THE - KIA KAHA CHRISTCHURCH Standing as one - Anglican Diocese of Auckland
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THE
KIA KAHA GIVING HOPE HUAPAI REOPENS
CAP works with A renovated Church
CHRISTCHURCH Churches to help with a more modern
Standing as one people crippled look
by debt
May goodness overcome evil,
APRIL 2019
and peace and goodwill prevail.
BISHOP ROSS
Find Bishop Ross on Facebook:
Bishop Ross Bay
T
he Season of Lent can be But I say to you that listen, “Love your enemies, do good to
observed in so many different those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those
ways, and in each ministry unit who abuse you. …. If you love those who love you, what credit
there will be things on offer to help us make something of these is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them……
special days through prayer, study, and action. Whatever it is we Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful….Do not judge, and
are taking up (or giving up) for Lent, one of the most important you will not be judged; do not condemn, and you will not be
objectives is to gain a clearer perspective – whether it be on condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven".
ourselves, or on the Scriptures, or on the big issues that confront These words, familiar as they are, do not lose their challenging
us in our local or global living, or on the needs of other people. ability to bring a clearer perspective on some of the issues and
One of the themes this Lent, in the Diocese of Auckland, is a events which affect our life in the Church and the wider society.
focus on the Auckland City Mission. The Mission HomeGround This is especially so after the events last month in Christchurch.
project is underway with the demolition of most of the old We have more on this inside the magazine.
buildings on the Hobson St site. The Mission has relocated to
Union St during building, and on its return will be able to provide
much enhanced services to the people of Auckland, and in an
environment that offers much greater dignity. During Lent, the
Ministry Units of the Diocese have the opportunity to give focus
to the City Mission, and encourage Lenten almsgiving to the An update on Bishop Jim
HomeGround project.
The people of the Diocese will have been
This project is something very dear to Bishop Jim White who
saddened to learn of Bishop Jim’s deteriorating
has chaired the Mission’s Board through this exciting period of
health over recent months, and the recent
development.
diagnosis of a rare form of Lymphoma. He has
In this year of the lectionary cycle, we have the chance each
now begun chemotherapy, and his medical
Sunday to become very familiar with the distinctive elegance
team are hopeful of a positive result from this
and challenge of Luke’s Gospel. A couple of Sundays before
treatment. We continue in our prayerful support
Lent began, I was forcibly struck by the words of Jesus in Luke’s
of Jim and Jane, and their family.
6th chapter:
IN THIS ISSUE:
2 BISHOP'S MESSAGE
Message from Bishop Ross
THE ANGLICAN DIOCESE OF AUCKLAND
3 SAW 2019
Another successful Summer Adventure Weekend
www.auckanglican.org.nz
Address: PO Box 37242, Parnell, Auckland 1151 4 KIA KAHA CHRISTCHURCH
Phone: 09 302 7201 We are together as one
STORY IDEAS & ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES 6 A THEOLOGY OF LAND
Elizabeth Witton, Editor From Carole Hughes – Archdeacon Northern Region
Email: magazine@aucklandanglican.org.nz
Mob: 027 437 3498
8 CHRISTIANS AGAINST POVERTY
An ecumenical organisation working with churches to release
Kiwis from debt and poverty
DESIGN AND PRODUCTION
Two Sparrows Design 10 BI-CENTENARY IN KERIKERI
The Anglican is printed three times a year. 2019 is the 200th year since a mission station started in
the oldest town in New Zealand with continuous European
settlement
DISCLAIMER
The information contained in this publication is given in good faith and 12 BREAKING THE ICE
has been derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. We asked Karen Spoelstra, Diocesan Youth Facilitator a few
However, neither The Anglican Diocese of Auckland, its Bishops, clergy, questions to find out a bit more about her
staff or anyone involved in the production of this publication accept any
form of liability whatsoever for its contents including advertisements, 14 ST CHADS HUAPAI REOPENS
editorials, opinions, advice or information or for any consequences from After 10 months of renovation work St Chads has reopened to
its use. The Anglican is published on behalf of The Anglican Diocese serve the local community
of Auckland.
16 JUSTICE FOR TEAPICKERS
Join us online: CWS supporting a programme to lift Teapickers out of near
slavery
www.auckanglican.org.nz
Anglican Diocese of Auckland @auckanglican Cover photo: Students and staff from Orewa College pay tribute to the victims of the
Christchurch mass killing. Image kindly supplied by Orewa College
2 The Anglican | April 2019
SAW 2019
After a successful first year in 2018 for the an old-fashioned concert. After a beautiful Sunday Service it was
time for lunch and goodbyes. We (great grandmother and great
Summer Adventure Weekend, the scene
granddaughter) will be back next year.”
was set to bring families from across the The Anderson family of Jon, Catherine (parents) and William
Diocese together again at the Vaughan Park (14 years old) from Whangarei enjoyed the camaraderie.
