Touchstone

November 2026

Welcome to the November issue of Touchstone.

Conference 2026 was held from 2 – 7 October at Wesley College, Paerata, Auckland. MCNZ leaders, members of Conference, lay representatives, guests, observers and rangatahi gathered to celebrate, sing, worship, remember, perform, affirm connections and deliberate. Conference is a time of special significance and it is therefore fitting that this month's edition is dominated by reports and reflections from the event. Beyond the business and resultant decisions that will shape Methodism in Aoteoroa in coming years, Conference provides an opportunity to celebrate our people, past and present, and to share fellowship and prayer.

I encourage you to read the many articles that capture moments and memories from the six-day event. Guided by the Conference theme, chosen by the new Presidential team of President Rev Alisa Tau and Vice President Tau’ataina Tupou Maranga, Tula’I, Tu’u Hake, Tucake Arise; Be the Light of Christ to All.

Some will note that Touchstone is a little late this month. We have been experiencing issues with our database and finding a solution to the glitch that has blocked many recipients from receiving emails from the Connexional Office has proven difficult to resolve.

I hope you will find news and contributions that inform and inspire. I remind readers that the Touchstone content in the PDF is a reduced version of articles on the website. The PDF is designed to be printed and shared with those who do not have access to online forums, or prefer to read content off screen .