Touchstone

August 2025

Welcome to the  August issue of Touchstone.

This month’s stories reflect the diversity of korero, engagement and activities that motivate our people and our mission - social justice, global change, inclusion, climate justice, political lobbying, disability and church, and more.

Regular and guest contributors explore topics of interest and relevance. Prof Douglas Pratt writes about the importance and impact of the Nicaean Creed as we celebrate the 1700th anniversary of the gathering of the Council of Nicaea.

Gillian Southey reflects on Peace Sunday, Hiroshima and the 40th anniversary of the sinking of The Rainbow Warrior. As conflict in Gaza rages on - more than 61,000 Palestinians have been killed - prayer and calls for peace and global disarmament are imperative.

Respected theological scholars and presbyters reflect on topics ranging from Christian hope at the heart of St Pauls epistle, to the potential of a globally accepted tool assisting church congregations in Aotearoa to navigate their future.

Methodist leaders, including our General Secretary and Sinoti Samoa synod representatives, joined other business and community leaders in the Lifewise Big Sleepout. We invited several of those involved to comment on their mid-winter night sleeping rough under cardboard at the AUT campus. 

MCNZ President Te Aroha Rountree reports on two significant recent events she attended. In July she joined other church leaders in a meeting with Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon and other government ministers. Beyond being a political encounter, it was “a prophetic opportunity to speak truth, offer hope, and stand alongside the people of this land -particularly those whose voices are too often marginalised,” Te Aroha writes.

Music has long been part of the Methodist tradition, and we share achievements from young music-makers with a connection to MCNZ who are creating award-winning tunes for pēpi and tamariki in Aotearoa and further afield.

In July, 22 people - many with lived experience of disability - gathered in Ōtautahi Christchurch, for a deep dive into disability and the church. Promoted as 'a first step in shaping a shared approach to disability inclusion in our Church, one that begins with people, not policy. Grounded in Te Tiriti o Waitangi, it is a space to listen, reflect, and learn from one another’s stories, trusting that wisdom emerges in relationship and conversation.'

Over the course of two days, shared stories, reflection and korero highlighted the mahi ahead to ensure those with disability are seen, heard and engaged in a church that affirms difference.

In closing, I apologise for an error in last month’s edition of Touchstone. In sharing the link to an article published in The Press regarding the hugely successful Guild Street community housing development, I incorrectly attributed the collaboration to Christchurch City Mission and Anglican Care, rather than Christchurch Methodist Mission and Anglican Care. I thank astute readers who drew the mistake to my attention.

As always, I welcome your feedback.