E-NEWS FRIDAY 29TH MAY 2026
Talofa lava, kia ora. Well, what a week it has been. First at the Pasifika women’s retreat from Sunday through to Tuesday, and then the Presbyterian gathering of women ministers from Tuesday through to Thursday. The theme for the week was, “How are you travelling?” and over those days we each had the opportunity to share something of our individual journeys.
Rev Otene Reweti began with a mihi whakatau from Ngati Whatua welcoming us to Tamaki Makauaru on Sunday and again on Tuesday. Our Pasifika group were now part of the Tangata Whenua on Tuesday afternoon being welcomed on on Sunday.
The Pasifika women began by sharing our own stories of ministry, faith, challenge, and resilience during our initial3 days together. We then started the ball rolling later in our combined hui followed by our Māori sisters from Te Aka Puahou then shared their journeys, and it was wonderful to have two newly ordained Amorangi ministers amongst us, alongside our more senior ministers such as Reverend Erena Manehira and Reverend Ida. Finally, our Pālagi sisters shared their journeys as well. They were the largest group represented, and it was deeply humbling to be amongst such an inspiring gathering of women.
The oldest ordained minister present was 88-year-old Helen Wallis, and the longest-serving ordained minister was Vivian Coleman, who has now been ordained for 51 years. To sit amongst women who have given so much of their lives to ministry, justice, pastoral care, and service was both inspiring and grounding. There was such wisdom, warmth, humour, and honesty shared throughout the week.
The food and hosting were absolutely superb. Many commented that this combined gathering was one of the highlights of the various retreats that have taken place over the years. Perhaps once we settle into a rhythm together, we begin to shape things a little differently, learning as we go and deepening the sense of community and belonging.
Unfortunately, my week ended on a rather painful note. As we arrived at the airport and I was unloading my light bags from the back of the van, someone had placed a suitcase directly behind me without me realising. The pathway had been clear when I first stepped out, but as I turned with my bags, I tripped over the suitcase and fell heavily onto my left side. I am still rather sore, particularly around the coccyx area again, which I was already due to have x-rayed today anyway. So we shall see if they discover anything extra from yesterday’s fall. As they say, when it rains, it pours! I really did not need this.
This Sunday is Trinity Sunday, and I may share a few highlights from our week together during the service. There is something deeply powerful about women gathering across cultures, generations, and experiences to tell the truth of their journeys and to remind one another that none of us travels alone.
I look forward to seeing you on Sunday — if not in person, then online. Until then, please enjoy your weekend.
Ka kite anō. Fei
You can read the full E-News here : https://mailchi.mp/8af173c13057/this-weeks-newsletter-from-st-andrews-on-the-terrace-10140846?e=[UNIQID]