Retreat Centre and the Sir Peter Blake Marine “William decided we were all going to the Summer Adventure
Education and Recreation Centre. Weekend after he heard about it at Junior Youth Camp. He was
T
sure we’d all enjoy it, and he was right.
his annual event at the end of January is a chance for The schedule was very full, but there was plenty of time to
people of all ages to experience intergenerational fun, a talk and get to know new people. Some of the many water
sense of belonging and to make new friends. based activities were challenging for those of us who were new
For Lianne and Baylee it was their first visit. to them but the team at MERC were very supportive, helping us
“It was a relief to get to the Anglican Retreat Centre after a to feel at ease.
long and very hot journey nursing a sick overheating car. We had As well as making new friends who we look forward to
missed the beach games but we found the group of strangers meeting again, we laughed and had lots of fun. We will definitely
we were to spend the Summer Adventure Weekend with. In be back next year.”
no time we formed groups to begin making our Kiwiana sand Archdeacon Michael Berry and his family echo the experience
sculptures. Then it was time for a quick dip before a delicious of others.
bbq and dessert. Saturday was action packed, interspersed “What a fantastic weekend away – a relaxing and enjoyable
with plenty of tasty food. Activities from rock wall climbing, weekend of activities, relaxation, worship and fellowship, and in
abseiling, sailing, kayaking, giant paddle boarding, and beach such a great location right on the beach. The kids wouldn’t let us
exploring were all on offer, with friendly expertise from the MERC leave until we promised we’d be back next year!”
staff. Much laughter and occasional trepidation ensued whilst
conquering the various challenges. The happy day ended with SAW 2020 will be on 17-19 January. Mark it in your diary now.
The Anglican | April 2019 3
Kia Kaha
Christchurch
From Bishop Ross what is good, and so at very least it means to shun evil, to
T
he events of Friday March 15th have left New turn from it ourselves. But I also think it means an active
Zealanders and the wider world community shocked standing against things that are evil: speaking against
at the evil that a single person could inflict on others. them and acting to ensure that good prevails in the face
Our hearts have reached out in love and compassion of evil.
towards the Muslim community. I have been encouraged So much of this challenges us to self-examination, a
by the ways in which the people of our churches have practice that is an inherent part of our Lenten disciplines.
responded through holding prayer vigils, through acts of We each must consider the ways in which our own actions
solidarity, and through tangible gifts and other support. and attitudes can at times foster suspicion and isolation of
I was glad to be able to be present in the Cathedral for other people and groups. We must work to foster genuine
a prayer vigil, and we were graced by the presence of love within ourselves, and as the key mark of the church
people from the Muslim community. community. Romans 12 reinforces this by closing with these
In recent years the Cathedral has offered hospitality to words: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with
Muslims during Ramadam through the provision of an Iftar good.” Our hope in the resurrection of Jesus Christ gives
meal. This is the meal taken at the end of the day when us the strength to live in this way. May it be so.
the fast is broken at sunset. It is one example of acts of
kindness and hospitality that are being practiced in many
of our local church communities as people seek to reach
out across religious difference. The relationships that are
already established as a result have brought a deep
integrity to our endeavours to reach out in love now
towards the grief and fear that has come from this act
of horror.
As Anglican Christians we condemn this act of
violence that has led to the deaths of so many and "We must work to foster genuine
the injuries of as many again. I have been reading
and contemplating verses from Romans chapter 12
love within ourselves, and as
in the light of this. Inevitably verse 9 stands out. “Let the key mark of the church
love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is
good.” It does us good to consider afresh what genuine community."
love looks like. How is it seen in acts of kindness that
seek no reward, but simply reach out towards another to
seek their wellbeing? And what does it mean to hate what
is evil? The phrase stands right alongside holding fast to
4 The Anglican | April 2019
Interfaith
prayer for peace
O God, you are the source of life and peace
Praised be your name forever.
We know it is you who turns our minds to thoughts
of peace.
Hear our prayer in this time of crisis.
Your power changes hearts.
Muslims, Christians, and Jews remember, and
profoundly affirm,
that they are followers of the one God,
Children of Abraham, brothers and sisters;
enemies begin to speak to one another;
those who were estranged join hands in friendship;
nations seek the way of peace together.
