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From the Moderator
I am on the road again, visiting Central Otago and Mataura presbyteries, parishes and people. In many places here and in earlier visits in Clutha and Southland, people have shared with me their perception that rural ministry in the south does not seem to "attract" ministers. I have become conscious of two temptations.
The first is that the needs of urban centres can easily dominate our life. The continuing trend of population growth in major urban centres may be leading us into a new social disparity. We could be creating a new "disadvantaged" minority. The Church is vulnerable to this, as is every human institution.
The second is particular to the Church, and it is the temptation for those of us called to ministry of Word and sacraments to limit the call of God on our lives. Balancing personal needs with the call of God has always been a challenge for ministers. Ministry is a vocation is the real sense of the word – a calling, rather than a career. It challenges every one of us who have affirmed the call of God to ministry, to examine ourselves; perhaps reminding ourselves of the model of faith, Abraham, called from the setting of personal satisfaction to "the land I will show you".
Committed Conversations
Since writing last month some things have happened, and "Bush Telegraph" offers the opportunity to share news of the four dimensions of conversations on homosexual members in leadership.
Keeping communication lines open.
Our conversations will be fruitful to the degree we are willing to trust each other in honest sharing. I have been encouraged by several who have, with integrity, shared what they are feeling, especially when they have disagreed with me. Such honesty in sharing is important. On the other hand I have been disappointed when people with deep concerns and feelings refuse to take opportunities to meet or communicate with me or others beyond their immediate circle.
Information on the Internet
The church website, www.presbyetrian.org.nz has opened a section on "Committed Conversations" and information will be posted there as it becomes available. There will be news of what is happening, resources you can access etc., as well material sent to the Church. There is the opportunity there also to join an Online Forum. The direct link is www.presbyterian.org.nz/2121.0.html
Invitations Sent Out
In the last ten days all Session/Parish Clerks and ministers in parishes and appointments should have received material to invite church members to consider being part of "Committed Conversations" This material is available on the website as above.
Keeping in touch
A toll free number is available for anyone to leave a message or question – (0800) 477-372. Alternatively my mobile number is available – (027) 234-5528. I can also be contacted by email
moderator(at)presbyterian.org.nz
The atmosphere of our conversations at any level is important. I have been encouraged by the tenor of most conversations I have had. The Spirit is evident when our language with each other is characterised by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness and self control.
As you journey with Christ to Jerusalem during Lent, and as you live and endure with Him there, may He strengthen you in new ways for your living out His risen presence in your community.
News from Niue
Since I invited the Church to pray for the people and church in Niue following cyclone Heta, I have received a letter from the President of Ekelesia Niue, the Rev Matagi Vilitama;
Fakaalofa lahi atu. Greetings to you and all the saints in the wonderful name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
It is with a heavy heart that I write to inform you of our great loss caused by cyclone Heta. As you might have
already heard through international news, much of our vegetation, food crop and infrastructure has been devastated. Many families have become homeless and basic foodstuff is becoming scarce. It was a miracle that many lives were spared considering the magnitude of the cyclone.
Most church buildings were greatly affected and damaged, including most manses. The Makefu church building was totally wiped out, the foundation the only visible structure left on the ground. Its manse also damaged beyond repair. The Ekalesia Niue's headquarter is ninety percent gone. The only consolation was the file room which housed some historical documents survived.
We are thankful to the New Zealand and Australian Governments for their efficient response with essential supplies and personnel. Other countries have since contributed in kind.
I know that you have been praying for us, thank you. I would also like to request for your continuing prayers for our country. We are thankful for Don Ikitoelagi and Ere's presence with us during this time of hardship.
Please continue to pray for our people. God bless you and your people.
Yours sincerely
Rev Matagi Vilitama
(President, Ekelasia Niue