Dear Friends
Greetings in Jesus’ name.
In Aotearoa we are blessed with a breath-taking natural environment that is the envy of many other nations. Our relaxed approach to life is a real drawcard for those choosing to live here. We are a humble people, and we are hospitable.
We are truly blessed… Yet life remains a struggle for so many Kiwis, who may be isolated from their family and friends, who face difficulty making ends meet, or face violence in their homes.
Help Kiwis doing it hard this Neighbours Day
This Neighbour’s Day – 27 Mar to 5 Apr – the theme is “Small things make a big difference”. Let us all take small steps to make life a little bit easier for Kiwis doing it hard.
I’m aware that many parishes have foodbanks that serve those struggling to feed their families, and many more have, or support, community gardens to enable everyone to put fresh vegetables on the table, regardless of their circumstances.
These are simple, practical outreaches that make a real difference in the lives of others, especially children. Poor nutrition has negative effects on cognition, behaviour and overall health in kids, and anything we can do to improve this, is effort well spent.
Native seeds give away
Small things - like tiny seeds - can make a big difference, so this Neighbours Day, the Church is giving away native vegetable seeds to parishes who have community gardens. Plant seeds so that you can give away vegetables. Or the seeds can simply be given to neighbours. Instructions are about how to apply for the seeds are on the Church website
We are called to be generous
“The generous will themselves be blessed, for they share their food with the poor.” (Pro 22:9)
Let Neighbours Day be a catalyst for you to share what you have with your neighbours who are in need. A community garden is a gift that keeps giving, and the Church wants to help you sustain that gift.
Please keep your neighbours in your prayers.
Blessings
Fakaofo