March 2006

Assembly Office update

Lent

At various points the Christian year puts us squarely in the footprints of Jesus. 1 March is Ash Wednesday and begins the season of Lent. Connecting faith and life, many congregations are using “Forty Days of Purpose” from the United States, others “Forty Days Quest for Meaning”, a New Zealand resource prepared by Pamela Tankersley. Some people give up something, signifying the paring back of a spartan Jesus. One close friend, identifying a trait, gave up “feeling guilty” – a substantial discipline.

Assembly Office location

The sale of Laughton House last year required us to look at new premises for the Wellington-based Assembly team.

I’m happy to report that after thorough investigation and consultation with Council of Assembly and the Church Property Trustees, an agreement has been signed to lease part of one floor of a property in Wellington – Terralink House, 275 Cuba Street, Wellington. The building is on the outer rim of the central business district, two streets west from the present location, and provides a good working environment for staff, has good access, and the rent is very reasonable.

The Assembly Office team will move into the new space on 17 March, so the office will be closed on Friday 17 and Monday 20 March to facilitate the move. During this time, we will be unable to process account payments or transfers, changes to parish payroll or answer general enquiries as the transfer of telephones and computer systems to the new location will not be operational until 21 March, at the earliest.

There is no change to the contact telephone numbers for Assembly office team members, and our PO Box number remains the same.

Finance update

The Resource Sub-committee has reviewed the General Assembly financial results for the year to 30 December 2006. Click here to read their report in its entirety.

The key point to note about the first six months’ results is the operating surplus of $396,000 compared with a budgeted deficit of $32,000. This is primarily due to investment income and donations received exceeding the level budgeted. Operating expenses were contained within budgeted limits, and current indications are that the target of a balanced budget for this financial year (total expenses not exceeding total income) is achievable.

Staff matters

Due to illness, the Very Rev Alister Rae has stepped down from his role as Acting Principal of the School of Ministry. The Rev Dr John Roxborogh has been appointed as Interim Acting Principal until Kevin Ward’s return in May.

John has been a member of School of Ministry teaching team for several years, and brings to the role a background in and extensive knowledge of the Presbyterian Church and the theological teaching environment in New Zealand and overseas.

The recruitment process for the Human Resources position is underway. Two interviews have been held and further candidates are being sought.

General Assembly 2006

The preparations for GA06 are underway. The meeting may not be until the end of September, but much work by many volunteers is needed beforehand to ensure the meeting is organised and runs smoothly. The Auckland Presbytery has formed a Local Arrangements Committee, which is responsible for organising local logistics such as venue, accommodation, catering and many other things. There will be a meeting shortly bringing together the people overseeing other key Assembly work streams such as communications, Assembly business, and local arrangements.

Much information has been sent out to the wider church over recent weeks for input, including the Book of Order rewrite and Focal Identity Statement material (ring us at Assembly Office if you haven’t received your copies). Due to be issued for comment April are reports relating to the outcomes of the stipend review and the review of the School of Ministry.

Check out the GA06 page for up-to-date information about what is happening with Assembly.

Council of Assembly meeting

The next Council of Assembly meeting is scheduled for 24-26 March in Wellington. Read the latest from Council about what is expected to be considered at that meeting.

Resource Sub-committee update

Summary Financial Report to 31 December 2005

The Resource Sub-committee is happy to provide this report of the General Assembly accounts for the period 1 July – 31 December 2005 , which has been produced by the Financial Services team and reported to the Council of Assembly and Resource sub-committee.

Should you have any questions or comments about this information, please contact either of us.

John Trainor and Ian Watson 
Co-Conveners of Resource Sub-committee.

Financial Performance

The report shows a half-year operating surplus of $396,000 compared with a budgeted loss of $32,000. This is primarily due to investment income and donations received exceeding the level budgeted. Operating expenses were contained within budgeted limits. Current indications are that the target of a balanced budget for this financial year (total expenses not exceeding total income) is achievable.

Financial Position

Total General Assembly assets stood at $21.8m at 31 December, comprising as follows:

• Church property $8.7m
• Specific purpose funds held in Trust $10.8m
• Loans advanced, cash and receivables $2.3m

Despite a half-year operating surplus, Assembly has not been able to reduce borrowings from the Presbyterian Foundation that part funded the deficit in 2004/05. Resource will be considering recommendations to Council of Assembly in relation to the use of proceeds of the Laughton House sale at its meeting in March. Repayment of Assembly borrowings from the Presbyterian Foundation will be under consideration.