Strengthen our resolve to give witness to these From the National
truths by the way we live.
Church Leaders
W
Give to us:
Understanding that puts an end to strife; e are deeply saddened by these tragic events and
we strongly condemn these acts of racial hatred
Mercy that quenches hatred, and
and murder. We feel very deeply for our fellow New
Forgiveness that overcomes vengeance. Zealand faith community, which was so cruelly attacked as
Empower all people to live in your law of love worshippers peacefully gathered for prayer.
Amen. We extend our prayerful and heartfelt sympathy to the
Muslim community here in New Zealand, and around the world.
The whole Christian church community in New Zealand is
praying for the Muslim community: praying for the healing of
the wounded, comfort for the bereaved, and for God’s peace
upon all who have been traumatised.
At this time of deep shock, grief, and anxiety, we ask and
pray for all New Zealanders to stand united, to have great love
and compassion, and to show unfailing respect and kindness
for all people who live in this society of Aotearoa New Zealand,
regardless of ethnicity or religious affiliation. We believe there
is absolutely no room for racial hatred in our land, and we
are determined that we must stand together as one people,
united as human beings created by God, and as fellow New
Zealanders. May goodness overcome evil, and peace and
goodwill prevail.
Supporting the victims and
their families
Anglican Missions has launched a relief appeal to demonstrate
the Aroha of the Anglican Church and its members towards the
victims and families of the Christchurch Mosque shootings. It is
a small way we can help.
Above: Candles and stones at the vigil held at St Matthew-in-the-City. Photo supplied by
St Matthew-in-the-City; 50 pairs of white shoes sit outside All Souls Church in Merivale,
All money donated will be passed on to ‘Victim Support
Christchurch in memory of the 50 people killed on 15 March. Photo supplied by All Souls Manaaki Tāngata’ to be included in the official appeal fund.
Church, Merivale.
Top: The Rev’d Sarah West and Masooma Mehdi at the vigil held at Holy Trinity Cathedral. For further details on how you can help go to the Anglican
Photo supplied by Holy Trinity Cathedral.
Missions website: angmissions.org.nz/donate.
The Anglican | April 2019 5
A theology of land
the hotel and, along with others, has painted large political art
pieces on some of the wall next to the hotel. It is not my intention
or place to critique either side of the political tension, but the
most powerful point for me was the visible large wall which
divides and controls the people, and the land. It seems that
such a wall denies the spiritual and sacred relationships with the
WORDS: ARCHDEACON CAROLE HUGHES holy land for many people; many of the significant religious sites
are not freely accessible to everyone. It highlighted for me the
Land is a deeply spiritual reality and that ongoing desire for peace, where walls do not divide, as found in
merely economic, political, anthropological The Peace in our Eucharistic liturgy:
or geographical understandings of land are Blessed be Christ the Prince of Peace,
incomplete.1 who breaks down the walls that divide.3
L
and is important to our understanding of Scripture and Of course, this is not a new phenomenon in world history and
our theology.2 At St George’s College in Jerusalem there the debates continue today about who belongs where – who is
is a course on offer, entitled ‘Introduction to Bible Lands’. in and who is out – in terms of territorial land across the world.
First impressions might suggest that the course simply involves There is a desire to build walls in order to keep people out and
visiting many of the ‘holy places’ in Israel with references to mark ‘our’ territory. In Aotearoa / New Zealand we have had
our Scriptures; a course for beginners in understanding the tragic experiences of those whose land has been confiscated
Biblical context. It is so much more! During my Sabbatical and barriers of access of land created to move people on from
last year, I had the opportunity to participate in this course. their place of belonging, connectiveness and spirituality.
We explored how land affects our theology and our political So, exploring a theology of land is essential to breaking
identity. We considered the ancient land, the sacredness of down the walls that divide. In thinking about a theology of
land, the political elements of who owns and controls the land, land as Tikanga Pākehā we cannot deny that our relationship
as well as the stories associated with different places. We and identity with the land is influenced by Tikanga Māori; land
were challenged about the environmental issues and the land’s is not simply a commodity but rather we belong to and have
needs as well as our own. My personal reflections included a relationship with the land; land feeds us and nourishes us;
how our identity is connected to the land, both in terms of the land is about ordering community life and is a gift from God.
biblical sites but also where we belong in the world and how Our ancestors belong to the land and we too are intrinsically
land defines connectiveness through time and relationships. connected with the land. We are gifted the collective
One of the powerful experiences for me was to visit the responsibility to care for the land and nurture all of God’s
‘Walled Off’ Hotel in Bethlehem, which is just inside the creation. Such a spiritual and caring relationship with the land
Palestinian territory. The famous artist, Banksy, has purchased continues to influence our theology.
