquake, so it's not a concern at this Church to expect all church buildings to meet 67 percent were closed immediately, including two in Welllington. stage.” of code, especially in low earthquake risk regions, and “A lot of parishes have money invested in the Church The parish has a four stage re-development plan she would like more dialogue. Building and Loan Fund from the sale of previous beginning with bringing its commercial building up to “We do have a concern for public safety but churches, and they are able to use that,” Lindsay says. code and constructing modern facility with a kitchen and earthquakes are of a very low level risk in this area. A lot Some congregations are choosing to sell their buildings meeting rooms, before upgrading the worship centre. Ashburton Methodist set to restore historic church By Paul Titus Ashburton Parish property convenor Ken After years of discussions and some Leadley says the Parish is adamant that the tough decisions, the Ashburton Methodist redevelopment will safeguard the church’s Parish is moving forward with plans to remarkable exterior, its organ, and acclaimed rebuild its historic Baring Square church acoustics but the final design of the interior building. Though the final design of is yet to be determined. redevelopment has not yet been decided, “We want to create a space that is more discussions are underway with engineering suitable for contemporary worship and the firm Structex to appoint a team of consultants other facets of church life,” Ken says. that will guide the project forward. “At this time we do not know how much The graceful brick church in the heart money we will have to work with, so the of Ashburton was put off limits after the redevelopment may have to be staged with Canterbury earthquakes five years ago because it had a vulnerable archway and reinforcing and structural work done first was only 28 percent of the seismic code. and developments to meet 21st century Since then the congregation has applications second.” worshipped in the adjacent lounge, office The situation will become clearer when and hall complex. the future of the other property in the Parish An engineering report done soon after – Tinwald Methodist Church – is decided. the quakes projected that it would cost $1 The Tinwald congregation no longer has the to $1.25 million to bring the church up to numbers to be viable, and in September the full code. The parish is steadily moving toward restoring its Baring Square Church. With limited resources and opinion split final service in the church was held. between those who wanted to rebuild the forward and Jill and Andrew facilitated “At that point we felt the finances The Tinwald property is home to a long- old church and those who wanted to replace discussions within the Parish and necessary to do the rebuild were available running Op Shop, which may find a new it with a new worship centre, the Parish was consultations with the community.” but we were concerned that we did not have home in the refurbished Baring Square at an impasse for several years. Brian says in the past two years several enough revenue to sustain the full-time church complex. This and other issues Steward Brian Reesby says the Parish positive things have fallen into place that ministry of our presbyter Rev Tevtia regarding the Tinwald site are yet to be eventually received an insurance payout of tipped the balance of opinion toward Taufalele. resolved but should the property be sold the $800,000 but the financial shortfall and rebuilding the church. “Since then our numbers have grown funds would be available to redevelop Baring divided opinion about the way forward “The Central South Island Synod ring and we received a special grant from the prevented further action. fenced $400,000 from its Earthquake Fund President’s Earthquake Fund for ministry Square. “We had support from the Connexion for our work, and an engineering review support. This made us more confident to Until that time, the Parish will proceed through Greg Wright, Jill Hawkey and Rev suggested possible savings of $100,000 on recommend repairs to the church,” Brian as it has in the last five years, cautiously Andrew Donaldson. Greg explained the way the initial estimate for the repairs. says. listening and considering its options. 12 TOUCHSTONE • NOVEMBER 2015 CWS Dealing with the legacy of Typhoon Haiyan Two years on from super Typhoon Haiyan families in the Philippines are working hard to rebuild their lives. Christian World Service partners the National Council of Churches in the Philippines (NCCP) and Developers Foundation work in the coastal regions of Aklan province. They have submitted final reports on the recovery stage, A volunteer from the Czech Republic escorts refugee from the Serbian after the initial emergency village of Berkasovo towards the border with Croatia. response. Both groups have worked hard to make sure families are Syrian refugee crisis back on their feet but the Agencies like ACT Alliance are doing their best to assist growing Children at a workshop on community development in coastal Philippines. magnitude of the disaster and numbers of refugees. As part of its 70th anniversary celebrations, CWS is appealing for gifts to help Syrian refugees in Jordan and Lebanon. political issues in areas like preparation for the next environmental protection, Media attention has focused on refugees arriving in Europe but many Tacloban City mean that the typhoon. poverty, disaster risk reduction, more are struggling much harder at home in the Middle East. work will continue. Developers Foundation has governance and education in The Department of Service to Palestinian Refugees has extended its NCCP extended their run a series of workshops in the integrated local government emergency food, healthcare, life skills training and education programmes to refugees who have used up their savings and resources as the conflict programme when it became two barangays bringing together plans. continues at home. Photo: ACT Alliance/P Jeffrey. clear that many families would representatives from 736 Developers Foundation has need support for some time. households to work on medium also repaired and improved nine They have focused on the most term development plans. local schools and help vulnerable communities that They have collected data fishermen and farmers start missed out because of their and met with local government again after the typhoon. isolation or local politics. on behalf of the 3,203 residents. Methodist Women's Developers Foundation They have trained local people Fellowship and Presbyterian takes a similar approach. In the to collect data about the Women of Aotearoa are initial stages, outside help was community, identify problems fundraising for the next stage available but now it is critical and develop a vision for the through this year's Special for local communities (or medium term. Project. Resources in support barangays) to get support to By using a participatory of the Special Project are rebuild local economies and approach, they were able to available from Emma at 0800 build back stronger in address issues of gender, 74 73 72 or your local group.

CatalogueNew out now! Dr Saba Ghawi attends to a resident in the sprawling Madaba refugee camp, Jordan. This Christmas buy gifts that multiply good The challenge of choosing gifts provided healthcare for more than for relatives and friends can be a 9000 patients including 2000 Syrian stressful task. The Gifted refugees. With poverty comes programme makes things a whole anaemia and many of the children lot easier for people who want to need supplementary food as well as give something simple and iron supplements. meaningful. Mothers attending Well Baby CWS sends a card or an e-card clinics receive education on caring which can then be passed on as a for themselves and their child as well gift by itself or with a box of as medical attention. Children are chocolates or some other treat. The vaccinated and mothers can receive money donated in this way will be advice on birth control. directed to a CWS partner DSPR Jordan also runs Medical organisation. Days in three camps. These focus For example, if you purchase a on mothers and children as well as chicken card, it will provide a family general medicine. with chicks, feed, a coop, training A gift of Baby and Mother Health and support. costs $40 and will help a baby get a New gifts added this year are fishing gear to replace equipment better start in an area where living lost in some of the Philippines super conditions are very poor. typhoons and equipment for school CWS international programmes children in Haiti. coordinator Trish Murray says when At Christmas, baby and mother she visited the clinics, the waiting healthcare is particularly appropriate. rooms were crammed full of mothers Funds support primary healthcare and children. clinics in Madaba and Jerash refugee “While they waited for their camps run by CWS partner the appointment, DSPR staff gave them Buy a gift that Department of Service to Palestinian food supplements and information. Refugees (DSPR) in Jordan. It was the only medical care available multiplies good In a country where all services in the area and the women were are severely stretched by the arrival deeply appreciative.” of 628,000 refugees, DSPR provides Catalogues are available from some of the only healthcare to Emma at [email protected] or gifts Visit www.gift.org.nz or call 800 74 73 72 pregnant women and new babies. can be ordered on line at Last year, each DSPR clinic www.gift.org.nz. TOUCHSTONE • NOVEMBER 2015 13

By Filo Tu Boyz hit all the right notes There is something about collaborations from their latest going to drown out the singers music that sets the mind free album, Collide. as they sung along. and something about pure The atmosphere in Auckland It was one of the biggest harmonies that makes the body was astounding! It was a sold- karaoke sessions I have been to shiver. out event, and it was a fitting - but it was their delight to allow Whatever that something scene at Aotea Centre. The the crowd to simply be thrown might be, it has been 24 years in Diwali Festival filled the Aotea back to memory lane or rather the making and continues to Square and the city had definitely be mesmerized in their strive for even bigger and better come alive. appreciation of such musicality. things. It wasn't until a 9:00pm It would not have been a The American R&B vocal arrival that the seats were filled complete performance without group Boyz II Men are known and the crowd waited silently as other hits like I'll Make Love to for their emotional ballads and a anticipation hung in the air. You which saw no female seated cappella harmonies. Without further ado, the (or male for that matter). Out on the town after the conference. They hit the Auckland and PowerPoint presentation went The performance of On Wellington stages late last month live, and the crowd went wild. Bended Knee brought out some symptoms. However, I still we claim Boyz II Men to be for epic performance as part of When the American twang raw emotion and there were some believe that if I was 100% things Methodist back in Philadelphia, their tour of Australia and New hit us from centre stage, it was new flavours that the trio mixed would have gone from 0 to 100 but I'd rather not let the Waters Zealand. met by thunderous applause, in from their latest album. like that… *clicks fingers*. Formerly a quartet and now cheering and shouting. I was very disappointed that The performance was a great Run Dry. a trio, Boyz II Men are Nathan It was evident why Boyz II things didn't work out for us, opportunity for a number of If you ever have the chance, Morris, Wanya Morris and Men's single End of the Road having been requested by Boyz Methodist young people to I would encourage readers to Shawn Stockman. (released in 1992) stayed at II Men to replace Mariah Carey attend. seek out the Boyz II Men crew They performed their original number one on the Billboard Hot in singing One Sweet Day. It wasn't dominated by any pieces that earned them fame 100 for 13 weeks. I had to decline as my vocals one synod but appreciated by all. at the Mirage Hotel and Casino during the 1990s as well as new It seemed that the crowd was were tainted with hay fever This would be the part where in Las Vegas.