Assembly Assessment

Receipts of Assembly Assessment are closely tracking budget estimates with the amount paid to 31 December at 86 percent of the amount requested, in comparison to a budgeted level of 87.6 percent. Resource remains hopeful that parishes that are not meeting their full assessments will respond to initiatives over the next six months. If parishes continue to contribute as they have in the first six months of the financial year, total unpaid assessments for the full year will amount to $600,000 - imposing a considerable burden on those parishes that contribute. Resource will shortly be writing to all presbyteries requesting assistance with obtaining the support of parishes that are not fully contributing.

Finance update

Insurance

We are about to undertake a review of the insurance arrangements for those parishes that have a fully automated sprinkler system installed.

If your worship centre or church hall is protected by a sprinkler system, please forward a copy of the most recent Sprinkler Compliance Certificate to the Secretary, Presbyterian Insurance Group, PO Box 9049, Wellington.

Seniority Allowance

Seniority allowance will be paid on Thursday, 9 March 2006 to all ministers with more than five years service who were employed in a NZ parish at 30 June 2005.

• Ministers who have served 5 years or more at 30 June 2005 receive $736.70
• Ministers who have served 10 years or more at 30 June 2005 receive $1,473.40
• Ministers who have served 15 years or more at 30 June 2005 receive $2,210.10

Ministers who qualify for this allowance for the first time will be contacted by mail and asked to complete a tax form and advise their bank account details.

Ministers who have received this allowance before will be paid accordingly. However, if you have changed your bank account details or you wish to change the payment details since last year please advise Margaret Fawcett of these changes.

If you would like to have this payment paid to your minister’s loan or any other church account, please advise Margaret Fawcett.

As in past years, the allowance will be used to offset any overdue amounts on the Mobil card or Loan accounts.

If you have any questions regarding your allowance or you need to make any changes please contact Margaret Fawcett on 04 381 8291, email margaretF(at)presbyterian.org.nz. Changes to accounts etc must be received by 3 March 2005 .

Statistics as at June 2005

The annual statistics were due at the assembly office by the end of August 2005. You will be aware that the Assembly Assessment calculation is dependent on the timely receipt of this data. There are some parishes who have still not supplied statistics. If your parish has not completed the data, please do so as soon as possible or contact me to advise.

Beneficiary Fund and Presbyterian Investment Fund

For the sake of good order, it is confirmed that the interest rate paid on deposits in the Presbyterian Investment Fund is currently 7.25% pa.

Interest charged on Ministers Mortgages has increased in line with changes in the BNZ Floating Rate for Residential Mortgages and from 1st February 2006 is at 9.05% pa.

Staff Changes

Veronica Ngan, Accounts Clerk, will be leaving at the end of March to go on her OE. We wish her well.

Office closure

The Assembly Office will be closed from 5.00pm Thursday, 16 March and will re-open on Tuesday, 21 March to facilitate the relocation of Assembly Office from Laughton House, which was sold last year, to new premises.

Please note that the Financial Services will not be making any payments or fund transfers during this period. If you need to draw down funds from the Presbyterian Investment Fund, require payroll changes, or are likely to need a ministers’ loan in this period you will need to make suitable arrangements prior to Tuesday, 13 March.

Read the AES update in this Bush Telegraph for more details about the new Assembly office premises.

General Assembly summary financial report to 31 December 2005

General Assembly accounts for the period 1 July to 31 December 2005 have been produced and reported to the Council of Assembly and Resource Sub-committee. For more information, read the summary report in its entirety.

Brendan Sweeney, Finance Manager

Global Mission Office update

Lori Hill, GMO communications manager, writes:

I have a stack of reading material that adorns my bedside table. I love to read! Each night I endeavour to make some progress and absorb as much as I can before going off to sleep. Lately I have been reading a Time Magazine article about “The Good Samaritans”. So impressive are their efforts in the fight against disease and poverty that Time declared Bono (of the rock band U2) and Bill and Melinda Gates to be their 2005 “Persons of the Year”. I am often encouraged and inspired by the stories of the work of these giants to also make a difference in the world. Although I know personally I could never do it to the magnitude they are, I still know that I am part of the body of Christ who can help make a difference. This quote from Bono’s interview describes his faith and why he believes in what he does: “I cannot escape my conviction that God is interested in the progress of mankind, individually and collectively”.

