[Council News is prepared by the Council of Assembly (CoA) after Council meetings. Everyone can sign up to receive Council News here.]
Tēnā koutou, talofa lava, warm greetings in Christ.
As we write this at the close of 2025, we pause to reflect on a year that has been both challenging and deeply transformative for the life of our Church. Through moments of pain and hope, we have seen the Spirit at work, guiding us toward justice, healing and renewal.
Acknowledging Our Public Apology
One of the most significant and sacred moments this year was the Church’s public apology in response to the findings of the Royal Commission into Abuse in Care. This was not simply words spoken; it was a heartfelt act of repentance and commitment to change. We leaned on the wisdom of survivors, and the Survivors Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE) to ensure our apology carried truth, humility and accountability.
Behind our apology was an extraordinary amount of work, communications to the Church and media, engagement with survivor voices through a dedicated advisor, and creating spaces that were safe and respectful.
The costs associated with this were significant, but necessary:
- Venue and hospitality in a neutral, non-church setting
- Survivor artwork and koha to honour their contribution
- Mana whenua koha
- Onsite wellbeing support to ensure care was present
- Additional ground support to manage logistics
- Communications footprint built from scratch with the Survivor Advisory Group – Comms advisor for the church and survivors
Total cost from Jan – Dec 2025: $177,131.96.
The cost associated with this important work, including the development of a survivor-focused redress process which reflects our deep commitment to justice and care.
We did this because it mattered. It mattered to survivors, to our Church, and to our witness. Today, other denominations are asking how we approached this, which speaks to the integrity and courage shown by PCANZ.
Council’s November 2025 Meeting – Strengthening Whanaungatanga
Following General Assembly, Council gathered in November 2025 with a clear focus on whanaungatanga, building and strengthening relationships across the Church. We are deeply grateful to the Synod and Southern Presbytery for hosting us in Wanaka and for the warmth of your welcome. These gatherings remind us that we are stronger together, united in Christ.
Looking Ahead – Staying in Our Lane
As we look to 2026, Council remains committed to clarity around our governance role versus operational responsibilities. The Audit and Risk Committee has helped identify key areas for Council to focus on as part of our governing mandate. This work is ongoing, and we approach it with humility, remembering that we are all one in Christ.
Appointments and Transitions
We are pleased with the appointment of the new Assembly Executive Secretary (AES) – Erin Pendreigh, who will begin in February 2026.
We also warmly welcome Hana Fanene-Taiti and Nikki Watkin to the Council table. Their wisdom and contributions during our time together in Wanaka have been invaluable.
Unfinished Business
Council has picked up several matters that General Assembly was unable to complete. We are working diligently to address these and will keep the Church informed as progress continues.
Gratitude and Hope
It has been a busy year for all of us, and we remain deeply grateful for the prayers of the Church and the feedback we receive on how we can do things differently and better. None of our mahi can happen without you, the people of God. Your wisdom, your prayers, and your presence sustain us.
As we look to 2026, may we continue to listen to what the Spirit is saying to the Church. May we be bold in the Spirit, willing to step beyond our comfort zones, and open to new ways of being Christ’s people in the world.
Wishing that you and your whānau had a joyous Christmas and have a Spirit-filled New Year. May 2026 be a year of discovery, courage, and hope as we walk together in faith.
Yours in Christ
Kat Solomona Andrew Scott
Convener Deputy Convener
Council of Assembly Council of Assembly