Vicars Letter 20th march 2026

Rev Guy Benton

Kia ora, All Saints. 

This week, as we walk into week 5 of Lent, I am acutely aware of disappointment, grief, comfort and community. This week's reading invites us into the story of Jesus and Lazarus and Lazarus' family. Luke 11:1-45

Those in House churches please read John 9:1-41 as we dive deeper from last week.

There is death, grief, comfort, hope, and all of this happens amidst community and family. 

We experience these things all the time, some more powerful and impactful than others. Do we try to do it alone? are we trying to gain, clutch, or grab anything we can from it? 

In case anyone thinks otherwise, my family and I are not immune to suffering; in fact, I often find myself asking the Lord for a bit less. But what I notice is that when I/We can lean into the suffering with Christ at the centre, and wholly seeking to lift each other up, that suffering does disappear, but there is much to be found in it. A closer relationship with Christ, small moments of what are arguably spiritual disciplines, joy (yes, joy in the middle of pain and suffering), laughter, learning, discipline, challenge, and eternal hope that the things of this world will one day be healed and restored. 

I found myself today (Friday), in a bible study with our Mainly Music team, thinking in all of this let your kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven. And may I be lucky enough to participate. 

As we walk towards the cross at Easter, let us walk alongside each other in community and family as we push and pull each other closer to Christ. 

There are a lot of things to take note of in our Newsletter this week. 

Please take note of the Chrism Service coming up at 7 pm on Monday, 30th March at St. Peter's on Willis Street. 

Also, the Move on Vigil on 29th March outside the cathedral. 

If you have any questions about things, please do not hesitate to reach out to either Nickie or me. 

Much love,