October 2024

President Peter Taylor of the Methodist Conference of Aotearoa, New Zealand shared the word & consecrating the sacraments.
We also note the beginning of Fiji language week 2024 and are privileged to have the Waikato Fijian Community present for the launching of this week.
Rev. Trevor Bennett and his wife Barbara were addressed by President Peter Taylor as he takes on this new honour.

 
Rev. Trevor Bennett started in Marton, then Willoughby, Upper Hutt, Te Aroha, Langley USA, Mangere, Morrinsville, and then retired to Raglan, and later to Hamilton.
Trevor and Barbara will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary in December.

Congratulations & Malo lava to Rev. Bennett
We also have music from John Parker and the Manu Ma'a 'o e Funga Waikato Brass Band.

August 2024

August Synod at Atawahi Assisi, Tamahere on 10th August

August Synod gathered at the Village Barn at Atawahi Assisi in Tamahere on 10th August, and we were pleased to use this facility, as well as the chapel.

This annual meeting is an opportunity to hear from, and recognise all the organisations the District supports.
As usual there were a number of connexional papers which were discussed in small groups. Synod also gives us a chance to meet together as Parish reps from around the synod.

Another integral part of the gathering is to pay tribute to those in leadership roles, who have passed away during the year. Alan Bettany (Past vice president), Rev David Ansell, and Deacon Harvey Dalton & Deacon June Higham. We were also aware of recent passing of Rev Brian Eagle & Margaret Hammond. As we gathered it was a privilege to have members of June & Harvey's families, join us.

Deacon's Valma Hallam & Margaret Birtles with members of June and Harvey's families

June 2024

Refresh at Epworth camp (14th & 15th June 2024)

Refresh, held at Epworth camp on 14th & 15th June 2024, was a time of learning and refreshment, open to all of the Waikato Waiariki Synod district.

Reconnecting with each other was important. Gaining Knowledge especially on Bicultural Church & Treaty issues; Livestreaming & Community Outreach.

Invited Speakers: Tumuaki Rev Dr Arapera Ngaha, General Secretary Rev Tara Tautari, Rev Andrew Doubleday (UCANZ).
And also Rev Paula Moala (livestreaming), & Rev Manoa Havea (Where Cultures Meet)

Thanks to Paula for photos & recording available on Facebook page.

Visit Facebook for more photos and a video.

(Waikato Waiariki Synod facebook - www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553842196754 )

May 2024

Messy Church NZ Road Show

16th May at Putararu

Visit Facebook page for photos
( Messy Church facebook - www.facebook.com/messychurchnz/ )

April 2024

Opotiki Mission Project

St John's Opotiki had a celebration Service, Sunday 14th April, for the Opotiki Mission Project; attended by Deacon Margaret Birtles, representing Methodist Synod.

Sue Watson, Administrator     Jess Suisted and Asher                Jared Suisted

Jared & Jess Suisted have worked between church and community. This service was to establish a new expression of church alongside existing church activity.

 
Rev. Wilson Orange
 Moderator - Kauhai Presbytery    Suisted family receive a blessing to begin the new Ministry

February 2024

Induction of Rev. Ruth Sandiford Phelan at Rotorua Methodist Church

Rev. Ruth Sandiford Phelan was inducted on February 8, 2024 at Rotorua Methodist Church.

Service led by Deacon Margaret Birtles, Viv Whimster, and Tau Lasi

Deacon Margaret Birtles, Rev Ruth Sandiford Phelan,
and Rev Tau Lasi

Ruth receives gifts from Rotorua Parish

Induction of Rev. Paula Moala at Hamilton Methodist Parish

Rev. Paula Moala was inducted on February 9, 2024 at Hamilton Methodist Parish

Hamilton Methodist Parish welcomes Rev. Paula Moala & his family and looks forward to his ministry.

Service led by Rev. Tau Lasi and Deacon Margaret Birtles

Whanau present Paula Moala to Parish

Rev. Fred Gilbert extends a welcome on behalf of the Parish

Judy Pope making presentation on behalf of Parish

Paula Moala making responses to Rev. Tau Lasi     Paula Moala and Deacon Margaret Birtles

Rev. Moala makes presentation to Hamilton Parish

December 2023

Waikato-Waiariki Synod Meeting was held on 2 December at Te Awamutu Methodist Parish.

WWW (Women in Leadership) group celebrated 20 years of gathering
                             Synod celebrated the recent ordination of Mohukelesi Lolohea

Members were welcome and Presbyter Shelley Walker shared devotions.