WELCOME Kidz at the fair TO KIDZ KORNA NOVEMBER 2015! Welcome to this month's Kidz Korna. I was reminded how close we are to celebrating Advent and Christmas when I saw cards, calendars, decorations and ideas for gifts in the local shops. Oisin (wearing the Hamilton East kidz Did you know that Advent means 'coming'? It is the orange vest) helped at the games stall. checking out the toys at the fair. time of year that we remember the coming of Jesus. I hope that in the midst of all the Christmas Two years ago our church was pulled down games and activities. Some of us donated toys for decorations - the trees, bells, holly and other things - because it was an earthquake risk. The grownups a toy stall.Oisin helped on one of the stalls and the that we all remember that the most important thing is in the church have been busy raising money to rest of us spent our money on the games and some the coming of Jesus Christ. rebuild it, and when we heard that there was to be of us bought toys. This month the children from St John's in Hamilton a fair we thought we could help. We had a wonderful day and the games and toys East share with us something they have been doing. The fair had a special Children's Corner with raised more than $400.

Quaky Cat For your Quiz Bookshelf Helps Out By Diana Noonan with Illustrations by Gavin Bishop Scholastic NZ Quiz: Find the missing words You may remember the story of Tiger in the book Quaky Cat and how he was separated from his family after the Christchurch earthquake. 1. The word Advent means ______. Five years later he found that there were still people in Christchurch who were homeless, 2. The 1st Sunday in Advent begins a new church or who had to move or were still too afraid to go out. What could he do? ______. He organised a party. To find out how this helped everyone you must read the book. It is beautifully illustrated by Gavin Bishop. All royalties from the sale of this book go to help Orphans Aid International and it is available from Epworth books. 3. There are ______weeks in Advent. 4. Advent is to ______as Lent is to Easter.

What are the kids in your church up to? 5. The Advent wreath ______remind us that Kidz Korna wants to hear from you so we can share your stories. Jesus is the ______Answers to last ofmonth's the Quiz.world. 1. Tarsus 4. In prison Send stories and photos of your activities to Doreen Lennox at 2. Saul 5. Mark [email protected] or to [email protected] 3. Damascus 6. Yes 14 TOUCHSTONE • NOVEMBER 2015 REVIEWS Writing with an edgeIN PRINT for church peopleBy Hilaire Campbell Sex, sin and on in their theological for anyone leading programmes for help their kids and I can”. violence - the Bible is thinking is uppermost youth to elderly). On issues of faith and full of stuff we still in Rosalie's mind. She Her puzzles have been published life she believes women are can't really discuss, changed the focus of in Canada, and her poems and generally better educated says Rosalie Sugrue. some of her stories prayers are in anthologies in the UK thanks to Methodist Women's Through her work when she heard about and USA. Articles, prayers, puzzles Fellowships. MWF is well as an author and lay suicide and faith issues and poems she has penned have funded and its members travel preacher Rosalie has among Pasifika youth. enlivened many NZ church and are exposed to excellent tried to make it easier “Missionary magazines. educators. for people to discuss Rosalie Sugrue. Christian beliefs are The League of Lilith, written She says Men's Fellowships traditionally taboo subjects, and her conservative and judgmental. Young with son Troy, is a “new take on tend to be social groups that lack experience with a gay minister was people can't talk openly to elders patriarchal society”. Full of Wiccan national and international a trigger for her latest novel Greens who hold these beliefs. witches and dark desires, it has structures. Rosalie is writing Seth and Greys. “They struggle with personal been described as a thriller with and Successors, the sequel to Greens and Greys follows a issues while trying to stay loyal to soul. It is a bit raunchy, Rosalie Sophia and Daughters, with men young girl growing up in a small family, church and culture.” says, partly because its central in mind. NZ town in the 1950s and 1960s. Rosalie's output has been character, a lecturer on Bible All Rosalie's work is based on Molly can't tell her parents she has prodigious. Her 30 plus publications women, uses a sex doll to get sound scholarship revitalized been raped and her gay brother's life so far include novels and eBooks, her message across. through dialogue and other devices. is a living hell. Who can they turn kids pocket puzzle books, and the Sophia and Daughters, is a She hopes her books will to? Certainly not the church. Bible Challenge puzzles for devotional study that salutes 29 Green Ho! encourage intergenerational “This book raises heaps of issues Touchstone. biblical women including Jezebel draws on her own experience, with discussion on sensitive issues. “They including suicide,” says Rosalie. “It's Fundraising has been part of her and the Witch of Endor. “They get a middle aged woman looking back would make great Christmas ideal for church dialogue and focus. NZ Methodist Women's bad press but if you dig deeper you'll on her life and considering the shame presents particularly between discussion groups.” Fellowship (MWF) continues to find wisdom,” she says. of hidden disability, “unnoticed mothers and daughters or between Rosalie's writing is geared for benefit from her Christmas and Rosalie writes first to entertain limitations that have a huge impact preachers and their relations.” the church. “It's what I know,” she Easter Traditions, Abundant Bible but also to make people think. on a person. I wanted to open up She would like Touchstone says, though her earlier novel The Puzzles and other booklets, as well Does she get any flack? “No,” discussion on things considered readers to be more aware of her League of Lilith and her other non- as many programme leaflets. she says sadly. “The publicity would unmentionable.” work: fundraising puzzle books for devotional books should appeal to Books and eBooks published be good for sales.” Children have always been part MWF, Touchstone, and Kids Loving everybody. after 2011 include League of Lilith, Despite excellent reviews, her of Rosalie's life. As a home based Church have raised thousands of “Writing is a two way thing. It Sophia and Daughters, Ten Plays hard back Greens and Greys hasn't remedial reading teacher, she has dollars over the years. has to be read to have any worth.” (10 easy dramas for church sold well, so the extended version, written A B See, a reading manual Rosalie's books can be bought Deeply against discrimination productions), and Theme Scheme (a Green Ho! will appear as an eBook for adults and kids because “many on line at Philip Garside Publishing in any form, trying to move people collection of games and activities only, for this year's Conference. parents simply don't know how to or through Epworth Books. Brave Biblical Women The Book of Ruth features in this month's Lectionary. Ruth is a heroine celebrated for her devotion and bravery but there are many unsung Biblical women, who did brave things. Some are even vilified because only part of their story is told. Like Ruth at times, some did things we may not approve of but all listed here were women who showed courage as they struggled to survive in difficult circumstances.

Scrubbers stars were (left to right) Lynn Webster, Bibiana Ogando, Lindsey Brown, Jenny Soden, and Joanne Yan. On stage for a living wage Pilgrim Productions has donated all the profit from its latest play to the Living Wage Aotearoa New Zealand campaign. The amateur theatre company is based at Pitt Street Methodist Church in Auckland and has been in operation for nearly 40 years. The play Scrubbers by Cenarth Fox is a warm and gritty comedy about five cleaning ladies who work at night in a large office complex. Each woman has a sad story to tell but one woman hopes for a better life away from scrubbing floors. Her dreams affect the others to the extent that their lives are changed dramatically and forever. Chair of Pilgrim Productions Marion Hines says good theatre holds up a mirror to life. It

can lead audiences to reflect on their own na, Vashti, Jael; Witch, Salome, Mary, Rebekah, Joanna Rebekah, Mary, Salome, Witch, Jael; Vashti, na, Susan Dorcas, Abigail, Rahab; Eve, Esther, Daughter, Zipporah, Magdalene; Naomi, Mahlah, Shiphrah; Martha, Puah, Ruth, Answers: Bible Challenge Bible © RMS lives and life in general. “We aim for theatre that helps people feel better about themselves, more connected with their community and more hopeful and thoughtful about life. Every year we search for plays that promote these values, and this year, we found Scrubbers. “We hoped audiences would be inspired by the inspiring story of low paid workers who dream of a better life.” The play ran from 12-22 August. Marion sys there were good audience numbers for the whole season and the play received a warm response every night. “We were delighted when final accounts revealed a gift to the Living Wage campaign of $850.” TOUCHSTONE • NOVEMBER 2015 15 REVIEWS