“God loves people more than anything” is the title of a song by a group called Point of Grace. It strikes me as being the reason why we must work individually and collectively to help make a difference. 2005 was a very encouraging year for us in the GMO as we experienced the desire and determination of individuals and collectives of individuals to help make a world of difference in the lives of others, through financial and/or practical support. From the generous donations of anonymous donors, APW National Co-ordinating group, Presbyteries and individuals to youth groups, Sunday schools, congregations and Uniting congregations, a multitude of people are helping to make a difference in a variety of ways and places.

The start of 2006 has been characterised by the adoption of a number of new initiatives as well as refreshing people’s enthusiasm for some long standing programmes. Why don’t you consider taking up the challenge of making a difference on the margins – be it amongst established friends or strangers who we need to invite into our fold. We encourage you to consider these opportunities to be involved in global mission and – like Bono – become convinced that God is interested in their lives too.

Bush Missioner programme 2006

In December 2005 we launched a special appeal for funding for this programme for 2006. This has proved to be a very popular but challenging programme to be involved in, as well as one that can have a long-term horizon to the commitment. It is encouraging to hear the innovative ideas individuals and congregations have come up with to raise funds and support these Bush Missioners even beyond their training. We all know that friendship takes time and effort from both parties. Many who have assisted with the programme in the past have struggled to overcome the language and cultural barriers as well as the lack of electronic communication that we are so used to having at our finger tips. However, this struggle is only the tip of the iceberg for the communities the Bush Missioners represent. Simple gifts like mosquito nets can transform the health of these rural island communities. This is what we understand to truly constitute supporting a Bush Missioner and his/her ministry in the community. We use the word “hope” because we realise it is a lofty goal. It has been interesting to see that there have been a number of TV programmes recently about people wanting to visit the children they had sponsored through organisations like World Vision. For many people the “photo on the fridge” is no longer adequate. We agree, hence we offer the opportunity to fulfil the great commission by building a long-lasting friendship.

Myanmar

 – formerly Burma , this is a country whose people are suffering extraordinary hardships caused by the hard line rule of a military junta. An energetic and faithful Christian minority seeks to overcome hardship after hardship through creative community ministry programmes. We are building a relationship with the Zo Synod of the Presbyterian Church of Myanmar. During 2004, the Global Mission Office appealed for bicycles to assist Myanmar ministers. In 2005, this became a reality when the APW National Executive provided the funding for 14 bicycles and one motorbike. With a bicycle, the ministers can travel further and faster to meet the pastoral needs of their community. This purchase was celebrated with a feast because “nobody had ever given [them] a gift before”.

We have asked for a list of further needs. Possibly one of these will excite you too.

• The Synod office needs modern office equipment such as phones and computers. But please sponsor a generator as well, otherwise they cannot use them.
• Community Development and micro-finance projects.
• Community Chicken Farm is capable of earning double the capital input in one year. The cost depends on the size but must cover
• purchase of chicks (preferably 1000 at NZ$1 each)
• food and medicine for the chicks for one year
• housing for the chickens made of thatch and bamboo.

• Buffalo Breeding - She-buffaloes are highly valued and are used to plough the paddy field and farms and to pull carts. Working as a ‘oked pair they can plough three acres of land in two months or transport a third of ton about six miles in a day. They are also easy to look after. They calve annually and mature in 3 years. But by Myanmar standards they are very expensive.

Rural orphans in China

In 2005, the Global Mission Office advertised the work of Amity Foundation, an indigenous Christian agency in China. This time they were seeking sponsorship to fund the fostering of orphans in rural China with a priority for girls. Another generous donation from the National APW towards this cause has enabled us to sponsor five orphans for one year with the verbal agreement from the GMO that we will do it again in 2007 and hopefully other years. We challenge you in helping us meet this commitment and support a child, which costs NZ$400 per year ($33 per month).

Contact the GMO for more information on these sponsored children and this project, or any of the projects mentioned above.

Hewitson Library update

The Library has now completed its orientation programmes for the School of Ministry Students and we are now about to embark on programmes for Knox College residents and students from the University of Otago 's Theology & Religious Studies Department. As result of the student orientation programmes the Library has re-issued its Guide to the Hewitson Library and this will be on our new webpage. It’s really good to have the students back, as it gets very quiet over the summer break.

Noticeboard

Yearbook updates

The 2006 Yearbook was distributed to parishes and active ministers in February. Click here to see the updates and corrections to contact information and charge details that should be made to the text (these are on a separate web page for easier printing).

