Vicars Letter - 24th May 2024

Rev. Andrew Spence

Kia ora All Saints,
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What a fantastic service on Sunday! It was such a joy to celebrate the diverse cultures within our congregation. I was pleasantly surprised by the number of different languages spoken among us!
This past week, I attended a Praxis youth work training and visited Waipukurau to observe their youth work for the Anglican Youth Movement (AYM). At Praxis, one workshop focused on young people whose needs aren't met by the traditional school system, particularly those in Alternative Education and those dealing with trauma. The discussion highlighted how these factors can set young people up for failure when the school system focuses solely on behavior rather than underlying developmental needs.
Here is where we, as adults, can make a difference. Research from Hawaii, spanning over 40 years, shows that just one positive adult in a child's life, along with supportive social spaces like youth groups, can foster resilience in young people. When we broke into groups, I found it incredibly encouraging to see that the church, much like the Marae, is ideally positioned to support young people. With multiple generations connected to both these spaces, we are uniquely equipped to mentor, teach skills, and offer academic support.
The church once again stands as the hope of the world! (Not surprising, as this is precisely what Pentecost embodies).
In fact, Israel was the first hope of the world, and the church now fulfills that legacy. This week, we will continue exploring Authentic Community by delving into Deuteronomy. Here, we find Moses on the brink of the Promised Land, instructing his people on how to live and be an Authentic Community.
Additionally, we will hold our first Building Conversation this Sunday at 3 PM. Please join us and share your ideas about the future of our building and site. This is a wonderful opportunity to dream together and plan how we can shape our community in the years to come.
See you Sunday!
Andrew Spence