By Frederic Zurcher Idolatry of Blood - Religion for a Post-Modern World 2015, Trafford, 368 pages Reviewer: Peter Taylor This book shares important truths but doctor's diagnosis, and thus merely the [4] A stress on faith being logical throughout the book. in the process managed to irritate me. Let first step towards salvation (the cure) I was begging for an explanation of this much earlier and me explain. which is not forgiveness but a heart it ultimately was poorly given. The author's thesis concerns the nature transformation as we realign our minds Frederic's presumes that the Church has gone astray of salvation. Much Protestant theology states to love others before ourselves. This is with inexplicable tenets of faith (e.g., God demanding blood that sin separates God and humanity. what Jesus came to demonstrate. or the Trinity) but now he, Frederic, has the perfectly logical God demands payment before restitution Much of this I agree with but I was truth. He forgets that something can be inexplicable yet but because we humans cannot pay this, Jesus needlessly irritated by: logical (like my wife's love for me). paid instead, taking our punishment on the [1] A literalist approach to the Bible, The final two chapters about the Trinity were confusing. cross. This is salvation - but not for Frederic. e.g., Jesus will literally return, or Adam Elohim is not the same as Yahweh (both are Hebrew names He sees the idea that God the Father and Eve really lived, and were created punished God the Son for what we have done perfect. Acknowledging that many would for God, like God and Lord in English). Yahweh (who for as barbaric and illogical. He rails against agree, it has little bearing on the argument the author is Father) is a 'sliver of God', became the Son of world religions that believe in a God whose and simply alienates some readers. God in Jesus, and so the Father and the Son are the same! focus is on dealing with bad behaviour to [2] The peculiar translations and This verges on the illogical for no father is identical to satisfy divine justice. exegesis, especially of the Beatitudes. These were not his son. If this idea is true, surely God would have found Rather, he believes God's focus is on transforming the needed. a less confusing metaphor. mindset that causes such bad behaviour. This usual mindset [3] A lack of proof-reading and editing. There are some All in all, despite the irritations I am glad I read the is 'love self first' and is the source of most of the world's strange grammatical phrases and at least two mistakes book because of the main thesis. However, I would problems. (John's Epistle should be Gospel (p263), and 1 Peter should recommend a rewritten version half its size, with someone Frederic rightly contends that God always forgives and be 1 John (p317)). The book is too long, and was at times proof-reading and editing so that it can be heard more does not need a blood sacrifice. Forgiveness is akin to a repetitive and a hard grind. effectively. By Michele A'Court Stuff I Forget to Tell My Daughter 2015, HarperCollins, 317 pages Reviewer: John Meredith Michele A'Court has a public image as stereotyping, to recognising and respecting woman being successful in a man's world a la Margaret comedian and writer. More than this she women's right to make their own life Thatcher. is a person of penetrating insight, clear choices. Sexism continues to exist as revealed in language that values, feminist vision and an indestructible This is no tedious repetition of facts assumes male pronouns are always correct, that it is cheerfulness. She is also mother to Holly but is told with conviction and humour. acceptable to call women 'girls', that titles indicate the sex who is the daughter in this title. Many of the goals feminists have set of the holder, that honorifics indicate a woman's conjugal Michele speaks and writes a lot about life out to achieve are now recognised in law status, that expects a wife to adopt her husband's name, or and relationships. When Holly left home she and women can be Prime Ministers and that assigns 'ladies' the role of tea makers and wives the asked herself if there were things she had High Court judges. So, surely we are now role of cooks, cleaners and child-minders. forgotten to tell Holly as she set out on life in a post-feminist era where sexism no In regard to sex, Michele argues persuasively that it on her own. This book was the result. longer exists? should be mutually desired, safe, satisfying, respectful and It covers a wide range of 'stuff' Michele To take this view, Michele suggests, kind. Women are not objects to be used when and as men would want to pass on to Holly, from is akin to asking, 'Now that slavery has desire. domestic trivia to issues of life choice. been abolished is there any need to be There is much in this book about being self-aware and Written with genuine compassion, gentle humour and black?' Being black is part of who you are just as being self-confident and making mature and responsible decisions. the wisdom of experience, it offers no hard-and-fast answers female is an essential part of being a woman. The 'stuff' Michele wants to pass on to her daughter is not but raises questions that could be explored in conversation. As a person, a woman's identity cannot be defined by so much a list of things as a philosophy of life. This includes Overlaying all is Michele's commitment to feminism. social expectations, a particular role, her appearance, or values that motivate and show respect for the unique identity The book presents a 'herstory' of feminist evolution, how she speaks and acts. of every woman. beginning with women insisting on their human rights to Feminism is opposed to all forms of female stereotyping The book is fun to read and touches on issues upon social and political equality, moving on through the claim and insists on a woman's right to equality, choice, which it is worthwhile for all - women and men, daughters for freedom from domestic, occupational and sexual independence and dignity. This is not at all the same as a and sons - to reflect.

By John Thavis The Vatican Diaries - A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Power, 2013, Penguin, 321 pages Personalities and Politics at the Heart of the Catholic Church Reviewer: John Meredith John Thavis was chief of the Rome ballot, white for a clear majority. of ordination for gay men. bureau of Catholic News Service. As a Yet the signal may easily be misread. He says these issues are often mired in a welter of journalist he discovered it was always The tolling of the great bell of St Peter's contradictory statements and expose deep fault lines in the possible to find someone willing to talk and removes all doubt but because of a Catholic Church. that one of the best ways of finding out what breakdown in communication, Pope In the face of an avalanche of sexual abuse charges the goes on in the Vatican is through informal Benedict was ready to appear on the Vatican has appeared to lack a sense of urgency to address encounters and back-door conversations. balcony before the bell tolled. the issue. While Pope Benedict spoke firmly, the effect of Vatican culture is swamped in It is difficult for Vatican journalists to this was countered by Cardinals who expressed the view organisational complexity and lack of report on the Pope's activities because that publicity given to sex abuse is an attack on the church. coordination between a patchwork of arrangements are often poorly coordinated. A distinction is drawn between John Paul II's image as departments. Sometimes the Pope himself has been a pope of the people and Benedict's reserved nature. Thavis The book tells of an excavation for a new inadequately briefed for press conferences car park that uncovered an ancient cemetery and the Vatican publicity machine is then remarks that towards the end of his papacy Benedict seemed under the Vatican. With lack of clear policy left to clarify - and even on occasions to have become little more than a passive observer of passing or instructions archaeologists and modify - papal statements. events. administrators were soon in conflict over how to proceed. Neither are the Pope's own wishes or intentions always An objective and competent writer, Thavis concentrates There is no guarantee that even the Pope is always fully communicated clearly within the Vatican. This has led to on recording what he has seen and heard, drawing reasoned aware or informed about what is going on. conflict and disagreement among the hierarchy over matters conclusions but refraining from judgement. Thavis covered the papal election of Benedict XVI in such as the use of the Latin Mass, ecumenism and inter- Although Thavis has not been in a position to comment 2005. His sense of humour prompts him to comment that religious dialogue. on changes wrought by Pope Francis, this book provides despite the availability of 21st century technology, the Thavis touches on Vatican arguments over priestly some fascinating glimpses into a large and complex election of a pope is announced to the world by smoke celibacy, condom use and HIV/AIDS prevention, organisation which remains the largest Christian church in signals from a Vatican chimney - black for an inconclusive homosexuality as a risk factor in child abuse and the banning the world today. 16 TOUCHSTONE • NOVEMBER 2015 NOW AND THEN

