Message from the Bishop
Dear Friends,
Happy New Year and a Blessed Epiphany!
Although my intention is to resume weekly letters later in January, a few matters are important to communicate this week:
On Saturday, Christine Akester died, and her funeral will be tomorrow at 1.30 pm, Thursday 9 January, at St John’s, High Street, Rangiora. Christine and her husband, the Reverend Peter Akester, served with NZCMS in Tanzania. Please pray for Peter and their daughters Pendo and Sarah, and grandchildren Jamaine and Skyla.
Living God,
We rejoice in your promises of blessing
In those who die in the Lord;
So strengthen our understanding of the light and peace
Which they now enjoy in Christ,
That we may find consolation in our sorrow,
Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
On Sunday 22 December 2019 it was announced that the Reverend Ben Randall, Assistant Priest at the Transitional Cathedral, will be the next Vicar of St. Mary’s, Timaru, and the Reverend John Hearne, who has recently completed ministry as Interim Priest of Methven will be the 0.5 FTE Vicar of Cheviot. Please pray for Ben and John as they prepare to take up their new ministries.
Finally, in our prayers, let’s also be praying for rain for Australia—to quell the fires and to break the drought. Those who wish to do more may like to donate to:
Blessings,