Please send further updates and corrections to trina(at)presbyterian.org.nz

Christian World Service

Video Reminder

Listen, Learn and Live, a video/DVD examining the work of CWS partner, the Church of Uganda, on HIV/AIDS in rural communities is available now. With accompanying study material, this new resource is especially designed for church groups. Contact CWS now to borrow a copy ($10 donation). Phone 03 366 9274 or email cws(at)cws.org.nz . Please specify if you require a video or DVD. Check out the catalogue on the CWS website ( www.cws.org.nz) for other studies still available.

Make PovertyHistory

The Make Poverty History campaign is gearing up for activities to coincide with the visit of U2 in March. Lead singer Bono is an internationally recognised anti-poverty campaigner and will be raising the concerns of the Make Poverty History Aotearoa coalition, of which CWS is a member, while in New Zealand . It is hoped he will be able to meet with the Prime Minister and other politicians as well as the media to discuss the need for more and better aid, debt cancellation for developing countries, and trade justice. A petition calling for the New Zealand government to act on these issues is available at www.makepovertyhistory.org.nz As many signatures as possible are needed to show the government that New Zealanders are concerned about global poverty. Contact CWS for more information on the campaign. Worship materials are available on www.cws.org.nz

Christchurch Office Space

With the closure of CCANZ, CWS has 2 interconnected, self-contained offices (32m² in total) available for rent in its Christchurch National Office, located in the central city. If you are interested or know a group that would be compatible with CWS, please contact Jonathan Fletcher (jonathan.fletcher(at)cws.org.nz) or Alison Hardie (alison.hardie(at)cws.org.nz). Phone 03 366 9274.

Introduction workgroup

Looking for a minister

The Introduction Work Group is under some pressure to come up with suitable opportunities for graduating ordinands to enter parish ministry at the end of 2006. We need Boards of Nomination to offer Parish Profiles to us.

2006 Timetable for Introductions (Round 1)

• March 24 Profiles from Boards of Nomination due
• March 27 Graduating Ordinands consider Parish Profiles
• March 31 Graduating Ordinands Interviewed and Profiles offered

• May 30 Profiles returned to Boards if no Introduction made

What's in a Parish Profile?

• Description of Ministry sought
• Brief overview of parish life/history
• Description of key ministries/missions
• Parish aim, values and key current goals
• Current financial information (latest Annual Accounts; budget, year to date)
• Annual Report
• Statistics for the last five years (Census, membership, worship, education)
• Description, photographs of facilities (church, hall, manse etc.)
• Information about facilities in the community (Schools, recreation)
• Photos of community
• Terms of Call as approved by the Presbytery/UDC

The Parish Profile is requested in 2 formats.

1. A full version in an A4 Clear File or equivalent, for handing to an ordinand.
2. A Word or rtf document minus pictures, brochures etc that can be circulated by email attachment to Work Group members.

While the Parish Profile is with the Work Group we request that the Board of Nomination not approach any Ministers. We seek to return Parish Profiles that do not result in an Introduction at the earliest opportunity.

Mini Profiles of Graduating Ordinands

Dennis Flett

My claim to fame is I get my name in the Bible, Dionysius the Areopagite (Acts 17:34 ). My three daughters; Teresa (14), Hannah (12), and Kelly (10) would tend to disagree. I am 46 and have been married to Jenny for 16 years.

I spent three years working as a families congregational pastor at St Andrews Presbyterian Church Mt Maunganui. Previous experience includes missionary work based in Hong Kong , youth work, small groups and men's ministry. I also have B.Min and MTS degrees from BCNZ. The St Andrews experience introduced me to Presbyterianism. Most of my denominational experience has been within the Pentecostal stream.

I am passionate about the local church, that it be involved in the continuance of Jesus’ mission in bringing people to God. A sense of mission brings life to a church. Church should be relevant; I would love to be involved in a church that is prepared to experiment with bridging the cultural gap between the churched and the unchurched.

My interests: I enjoy fishing, I trained as an electronics technician, I still ticker around. I often relax by fixing things ranging from diesel motors to digital cameras. I enjoy being creative.

Stephanie Wells

I am divorced with two daughters; 23 and 21, who are both at university.

I see the role of parish minister as three-fold; to enable the mission(s) of the parish to be discovered and encouraged, to ensure believers grow spiritually, to be involved in the wider community.

I have a deep passion for music, ranging from the classical to the modern, and reading, including fantasy, crime, biography, cereal packets, etc. Another interest is architectural, interior and landscape design. I also enjoy photography, walking, community issues and movies.