Unsung Methodists By Donald Phillipps GEORGE WARREN 'RICKETY' RUSSELL - 1854 - 1937 RADICAL LIBERAL WITH A SOCIAL CONSCIENCE In 1919 a book was published in London Times in Palmerston North and Rolleston in that year's election. disastrous. entitled The New Heaven. It was written by then bought two Waikato He regained the seat in 1899 When his senior departmental officials a minister, as you might expect. newspapers. by just one vote but lost it went down with influenza, he took charge The Times of London described it as a In some ways Russell in 1902. himself. He set up temporary hospitals and “glowing picture of the future life”. It was remained a preacher all During the ensuing indeed written by a minister but he was the his life. His 1887 break he became sent army medical units to the worst-affected Minister of Internal Affairs and Public Health booklet, Catechism on involved with areas. He set out a comprehensive system in the William Massey government in New the Duties of Life, was education in of relief that did much to steady public Zealand. later approved for use Canterbury. morale. The author was one of the few Liberal in state schools as a Russell returned to He persuaded Cabinet to approve a Party members of that coalition government. non-sectarian guide to politics in 1908, generous pension for epidemic widows, and More than 40 years earlier he had been a ethics, morality and winning the Avon seat called for a national conference on town Wesleyan minister. His story makes civic duty. on the licensing issue. planning, which took place in May 1919. fascinating reading, though his moment of He moved to Although a Wesleyan, he The epidemic left Russell run down and glory was also his tragedy. Christchurch in 1889, and George Russell opposed prohibition. He He was George Warren Russell, born in became senior partner in a retained the seat quite exhausted. He suffered a backlash of public London in 1854, the son of Miriam and printing firm. In 1898 he took comfortably in 1911, and was bitterness over the influenza epidemic, and Gregory Russell, a bricklayer and builder. over the newly founded Spectator, an considered as a possible Liberal leader lost his seat to the Labour candidate. He The family emigrated to Tasmania, where illustrated weekly embracing sport, society, when he was chosen for the 1915 Cabinet. stood for an Auckland seat, and in 1922 George was educated at Launceston Grammar literature and politics. Under his outspoken During World War I Russell carried the contested Avon again, but was unsuccessful. School. They moved to New Zealand in editorship the Spectator prospered. largest load of administrative responsibilities After the death of his wife, Charlotte in 1865. But Russell aspired to a career in politics, in the Cabinet. Besides Internal Affairs, he 1924, Russell retired from public life. In As a lad George worked for the and was a Liberal member for Riccarton in was also minister of Public Health, and of Southland News in Invercargill and later 1893. He established a reputation for incisive Hospitals and Charitable Aid, among other 1927 he married Hilda May Tidey in served his apprenticeship as a compositor speaking and independent views - advocating things. Among his most important wartime Wellington, and was still sending letters and with the Evening Post in Wellington. women's rights, a state bank, and a universal work was the organisation of the hospitals articles to the newspapers right up to his He then entered Wesleyan Methodist pension. At first nicknamed 'Riccarton at Hanmer and Rotorua for sick and death at the age of 83, at Eastbourne, ministry. He was stationed as a probationer Russell' to distinguish him from Captain convalescent soldiers. Wellington, in June 1937. at Gisborne, New Plymouth and Hokitika William Russell of the Hawkes Bay, he was The great challenge of his ministerial His waspish tongue in opposition won in the early 1870s. Disagreements with the later known as 'Rickety Russell', due to his career came late in 1918 with the influenza him few friends or allies but he deserves to church over its itinerant system led to his tenuous hold on the Riccarton seat. epidemic. He had to decide whether or not be remembered as one of New Zealand's resignation without ordination. He gathered around him a small group to quarantine the passenger liner Niagara In partnership with his brother George known as the Progressive Liberal Association. when it arrived at Auckland in October 1918. most effective wartime cabinet ministers. It's Russell established the Manawatu Herald. In 1896 he tried to form them into a Radical On the advice of his officials he allowed it difficult to see his like in Wellington these In 1879 he returned to Hokitika to marry Party to hold the balance of power in the to dock without quarantine, a decision that days. What's happening to our social Charlotte Park. He managed the Manawatu next parliament but lost his seat to William was medically correct but politically conscience?

Anne Jackman, Director On the road to digital archives Presbyterian Research Centre PRES BYTERIAN ARCHIVES

I am just back from a Zealand's historical newspapers conference that focused on on websites such as Papers Past, digital access to archive view and download high collections, and it is worth resolution images from the sharing some ideas and thoughts Alexander Turnbull Library, or about what this can mean for extract datasets from various the researcher or anyone with organisations and manipulate an interest in history. them to inform your own The annual National Digital research. Forum conference has been The best place to start for running for more than 10 years. local material is Digital New It started as a forum for Zealand (digitalnz.org), which institutions in the GLAM sector acts as a portal to digital content (Galleries, Libraries, Archives from about 200 partners around and Museums). While we all have the country. They range from our own professional associations such big players as Alexander and gatherings, this event is the Turnbull Library to smaller ones one time we can all mix with and such as Nelson Provincial learn from those with a broader Museum. heritage focus. Presbyterian Archives is When I started in libraries working towards joining this NZ Army chaplain Rev David Herron conducting a military funeral at Gommecourt, France, July 1918. back in the 1980s there was only group to make our resources one way to do your research and visible, usable, and available to give you an overview at best. It will be an exciting time and July 1918, with the burial party that was by doing the hard yards anyone. There will always be more as a researcher myself, one I look of soldiers looking on. This is - trawling through books, The expectation now is for all hiding down through the layers, forward to. described in his diary which is newspapers, documents, and collections to be online so any and often it is only by working For now, however, we do also held by the Presbyterian travelling to where they were institution that doesn't at least with the experts who care for have some image galleries online. archive. housed. have a webpage (and hopefully these collections, that their The photograph accompanying Archive staff are always Researchers still do this work, one that provides access to digital possibilities are uncovered. this article is from our digital and many feel there is no content) becomes invisible and If all goes according to plan, Photo Gallery New Zealand at happy to advise on what is digital substitute for examining the in danger of being overlooked. the indexes to the Presbyterian War: 1914-1918. and what is not. Email original documents. Now, Remember too that what is Archives will be online and it shows NZ Army chaplain [email protected]. however there is a wealth of out in the digital world is usually searchable by this time next year. Rev David Herron conducting a nz or call 03 473 0777 or check opportunity. only the tip of the iceberg. Doing This means our images will be military funeral at a newly dug out the Presbyterian Archives You can read and search New research digitally from home will visible to the world. grave at Gommecourt, France, 26 website. TOUCHSTONE • NOVEMBER 2015 17 THE VOICE OF SINOTI SAMOA