A tribute to the late Doreen Wilson was read by Tarati Tia

Finance Report was presented by John Parker –there will be opportunity for parishes to ask for assistance.

Tau Lasi reported on Morrinsville Methodist church
                                                              Finance Report presented by John Parker

Parish News, was shared from Te Awamutu, Taumarunui/Ohura and Morrinsville, -  noting that Tau Lasi’s final service is 7 January 2024

In the Property Report, parishes are advised to keep all security up to date

Farewells to Metui Tafuna  and  Viv Whimster

Farewells were shared for :-

• Viv Whimster
  Susan Thompson spoke for Viv who is stepping back from Synod activities. Tribute was paid to Viv’s years on the Executive, as Vice President of the church, and as one of the Super Team. The Synod and Executive will miss her wide knowledge of people and process in the MCNZ and her quiet wisdom.

• Neti Petaia and Metui Tafuna - Tau Lasi wished them well in their new appointments

• ‘Amelia Takataka, who is stepping down after 8 years as Synod Youth Co-convenor, was thanked for her contribution.

A festive Christmas Lunch was prepared and served by Peter Robertson and his team of helpers.

Super team, Jenny Mau, Amelia Takataka.      Enjoying Christmas lunch.

Synod members were encouraged to take note of 2 Inductions. 

Ruth Sandiford Phelan, Rotorua Parish, 8 February 2024 7pm

Paula Moala, Hamilton Parish (Melville), 9 February 2024, 7pm

Next meetings:   Ministerial Synod 15 March 2pm Cambridge Union Parish

                            General Synod 16 March 9.30am Cambridge Union Parish

"At this Christmas when Christ comes, may He find a warm heart.
Mark the season of Advent by loving and serving others with God’s own love and concern.”

Mother Teresa

August 2023

The Waikato-Waiariki Synod held its Annual meetings on 4th of August at Chartwell Cooperating Parish.

 
Michael Cree, Isoa Toduadua, Seluvaia Pouono, Ofa Pouono and Sione Molitika

25 members of the Ministerial Synod gathered on 4th of August and received the tribute to Rev Mary Petersen who had passed away earlier in the year.

Devotions were taken by Rev. Jekheli Singh. Time was given for prayers and support to all in ministry. Topics discussed were

“Discernment: The Art of Making Decisions - A.I (Artificial Intelligence) and The Church”

District Synod met the next day and opened with a service of Holy Communion led by Rev Tau Lasi. Tributes were read for Lynne Pinkerton and Maurice Hight, as we thanked God for their lives and contribution made to synod.

Reports of the following groups were received: - Waikato Hospital Chaplaincy, Wintec Chaplaincy, Methodist City Action, University of Waikato Chaplaincy, Epworth Camp- Retreat & Recreation Centre, District Methodist Women’s Fellowship, and WWU Youth.

Tamahere Eventide Report was presented by CEO Louis Fick who gave an update on what has been happening at Tamahere. 

The Lay Preachers report included planning for future training. Recently accredited were congratulated on their achievements Michael Cree, Sione Molitika, Isoa Toduadua, ‘Ofa Pouono and Seluvaia Pouono from Hamilton East Parish and Viliame Naliva from WBoP Parish. 

There was small group discussion concerning efforts from Parishes for Climate Justice issues and a Synod sub Committee, was set up.

Parish news was shared from Te Aroha & Chartwell Cooperating parishes.

 Synod is looking forward to a tour by UCANZ Ministry Facilitator Andrew Doubleday. He is hoping to visit as many Cooperating and Union parishes. as possible from 27th August to 10th September.

 Next synod meeting 2 December, Te Awamutu 9.30am

Refresh, April 2023

Waikato Waiariki Synod Refresh 28,29 April 2023

About 30 people from across the Waikato Waiariki Methodist Synod, including the Waikato Rohe, gathered for our annual Refresh Retreat held at Epworth Camp.

We were blessed with good weather, a wonderful venue with great staff, good food.
So what was on the programme?
The programme began with a Whakatau and Minita a Iwi, Te Papara Kopa- Katene opened inprayer and with a blessing. Revs Tau Lasi & Bob Franklyn (Super team & organising committee) also spoke, then all present introduced themselves. All speeches were supplemented with waiata (songs) sung by all from the synod Te Reo resource booklet 2019.

Attendees chose 2 from 3 very good workshops to attend on the Friday. 

  “It’s Ok that you’re not Ok” Navigating Grief  - Rev Dr Susan Thompson
  Changing World Changing Church  - Rev Bob Franklin
  Our Green Journey / Eco Church  - Sione Molitika, Amanda Williams & Alilia Molitika, Hamilton East / Anna Casey–Cox, Chartwell.

