Media Release 17 March 2003
The Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand the Right Rev Michael Thawley will visit the Wellington region from 18 March until 2 April 2003.
During his stay in Wellington region he will visit diplomatic missions, the Governor General and parliamentarians as well as individual Presbyterian congregations. Special services where Mr Thawley will preach include a 10.30am service at the Otaki-Waikanae PresbyterianChurch on 23 March and at 5pm at St Marks in Lower Hutt on March 30.
Mr Thawley comes to his term as Moderator with a strong philosophy of "the church going to people where they are".
Mr Thawley was appointed Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in 2002 in a ceremony at St Patrick's chapel in Upper Hutt. He will remain as Moderator until 2004.
His career as minister spans 34 years and includes parishes in Stokes Valley, Invercargill, Havelock North and Christchurch.
During his term as national church spokesperson he has spoken out about gambling machines as well as been part of the Church Leaders statements cautioning against war in Iraq.
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For further interviews or further information contact:
Right Rev Michael Thawley mob 027 234 5528
Media liaison: Mary Macpherson, DDI 381 8284; mob 021 353 020