O LE SUA-ALOFI MAGALO O LE VAIFOFO I LE VANONOFO Galuega 10:33 O le tala oto'oto a le Tusi Paia o lo'o taimi umi i le falepuipui seia o'o lava i ina ia faatoilalo feteena'iga o le Lotu ma logo i le vateatea e pei o le fetalaiga i le penitala manino ina ai le va-nonofo o le satauro e oti ai. malo faalelalolagi nei, o loto ma alofisa o le Tui Manu'a. Ina ua fa'alava le malo o Roma ma le sosaiete o tagata ua Peta'i, o le sailiga na ifo mai lagi, o lea faamoemoega ae maise o talitonuga. toto'o o le failauga o le Malo Roma, ina ua filifili toto'a e mulimuli ia Iesu, e le o se lava na fa'ia ai le 'ava i tumutumu mauga o O le sailiga na ifo mai le lagi, na masae logotino matagi lelei ma lelemalie le fa'alele- va-nonofo e to'afiamalie. korokota aua o le laau na tu ae gase o loo ai le manava o le eleele ina ua tanumia ai ga-fulu a le tulafale a le Atua si toeaina o O se vaitau pogisa, e le mautonu e tumu tautau ai Le Atua, o le satauro lea a le malo lo tatou Alii o Iesu Keriso, ua maea ona Peteru. i le fememea'i mo lea sosaiete fou na totogo o Roma. fa'ataunuuina ma ua a'e malo ua toe a'e i Faimai Konelio le taitai au o le malo a'e i le tafu'e o le satauro o le atali'i o le Le 'ava na tafe ifo lona sua-alofi e alii lagi. Roma ia Peteru le suli o le malo o le lagi i kamuta. taeao ai le feiloaiga a le tulafae o le malo o O le aso ma le taeao nai Kaesareia, o le le latou feiloaiga i lena taeao,… “O lea na O le vala'auina e faafesaga'i ma le fili, le Atua o Peteru lea, ma le tulafale o le malo aso na taumate ai e Peteru, a nei meaane ua ou aauloaina atu ai nisi; ua lelei lava ina ua e le o se mea faigofie, ae atili ai ona faigata o Roma o Konelio. Le 'ava na fa'ia mai i seu lauga faleupolu o Kaesareia, peitai o le e maliu mai; o lenei o loo i nei i matou uma pe afai e matua feteena'i lava faamoemoega tumutumu mauga o korokota ma toto lona vagana tatala ma le fetalaiga tu'u i luma na lava i luma o Le Atua, e faalogologo atu i ma talitonuga. O le valaauina o Peteru e alu ata i le tu'ugamau na foa i le papa. ifo i atimalie e pei o tuamafa filimalae, aua e ave le feau ia Konelio le ta'itai au o le Ua a nei? Ua tupu a'e ai le moemoe ola ua malele le alofa ma le finagalo faaola o mea uma lava ua poloa'i mai ai Le Alii ia te malo o Roma, o se valaau ua matua faailoga o Suasamiavaava lea ua fai nei ma taeao Le Atua Puleaoao, ina ua fesilfafa'i i le sua- oe…”. fesili i le mafaufau ma le talitonuga o Peteru. fou o le manumalo. alofi, o le 'ava na matimati mai vasa, o le Matua manaia le faamanuiaina o le ava Aua foi o le vaitau lea o le matamata ita o O le mavaega a le Tuifiti Suasamiava'ava 'ava na tofa i maota ae moena'i i laoa. O le a Konelio i lea taeao. Ua moni ai le upu e le malo o Roma i tagata kerisiano. i lona tuafafine o Sina ma ona uso, “afai 'ava na fa'apolopolo ma fa'amili i le lagi. fai i Vailoa “ua muamua le aso e pei o le Atonu e feololo mai le sailiga e Malo oute oti tanu a'u i le valusaga, o mea e Lele la ua tulolo ai nei laau o le vao ina fetailaiga ia Tualemoso”. Ae leitioa fo'i fai Aufa'atasi o Hitila, po o le finauga a Amerika tutupu mai ai saili ai lo tatou aiga i Samoa” ua malama i ulu galu le fetu o Tapuitea. O mai toeaiina afai e mai vai, magalo ava taute e saili o Osama ma Saddam, nai lo le sailiga Ioe le paia o le au-faitau, o le faamanatu a le aso sa taumate i le ete, sa taumate faamea se ipu aua aiga, se 'ava mo faleupolu se toe e Roma o tagata kerisiano. E saili lava e le tomanatuga, o pine matamata tetele ia ma taitai. sualiu i le laulau mo le tautalaga…soifua. Roma tagata o lea sosaiete i le fa'asala i se lagisoifua ia o le sailiga a Le Atua i le lalolagi Peita'i lele ua i fale o matega, aua ua Soifua, Paulo Ieli Va'aiga i le Lotu a Tamaiti i lotoifale o le Sinoti 18 TOUCHSTONE • NOVEMBER 2015 Nai Lalakai NAI LALAKAI MAI NA WASEWASE KO VITI KEI ROTUMA E NIUSILADI NA KALOU NI LEWE VUQA EDA CUVA KINA KA QARAVA By Rev Dr IS Tuwere kina na nona inaki me ni tautauvata kei rau na na Kalou ena veisiga ni noda bula. Sa toso totolo sara na gauna ka sa baleti vuravura. Sega ni lewe rua oqori. Edua ka Me tiko na vanua kei na gauna meda levu talega na veisau eda raica ka sotava dua ga…Lewe vuqa era raici ni voleka sara ki na gole kina vua na Kalou ena veisiga ni bera ena veisiga. Sa ka bibi kina meda kila qaravi koya, o ira na vakayagataki qele kei na ni da gole yani meda laki qarava na noda vinaka na itukutuku se ivakamacala me 'agilosi'…na Jerupimi kei susu manumanu, ka levu cakacaka se veitosoyaki. baleta na Kalou eda goleva, cuva kina na Serafimi. Na veivosa na ikeli wai e kelia. Na ikarua ni ka ka maroroya vinaka ka qarava. e tini tiko ena “im” ena Tolu na ka e maroroya ko Aisake sa ikoya na 'vale laca'. Sa dusia Sa ka bibi oqo ka ni sa levu sara na vosa vaka-Iperiu e kena vinaka ena nona bula - tiko na vale laca na bibi ni noda 'tu vakarau' ivakamacala me baleta na Kalou ena ibalebale na 'vuqa' se Cabocabo ni Soro, Vale veimatalotu kei na kena vakabauta sa tu plural. Na “wai” se laca, kei na ikeli wai. meda veisau. Meda kakua ni dabeca e vuravura edaidai. Levu na ivola e volai (mayim) ena vosa vaka- Sega ni guilecava vakadede edua na vanua ka sa sega ni ka levu talega ko ira ka ra vakadewataka Iperiu e vuqa…Mai na vakadua ko Aisake na kune tiko kina na bula vinaka - gunu yaqona vakasivia, yali vakawasoma beka na ivola oqori, kei na kedra ivakamacala. 'tuturu' ni mata ni wai Ilaitia Tuwere nodrau lako kei tamana A volai taumada na iVola Tabu ena yadudua ki na uciwai, ko Eparama ka laki kaya mai vale. vosa vaka-Iperiu. Oqo na vosa ka levu wasawasa; waidrodro ka batabata vinaka… na Kalou vei Eparama me vakacabori Meda tu vakarau meda goleva na 'bula'. kina na vosa vakaiyaloyalo. Sa qai tarava ki na dobui ena gauna ni draki ca. Aisake na luvena vua ena icabocabo ni Na ikatolu ni ka ka maroroya vinaka ko yani ena kena vakadewataki ki na vosa Oqo na wai ka cavuti ni yavavala koto soro oya mai Moraia (Vakatekivu 22: 1- Aisake sa ikoya na 'ikeliwai'. va-Kirisi me sotava na nodra gadreva na kina na Yalo Tabu se Yalo ni Kalou mai 13). Oqo sa dusia na veika eda sotava se lewe ni vanua ka ra sa lotu ena gauna na iVakatekivu. “A sa yavavala na Yalo Sega ni 'moqe' o Aisake ni sa tauri qarava ena veisiga. Me vaka na 'wai' sa koya, me tu e ligadra na iVola Tabu. Na ni Kalou ena dela ni wai” Vakatekivu 1: koya ko tamana me vakacabori vua na yavu levu ni noda bula ena veisiga na wai. vosa oqo na vosa va-Kirisi e vosa ka levu 2). Kalou. Na icabocabo ni soro oqo e sega Kevaka e sega na wai eda na leqa. kina na ka vaka-vakasama (abstract Tiko-tawana na Kalou na ibulibuli vakadua ni guilecava ko Aisake ena nona Me maroroi vinaka na bula vakavuvale, thinking). kecega ni wai - lelevu se lailai, mai liu me bula taucoko. nodra susugi na gone, nodra vuli, nodra Oti, sa qai vakadewataki ki na veivosa yacova na iotioti…na itinitini ni gauna. Sa vanua ni nona masu kei na tuberi ena veika mera tautauri kina ni sa duidui ni veivanua e vuravura, ka wili Meda laiva na “Kalou me Kalou”… Me vakararavi vua na Kalou. Na yalo vinaka kina na noda vosa vaka-Viti ka qarava na 'vuqa' me vaka e dusia koto na iVola Tabu. kei na yalo dina nei Eparama e sega toso na gauna ka da takali yani. cakacaka levu oqo ko Joni Oniti kei Noa Na tamata me 'tamata'…me goleva na vakadua ni guilecava. E drodrovi koya na Sa curuma taucoko sara na katuba ni edua na turaga ni Viwa ena yabaki 1847. tamata na Kalou oqo, cuva kina ka qaravi yalo dina oqori ka tauri koya voli ena nona bula eda bula kina na tamata na Kalou ena Na Kalou ena vosa vaka-Iperiu e cavuti Koya vinaka ka sala vata kei koya ena bula taucoko. bula ni luvena ko Jisu Karisito. Sega me Elohim. E vakadewataki me “Kalou- veigauna. E tautauri kina ni mai sotava e vuqa walega ni curuma, ia sa yaco me tamata Lewe-Vuqa”(plural) se 'Kalou Levu'. Sega Na Kalou oqo e cavuti ena iVola Tabu na ka dredre ena loma ni nona vuvale. Eda na Kalou meda rawata na bula. Nona vosa: ni kena ibalebale ni levu na Kalou. Sega! ni “sema vinaka” vei iratou na Qase lewe rogoca na veika dredre ka yacova ko koya Au sa lako mai me rawa vei ira na bula, E Kalou levu ga…se vuqa…ka ni sega na Tolu - Eparama, Aisake kei Jekope. Ni ni sa qase mai ena loma ni nona vale sara ia me rawa vakalevu sara” (Joni 10: 10). vosa vaka-tamata me vakamacalataka rawa ratou raici yadudua na qase veitamani ga. Meda bulataka na nona vosa oqo na na na Kalou, na kena irairai se kena lewe tolu oqo, e raici rawa ni o Eparama Oqori me baleti rau na luvena drua Kalou ena noda cakacaka ena veisiga. ibulibuli, kei na nona cakacaka. e cere sara. lewe rua - ko Iso kei Jekope. Kena italanoa Meda tovolea tikoga meda yaco me 'qele Qaqa ni masu nei Solomoni na Tui ena Kilai ni 'Tama ni Vakabauta'. E yalataka eda sa dau rogoca wasoma ni vunautaki. vinaka' me tei kina na sore ni kau ni nona dola ni valenilotu ka tara, ka vakarautaka vua na Kaloou ni na vakayacori koya me Nona vosa vakalougatataki Jekope veiliutaki na Kalou ni lewe vuqa ena noda vei koya na kena iyaya ko Tevita na tamana matanitu levu; ena vakarogorogoi na oti…vakalailai sa lesu mai ko Iso mai bula lekaleka eke e vuravura. ni bera ni mate: “Ia ena tiko vakaidina li yacana; era na kalougata na lewei vuravura veikau. Sa solia oti ko koya na vosa namaki na Kalou e vuravura? Raica ko lomalagi kecega ena vukuna. O Jekope e kilai ni ni veivakalougatataki vei Jekope ka Nona vosa: “O koya sa kabburaki ena kei lomalagi e cake sara sa sega ni rauti soli vua edua na yaca vou - “Isireli” ka dodonu me soli vei Iso. vanua vinaka, sa ikoya oqo sa rogoca na kemuni, ka sa sega dina sara ni rauti vakayacani kina ko ira na yavusa 'Isireli'. Ni toso na gauna ka sa levu sara na vosa, sa kila na kena ibalebale; a sa vua, kemuni na vale oqo kau sa qai tara” (1 Basika talega mai vei Jekope na veika eda sotava ena veisiga ni noda bula, ka vua idrau eso, sa ono sagavulu eso, sa Tui 8: 27). mataqali e 12 ni yavusa o Isireli. Eda raica meda maroroya vinaka na icabocabo ni tolu sagavulu eso” (Maciu 13: 23). Meda E vuqa na ka e baleti Koya. Vuqa na ni vaka talega edua na delana cere vinaka soro - me vanua ni noda masu kei na noda yaco me nona iteitei na Kalou, ka qaravi sala e muria me cakava se vakayacora na bula nei Jekope. O Aisake e sega sara vakacabori keda kei na noda vuvale vua koya tiko ena yalo marau.