Charades, A Sing Along & board games were the relaxing activities on Friday evening.
On Saturday we gathered for devotions “Who is our neighbour?” led by Rev Bob Franklyn then all listened and contributed as Shirley Rivers from Methodist Mission Northern (Te Taha Maori) "40 years of the Bicultural Journey" and Rev Norman Brookes Retired Presbyter “Evolution or revolution- the Bicultural journey from a Pakeha Perspective" shared the history/s leading up to the conference decision in 1983 and after.

We reflected on the journey noting the 40 years since the journey began. What has been achieved? Where to from here? Land stories What are we doing in our parishes? Many interesting thoughts were shared in different conversations.

Waikato Waiariki Synod has not been idle, we can all support and encourage each other as parishes in this journey, and grow the relationship with Te Rohe Waikato. We were reminded by Te Rohe, that it is a two way conversation. This hui was a time to reflect before moving forward.

Thank you to all who attended, we acknowledge our workshop facilitators and our special guests Shirley Rivers & Rev Norman Brookes. I know we were all blessed in some way.

It was wonderful to have Te Papara for one day and the Te Taha Maori Liaison person,Waikato Rohe, Faye Blossom and her team present throughout the Hui. Faafetai lava to Rev Bob Franklyn, for all the hard work behind the scenes and on site, bringing this year’s Refresh together. Please remember Bob's operation, June 10th in our prayers.

Ma te Atua tatou katoa e tiaki. May God continue to watch over us all. Alisa Lasi.

March 2023

St Paul’s Putaruru were very pleased to host the March Synod, March 23.

They have been running Messy Church at St Paul’s for 8 years and were delighted to be asked to run a mini Messy Church for Synod.

 

The core values of Messy Church are: 

• All Age 
• Christ Centred
• Hospitality
• Creativity 

You can visit their website at messychurch.nz

Please contact Mary Addison if you would like to know more about Messy Church

Mary Addison : [E-Mail not displayed]

February 2023

Induction of Rev. Asaeli Tulagi at St Johns, Hamilton East, Tabacakacaka (Fijian Congregation) Waikato/Waiariki

Rev. Asaeli Tulagi was inducted in February 12, 2023 at St Johns Parish, Hamilton East.

Rev. Asaeli Tulagi     Wasewase Superintendent Rev. Alipati Livani 

     
Rev. Tulagi, and his sponsors.   Esira, Rev. Tulagi's son, sharing reading.  Presbyter Induction

Symbols presented included Balloons from young people

Rev. Tulagi and Rev. Anne Griffiths cutting cake

Induction of Rev. Tau Lasi at Morrinsville Methodist Church

Rev. Tau Lasi was inducted to Synod Superintendency Team in February 7, 2023 at Morrinsville Methodist Church

  
Welcome by Viv Whimster and Neville Westbury

Induction conducted by President Rev. Peter Taylor

   
Rev. Lasi responds to welcome and affirmation.

Waikato-Waiariki Super Team 2023 - Viv Whimster, Rev. Tau Lasi, Deacon Margaret Birtles

  
Family sing musical item     Whanau and Support of Rev. Tau Lasi

Methodist Conference 2023 ONLINE

Hastings Wesley Community Centre

Registrations close: Friday 27 October

This information is also available on the Methodist website
www.methodist.org.nz/whakapapa/conference/conference-2023/
conference.methodist.org.nz/

Education Day For Parish Council Members

Saturday, September 30^th, at Te Awamutu Parish

December 2022

Matamata Union Parish 50^th Anniversary

Matamata Union Parish, Matamata, 11 Dec. 2022

The present congregation, and visitors gathered on this day to celebrate the anniversary. Elaine Diprose shared some thoughts of Events leading to amalgamation of Methodist and Church of Christ Congregations.

Prior to Dec 1972, the Methodists required a bigger church, and several buildings were purchased in Tainui St, alongside the old Methodist parsonage (which had been converted to a coffee bar.) with plans to build there.

However, the resident minister, Rev Eric Eastwood asked members to consider amalgamation with Church of Christ, as they were needing some assistance.They had a building and land in Peria Road, and subsequently, after much discussion, this merger came about, and for a period of time the morning services were held in the Methodist church in Broadway and the evening services in Peria Road.

The old Methodist Parsonage, and 2 sections were sold and money used to upgrade the Peria church site. The old Methodist church was donated to the Firth Tower museum and it resides there to this day, being used for weddings. The Methodist women's groups combined into the Afternoon fellowship which included Church of Christ ladies.

