- Contact those who contribute to Bush Telegraph here.
- Subscribe to Bush Telegraph and other ministry publications here.
From the Moderator
From the Assembly Executive Secretary
Global Mission
Knox Centre for Ministry and Leadership
Presbyterian Children and Families
Presbyterian Church Property Trustees
Presbyterian Research Centre
PCANZ Finance & Operations Team
Presbyterian Youth Ministry
Church Register
Notices
Social Media
Events
Jobs
Subscribe to publications
From the Moderator
Our Moderator Right Rev Peter Dunn takes a break from his column this month. You can read Peter's recent Easter message to the Church here.
From the Assembly Executive Secretary
Dear Friends and Colleagues
This month I have been in conversation with the Convenor of the Nominating Committee, Rev Brendan O’Hagan. Brendan has been seeking nominations from presbyteries for a workgroup to continue discerning the future shape of our General Assembly gatherings. We had hoped to have the new workgroup established by now, however I have requested permission to extend the timeline by six weeks.
In our discussions, we have been reflecting upon those instances when no one puts their hand up. Does this mean people are content with the current format of General Assembly? Does it indicate a lack of interest? Are there possibly obstacles preventing people from joining the workgroup? Or perhaps, are we only asking within our immediate circles of influence, and potentially people who are already very busy?
This past weekend I had the joy of spending time with one of last year’s Young Adult Commissioners who has now joined the Council of Assembly. Hearing her experience of General Assembly and the reflections of her cohort was encouraging. She shared that, generally speaking, the Young Adult Commissioners (she’s connected with) would love to be involved in committee work.
Today, I also received an email from an administrator in one of our presbyteries asking for more information about the roles and expectations of members on national committees. They mentioned that they had asked a few people, but no one wanted to commit without clearer understanding of what may be required of them.
This highlights the work we need to do. When we invite people to volunteer - while keeping communication concise - we also need to outline the commitment involved.
I wonder what more we can offer and encourage people with when they reach out and say, I’m interested, but I’d like to know more.
We currently have vacancies not only for this particular task but in several of our workgroups, where we are missing some crucial voices. As I conveyed last month, we are at our best when we have a diversity of voices - age, gender, ethnicity, urban, rural, lay, and minister or ordained - around the table. Brendan, Convenor of the Nominating Committee, would welcome a conversation. He can be reached here.
Update your office bearer contacts
We use electronic communication to share information, update on important matters, and pass on other news. The ability of Assembly Office to do this is dependent on church councils advising updates of key contact people, changes in email etc. Please do pass on any changes, email Nani so that we can ensure we are communicating with the appropriate people.
Ngā manaakitanga
Erin Pendreigh
PCANZ Finance & Operations Team
Newly updated PCANZ Finance & Admin News
In our latest edition of our updated PCANZ Finance & Admin News, we have information on fuel reimbursement rates in light of the Iran war, and key payroll changes that come into effect on 1 April that may affect your congregation and the actions required.
PCANZ Finance & Admin News is our refreshed series of updates sent to church treasurers to help them stay ahead of compliance obligations and ensure congregations' financial processes remain accurate and up to date. Each edition brings together several important reminders and upcoming changes that may affect your congregation or associated entities. While the news is created for our church treasurers, it is of interest to all admin-related staff in your church. To subscribe, email Katrina here.
If you have questions about anything raised in PCANZ Finance & Admin News – or if you’d like to suggest topics for future editions - please get in touch with the Finance Team. We’re here to offer support.
Michaela Press
PCANZ Finance and Operations Manager
Global Mission
RSE workers
Congregations in rural areas of New Zealand sometimes have interaction with Recognised Seasonal Employment (RSE) workers who are living and working temporarily in their regions. Some of these congregations work hard to welcome and include them in their church life but logistical factors mean it isn’t easy. A Methodist congregation in the Bay of Plenty has gone a step further and employed a full-time pastoral worker to offer pastoral care and support to RSE workers. This was a response to what they believed to be an important missional need. Perhaps there is scope for this ministry to grow within some of our congregations? You can read a report about this here.
Vanuatu
As mentioned last month, preparations are being made for projects that will take place this year. Saint Kentigern Schools and College sent a leadership team to Vanuatu in March to prepare for service programmes with Vanuatu schools in July and September; plans to lead a chaplains’ training programme in Vanuatu in August are moving forward, and congregations are exploring options for Global Mission projects.