THE VOICE OF SINOTI SAMOA

LOIMATA O LE OLIOLI O le taimi o le seleselega o le Education o le susuga ia Koke sa agalelei. Sa faia lenei mafutaga i taimi lea e fofo'e ese atu ai tiga fa'au'uina ai, sa fa'au'uina i lona Three Kings i se Faleaiga. ma faigata a o puno ma galue e Master with Second Divison Matagofie lena afiafi i le tulimata'i le aso o le seleselaga. Honours. mafutaga fiafia e momoli ai O le aso na e suia ai le vaivai Sa va'aia loimata o le olioli e lapalapa o malo, o upu na i le malosi, o le aso e fa'amati'eti'e le gata ia Koke a o se ona tina ogatotonugalemu iai le saunoaga ai talu mai le feagai ma tauiviga o matua ia Lulu Leleisi'uao fa'apea a le failotu i lea afiafi 'amuia se le soifua su'emalo. nisi o le Matagaluega sa mafai ona penitala e maai lona mata' o lagona E le gata i lea, o le aso e toe tu auai i le sauniga o le fa'au'uga. ia na fa'aleo ai le agaga fa'afetai ma tepa ai i tua i le alofa ma le Se mea ina lelei o le tali mana'o ona o le agaga finau, agaga loto agalelei fa'amalumalu o le Atua a o le fanau, se mea ina matagofie nu'u, o le agaga i le tapuaiga a o tauivi ma punou ai e galue, ua o se fanau sailimalo. E matua sa afua ai ona finau ma moni ai le fai Salamo 'o le aso e fa'aolatotoga le taunu'uga lelei o a tauivi fa'amaai atili le mata o le olioli ma fiafia ai'. latou galuega i le tapuaiga a matua penitala. O lagona ia na molimauina i ma aiga ae maise o Matagaluega Ina ua mae'a le taligasua, ona le afiafi o le Aso Lua aso 29 o ma aulotu. alo fo'i lea o le tina ia Lulu ma le Setema 2015 i le ASB Convention O le afiafi o lea lava aso na aiga ali'i i fa'aaloaloga aua le Centre i Aukilani. Sa fa'atumulia vala'au fa'aaloalo ai le tama'ita'i aufaigaluega ma le au valaaulia sa lea vaega o Aukilani i le fa'au'uga fa'au'u ma lona tuaa i le potopoto i lea afiafi. O le fofoga o lona PhD in Education. nofo tatalo le aufailotu ma le Sinoti a le Iunivesite a Aukilani na Matagaluega ae maise o le faifeau o le Matagaluega ia Vaimauga sa Talosia ia i le agalelei o le Atua e le gata mo Koke ae fa'apena mo fa'au'uina ai se tasi o alo o le Sinoti ma lona faletua tainane le susuga fai ma sui o le au valaaulia le fa'aamoemoe o le afafine, ia iai so'o alo o le Sinoti Samoa o lo'o Samoa le tama'ita'i failauga o le i le Tausi Itumalo susuga ia Faiva talifaitau i le maau ma le agalelei. lona agalelei i le fa'atamasoaliiga finau ma tausaili e fa'alautele le Talalelei ia Koke Leleisi'uao mai ma Luafaletele ina ia mafuta Ua tu'uva'a atu nei le tama'ita'i a lea alo o le Sinoti Samoa. silafia ma le iloa, e tua iai aiga, sili le Matagaluega a Papatoetoe. fa'atasi i se faiga'aiga e momoli ai ia Koke i Ausetalia mo le Tu'itu'imalofie ma pati taoto le ai mo le Sinoti ma le Ekalesia. O le fa'ailoga o le Master in le fa'afetai i le Atua ona o lona fa'aauauina o a'oa'oga i le sailiga tina ia Lulu i lona faiva tapua'i, ae Paulo Ieli Pukolea TOUCHSTONE • NOVEMBER 2015 19 VAHEFONUA TONGA ‘O AOTEAROA FakaSepitema 'a Hou'eiki Fafine, Sapate 27 Sepitema 2015 Na'e kamata'aki 'a e Praise & Worship pea tataki ia 'e he kakai fefine. Na'e hange ha 'umata 'a e fakalanulanu mai 'a e si'i kau fefine 'enau fakahokohoko 'ofa mo fakamafana 'a e 'aho mahu'inga ni. Ko e malanga na'e fakahoko 'e he Faifekau Viliami Finau pea tokoni ki he ouau 'e he si'i ngaahi vaasi koula faka'ofo'ofa 'a e siasi. Fakafeta'i 'oku mo'ui lelei pe 'a e si'i kau toulekeleka 'o hange ko Litea Fiefia mo Vea Maupo Havea. Na'e fakahoko mo e hiva 'a e kakai fefine pea ko e faihiva ko 'Ana Manaolana Paongo, Pulehiva Paelata Pauta. Na'e fakamafana 'a e ngaahi taliui koau mo'ui 'a e si'i ngaahi fa'e 'o a'u ki he kau finemui. 'Oku fe'unga 'a e tokolahi 'a e kau fefine 'a Wesley, Wellington mo e toko 40. DISCIPLESHIP 101 (DIS101) TISAIPALE 101 (TIS101) By Mj Taliauli Penisimani Langi share about spiritual By Mj Taliauli hono 6 ki he mo'ui faka-tisaipale moe tokotaha taki lelei. “Go then and make disciples of hunger and the vitality of God's Word. “Ko ia ke mou o, 'o ngaohi 'a e ngaahi kakai kotoa Pea na toe tataki pe ' a e tanumaki 'i he uike hono 7 all nations baptizing them in the name During Week 6 Sifa Pole and pe ko 'eku kau ako, 'i he papitaiso kinautolu 'i he huafa 'o na ako'i ai 'a e fanau ki he Famili fakalaumalie, mo'ui of the Father, the Son and the Holy Meleseini Talia'uli taught about Jesus's 'o e Tamai, mo e 'Alo, mo e Laumalie Ma'oni'oni.” fakalotu mo e nofo 'a e Siasi. Spirit.” view of discipleship and leadership. Ko e Lea ia na'e folofola mai 'aki 'ehe 'Eiki, ka koe Tanumaki hono 8 ki he Lotu hufia mo e mo'ui Lotu These are words from the Lord's In Week 7, the same two taught fehu'i, 'oku tau tokanga nai ki he tu'utu'uni ne muimui mouth but do we pay attention to the about spiritual family and church life. ne fakahoko ia 'ehe taki faihiva 'o e to'utupu Finau Pole command that immediately followed? Week 8 was about prayer and mai 'i he folofola koia? Ke “ako'i kinautolu ke tauhi 'a mo e taki Praise and Worship Nau Finau. “Teach them to obey everything I have worship and that was led by VAM e ngaahi me'a kotoa pe kuo u tu'utu'uni atu. Pea ko 'eni, 'I he uike hono 9 ne tataki ia 'e Finau Pole mo Mele commanded you. And I will be with Youth's choir conductor Finau Pole and 'oku ou 'iate kimoutolu 'e au 'i he ngaahi 'aho kotoa pe, Tuai 'o na vahevahe ai ki he Tui mo e 'Amanaki. you always to the end of the age,” praise and worship leader Nau Finau. 'o a'u ki he ngata'anga 'o mamani.” Matiu 28:19-20 Ko e taki 'o e komiti Lotu hufia Lesieli Samiu mo e Matthew 28:19-20. Finau Pole continued in Week 9 Talu 'a e kemi fakata'u 'a e Potungaue to'utupu 'a e konivina 'Osaiasi Kupu na'a na tataki 'a e tanumaki hono Since the annual youth outreach in with Mele Tuai. They spoke on faith Vahengangaue 'Okalani Manukau, ne hoko atu ai mo e 10 ki he tu'umalie fakatohitapu mo e mo'ui foaki. Ne July hosted by Vahengangaue Auckland and hope. polokalama tanumaki ('a ia 'oku fa'a anga maheni kiai). vahevahe 'a e taha 'oe kau finemui ne nau ma'u tanumaki Manukau's Youth (VAM Youth), we Our prayer ministry leader Lesieli 'Oku mou 'osi mea'i pe 'a e 'uhinga 'a e fo'i lea ko e 'e 'ikai ngalo 'iai 'a e lea ne akonaki ne lea 'aki 'e Lesieli, held a 'tanumaki' series. Samiu together with convenor Osaiasi 'tanumaki'; ke teu'i ha kelekele ke tupu lelei mo fua lelei “Ka tapuaki'i fakapa'anga koe 'ehe 'Eiki 'o hiki hake ho'o 'Tanumaki' means to dig up or Kupu taught about Biblical Prosperity ha 'akau pe ko ha me'a 'e to ki he kelekele. prepare the soil so that a plant or tree and Generosity in Week 10. tu'unga fakapa'anga, 'oua vave keke tuli ki he mo'ui can become fruitful. One of the girls shared something Ko e polokalama ni, ko e taumu'a ke tokoni'i tu'umalie, kaikehe keke vave ki he mo'ui foaki”. The idea for the tanumaki series Lesieli quoted “If you get blessed 'akinautolu ne nau ului 'i he kemi mo kinautolu ne nau Uike hono 11 ne tataki ia 'e Lupe Pikula mo was for those whom responded to the financially, don't increase your standard fakaafe'i 'a Kalaisi ki he 'enau mo'ui, pea ke nau mahino'i Penisimani Langi pea koe kaveinga ko e mo'ui alter calls at the outreach, came to Christ of living, instead, increase your standard 'a e tu'utu'uni kuo nau fai mo teu'i kinautolu ki he me'a faka'evangelio moe ngaue fakamisinale. Pea ko e tanumaki for the first time and accepted him into of giving.” 