6 The Anglican | April 2019
"We are gifted the collective places through the reading of Scripture and our relationship
with God. The holy land is not reserved solely for those who
responsibility to care for the land presently reside there. That is also the case with our churches
and sacred places in our home land. Within our churches
and nurture all of God's creation." we experience spiritual connections with land and place. We
have deep historical relationships with the land. If land is first
All aspects of life are an expression of dynamic tension and foremost regarded as God’s zone then our responsibility
that holds the land, humans and spirits together in a is about being in relationship with God through caring for the
triad of unity... Land manifests the presence of God so land and honouring the people’s relationship with the sacred.
that land can and does …become a sacrament of God.4 We all have sacred places to gather or rest; places that
provide refreshment and nourishment. The challenge is how
When I returned to Aotearoa/New Zealand at the end of my
we honour such places so that others can be blessed too. So,
sabbatical, I experienced a real sense of coming home and
land is to be shared by many so that God can be accessible
an intense connection with the created world around me as
and be made known to many.
is the case with many New Zealanders. Some may say that it
My experience of visiting the holy land, and making deep
was because I had indulged my thoughts and research into the
connections with the land back home in Aotearoa / New
significance of land, but this is not a new experience for me.
Zealand, has highlighted the ongoing need, especially for
We all have a relationship with ‘our’ land. How we determine
Tikanga Pākehā, to keep working on a ‘theology of land’.
the definition of ‘our’ land is the ongoing political global issue
Often we do not understand our relationship with the land
of past, present and future generations. The Biblical text is
until there is a threat of denied access; a wall – physically or
no exception. For example, throughout the book of Joshua
metaphorically – has been built. But land is essential to our
chapters 13-19, land is first and foremost an inheritance
relationships. Land is what feeds us and gives us life. Land
given to the people by ‘Yahweh’, a gift to be passed on from
is God’s zone and we are called to be responsible guardians.
generation to generation. The idea that the land is God’s
The question that I leave with you then is, how can ‘our’ land
has not only theological significance but also sociological
positively influence and nurture our relationships, and how can
consequences. Land was not conceived of as private property
our relationships nurture and nourish our land?
to be ‘walled off’; instead it was entrusted to the people to care
for the land on behalf of God. Over many centuries indigenous
people of many nations have understood land in a similar way. 1
'My land is my own: towards a theology of land as sacrament of God among the
However, the relationship with ‘our’ land is not simply Kalam people', Siep, James.
reserved for indigenous people of nations across the globe. The Reverend Canon Mary June Nestler, Course Director and Lecturer. St George’s,
2
Jerusalem, 2018.
When people from around the globe, like me, visit the holy 3
A New Zealand Prayer Book He Karakia Mihinare o Aotearoa, p485.
land we are deeply connected spirituality with those sacred 4
ibid.
The Anglican | April 2019 7
Christians
Against Poverty
Christians Against Poverty was started in the UK by John Kirby in 1996. After a successful
career in the financial lending industry, John lost everything during a financial crash and
found himself deep in debt. At his lowest point, he was befriended by a local church pastor,
and committed his life to Christ.
D
uring his interesting faith journey he became children and facing eviction, he was able to offer them a
aware of large numbers of people borrowing lifeline by using his expertise to negotiate with creditors and
money that they were unable to repay. With set up budgeting systems.
a belief that God was calling him to sacrifice Realising that there were people all over the country
his work in the financial industry he left his work and struggling he began looking at replicating his work. At
established CAP. the end of 1998, partnering with Churches, four new CAP
The organisation's small beginnings began with flyers centres were opened.
being sent out to all the people he knew and Churches in Since then many more centres have opened not only in
his home town of Bradford. People supported him and the UK but around the world. In 2007 Gareth and Heather
as he met people crippled by debt, unable to feed their Jones arrived in New Zealand ready to begin CAP.
8 The Anglican | April 2019
"I do believe that God has given us Thanks to the generosity of over
3,700 people who give regularly to
a 21st Century answer to one of the support the work of CAP, all of their
most pressing social needs within services are completely free to those
society today. Jesus met people's who need them.
In addition to offering poverty relief services
needs with love, compassion and in partnership with local churches, CAP also
has speakers who share a message on God’s
practical help. Our desire is to heart for the poor, and the way individuals and
simply do the same and watch the local churches can meet this need in their own
community. Consider inviting a CAP speaker to
miracles unfold." – John Kirkby, CAP Founder share at your church during the year.