The development necessitated many working bees, and it is noted that the concrete driveway was all mixed by hand. All those involved recalled them as being times of great fellowship as well as hard work.

Elaine - On the day when we all met for the first time, in the present church in Peria Road, most of us marched from the old Methodist church led by Rev Eastwood carrying the bible donated to the Matamata Methodist church, by the Firth family .

I think it worthwhile to pause and reflect as we celebrate 50 years, on a quote from Marty Rubin “Time does not pass, it continues”.

And quoting from that well known Methodist hymn:- 'We thank him for all that is past,and will trust him for all that to come'. 

BICENTENARY METHODIST CONFERENCE 2022

Saturday 19 November - Wednesday 23 November 2022

Kerikeri, Northland

https://www.methodist.org.nz/whakapapa/conference/2022  

METHODIST CONFERENCE 2022 Streaming Schedule PDF Livestream links for weekend services – all are welcome to view
PDF document which has the livestream links you will need to view the weekend services.

10 November a significant gathering was held for the Blessing of the first Atawhai Assisi Villas.

A Powhiri was led by the Kaumatua, with a special welcome from Tamahere/Atawhai Assisi Village CEO Louis Fick. There was recognition of all those involved in the planning, development and building of the Villas.

Those attending, first gathered at the chapel and after prayers, were invited by the Kaumatua to walk around the villas as the blessing. The village is looking forward to welcoming the new owners.

Photos on Tamahere Eventide website.

August 2022

Wesley Methodist Church (1923 - 2022) Celebration, Hamilton

Wesley Methodist Church, Fairfield, Hamilton had an amazing time of celebration on Sunday 28th August.
It was a time for the final English Speaking Service, and to pass to the Fijian congregation, the responsibility of sharing the work of God in the church & community.
A brief History & Memoirs were available in a booklet shared with those who attended
The church was built in 1923, and it has served for 2 years as a United Evangelical Congregation, and 97 years as a Methodist congregation.
There were opportunties to share memories by Rev. Anne Griffiths, Paul Jensen, Eti & Tina Foisaga, David & Jacquie McGeorge, Rev Mervyn Dine, Rev Leigh Sundberg, & Asaeli Tulagi. The service was led by Rev. Alipate Livani, and the preacher was Rev. Alisa Lasi. A powerpoint of memories called 'A River runs through it' was also shared.

Photos on the Hamilton East Methodist website

July 2022

Induction of Rev. John Carr, Western Bay of Plenty Parish, Tauranga

Rev. John Carr inducted on July 3rd 2022 at Wesley Church, Tauranga

Deacon Margaret Birtles, Rev. Shelley Walker,
Rev. John Carr, Paul McMahon, Rev. Siosifa Pole

Laying on of hands at Induction with other church and Synod leaders

Symbols presented to John by Parish members

John presented his gift to Parish ("What is God Like" book)   Carr Family - John, Abigail, Moses, and Hosea

Wesley Choir                       Afternoon tea after the service

June 2022

Confirmation Service, Chartwell Cooperating Parish, Hamilton

At Chartwell Cooperating Parish, a Confirmation Service and Patronal Service was held on Sunday, June 19th.

Visitors from Partner Churches; Deacon Margaret Birtles (Waikato Waiariki Methodist Superintendency Team), and The Most Reverend Philip Richardson (Bishop of Waikato and Taranaki Anglican Diocese); were welcomed by Rev. Jekheli Kibami Singh.

Rev. Shona Bettany, Executive Office, Kaimai Presbytery, was unable to attend

We were so thrilled to be celebrating with Harris Chaney, Sophia Chaney, Beckey O'Leary, Laura Bennett, Hayley Bennett, Michelle Bennett, Kelera Luvu, and Te Ano Tane Harrison, at their Confirmation this year, and continue to pray for them and their families.

Synod, All Saints Church, Hamilton

Synod held on June 11th at All Saints Church, Hamilton. Discussion was "Climate Change - Our Responsibility"

Devotions by Paul Jensen

May 2022

Wesley Sunday, 22 May 2022

Wesley Sunday is always a special celebration when we remember our founders.

Wesley Sunday, Wesley Parish, Tauranga, 22 May 2022

President Andrew Doubleday preached at Wesley Tauranga in the morning and Hamilton East in the evening. Both services were live streamed, which meant a wider group of people could take part even if they were unable to attend in person.

Western Bay of Plenty service, at Wesley Tauranga, was led by Rev Peter Taylor (Supply).

