SENIOR PASTOR JOHN ALPE:
In September we are going to be looking briefly at our very interesting NZ history and the remarkable way the Church and Christianity were woven together with the unfolding of the Treaty of Waitangi and our early European and Maori interaction.
Revisionists have sought to write the Missionaries out of our history, but the facts of NZ European and Maori History, which are not taught in schools, tell a remarkably different story. I am convinced God's Spirit is moving, bringing fresh understanding and a renewed love for things Maori amongst Kiwi's right across NZ. This fresh respect and understanding is good for us as Christians, and good for us as a Country.
Shared Lunch:
October 7
Join us for a shared lunch in our cafe after the Sunday Morning Service and to see Nga Toi o te Rangi Kapa Haka Group perform to close out our month long Bicultural journey.
We will be providing meat, soups and rolls, please bring a salad or some finger food to contribute.
The Lineup:
SEPTEMBER 9: NZ Christian History
There were not just two parties to the Treaty, but three. Maori, the Crown and the Missionaries. Without the missionaries there would never have been a Treaty of Waitangi. The Church still has a role in making NZ the best place in the world to live in, for all peoples.
SEPTEMBER 23: Stories from our History
In NZ today God is blowing upon Maori and Pakeha cultures, bringing us together in a new way. Respect and partnering grow best when we have understanding, especially understanding of our history. It enables us to walk humbly with each other in this land we all love.
SEPTEMBER 30: Josie Te Kahu
Join us at 10am for a great service with a special guest speaker Josie Te Kahu, the NZ Baptist President. This will be a great opportunity to hear from a prominent Maori leader within our own denomination.
OCTOBER 7: Parihaka, Takapuneke & me
This final Sunday in our series Ngaire will share 3 stories from our history to help us understand our nations story and bring perspective to what each of us can do to effect our future. We also have Kapa Haka group Nga Toi o te Rangi performing and a shared lunch after the service. This is a week you won't want to miss!