'oku hanga mai. faka'osi leva, ne fakataha'i 'a e kau talavou mo e kau their lives would understand the Week 11 was led by Lupe Pikula Ko e ta'u ni na'e ki'i kehe fakatatau ki he founga ne finemui 'o tataki ia 'e Siua Sika pea na'a ne ako'i ai 'a e decision they made and learn about and Penisimani Langi on evangelism ngaue 'aki he ngaahi ta'u kuo hili. Ne angi 'ehe Laumalie to'utupu ki he Toetu'u mo e 'aho Fakamaau. where to from there. and world missions. Ma'oni'oni 'o fai tu'utu'uni ai 'a e Faifekau 'o e Potungaue This year was different than And in our final session (Week 12) Lolotonga e ngaahi polokalama tanumaki, ne 'iai pe ke fakalele 'a e polokalama tanumaki 'i ha uike 'e 12 ('o 'a e ongo Faifekau Lute Tu'uhoko mo Saane Langi 'o na previous years, however. Moved by the our young men and women were 'ikai ko e uike 'e 6 ne anga maheni kiai). Holy Spirit, the youth pastor planned together and heard from Siua Sika on tokanga'i 'a e fanau moe ako ne fakahoko. Ne kau eni ko Ne toe vahevahe foki mo e uike 'e 12 ke fakalele 'ehe a tanumaki series to last for 12 weeks resurrection and judgment. ha fakalotolahi ki he to'utupu ke nau manatu'i 'oku 'ikai kau talavou mo e kau finemui 'oku tau pehee ko e kau (rather than the usual six weeks) and Throughout the series, youth pastors kenau fononga toko taha pe. Ne 'iai e ngaahi efiafi ne taki lelei eni ki he kaha'u kenau taki taha fakalele ha for the first time young leaders ran one Rev Lute Tu'uhoko and Rev Saane faka'ataa ai 'ehe Faifekau 'Ilaisaane Langi ke talanoa efiafi tanumaki 'e taha pe ua nai pea kuo te'eki ke pehe or two sessions each. Langi supervised us. It was an tahataha e ni'ihi 'o e to'utupu mo ia ke kole lotu mo kole ia ki mu'a. Koia ai, 'i he uike 'e 12 malo, ne fakatahataha So for 12 consecutive weeks, young encouragement to the youth to know tokoni. people from all over Auckland gathered that they are not alone. During some mai ai 'a e to'utupu mei he ngaahi tapa kehekehe 'o Ko e tokolahi 'o e to'utupu ne nau ma'u tanumaki ne on Tuesday nights at Epsom Methodist nights, young people would make 'Okalani, efiafi Tusite kotoa pe ki he 'apisiasi Epsom ke Church for two hours and learnt about appointments with Rev Saane seeking ako kia Kalaisi mo e ngaahi tefito'i mo'oni fakafolofola feliuliuaki, ne tokolahi e ngaahi efiafi e ni'ihi pea tokolahi Christ and the Biblical foundations to prayer and wise counsel. ke langa hake ai 'a e Tisaipale kaukaua. fe'unga pe 'a e ngaahi efiafi e ni'ihi tu'unga pe 'i he ngaahi building strong disciples. The numbers of young people 'I he tanumaki 'uluaki, ne kamata'i ia 'ehe Faifekau mo'ua. Ka 'oku mau 'ilo pau 'oku fua ha Potungaue ia In Week 1, Rev Saane Langi and attending varied from week to week Saane Langi mo hono hoa Penisimani Langi talanoa ai 'aki 'a e tokolahi. her husband Penisimani Langi set the due to work, school, church and family ki he angahala mo e fakamo'ui. Ne 'oatu pe 'a e tokoni ke teu'i kinautolu mo e ngaahi standards and taught on sin and commitments but we know ministry 'ilo ki he 'enau mo'ui fo'ou 'ia Kalaisi pea mo hono famili. salvation. The young women were isn't measured by numbers. Ne fakamavahevahe'i e kau finemui mei he kau talavou - ko e taha pe 'o e ngaahi founga ke fakamo'ui ai Ne 'osi e tanumaki, ne ako 'a e to'utupu ko e 'Otua 'oku separated from the young men, putting The offer was there, to equipping ne 'iate kinautolu ma'u pe. Ne 'iai foki mo e fakalotolahi into practice raising a strong women's them with what they needed to know 'a e potungaue 'a fafine mo e potungaue 'a tangata 'i he and men's ministry. about them being a new creation and to'utupu. Uike hono 2 ne tataki 'e Neomai Pole mo Heneli ke nau taki taha lotu mo kumi ha taha kene mentor Week 2 was led by Neomai part of God's family. The young people Hoglund 'aki 'a e ongo kaveinga ko e Talangofua mo e kinautolu (tangata pe fefine fakahinohino) ke tokoni'i ia Tu'uhoko-Pole and Henry Hoglund, came out knowing God is and will Tauhi ki hoto 'Eiki. 'i he 'ene fononga 'oku ne fai ko e Kalisitiane. who taught the importance of obedience always be with them but also they were Ne foki 'a e fanau mo e fakakaukau “ka 'ikai Pule 'a Ki he kau talavou, 'oku kei hoko atu pe 'a e Men's and lordship. The youth returned home encouraged to seek a mentor to journey Sisu 'i he 'eku me'a kotoa, ta 'oku 'ikai koia ia 'oku Pule night he efiafi Monite kotoa pe 'i Epsom pea 'oku kei with a strong statement:“If Jesus is not with them and help them in their ia 'i he 'eku mo'ui”. Ne hoko atu 'ehe ako'i 'e Heneli 'a e fakaafe'i atu pe ha taha 'oku fie kau mai ki he feohi'anga Lord of your all, He is then not Lord Christian walk. kau talavou pea ko Lupe Pikula na'a ne tataki 'a e kau ko 'eni mo e ako tohitapu 'oku fai ai. Ki he toenga, ko at all”. To the young men, Men's Night 'etau polokalama lotu hufia 'oku tu'ula hoko peia he In Week 3 Henry Hoglund every Monday night at Epsom is always finemui ki he mahu'inga 'o e Fakatomala mo e Papitaiso continued with the young men and Lupe open for fellowship and Bible study. Vai. hengihengi Tokonaki kotoa pe ki he Chapel 'i Epsom pea Pikula taught the young women on To everyone else, Prayer on Saturday Pea 'oku 'ikai ke lava 'o fakamavahevahe 'a e 'oku 'ataa eni ki he taha kotoa pe. repentance and baptism. The youth were Mornings at Epsom Chapel is open to fakamolemole mo e fakatomala, 'oku na o fakataha pe. 'Oatu heni ha fakamalo lahi kia Faifekau Lute taught, forgiveness and repentance go all. 'I he uike hono 4, ko Latu Fonua mo e Faka'osi Hausia Tu'uhoko, Faifekau Finau Halaleva, Faifekau Saane hand in hand. We simply cannot go to Thank you to Rev Lute Tu'uhoko, ne na tataki 'a e tanumaki koia 'i he kaveinga ko e Laumalie Langi, Penisimani Langi pea mo e si'i ngaahi matu'a 'i God for forgiveness with the mindset Rev Finau Halaleva, Rev Saane Langi, Ma'oni'oni mo e ngaahi me'a'ofa 'a e Laumalie Ma'oni'oni. ho'omou poupou'i 'a e ngaue 'oku fai 'i he Potungaue ni. that we don't need to repent. Penisimani Langi, and to the parents Tanumaki hono 5 ne toe tataki pe 'e Latu Fonua mo e Fakamalo lahi atu ki he Siasi Epsom 'i ho'omou fa'a For Week 4 Latu Fonua and for the huge support! Also thank you Penisimani 'o na ako'i ai 'a e fanau ki he mahu'inga 'o e faka'ataa ho'omou 'apisiasi ke fai atu kiai 'a e ako faka- Faka'osi Hausia taught the youth who to Epsom Church for allowing us to folofola mo e fiekaia fakalaumalie. Tisaipale ka ko e polokalama tanumaki 'a e Potungaue. the Holy Spirit was and his spiritual run our Discipleship series on your gifts. property. God bless you all. Victory is 'I he vaeua'anga 'o e polokalama tanumaki, ko Sifa Ke fai tapuekina mai 'e Sihova kimoutolu, kuo tau ma'u Week 5 saw Latu Fonua and ours! Pole mo Meleseini Talia'uli ne na tataki 'a e tanumaki 'a e Ikuna! 20 TOUCHSTONE • NOVEMBER 2015