Parishioners attended from across the parish, and were surprised by a visit of Susanna Wesley who told some of here story in an interview with Viv Whimster. Other members also took part, including the Wesley choir and Viliame Naliva. An enjoyable social time was held as those attending gathered for morning tea.

Wesley Sunday, Hamilton East parish, Hamilton, 22 May 2022

In the evening Hamilton East hosted the Waikato celebration - led by Rev Alisa Lasi.

A large group of younger people entertained, and items were shared by the church choirs.

A special part of the evening was celebrating the 16th birthday of Mele & Ma'ata Pouono.

Deacon Margaret Birtles, President Rev. Andrew Doubleday, Rev. Shelley Walker, and Rev. Alipate Livani enjoyed sharing in the celebrations.

Epworth Refresh, May 2022

Epworth Refresh, 3rd & 4th May 2022

A small number of clergy and lay people gathered at Epworth for a time of refreshment, which was needed by everyone.

The church is fortunate to have such picturesque grounds to meet in, as well as an asset to share with our communities. We are grateful for the photo and report from Michael and Barbara Templer.

Epworth Refresh, May 2022

As first-time attendees at a Refresh event, my wife and I had little idea of what to expect.

For me the atmosphere of friendship and personal openness was a large contributor to the “refreshment”, amongst clergy and lay people, the majority whom I had never met before.

The shared studies had us digging deep into our personal attitudes and understandings with plenty of opportunities to do so as individuals in our own quiet space.

Beginning with paths we may explore, with promptings from selected Bible readings gave us a good stimulus for reflections on our past and future.

Reaching into all our senses, discovering fresh ways of experiencing the divine through them, was a time that I found truly enriching and lasting. Something beautiful to link to our surroundings at Epworth.

To the leaders who prepared these explorations and gave us the opportunities to share together our honest feelings, and find our own private pathways, my heartfelt thank you.

- Michael and Barbara Templer

Induction of Rev. Lorelle Chapman at Hauraki Plains

Rev. Lorelle Chapman inducted at Hauraki Plains Co-operating Parish for Presbyterian appointment

Lorelle Chapman signing letter of appointment.  Presentation by Parish. Rev. Lorelle Chapman.

Super Team at Te Awamutu 

Rev. Shelley Walker was inducted into the Superintendency team by President Andrew Doubleday.

Team - Viv Whimster, Shelley Walker, Margaret Birtles

Induction of Rev. Mohukelisi Lolohea at Cambridge Union Parish

Rev. Mohukelesi Lolohea was inducted to ministry in February 2022. Synod was pleased to welcome Mohu to this position, and pray that this will be a fulfilling ministry for Presbyter and Parish.

Mohukelesi and Saimone, with their daughter Fungani.  Rev. Shelley Walker and Mohukelesi.  Mohukelesi speaks to her congregation.

Induction of Rev. Alipate Livani at St Johns Parish

Rev. Alipate Livani was inducted to Wasewase Superintendency in February 2, 2022 at St Johns Parish, Hamilton East.

October 2021

Super Saturday Vaccinations

The Methodist Church of New Zealand Te Haahi Weteriana o Aotearoa strongly supports the NZ vaccination programme and encourages everyone who can, to get vaccinated.

Super Saturday was a success with many Covid-19 vaccine doses administered on 16th October.

2021 April Easter Camp - Epworth

Tik Tok Easter Camp was held at Epworth.
For more information please visit Epworth's Facebook page.

2021 March Taupo - Synod

Synod was held at St Paul's Union Parish on March 12th. 
Ministerial Synod welcomed visitors - Rev. Adrian Skelton from UCANZ, and Semisi Pohiva from Royal Commision of Enquiry into Historical Abuse in Care - who gave a report on work the Pacific Investigation team is doing. After a lovely meal, provided by the Taupo Parish, the full Synod met.
We were reminded about UCANZ Forum to be held in Waikanae 16-18 April. The youth sent us a message via YouTube and it is hoped that Synod youth will attend Easter Camp 1-5 April.

Waikato/Waiariki Methodist Synod invites you to …

Dates: Fri 28^th & Sat. 29^th April 2023
Where: Camp Epworth Karapiro
Who for: Everyone!!!
What’s happening? A time to refresh mind, body and spirit.

Friday: Workshops, guest speakers, fellowship & time to refresh.

Saturday: Celebrating 40 yrs. of the Bi-cultural journey with key note speakers Rev Dr Arapera (Bella) Ngaha & Rev Norman Brookes.

Stay for the whole time or be a day tripper.

Registrations are open information on the brochure or contact:

Rev Bob Franklyn: [E-Mail not displayed] or 021 2628275