All CAP services are run in partnership with local
churches, consider running a CAP service at your
church. There’s a CAP ministry available that can
Now, CAP NZ employs more than 40 staff and partners with empower your church – no matter what your size!
150 churches across New Zealand. They offer assistance in
many ways:
Debt Help
Long-term debt counselling that lifts people out of debt and
poverty. (Two Anglican Churches are running this programme:
Northwest Church in Massey and St Saviours in Kaitaia.) www.capnz.org
FREE help:
Money Course p: 0508 227 111
A three-session, interactive course that encourages people to
budget, save and spend wisely. (14 Anglican Churches around Church queries
New Zealand run these courses.) p: 0508 422 769 e: partnership@capnz.org
Supporter queries
Job Clubs p: 09 270 0334
A welcoming club that provides practical help, personal coaching
e: fundraising@capnz.org
and a group of friends to support people back into work.
All other queries
Release Groups p: 09 270 0334 e: info@capnz.org
A confidential, caring group that helps people find complete
freedom from life-controlling habits.
Life Skills
A friendly, fun community group that empowers people to thrive
on a low income.
They’re now regulars at their local church (Northwest Anglican
Pam and Richard share their story to show just – Church of the Good Shepherd) and they play scripture games
at dinner time! Plus, Pam and the kids have done an Alpha
how much CAP has changed their lives: course (Richard works nights). Pam says the kids – who were
Deeply in debt, Pam used to hide in bed under the covers once scared of their dad and didn’t even talk to him – now joke
because she couldn’t face the day. If they got invited to events, around with him and tease him!
she’d make excuses…like many CAP clients, they’d visit close “After coming from a home that’s like you got no food, you got
family just to ‘have a feed.’ nothing, and [now] they’re doing so well...and they love going to
Pam and Richard weren’t communicating at all – their school, and they love going to church.”
marriage was in tatters. When Richard came home from work Apparently the kids start asking about mid-week if they’re
Pam and the kids would be ‘walking on eggshells’ because they going to church this Sunday. And they’re up ready and waiting at
didn’t know what kind of mood he’d be in. Pam says it was "a 7:30am!
crap stage of our lives." She contemplated leaving, but she had
no money, and no place to go.
They found out about CAP through Work and Income and
became Debt Help clients. In 2018 they were invited to Discovery
Break and just loved every minute of it. And at Pastor Don’s second "I looked at him, and it looked
session, the whole family gave their lives to Christ! Pam recalls
looking over at Richard and he looked ‘just blown away.’
like he had just changed, a whole
“He blamed himself [for] the [financial] situation, then I looked new person in front of me... it was
at him, and it looked like he had just changed, a whole new
person in front of me – it was like wow!” like wow!"
The Anglican | April 2019 9
200 Bi-Centenary in Kerikeri
2014 was a special year for the whole country when we celebrated 200 years
of Christianity in New Zealand on Christmas Day at Oihi in the Bay of Islands.
S
amuel Marsden is well remembered for conducting a
service beside the beach. Now in 2019 there is another
celebration that is not so well known – the establishment of
a missionary settlement in Kerikeri making it the oldest town in
New Zealand with a continuing history of European settlement.
John Gare Butler is not such a well known name in the history
of early missionaries in New Zealand but he played a significant
role in the history of Kerikeri.
In August 1819 the Rev’d Samuel Marsden arrived in the Bay
of Islands with the Rev’d John Butler and his family and James
Kemp and his wife. Butler had been appointed superintendent
noting Butler’s time there from 1819 - 1823.
In May 1820 Butler recorded the first ploughing of land in New
Zealand in his diary. “The agricultural plough was for the first
time put into the land of New Zealand at Kideekidee, and I felt
much pleasure in holding it after a team of six bullocks brought
down by the Dromedary.”
In October and November of that same year Butler and
Marsden became the first Europeans to visit Manukau.
During those four years in Kerikeri Butler spent a lot of time
in contact with the Maoris and other missionaries, many of the
meetings with both groups were strained. In general he was
designate of the Church Missionary Society’s mission at the Bay tolerated by the local Maori community but numerous minor
of Islands. While in Australia, prior to sailing to New Zealand, differences arose between Butler and other Europeans at the
Marsden had got Butler appointed as a Justice of the Peace for mission station at Rangihoua.