I am interested in spiritual formation as a means of facilitating Christian maturity. I am also drawn to God’s concern for the “other”, which feeds my enthusiasm for cross-cultural and ecumenical work, as well as exploring different ways of doing “church”.

I have been part of a wide range of church communities in the seven years since I returned to faith. During that time I have mainly lead worship, organised alternative worship opportunities, and been employed as a children and families worker.

Tekura Wilding

I am a 47 year old New Zealand-born Cook Island woman, I was born and bred in Auckland . I am married to Lindsey Wilding who is part New Zealand Maori and Australian. We have three sons, Lindsey Junior (16 years old), Ruaau (14) and Walter-James (7).
Otara P.I.P.C. is one of the foundations of my spiritual growth and development since i was knee high. I was mainly involved with the Cook
Island Ekalesia. My main field of work has been with the Cook Island Youth ( Cook Island concept of youth is actually an all age group), organising
social activities, youth services and youth rallies. I was also involved with the Akarana Uapou Mapu which is a fellowship of Cook Island youth from
other P.I.P.C. in Auckland . I was also a Sunday School Teacher in the youth department teaching and facilitating young Polynesians.
Because I have experienced the grace and mercy of God through my conversion, I feel I have a passion to share that with others. I feel that I am adaptable and creative especially when it comes to worship. I feel that God can be made known in lots of different mediums like listening to R&B, Reggae, Praise and Worship Christian music. I have a personal interest in church planting, and making Jesus known through arts and crafts.
I was a Student studying for a BTheol and BEd at Auckland University and gained a diploma in Early Childhood Education and Primary Teaching Education. I was a Supervisior of a Bilingual Early Childhood Center in Otara (Te Reo Rarotonga) before coming to Dunedin .
I enjoy Arts and Crafts. I like walking and enjoying nature. I like watching a good drama from any medium and also I like a good game of Badminton, Volleyball and Scrabble.

Chris Konings

I grew up in Hamilton and completed a B.Sc.(Biology) from Waikato  After studying at Bible College, Henderson, I worked in Youth Ministry in Auckland and Lower Hutt, with 1 ½ years as a house dad. I am married to Mary-Jane and we have four children.

As a parish minister I bring 12 years experience of working in churches, locally, regionally and nationally. I enjoy being part of a team, working together to train, develop and encourage gifts and talents. I like to facilitate programs and events in a variety of roles.

One of my key drivers is asking the question why, what’s the purpose? I believe it is becoming essential for individuals, ministries and churches to be able to clearly understand and say what the point of being Christian is today. Consequently I am interested in working out what it means to be Christian and part of church today.

A particular strength is relational ministry, I love providing opportunities for people to grow. I am a life-long learner and like to use modern tools to promote the gospel. I enjoy discovering how God is working in peoples lives. I also enjoy my family, tramping, photography, sport, movies and real coffee.

Mary-Jane Konings

I am married to Chris and we have four children, Katarina (12), Janine (10), Zachary (6) and Hannah (4). I read widely, walk occasionally, garden sporadically and enjoy good coffee often.

After growing up in North Otago, I completed my first degree at Lincoln and still have an interest in rural issues and science. I taught general science and chemistry at secondary level in Auckland, and ran interactive science outreach programs in the greater Wellington area.

I see being a parish minister as a call to be part of a Christian community, nurturing and equipping the body of Christ to effectively proclaim the gospel in different ways that are relevant to local situations. I am interested in working out what it means to follow Jesus at this time in New Zealand culturally and contextually.

Chris and I are looking at a team ministry situation within the same parish. We have complimentary gifts and skills and we like to work together. We are looking for one full time and one half time position, a combination that will work with our family situation.

I am currently working on creative worship elements including narrative sermons and contemporary worship songs. I enjoy working with worship teams and students.

Alofa and Nimarota Lale

Alofa Lale enjoys meeting and interacting with people of all ages. Working together to create relevant and inspiring Children's ministry is an important focus of Alofa's future ministry. Chaplaincy work has been a highlight of Alofa's formation training and has found ministering in this way to others a very rewarding and powerful way to make Christ known to others.

Nimarota Lale's main thrust in ministry is engaging with people. He enjoys bringing the gospel to people of all ages, using innovative and captivating ways that are relevant to the context of the people involved. Pastoral care is one of the integral aspects of Nimarota's ministry where he views the gospel as the active and practical guide to Christian faith.
With Alofa and Nimarota Lale training for Ministry together it creates further opportunities for team ministry. With three children, Levine (9), Fa'ao'o (8) and Matatia (5), there is always a lot going on in their lives which all makes for an exciting journey.