The outbreak of war in the Middle East has caused uncertainty for international travel and had an impact on costs and is therefore causing concerns for anyone planning international events. These are challenges to be faced, but do not compare to the suffering being visited on so many innocent victims of war. Let us be mindful of those affected by these circumstances here in New Zealand, where inflation and raised anxiety levels have an impact; and pray for the victims of the violence we are reading and hearing about in our daily news.
Phil King
Global Mission Director
Presbyterian Children and Families
Greetings from the PCFM office!
Recently, I had the privilege of travelling to Presbytery Central to share at their gathering, and meet with a number of people working with children and young people. It was such a joy to spend time with so many people, hearing encouraging stories of what God is doing in and through not just children’s ministry, but in the wider Church. Thank you so much to the team at Presbytery Central for hosting me, it really was a fantastic weekend! In April, I will be heading to the Southern Presbyterians gathering, where I hope to continue having these vital conversations and connections with the people of God!
Easter
As this goes to print, churches across the country will be preparing for Easter. For a moment, we will sit with the agony and despair of the crucifixion, before rejoicing in the hope and joy of the resurrection. This is often not an easy thing to navigate with young children. To fully understand the death and resurrection of Christ requires us to fully acknowledge the suffering Christ endured – and yet, we also want to protect our children from the realisation that such suffering exists in the world. I pray that, as you navigate this crucial part of the church calendar, that God would give you wisdom and guidance, in order to teach our children well that the significance of Easter lies not in the Easter Bunny and chocolate eggs, but in the empty tomb.
With blessings
Karo Wilson
Director
Presbyterian Children and Families Ministry
Presbyterian Research Centre
Doreen Riddle archives
We at Presbyterian Archives are excited to have received a fascinating collection from the family of the late Rev Doreen Riddell. Doreen trained as a deaconess in the late 1950s, following earlier teacher training. She was ordained for missionary service and in 1959 she arrived in the Punjab in North India. Following several years spent working with women and children, as well as teaching, she was appointed the founding principal of St Thomas School, Jagadhri, in 1966. She held this position for 34 years until her retirement in 1993. She is still warmly remembered at St Thomas School, which 60 years after its foundation is thriving.
Doreen’s collection includes a large number of photographs, which provide a vivid record of her many years in India and at St Thomas’ School, as well as her deaconess training. This is supplemented by a substantial collection of correspondence, reports and other material relating to her work at St Thomas’ School. One of our archives volunteers is now processing this material, so that this wonderful resource can be made available to researchers.
Event update
Rachel Tombs will be speaking about her research on the deaconesses at a talk on Thursday 14 May, at 5:30 pm, in the KCML Seminar Room. Refreshments will be offered from 5 pm. This event is cosponsored with the Presbyterian Research Network (PRN), as part of their quarterly speaker’s series. Please note again the date: 14 May rather than 21 May. We needed to move it ahead a week, to avoid conflicting with another speaking event.
In Christ
Jay Robinson
Director Presbyterian Research Centre
Knox Centre for Ministry and Leadership
New events & resources added to 150th Anniversary of Knox Theological Hall/KCML
Explore our 150th webpage - we have added two new events: a Saturday morning colloquium with three standout speakers and a Sunday sit-down lunch at a local restaurant (numbers limited). Also, you can now scroll through a timeline outlining 150 years of developments in training and formation. We also invite you to upload your own story and reflections, and read other people’s experiences here.
Study Grants
Applications for study grants are invited from PCANZ ministers in good standing. Applications close on Friday 29th May. Information and online application form can be found here.
Artificial Intelligence and Faith – save the date
From Wednesday 13th May, we will be holding four online sessions each following Wednesday at 7pm on AI. We have convened theologians and an industry expert to engage with us. Sessions include Dr Stephen Garner (“AI and the Spiritual Life” and “Is there a place for AI in the worshipping life of the church?”, Dr Andrew Shepherd (“How technology shapes us”), and Matt Ensor (“Practical questions about AI and Christian Life and FAQ”). Registration details for these webinars will be on our website soon.
KCML Quarterly Pānui
You are invited to subscribe to the new KCML Quarterly Pānui (newsletter) which will feature reflections, training opportunities, and events. Subscribe here.