New Zealand. Eventually Butler and Marsden also had a falling out with
After they landed in New Zealand, chief Hongi Hika made Butler accusing Marsden of malpractice in some business
them an offer of land to establish a missionary settlement at dealings in 1822, something he later apologised for, and then in
Kerikeri which was accepted. 1823 Marsden accused Butler of drunkenness while visiting a
Butler was New Zealand’s first ordained resident clergyman ship. The Butler family left the Bay of Islands in November 1823
amongst many missionaries from CMS. Along with being the first and returned to England where Butler retired from the Church
vicar of the Anglican Church in Kerikeri he was also the person Missionary Society.
who had the house known as Kemp house built as a Butler returned to New Zealand, arriving in April 1840 to take
residence for him and his family. up an appointment as native guardian and interpreter at the Port
A visit to the historic St James Nicholson (Wellington) settlement of the New Zealand Company.
Church at Kerikeri reveals a plaque He died in Petone just over a year later.
Below: St James Church, Kerikeri.
P11: Kemp House – originally built for the
Rev'd Butler and his family.
10 The Anglican | April 2019Anglican Church in Kerikeri By the late 1870s the number of residents had risen again and
the current St James Church was built to replace the chapel.
Once the mission station was established services were held in
The white walled, red roofed church was opened on 5 December
rooms made available or the open air. The first church was built
1878. Extensions were added in 1963.
behind the Stone Store site in 1823.
In 1829 a new chapel was built on the present church site
Celebrations will be held in Kerikeri later this year so keep
overlooking the Stone Store and Harbour. This site was originally
track of what is happening on the Kerikeri website:
suggested by Hongi Hika.
www.kerikeri.co.nz
The mission station was closed in 1840 as numbers of people
living in Kerikeri had dwindled. Reference: An Encyclopaedia of New Zealand published in 1966, edited by A. H. McLintock
SPACE FOR YOU AND YOUR BABY
Carolyn Wellm Coordinator
022 657 5851 | space@auckanglican.org.nz
Early education for babies and parents, support for
families and strengthening of communities.
Reaching out to older people, the young and disadvantaged
through caring agencies, ministry units, hospital chaplaincies and AUCKLAND CITY MISSION
aucklandcitymission.org.nz
community groups.
Community assistance and support, crisis care
centres, emergency food, clothing, furniture,
detoxification centre.
HERE FOR GOOD THE SELWYN FOUNDATION
selwynfoundation.org.nz
Independent retirement living; rest home, hospital and
Project HomeGround: dementia care, community outreach for older people.
A new chapter for Auckland City Mission. ANGLICAN TRUST FOR WOMEN & CHILDREN
atwc.org.nz
We will open our new doors for those who need emergency Residential family care, family therapy, counselling,
food, social services, and healthcare. Navigating different Family Start programmes, pre-school centres and
government agencies on behalf of our clients, while treating school social workers.
them with dignity and respect every step of the way. GRIEF AND LOSS SUPPORT SERVICES
Claudette van Niekerk Fieldworker
All we need now is you!
galss@auckanglican.org.nz
We are reaching out to parish communities and friends for Peer support programmes for children 5ys+, teen
assistance to complete the building we have started and and adults.
bring HomeGround to completion. MISSION TO SEAFARERS
The Rev’d Khaw Cheng Cheen, Chaplain
See final page for more details. 021 133 4426 | cheenkhaw@yahoo.com
The Anglican | April 2019 11Breaking
the ice
We asked Karen Spoelstra,
Diocesan Youth Facilitator a
few questions so we could get
W
to know her better.
ere you brought up as a Christian or was there a
specific point in your life when you would say that
you became a Christian?
Like many who grew up in a Christian family, there were three or
four significant moments where I encountered God and learnt to
trust him, including when I experienced God’s grace through a
friend; reached the ‘end of myself’; and recognised the presence
of the Holy Spirit in my life.
Have you always been an Anglican – if not when did you
become an Anglican?
I found my spiritual home in the Anglican church, when as
newly-weds, Chris and I decided to go to our local church – All
Saints, Hataitai in Wellington.
Who has had the most influence on your spiritual
development?
When I was elected President of the Student Christian Group
(TSCF) at Canterbury University, I was mentored by two amazing
woman, Jenny Dawson and Ruth Wildbore. They are strong,
" My calling is to inspire and courageous woman who both challenged me and gave me the
space to develop my own voice.
empower Christian leaders in
whatever context I find myself..." Tell us briefly about the most inspirational thing you have
experienced?
My parents are the most generous people I have ever met. If
they can provide a holiday house for an exhausted YFC worker,
cash for a family to buy school uniforms, babysitting so a young
couple can have a weekend away, a pair of hands for stuffing
12 The Anglican | April 2019envelopes for Radio Rhema, they will. They believe everything How long have you been working as a Youth Facilitator and
they have has come from God and is for God. what did you do before your current position?
