Under Level 2 Covid-19 restrictions the St Martins facilities are available to be used by groups of no more than 10, with strict guidelines in place.

Sunday Service: on our website (www.stmartins.org.nz). Many thanks to Rev Anne Stewart and the team from Village Presbyterian Church for making this available to the people of St Martins.

Moderator’s live streaming of devotions every Sunday at 9am. https://www.facebook.com/modpcanz/

Watch Sunday’s service from Beckenham Methodist: the video link/s are available after 11am from their webpage:  www.bmc.nz  Services/Reflections

The next ‘Messenger’ is due out soon. Please email any contributions to anneke.howie@gmail.com by Friday 22^nd May. Photos, recipes, reflections on your lockdown experience all welcome.

Sue Saunders has not been sitting idle and still has five boxes of goodies left. Please phone her late afternoon or at the weekend – 960 7657. Bottled Pears, 1 bottle Peaches, Tomato Puree (great for soup/pasta sauce etc), Tomato Sauce, 3 bottles Lemon Curd, Marmalades: Grapefruit; Lemon; Orange & Peach , Jam: Plum; Blackberry & Apple; Feijoa & Ginger; Feijoa & Pear, Chutneys: Peach & Tomato; Spicy Apple & Red Pepper; Plum & Blackberry Chutney; Lemon & Mustard, Feijoa, Pear & Ginger, Kasundi – an Indian type relish suitable for vegetarian dishes etc

The Garage Series

Here are this week’s episodes of “The Garage Series.” This is where we go out and about and find out what questions people are asking.  

Episode #3, Don from Takaka. This one is a bit longer with a bonus extra reflection from Don about Dietrich Bonhoeffer. 

Episode #4, Jess from Christchurch https://youtu.be/_TMSKdN1h90 

You may want to subscribe to the Alpine Presbytery YouTube channel while you are there. Maybe you have the same questions? Maybe you can talk about them in your congregation leadership meetings? Please share with us what solutions and ideas, and maybe further questions you come up with.

From the Council: Unite Against Covid-19

Under Alert Level 2 you can go out and about, but remember to maintain physical distancing and good hygiene practices. Keep a record of where you’ve been and who you’ve seen. Gatherings of up to 10 people are permitted. Stay home if you are sick.

If you need welfare assistance, call the CCC helpline 0800 24 24 11

For health advice, contact Healthline 0800 358 5453. If you are feeling unwell, call your GP before you visit.

Call the free Government Helpline 0800 779 997 (8am-1am) 7 days a week if you need advice.

Keep an eye on the official website – Covid19.govt.nz – for updates.

From the Prime Minister:

“Play it safe. Remember that wall of defence we built together as a team now rests with every one of us. So when you’re out and about, acknowledge your fellow team mates, enjoy being out more and seeing others. Keep it small. Keep your distance. And be kind.”

Moderator’s Covid-19 Pastoral Message

The storm of Covid-19 has rocked and shaken us all. Each bubble, each person – in fact the whole nation, and maybe all of the world – are in disarray. The invisible enemy is wreaking havoc like never experienced before. We have a common foe. “Keep the faith, stand firm, do not be afraid.” These are the words of our Lord Jesus to his disciples in times of trials, fears, death and uncertainty. Our Lord speaks these words to us, today.

Please keep going forward with how you have faced this intruder in the past seven weeks. Your resolve and your desire for life is profound. There is nothing stronger in life than human will. It is a precious gift of God from the beginning of time. You are making a difference for yourself and others. You are appreciated, valued and loved.

“Keep going, do not be tired of doing good.” (1 Peter 3:13)

Beloved, this dark cloud will not subdue us or cause us to surrender or concede. We will live, we will learn, we will prosper. We hold on to our hope and to our faith. Our God is the Creator of heaven and earth. In the image of God we were created. Praise and thank God always.

For our part also, keep everything and everyone in daily prayers. Call, email, and make contact with others as the Covid-19 alert moves down to level two. Adapt, adjust and do more where you can. We must lead by example, adhering to government guidelines. Remember the “front liners” in these unprecedented times. Look out for the least, the ill and the unfortunate.

Build and rebuild the church of our Lord wherever you are. Let the Spirit of God guide and lead. Many of our church services are online, reaching thousands weekly, globally.

“Stand up, stand up for Jesus,” the old hymn calls of us today.

Blessings, 
Right Rev Fakaofo Kaio, Moderator, Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand

The St Martins facilities remain closed under Level 3 Covid-19 restrictions. Information about Level 2 available next week.