Rev Dr Geoff New
Principal
Knox Centre for Ministry and Leadership
Presbyterian Youth Ministry
Kia ora koutou
It’s been encouraging to see so many leaders and Child Protection Officers (CPOs) engaging with our Safety WoF Training. Parents place immense trust in us when they leave their young people in our care - ensuring leaders are well-trained is how we honour that trust. We’ve just wrapped up our first 2026 online series with 160+ participants. Here’s what you need to know:
Child Protection Quick Check
- Mandatory Training: Anyone working with children or youth must complete the Safety WoF within their first 12 months.
- Police Checks: Ideally completed before a leader begins their role.
- How to Train: You can access our pre-recorded videos and manuals online anytime, or join our next live series in September.
- CPO Reminder: Ensure your parish has an appointed Child Protection Officer to oversee training, checks, and reporting.
New Resources for Tough Conversations
We’ve added two helpful pages to the PYM website:
Key Leaders Retreat: Queenstown 11–14 Sept 2026
With Connect on pause, we’re gathering youth ministry leaders for a Key Leaders Retreat focused on refreshment, connection, and practical equipping. If you lead a youth ministry, we encourage you to prioritise this time of rest. We recommend booking flights early to secure the best rates.
Te Rangatahi Noho Marae: Bicultural Discipleship 30 May – 1 June (King’s Birthday Weekend) Ōhope Marae
An immersive experience for Year 11–13 students exploring faith, leadership, and bicultural partnership. View full details & register here.
Beat the Algorithm!
Join the PYM Facebook Group - to stay up to date.
Nāku noa, nā
Matt Chamberlin
PYM National Youth Director
Presbyterian Church Property Trustees
Presbyterian Investment Fund – interest rate unchanged
The interest rate paid on the PIF On Call Fund will remain at 3.25% p.a. from 1 April 2026. A reminder to please provide advance notice (of at least 3 days) for major (>$100,000) withdrawals. The interest rate on the PIF Long-Term Fund remains at 3.0% pa plus inflation. The PIF is open to parishes, but not to individuals. Rates are subject to change. For details on the Long Term Fund or further information, email the Trustees’ Executive Officer, Russell Garrett.
Glen Innis Holiday Houses - available to all ordained ministers
Thanks to the generosity of James McNutt, ministers of the Presbyterian Church are able to enjoy up to one week each year in one of two holiday houses (free of charge) on Glen Innis Station, just south of Waipukurau, Central Hawke's Bay. The holiday houses are available for National Ordained Ministers, Local Ordained Ministers, and Amorangi without cost (subject to a refundable bond). For more information, please check out the website here.
Russell Garrett
Executive Officer
The Presbyterian Church Property Trustees
Notices
2026 Christian Savings Governance Conference July/Aug
Those serving in governance roles need to be ready for the challenges ahead. This year’s speaker line-up is designed to inspire and equip for both the joys and the complexities of church and charity leadership. You’ll hear from keynote speakers who are in touch with the realities of Christian governance, engage in interviews and interactive discussions and connect with a wide range of people who share your commitment to leading well. Three venues - 22 July Christchurch, 29 July Auckland, 5 August Wellington. See more.
South Island Ministry Conference - Glow Up 2026, 12-13 May
This year’s Ministry Conference is all about transformation — real, lasting change that makes your church flourish. We will explore a few small changes can make a huge difference. In fact, they can revolutionise the effectiveness of a church for years to come. There's a fresh format too. Three local pastors will share what’s working in their own churches — not just theory, but real-life biblical principles and practical insights that cultivate growth and kingdom impact. Our Speakers: Peter Cheyne – Making Disciples, Gareth Bruce – Transforming Small Groups, Stu Crosson – Nurturing Our Own Leaders. See more here.
Giving in Aotearoa New Zealand Survey
You are invited to participate in a national survey to understand how people across NZ give and what makes giving easier - or more difficult. Whether you tithe, donate, volunteer, give koha, support whānau, or don’t currently give at all, your experience matters. Findings will support Community Foundations, charities, community organisations, and local leaders to help build a clearer picture of our generosity and help strengthen support for communities in the years ahead. See survey here.