Eight years. Before that we lived in the Hawke’s Bay, where
What is your favourite bible passage or prayer and why? like most mums, I juggled several roles, working part-time as a
It’s pretty mean to ask a biblical studies major to pick just one Business Analyst for a marketing company, chairing the board
verse. I am inspired by the stories of Joseph, Judah, Tamar, of Tertiary Students Christian Fellowship, leading our church’s
David, Abigail, Gideon, Deborah, Elijah, Amos, Mary and Paul. youth group, and being the Vicar’s warden, along with school
All of them flawed yet faithful, conflicted yet courageous, and camps, swimming lessons, speech and drama classes etc. for
humble yet heroic. Mark’s gospel is my favorite. Jesus is on a our two boys.
mission to save the world. On the way he tends to Peter’s sick
mother-in-law, a grieving father, a desperate woman, and an Take a minute to brag about yourself. What is one
ashamed tax-collector. accomplishment people might not know about that makes
you proud?
If you were going on a spiritual retreat, what three things Nope, not going there. You can only brag to your family.
(besides your Bible) would you take and why?
Some music, my holding cross and plenty of chocolate. When you are not at work how do you relax?
When I am not reading science fantasy you’ll find me at the
You have a bachelor’s degree in theology – was it always beach swimming in the sea, eating gelato and drinking flat
part of your life plan to work in some form of Ministry and whites in the local café.
when did you realise that working with youth was your
calling. What do you think is the major misconception people have
I had always wanted to develop my Christian mind to the about Anglicans?
same level I had trained in Politics and History, so when Otago We’re not being authentic because we say the same prayers
University first offered theology papers through Distance every week.
Learning in 2006 I jumped at the opportunity. I majored in
Biblical Studies. My calling is to inspire and empower Christian What one word would you say describes Anglicans best?
leaders in whatever context I find myself, student leaders at Present.
university, home group leaders in the local church and youth
leaders in the Diocese of Auckland.
• Generous Hospitality
• Spacious Conversation
• Spiritual Encounter
Retreats and Workshops, Quiet Days,
Spiritual Accompaniment
Small and large group gatherings
Vaughan Park Residential Scholarship 2020:
Applications close 4 September 2019
(09) 473 2600 or reception@vaughanpark.org.nz
1043 Beach Road, Long Bay 0630
The Anglican | April 2019 13St Chad’s
Huapai Reopens
Since opening in 1925 St Chad’s Church building has
had a history marred by misfortune.
T
he original wooden church was destroyed by fire after an arson attack
in 1990 with services then being held in the Kumeu Hall and Huapai
School. A replacement brick and fibre-cement building was built that
was dedicated on 25 September 2001.
This new building had an unusual complex roof design that ultimately gave
rise to huge repair bills.
It started with the glass entrance roof leaking. Rust was discovered
meaning a new roof was needed. To ensure they were being responsible
managers of the building the Church Council got the whole roof inspected as
several other areas of poor water tightness had also been found.
The report revealed 14 different design defects and testing showed
multiple problems with the fibre cement cladding, joints between different
materials, the roofing and rotting timber. The leaks were due to a combination
of poor design and poor building practices.
With a huge repair bill that was not covered by insurance the Church
Council was facing a huge funding problem.
A generous parishioner made a phone call to Colin Newel, chairman of the
church council, offering to gift the church $500,000. The parishioner felt that
the repairs were made to secure the long-term future of the building as a
church and as a community asset.
Work finally began in February 2018 and took 10 months to complete.
During this time St Patricks Catholic Church welcomed the congregation to
hold their services in their church.
Below: The shrink wrapped building.
Below, right: L-R The Rev’d Carolyn Newel, Bishop Ross and Colin Newel
(Huapai Church Council Chairman), at the opening.
Right: The new exterior, including the original bell tower from the 1925 Church.
14 The Anglican | April 2019"We have been delighted that there
have been many more positive
than negative comments..."
“We have always had a great relationship with our friends Having gone into print in the local press that we would be there
at St Patrick’s, sharing worship at joint Ash Wednesday and on 16th December I was delighted (and very relieved) when we
Harvest Services. This moved on to a totally new level in 2018. obtained our Certificate of Public Use from Auckland Council on
A highlight was when Bishop Jim ordained Rev Paul Haines to 14th December and, following a huge clean up by builders and
the Anglican priesthood in St Patrick’s Catholic Church with congregation, we had the truly wonderful service with an almost
Fr Carlos in attendance. Surely a first in New Zealand?” Colin full church at 10.00am on 16th December.”
