From Vicar General, Mark Barlow:
Last weekend, there were four baptisms at Woodend-Pegasus Parish on Pegasus Beach. Acting Deacon-in-Charge Reverend Sammy Mould, and Reverend Stephanie Clay, with Youth Minister Nadia Fox baptised Melissa, Jane, Saffron, Neve and Temprince. Meanwhile at Sumner Beach, Vicar Reverend Harry Newton and the Parish of Sumner-Redcliffs celebrated David’s baptism. Let us pray for each of the newly baptised, asking God to bless them (and their loved ones) in their journey with the Lord.
One of the many blessings that we enjoy as a Three Tikanga Church is the opportunity to learn from and be blessed by fellow Anglicans from different cultures and traditions. One of the things that I have always loved about Tikanga Māori and Tikanga Pasifika is the way in which elders are held in such high regard and treated with respect and honour. Sadly, in the Pakeha world, we do not always follow suit.
In a culture that is heavily focussed on novelty, innovation and youth—not bad things in themselves—it can be easy to overlook or forget the importance of the contributions made by those who have trodden the path before us.
I am writing this on 11 November, Armistice Day, when we remember those who laid down their lives in the horror that was the Great War and honour those who survived subsequent conflicts. For many old soldiers, it may be one of the few occasions when their existence is acknowledged and celebrated in any meaningful way. We truly have a lot to learn from other cultures when it comes to honouring and respecting our elders every day.
I was greatly blessed and privileged to break bread at the altar and in the dining room with a goodly number of retired clergy, spouses, and widow(er)s last Thursday. It was a joy to catch up with some that I hadn’t seen in a while, to renew contact with old friends, and to honour the achievements of some celebrating milestone anniversaries of their ordination. May the Lord God bless, preserve and keep them, every single one.
On Saturday 29 November 10.30am at the Transitional Cathedral, Wanjiru (Ciru) Muriuki, André Muller and Bruce White will be ordained deacons. All are welcome – clergy are asked to robe with red stoles.
This Sunday, the second before Advent, we continue our journey through the Gospel of Luke. Now in chapter 21:5-19, Jesus warns his followers of significant events to come; specifically, in terms of the destruction of the Temple and generally as regards earthquakes, famines and pestilences. Why is he warning them about things that will be beyond their control? Surely, he didn’t expect them to try to prevent these? No, the call on them, as it remains for us, is to remain faithful throughout. In the first place, not to be deceived by fake messiahs, and secondly to endure hatred, betrayal and even disaster for his name’s sake!
It was a genuine blessing and a wonder last Thursday to spend time with many who, in their 70s, 80s and even 90s, have inspired me with their single-minded devotion to our Lord and their endurance in the face of trials and tribulations. As I prepare to travel through Advent and Christmas again, I am resolved to follow their example. Hopefully, you will determine to join me for the journey.
Arohanui
Mark
Vicar General