For further information contact

Geoffrey Skilton
Convener
03 453 5357
geoffrey.skilton(at)paradise.net.nz

Parishes still eligible for Telecom Community Connection programme

Some parishes currently take advantage of the Telecom Community Connection Programme, which provides one phone line at residential (rather than business) rental rates including free local calling.

Telecom has recently reviewed the way that the programme works, including criteria for participation, and information about the review has been sent to those organisations that currently participate.

Unfortunately, the letter was ambiguous and it could be inferred from the way it was worded that parishes are no longer eligible for the programme. Telecom has assured us that churches where the minister lives on site continue to be entitled to have one telephone line charged at residential rates including free local calling.

Those parishes not already taking advantage of this programme can get more information, including application forms, from Telcom’s website at http://www.telecom.co.nz/content/0,3900,202502-200369,00.html#20036096 or by emailing communityconnections(at)telecom.co.nz

Resources

Hewitson Library: January 2006 acquisitions list

If you would like to borrow any of these books then please email the library with the details and we will post them to you. A copy of our Postal Policy can be found on our website www.schoolofministry.ac.nz/library

History of Religion & Comparative Study of Religions

MOORE, Albert C. Freedom, religion and spirit. Dunedin , NZ : U3A Dunedin Charitable Trust, 2004. Class: PDA Moo

Judaism

TOHOROT: (the order of purities) / translated from the Hebrew by Jacob Neusner. Atlanta, GA : Scholars Press, 1990. Class: PGC Tos

THE TOSEFTA: Fifth Division, Qodoshim, the Order of holy things / translated from the Hebrew by Jacob Neusner. Atlanta, GA: Scholars Press, 1997. Class: PGC Tos

The Bible

READINGS from the perspective of earth / edited by Norman C Habel. Sheffield , UK : Sheffield Academic Press, 2000. Class: PHU Rea

Old Testament

LANDES, George M. Building your Biblical Hebrew vocabulary : learning words by frequency and cognate. Atlanta, GA : Society of Biblical Literature, 2001. Class: PIE Lan

CHRISTENSEN, Duane L. Deuteronomy 1:1-21:9, revised. Nashville, TE: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2002. Class: PIT 10 Chr

CHRISTENSEN, Duane L. Deuteronomy 21:10-34:12. Nashville, TE: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2002. Class: PIT 10 Chr

FAITALA, Pahetogia. The bankruptcy of the traditional belief concerning reward and punishment in the Book of Job: a thesis submitted for the degree of Master of Theology at the University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand, 1989. Class: PIT 31 Fai

CHILDS, Brevard S. The struggle to understand Isaiah as Christian scripture. Grand Rapids, MI: William B Eerdmans Pub., 2004. Class: PIT 38 Chi New Testament

HORRELL, David G. Solidarity and difference: a contemporary reading of Paul's ethics. New York , NY : T & T Clark International, 2005. Class: PJL Hor

CROSSAN, John Dominic. The cross that spoke: the origins of the Passion narrative. San Francisco: Harper & Row, 1998. Class: PJT 112 Cro

Christian Theology

INQUIRING after God: classic and contemporary readings / edited by Ellen T Charry. Maden, MA : Blackwell, 2000. Class: PKU Ing

Christianity in crisis? / edited by Jon Sobrino and Felix Wilfred. London : SCM Press, c2005. Class: PKW Chr

KINAST, Robert. What are they saying about theological reflection? New York, NY: Paulist Press, 2000. Class: PKW Kin

Theology, Society & Science

LIFT every voice: constructing Christian theologies from the underside / editors, Susan Brooks Thistlethwaite, Mary Potter Engel. Maryknoll , NY : Orbis Books, 1998. Class: PLO Lif

PAULSELL, Stephanie. Honoring the body: meditations on a Christian practice. San Francisco, CA : Jossey-Bass, 2003. Class: PLO Pau Systematic Theology

CHARRY, Ellen T. By the renewing of your minds: the pastoral function of Christian doctrine. New York , NY: Oxford University Press, 1997. Class: PMA Cha

THE GESTURES of God: explorations in sacramentality / edited by Geoffrey Rowell and Christine Hall. London , UK : Continuum, 2004. Class: PMT Ges

