Vicar's Letter - 11 Mar 2022

​Kia ora All Saints Whānau,

What a world to be in right now. We (Spences) are isolating out in Waikanae at the moment where we can be away from any communal facilities, with two out of three of us with the virus so far. In God's usual way, it has turned out to be quite a blessing with the house looking out on the lagoon and lots of space for Leon to roam. I've seen 9 types of birds so far, including baby pukekos! We have also had some generous parishioners drop off necessities (and additional treats!) which has been great, and a lesson in humility as we accept the hospitality of others. We look forward to passing on this hospitality once we are in our new house in two weeks - another huge blessing from God. This reminds me of Corinna's sermon a while ago, about choosing to live out of a place of abundance, despite external circumstances - find the blessings and hold onto them.

I find it hard to put together any kind of update without acknowledging the tragedy in our world at present, with Ukraine and Tonga filling the news, as well as many other global struggles the media hasn't picked up on. Our world is increasingly in need of hope. Our hope is ultimately in Jesus, the redeemer of all humanity and creation, a person who is a solid foundation for us regardless of our shaky environments and personal emotions. If hope feels far off, take some time to sit in a calm place and ask God to sit with you. Then use any opportunity you can to share the hope we have with those around you.

1 Peter 3:15-16

Bless you all,
Emily