ISCAST–NZCIS Conversations 2026 7-21 May, online: Conspiracy Theories
Conspiracy theories are everywhere, and Christians are not immune. This three-part series brings together scholars from across science, theology, and technology to explore why conspiracy theories spread, who believes them, and what resources Christian faith offers for navigating a world awash with misinformation. Thursdays 6.30pm from 7-21 May 2026 online via Zoom. See here.
Connecting for Change Conference, 28 - 29 July
Increasing need in our communities has put the community sector under pressure. Connecting for Change conference is run by Community Networks Aotearoa and the New Zealand Council of Christian Social Services to bring together community organisations . It is a timely opportunity to work together to make real progress. The objective of the conference is to connect with their members and other organisations working in the social sector and share solutions, experiences and innovations. More here.
Mission Catalyst Southern Presbytery - closes 19 April
Southern Presbytery is looking for a Mission Catalyst to support its vision to promote “Vibrant Communities of Faith in the South”, primarily through facilitating conversations and planning with congregational leadership teams, encouraging an openness to God in congregational thinking about mission agency. The Job Description can be found here. Contact Rev Richard McLean for general enquiries or application pack.
The Digital Boyle Lecture - Dr Iain McGilchrist on 'God, the Brain, and the Nature of Truth', 17 April 2026
The International Society for Science and Religion (ISSR) will be hosting the Boyle Lecture for 2026. Dr Iain McGilchrist (Psychiatrist, Philosopher, Author) on God, the Brain, and the Nature of Truth with a response by The Revd Professor Michael J Reiss, Professor and Chair of Science Education, Institute of Education, University College London. Zoom discussion immediately following. 6 am NZT Friday 17 April 2026 on the ISSR YouTube channel, more here.
Hospital Chaplaincy Aotearoa vacancies in HB, Auckland, Nelson, Dunedin
Hospital Chaplaincy Aotearoa has four part time vacancies. Hospital Chaplaincy Aotearoa is a collaboration of a broad range of churches, that is committed to providing Christian chaplains within our healthcare environment. As chaplain you will be part of multidisciplinary healthcare teams, working with other chaplains across the hospital providing holistic care to all. See more on these roles here.
Glen Innis Holiday Homes – bookings now open to ALL ministers
Bookings are now open to all minsters, not just those with school aged children. There are two holiday houses at Glen Innis Station, Central Hawke’s Bay, available at no cost (other than refundable bond) for National Ordained Ministers for a re-creational holiday one week each year. One of the houses, Maud Hooper, is now also available for use by Local Ordained Ministers, Amorangi, and Local Shared Ministry team members - outside school holiday periods - at a cost of $200 per week (plus a refundable $100 bond). It's self-contained accommodation for up to seven adults and one baby, with modern facilities (including Wifi and dishwasher) as well as access to a range of onsite recreational facilities (incl. games room, swimming pool) in beautiful country surroundings. Info and video here.
Church Register
For any queries concerning the Church register, contact Bronwyn Miller.
Changes in Status
Rev Rebecca Heale minister Glendowie Presbyterian Church to other recognised minister Northern Presbytery, 31 October 2025.
Non-PCANZ Ministers in PCANZ Parish Stated Supply
Rev Shelley Alexander (Uniting Church in Australia), stated supply minister Palmerston North – Pathways Presbyterian Church, Presbytery Central – Nukuhau Tapu, to Australia 27 Feb 2026.
Retirements
Rev Margaret Low, local ordained minister St Columba at Botany Presbyterian Church to Minister Emerita, Northern Presbytery, 22 Jan 2025.
Rev John Malcolm, minister Greyfriars Eden Epsom Presbyterian Church, to Minister Emeritus, Northern Presbytery, 31 December 2025.
Deaths
Rev David Evans, minister emeritus Northern Presbytery, 4 February 2026.
Rev Bruce Howat, minister emeritus Southern Presbytery, 23 February 2026.
Congregational changes
New Brighton Union Parish, Alpine Presbytery, dissolved 15 February 2026.
Jobs
Check out our job vacancies page and the ministerial vacancies table and featured ministerial vacancies for the latest vacancies available in Aotearoa and around the globe.
Events
Check out details about upcoming events including training workshops, opportunities to serve and more. Learn more
Social Media
Check out in one handy place the links to the social media of the Presbyterian Church and its ministries including websites, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and video.
Subscribe to publications
Self-subscribe to Bush Telegraph, Council News and to PCANZ ministries publications – see details here.