Ethics

INSTONE-BREWER, David. Divorce and remarriage in the church: biblical solutions for pastoral realities. England: Paternoster Press, 2003. Class: PND Ins

ECOTHEOLOGY: voices from South and North / David G Hallman. Geneva , Switzerland: World Council of Churches Publications, 1994. Class: PNG Eco

MEEKS, M Douglas. God the economist: the doctrine of God and political economy. Minneapolis: Fortress, 1989. Class: PNH Mee c.2

HUNGER, bread and eucharist / edited by Christophe Boureux, Janet Martin Soskice and Luiz Carlos Susin. London, UK: SCM Press, 2005. Class: PNH Hun

Church History

MODERATE voices in the European Reformation / edited by Luc Racaut and Alec Ryrie. Aldershot UK : 2005 Class: POR Mod.

Christian Mission

ROXBURGH, Alan J. The missionary congregation, leadership and liminality. Harrisburg , PA : Trinity Press International, 1997. Class: PRH Rox Ecumenical Movement

RECEIVE one another : hospitality in ecumenical perspective / editor Diane C Kessler. Geneva: World Council of Churches Publications, 2005. Class: PSA Rec

WORLD Council of Churches Faith and order at the crossroads : Kuala Lumpur 2004, the Plenary Commission Meeting / edited by Thomas F Best. Geneva : WCC Publications, 2005. Class: PSH Wor

Pastoral Theology

IRVINE, Andrew R. Between two worlds: understanding and managing clergy stress. London , UK : Mowbray, 1997. Class: PU Irv

WRIGHT, Walter C. Mentoring: the promise of relational leadership. Bletchley : Paternoster, 2004. Class: PU Wri

GRIFFITH, William H. More than a parting prayer: lessons in care-giving for the dying. Valley Forge , PA : Judson Press, 2005. Class: PUG Gri

Christian Worship

UZUKWU, E Elochukwu. Worship as body language: introduction to Christian worship : an African orientation. Collegeville , MN: Liturgical Press, 1997. Class: PWA Uzu

WARD, Pete. The rite stuff: ritual and contemporary Christian worship and mission. Oxford, UK : Bible Reading Fellowship, 2004. Class: PWA War

A FESTIVAL of Asian Christmas music / edited by I-to Loh. Quezon City, Philippines: Asian Institute for Liturgy and Music, 1984. Class: PWG Fes

ADAM, David. Walking in the light: affirming the presence hour by hour. Stowmarket, UK : Kevin Mayhew, 2005 Class: PWK Ada.

Religious Education

McNEAL, Reggie. Revolution in leadership : training apostles for tomorrow's church. Nashville, TN : Abingdon Press, 1998. Class: PXC McN

KNOX, Bruce H. The possible reasons for the growth in New Zealand's theological education sector, 1988-1999 research report. Auckland, NZ : B H Knox, 2005. Class: PXZ Kno

Christian Life

MANSILL, Morag. Creating a pathway to believe and belong: a guide to help people journey towards baptism, confirmation, and other forms of commitment to Christ / Mo Mansill & Jo Ryan. Wellington, NZ: Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand. Class: PY Man

PEARSON, Geoff. Towards the conversion of England: a report revisited. Cambridge, UK: Grove Books, 2005. Class: PYH8 Gro Ev 71

CARTLEDGE, Mark J. The gift of speaking in tongues  the Holy Spirit, the human spirit and the gift of holy speech. Cambridge, UK: Grove Books, 2005. Class: PYG8 Gro R 19

PORTER, Matthew. Spiritual discipline and leadership formation: a practical exposition of Matt 3.13-4.11. Cambridge, UK : Grove Books, 2005. Class: PYG8 Gro R 21

Paterson Collection

PHILOSOPHY: the illustrated guide to understanding and using philosophy today / general editor David Papineau. London: Duncan Baird, 2004. Class: AF Phi

HEWETT, James Allen. New Testament Greek : a beginning and intermediate grammar. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson Publishers, 1986. Class: JE Hew

ESSENTIALS of Christian theology / Stanley J Grenz et al; edited by William C Placher. Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 2003. Class: MA Ess

RAY, John Philip. The Daily Telegraph illustrated history of the Second World War. London, UK: Weidenfeld & Nicolson, 2003. Class: MDQ9 Ray

BRANDER, Michael. The making of the Highlands. London, UK: Constable, 1980. Class: MX Boo

MOL, Hans. Changes in religious behaviour of Dutch immigrants: a research report based on a sample of 397 adult Dutch immigrants in Christchurch, New Zealand. Canberra : Australian National University, 1964. Class: RLW Mol