Newel explained. “There are a lot of smiling faces. One unusual side effect
It was not only the congregation that had to move while work (maybe as a result of good insulation and double glazing?) is that
was done but also the groups that had used the building as a the acoustics are even better than before. At a recent concert
venue for their own activities. both the choir and the audience were amazed at how great
“The many local groups who used the Church also had to everything sounded.”
find new ‘homes’ during 2018 but we are delighted to report The aim was to have a church that looked modern with the
that every single one has returned to St Chad’s in 2019. The building painted grey and the gardens having a red theme to fit
feedback on the ‘new’ Church have been fantastic. All of our in with the traditional grey and red of St Chad’s.
hall users seem to be enjoying the venue as much as the “Everyone seems to be pleased with the outcome, especially
congregation.” the additions of the staircase, allowing us access to the
Taking advantage of the building work being done the Church mezzanine floor, and our new projectors. One or two have
Council also made some additional improvements with a view to been unsure about our new exterior colour scheme as it isn’t
the future use of the building. 'the same as the old St Chad’s'. However, that was part of the
The refurbished church now has a useable mezzanine floor, objective of the Building subcommittee as we wanted a modern
a simpler structure for the entrance, a new corrugated iron roof and lively building for the 21st Century.”
and the fibre cement cladding on the walls has been replaced During March St Chad's celebrated the reopening with
with bricks and weatherboard. concerts and a special service.
The builders completed the work in time for Christmas “We are delighted that there have been many more positive
services to be held in the Church. than negative comments, both from within the congregation and
“Having lost time due to complex building problems we set from many locals who have never been into St Chad’s.”
the builders a definite target of worship before Christmas 2018.
The Anglican | April 2019 15Mission HomeGround HomeGround will be the centre of the Mission’s focus on
tackling food insecurity and hunger in our community.
– a first for New Zealand From idea to reality, Mission HomeGround has been meticulously
planned, designed with sustainability, form and function in mind
and shaped by world best practice. HomeGround will be a building
The Auckland City Mission is in the middle of for all of Auckland to be proud of as the Mission teams continue
and elevate their work on the frontline of poverty and vulnerability.
the most exciting undertaking in its 100 year We hope we can take you with us on this journey to create
history. a new chapter for the Auckland City Mission. We have a $90
M
ission HomeGround is unlike anything seen before in million fundraising target and we’re not far off. We have raised
New Zealand – a purpose built headquarters set for an incredible $74 million but still need some serious help to get it
completion next year, offering 40 apartments for our over the line. That’s where you come in.
homeless clients, and another 40 for those on the social housing ALL THEY NEED NOW IS YOU! 100% of anything you
register. But more than that, HomeGround will be the Mission and can give will be put towards the HomeGround project and
its people’s turangawaewae – a place to share food, a place for it all counts. Please go to www.aucklandcitymission.org.nz/
health services, advice, emergency support as well as activities homeground or talk to your nominated Parish representative
and amenities for both our clients and the wider community. about how you can donate.
Justice for teapickers B
efore dusk a mother rises to prepare food on an open fire
outside her home. As the sun begins to rise, she walks up the
slopes of a Sri Lankan tea estate, chatting to her co-workers.
Gently but quickly, she plucks the bud and two leaves from the
plants, slowly filling the basket she carries. Her goal is to reach the
minimum 18 kilograms a day.
According to Christian World Service partner, the Movement for
Land and Agricultural Reform (Monlar), teapickers work and live in
conditions close to slavery. Their children sometimes miss school
- 31% are malnourished. Over 80% live in dilapidated line houses,
usually sharing one tap or well. The families are not allowed to grow
food and often have to buy it at the company store.
Most workers are descendants of Tamils brought from India to
work on the plantations because locals would not. For more than
a century Ceylon tea had a global market but with many more
countries planting tea, competition has greatly increased. Basic
wages are set through a national award negotiated between the tea
companies, the unions set up by the industry and the government
which needs the foreign exchange tea brings.
Monlar with support from other partners is leading the Thousand
Movement, a campaign to increase wages to 1,000 Rupees
or $8.15 a day. In January’s negotiations, the award rate was
increased to Rs 750 or $6.12 thanks to their efforts, a dollar more
than the estate unions wanted. Donations support Monlar’s training
on regenerative agriculture for farmers and advocacy work with
government and industry.
Support the teapickers
Read their story at cws.org.nz. Support Monlar’s campaign
for tea pickers and other small farmers. Please send
donations to Christian World Service, PO Box 22652,
Christchurch 8140 or donate online.You can also read