TALI UI SEPITEMA 2015 SIASI VAINE MO'ONIA 'Oku fakafeta'i 'a e si'i ngaahi e taliui koe lava mai 'a e ongo fa'e ta'u fofonga'i fa'e kau tau ma'ae kolosi 'o e motu'a taha he Siasi 'Amelia Fonua (Ta'u Siasi Vaine Mo'onia he lava lelei 'enau 92) pea mo Toakase Tau (Ta'u 91) 'o na tali ui Sepitema ki he 2015. kau he tali ui. Ko e fuofua tali ui Sepitema 'eni 'a e 'Oku fiefia 'a e ngaahi fa'e 'o Vaine ngaahi fa'e 'o e fu'u Vaine mo 'enau faifekau Mo'onia ke nau tali 'aki honau ui he Kuata fo'ou Faifekau Siutaisa Tukutau pea na'e Sepitema ni 'a e Tohi Palovepi 31:29,30 taliui ai 'ae kau fefine 'e toko 107 pea poaki ai 'a e toko 17. “'Oku toko lahi 'a e ngaahi 'Ofefine kuo Ko e tali ui na'e tataki pe he sea 'o e faifita; ka ko koe 'oku ke hulu 'iate kinautolu katoanga Faifekau Siutaisa Tukutau pea kotoa…Ko e matamata lelei koe me'a 'e hoko atu ki he Hou'eiki 'oe siasi 'Elenoa 'ikai ala falala ki ai pea koe hoihoifua koe Ngataialupe Tupouniua moe hoa Faifekau me'a hamolofia: Ko e fefine 'oku 'apasia malolo Lolofi Heimuli. Ko e fakakoloa 'o kia Sihova, ko 'eni ia 'e fakamalo'ia.” Ngaahi Fa'e Siasi Vaine Mo'onia.

Hili 'a e tali ui koe Finau Vakalahi, Ikaafeafe Vae, Faifekau Siutaisa Tukutau, Amelia Fonua , Kaloni Paea , Houeiki Siasi Elenoa Ngataialupe Tupouniua, Toa Pani pea mo Analose Lavulavu. Faifekau Siutaisa Tukutau moe ngaahi Fa'e Siasi Vaine Mo'onia. Ongoongo mei he Kaingalotu Wesley, Wellington Na'e lava lelei 'a e fuofua fetaulaki folau. (face-to-face) 'a e Kaingalotu Tonga 'o Ne teuteu 'e he Setuata mo e kaingalotu Wesley, Wellington Methodist Parish pea 'a e me'atokoni ke ma'u malohi mei ai 'a e mo e Faifekau Simote Taunga pehe ki hono kau folau fakataha mo e kainga pea toki hoa 'Akesa Taunga 'i he Sapate 20 'o fakahoko 'a e fakataha. Ko e ola 'o e fakataha Sepitema 2015. Ko hono tataki 'a e ko e lotolelei katoa 'a e Kaingalotu 'a Wesley polokalama mahu'inga ni na'e fakahoko ki he tu'utu'uni kuo fai mai 'e he Komiti ia 'e he Faifekau Sea Tevita Finau pehe ki Fehikitaki 'a e Konifelenisi ke hoko 'a he Sekelitali 'o e Vahefonua 'Etuini Talakai. Faifekau Simote Taunga ko e faifekau 'o Na'e me'a foki 'i he polokalama ni 'a e hoa 'o e faifekau sea Valeti Finau pea pehe foki Wesely, Wellington pea ke kamata 'i Fepueli kia Faifekau 'Alipate 'Uhila. 2016. Na'e me'a mai 'a e Faifekau Sea mo e Ko e tataki lelei na'e fakahoko 'e he Faifekau Simote Taunga, kuo maau e Faifekau Sea pea vave mo pau. 'Oku hiki 'a Faifekau 'o e potungoue Viliami Finau, e faifekau 'o e potungoue Viliami Finau ki Setuata Lahi Saia Finau Vea mo e Kaingalotu Auckland-Manukau 'i he ta'u kaha'u. ke talitali e kau folau. Ko e Kaingalotu ni foki 'oku nau lava 'o fakavahenga taimi kakato (full-time stipend H-M ('Otu mu'a): Loto'aniu, 'Akesa Taunga, Valeti Finau, Tu'ipulotu Finau, Rev Viliami Finau, & Rev Pehe foki ki he Vaikeli 'a Sekope na'a 'Alipate 'Uhila. ('Otu mui): 'Apitanga Palu, Rev Tevita Finau, Rev Simote Taunga, Sateki 'Ahio, 'Etuini nau taa e ngaahi fasi ke talitali'aki 'a e kau 'a e faifekau) pea pehe ki he 'api nofo'anga. Talakai, & Solomone Ngauamo. Tapuaki Sports Camp #2 By Sela Tu'uhoko Pole way to breakfast after a few hours of youth. On the weekend of the 2nd of rest. Our boost session for Saturday October, youth members from various The first draw began at 7:00 a.m. was led by Afi Leota, pastor for Break Tongan Methodist churches in on Saturday. Breakfast and lunch ran Through Manukau. His message Auckland gathered at Willow Park for an hour and a half so the teams highlighted the importance of finding Christian campsite for a weekend of could squeeze in their meals when it Jesus. Afi's testimony provided events that tested sportsmanship, was convenient (although dinner was realistic examples of how he fought group endurance and physical at a set time). his battles in life, his challenges with strength. The day started with light showers losing loved ones and how he was One competition covered kayaking and teamwork. The weekend began on Friday but it eventually cleared up and we able to heal. evening with registration, an opening had beautiful clear skies. Sunday morning started a little prayer, and a discussion of rules and Team Blessed walked away as the later at around 8:00 a.m. This time regulations. The competition top team. They came first overall and was reserved for packing, clean-up commenced at 8:40 p.m. with won six sports - netball, female and most importantly our last boost basketball. Lawn balls and table tennis volleyball, female touch rugby, table session with Nick Tutasi. ran alongside each other after supper. tennis, mini golf and dodgeball. Nick's message encouraged the A boost session at 10pm was then Ellerslie Youth won five games - young people attending the camp “to lead by Rev Saane Langi on the race soccer, indoor bowls, male touch get off the playground and get into we are inevitably running in our rugby, tag rugby and petanque. individual spiritual journeys. Northcote youth won the male the race”, Jesus had begun the race “Do you not know that everyone volleyball division and the female and so now we must take this who participates in a race runs but multisport (which included sprints, opportunity and jump into our lanes and continue the race. only one receives the prize? Run in swimming, kayaking, and a two km The Northcote team awaiting their turn at the multisports challenge. such a way that you may win,” 1 run). Praise God for the opportunity of Corinthians 9:24. We were encouraged Panmure youth won basketball, an alter call. We saw up to 40 young to run our race without distraction, in New Lynn youth took out male multi- people recommit as well as give their all determination and with the goal of sport, and Henderson won the mystery lives to Christ. winning the prize in heaven. event. We would like to acknowledge We continued our games after the An award recognised alongside Willow Park Christian campsite for boost until 12:30am. Although we first place is that for sportsmanship. always accommodating us and giving were tired from the night's games, This award acknowledges the youth us a place to play sports and rejuvenate there was enough hype to get us that made the effort to not only reflect spiritually. anticipating the next couple of days. sportsmanship in behaviour but also Thank you to all the youth that Dawn saw Willow Park staff set in practice (through their interaction attended and to the churches that up for the day's games with a few with the referees and with others). helped fund the weekend. We sleepy-eyed young ones making their This award went to the Northcote appreciate all your support. The Northcote team ready for the Tapuaki Sports Camp.