Presbyterian Collection

McCAW, Erena. Living stones: a history of St. John's Presbyterian Parish Methven 1904-2004. Methven, NZ: St John's Presbyterian Church 2004. Class: 3PZ16 Met St.J

Thesis Collection

JOSEPH, Tokerau. Cracked coconuts: an exploration of why young Cook Islanders are leaving Cook Islander congregations of the Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand. Thesis (M.Theol) University of Otago, 2005. Class: 2PQZ Jos

WARD, Kevin. Losing my religion?: an examination of church decline, growth and change in New Zealand 1960 to 1999, with particular reference to Christchurch : a thesis submitted for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy at the University of Otago, 2003. Class: 2PYF War

Church Register

The Church Register lists additions to, deletions from, and changes in status on the Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand Ministerial Roll as advised by Presbytery Clerks as at 25 February 2006. (NB Some of these changes were captured in the 2006 Yearbook, if they were notified before the end of January).

Licensing:

Ordinations & Inductions:

• Rev. Nathan Parry, Licentiate, South Auckland Presbytery, to Minister, Island Bay Presbyterian Church, Wellington, 23 February 2006 .
• Rev Emma Keown, Lodged Certificate, inducted to Minister – Glenfield Parish on 19 January 2006.
• Michelle Shin, licentiate of Auckland Presbytery, ordained and inducted into position of Chaplain, North Shore Hospital on 2 February 2006.
• Rev Allan Bobby Kusilifu, Stated Supply Palmerston-Dunback, was inducted to Palmerston-Dunback as Minister in Charge on 29 January 2006.
• Rev Graham Ng, Presbyterian Church of Singapore, was inducted to Christ the King, Mt Wellington, on 2 February 2006.
• Rev Caleb Hardie, Minister within the Bounds, was inducted to the position of Chaplain, St Kentigern School, Auckland on 13 February 2006.

• Rev Simon McLeay, Minister within the Bounds, was inducted to the position of Associate Minister, St Columba at Botany, on 16 February 2006.

Changes in Status:

• Rev Noel Khokhar, ex-student in Presbytery of North Shore to Minister within the Bounds, Dunedin Presbytery, on 30 November 2005.
• Rev Robert Reid, Minister – Rangiora Parish, transferred to Presbytery of Nelson/Marlborough as Minister – Takaka, St Andrews, on 22 January 2006 .
• Rev. Dr Alan Kerr, Minister Knapdale-Waikaka Parish was appointed for shared ministry with Pukerau-Waikaka Parish on 6 December 2005.
• Rev Brian Hardie, Minister – Bryndwr St Stephens Presbyterian Church, transferred to St George’s Takapuna on 26 January 2006.
• Rev Sylvia Miller, Minister – Bryndwr St Stephens Presbyterian Church, transferred to St George’s Takapuna on 26 January 2006.
• Rev Leslie Stephen Gosling, part-time Mayfield Ashburton, was inducted to Minister, Albury/Pleasant Point Church on 2 February 2006 .

• Joan Ross, Minister within the Bounds – Associate Membership, has transferred from Presbytery of Wellington to Wairarapa UDC as Minister on 21 February 2006 .

Changes in Co-Operative Venture Ministries:

• The Rev Dr Murray Gow, Church of Christ , was inducted to St Paul ’s Co-operating Parish, Kamo on 10 April 2005.

• Rev John Cromarty, Taihape/Waimarine Parish, was inducted to St David’s Union Parish on 1 February 2006.

Retirements:

• Rev. Russell Rofe, Minister Trinity Presbyterian Church Timaru, will retire 31 March 2006.
• Rev Neil Cowie, Minister Amuri Co-operating Parish, retired 13 November 2005, transferred to Presbytery of Central Otago.
• Rev David Carmichael, Minister – St Martins Parish, Christchurch , retired 13 November 2005.
• Rev Ruth Caughley, Minister within the Bounds, retired 22 January 2006, is currently interim Minister at St George’s/Iona Presbyterian Church.
• Rev Ian Crumpton, Stated Supply Minister – St Ninian’s Parish, Christchurch , retired 30 September 2005 .

• Rev Richard Colegrove, Minister - Browns Bay St Cuthberts, retired 30 January 2006.

Deaths:

• Rev Evan Pollard, 4 February 2006.

Ministerial vacancies

Click here to see the full table of vacancies

Vacancies

Events