E-NEWS THURSDAY 2ND APRIL 2026
Talofa lava everyone, As you know, I made a quick trip to Auckland to celebrate the marriage blessing of my nephew Ezra and his wife, Yuki. It was a joyful and love-filled occasion, a beautiful reminder of the gift of family and the sacredness of commitment. I was due to return on the 7 a.m. flight on Sunday morning, but Auckland had other plans. We were fogged in at the airport and deplaned from the early flight, then waited for the 9 a.m. flight only to be reassigned to an 8:30 a.m. flight instead. Even then, we sat on the tarmac for another two hours and fifty minutes before finally departing.
And yet, by chance or perhaps not by chance at all Caroline Korybut, our Rainbow Room coordinator, was also on the same flight. We found ourselves together in the Koru Lounge and later on board, sharing conversation, catching up, and offering a little pastoral care in the midst of travel delays. It was a reminder that ministry does not only happen in the pulpit or within the walls of the church, but also in unexpected places, in airport lounges, on delayed flights, and in the simple act of being present with one another. Even in disruption, there is connection. Even in delay, there is purpose.
A heartfelt thank you as well to Sandra Kirby for stepping in at the last minute to deliver the reflection and to lead the service on Sunday morning. Sandra, you did a marvellous job, and many have spoken highly of your contribution to worship. I now know who to call on next time there is a last-minute change, and I am extremely appreciative of your availability, and your special gift of public speaking. Faafetai.
When I finally landed back in Wellington, I made my way straight to the Pastoral Care Committee meeting only to arrive about ten minutes late and find they had already finished. I went home, took some time to rest, and later that day we trialled something new as a parish, holding our Parish Council meeting at 5 p.m. on Sunday. It proved to be a good and encouraging time together. This earlier evening slot may suit many better than a weekday evening meeting, so we will continue to experiment with this pattern and review it after the winter season.
On Wednesday morning at 8:30, I was invited to speak at the Queen Margaret College Junior assembly (they asked if Snoopy would also accompany me) on the significance of Easter. As usual it was a real privilege to be there. As always, I love meeting the girls, and the feeling was very much mutual. We shared in a lively time of dialogue, with questions and answers, and the girls were engaged, thoughtful, and enthusiastic. It is a blessing to maintain this connection with the college as part of our calling to be the Christian presence in the neighbourhood, and our commitment to church schools.
Tonight, Maundy Thursday, we will gather to celebrate the Seder meal remembering the Last Supper, when Jesus shared his final meal with his disciples before his crucifixion on Good Friday. We are delighted that members from Te Kakano o te Aroha will be joining us, and we expect around 30 people in total. I look forward to sharing this meaningful and symbolic meal together.
On Good Friday, we will gather for a reflective liturgy centred around seven readings, each accompanied by a short reflection. The readings have been left open in the order of service, creating space for anyone regulars or visitors to participate. We are looking for around seven or eight people to take part. After each reading, we will sit in silence, sing a chant, and extinguish a candle. A microphone will be passed around, and you are welcome to stand when you feel ready to read. I encourage you to come prepared to enter into this shared and contemplative space.
This Easter Sunday, we will celebrate Communion together, which coincides with the first Sunday of the month. Following the service, we will share in a communal lunch, so please bring some food to share if you are able.
This will also be my final service before I take annual leave. From Monday the 6th of April through to the 27th of April, I will be away, spending most of that time in Vietnam with my nephew, his wife, and my sister having been graciously invited to share in part of their honeymoon journey. I am very much looking forward to a time of rest and renewal.
Please be assured that you will be in very good hands while I am away, and I look forward to returning to you at the beginning of May.
Until then, keep well, stay safe, and continue to hold one another in care. Ia manuia le Eseta. Fei
You can read the full E-news here: https://mailchi.mp/2629642784cc/this-weeks-newsletter-from-st-andrews-on-the-terrace-10139750
