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Historic Agreement with Ekalesia Niue

Over the years, most Niueans in New Zealand have found their spiritual home within the Congregational churches and then the Presbyterian Church. But in recent years there has been some confusion about the place of Ekalesia Niue in New Zealand. To try to overcome any conflict, the three churches have held a number of consultations. The latest was in Niue in February this year.

A team of seven Presbyterians and two from the Congregational Union visited Niue to meet with a delegation from Ekalesia Niue. They enjoyed great hospitality as they were shown around the island and had the opportunity to lead worship and visit places significant in the arrival of the Gospel in Niue.

After three days of meetings, a draft agreement was reached which sets out ways the three churches can work in partnership. The agreement includes a commitment to:

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Recognise ordinations performed by the other partners churches

Share overall strategy with the other partners churches

Establish new congregations only after consultation with partner churches

Respect the right of members to choose to which fellowship they wish to belong

Place no pressure on people to leave an existing fellowship

Continue to provide opportunity for students from Ekalesia Niue to train in New Zealand

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In addition the churches will look for ways to share resources and exchange information so they can come to know each other better.

"The agreement provides a way for us to live and work together as partners rather than competitors", said the Rev'd. Mana Tavelia, the Chairman of the Niuean Fono Motu and part of the Presbyterian delegation.

It is hoped that the agreement can be formally signed in October when Niue will be celebrating the centennial of its links with New Zealand.