Sunday Service: on our website (www.stmartins.org.nz). Many thanks to Rev Anne Stewart and the team from Village Presbyterian Church for making this available to the people of St Martins.

Moderator’s live streaming of devotions every Sunday at 9am. https://www.facebook.com/modpcanz/

Watch Sunday’s service from Beckenham Methodist: the video link/s are available after 11am from their webpage:  www.bmc.nz  Services/Reflections

In Memoriam: Tony Blackler 27 November 1949 – 4 May 2020

It is with much sadness that we record the death of Tony Blackler. Tony gave strong support and guidance to St Martins Presbyterian Church. He was an accomplished leader and this was evident in his work with Rotary – especially with young people, and also with the Men’s Group at St Martins, and as an Elder (since 19^th September 1982).

Tony retired from his work at the Hospital early last year, and whilst his health has had its ups and downs over the past months, his death comes suddenly.

Later in the year a memorial service for Tony will be planned.

Our thoughts and prayers go to Allison and Gill at a very difficult time.

Jesus our Saviour, comfort us with the great power of your love as we mourn the sudden death of Tony. Give us a patient faith in this time of darkness and help us to understand and know your ways. Strengthen us in our faith that he is with you for ever. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(from A New Zealand Prayer Book p857)

Sonya spoke with Allison on Wednesday.  As one should expect with Allison and Gillian, they seem to be completely in control and highly organised and assured us they are doing OK.  They are feeling very loved and surrounded by flowers and cards.

Where is God in a Pandemic?

St Barnabas’ Anglican Church are hosting a Zoom seminar with theological and author Dr Nicola Hoggard Creegan on Thursday 14 May at 7.30pm, addressing the question ‘Where is God in a Pandemic?’ It will be a very stimulating seminar with lots of time for Q and A.

Nicola is a theologian based in Auckland.  She specialises in the interface between evolutionary theory and systematic theology and has broad interests also in all issues of public and contextual theology and ecology.  Her recent book, Animal Suffering and the Problem of Evil (OUP, 2013), examined theodicy given the reality of long aeons of animal suffering before humans arrived. She is currently completing a book on Free Will. Nicola has taught theology (and previously mathematics) in the US and NZ. She is co-Director of New Zealand Christians in Science, and is an adjunct supervisor at  Flinders University, South Australia.  She worships at All Saints in Ponsonby.

The link to join the seminar is https://anglicanchurch-nz.zoom.us/j/95427063994

Pray As One NZ

These ZOOM-based nation-wide prayer gatherings, which began last month and which many hundreds of people participated in, are now to be held weekly, on Monday nights from 8pm to 9pm.

Join the Prayer meeting here: https://prayasone.nz/resources/#zoomprotocol

The Garage Series

In uncertain times like this, it is important to ask questions with each other, so to help we have a new Youtube series called “The Garage Series. This is where we go out and about and find out what questions people are asking. 

Watch the series introduction here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=q2XeRLo1grM&t=3s

Episode 1, all the way from Bryndwr Christchurch (Martin and Anne) is here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMY-VHBMdOI&t=39s
 

Episode 2, from Twizel (Grant) here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3pPhfWSV2o

Maybe you have the same questions? Maybe you can talk about them in your congregation leadership meetings? Please share with the Presbytery what solutions and ideas, and maybe further questions you come up with.

From the Council: Unite Against Covid-19

Under Alert Level 3 you still need to Stay Home, Save Lives. If you’re going out for fresh air, stay local. Take care of yourselves and stay connected with family and friends over the phone.

The Council is making plans to re-open public facilities when we move to Level 2.

If you need welfare assistance, call the CCC helpline 0800 24 24 11

When walking the dog, keep them on the lead.

Only put plastics with code 1,2 & 5 in your yellow bin.

For health advice, contact Healthline 0800 358 5453. If you are feeling unwell, call your GP before you visit.

Call the free Government Helpline 0800 779 997 (8am-1am) 7 days a week if you need advice.

Keep an eye on the official website – Covid19.govt.nz – for updates.

The next ‘Messenger’ is due out soon. Please email any contributions to anneke.howie@gmail.com by Friday 22^nd May. Photos, recipes, reflections on your lockdown experience all welcome.

A Very Happy 80^th Birthday to Jill TODAY!!

The St Martins facilities will remain closed under Level 3 Covid-19 restrictions

Sunday Service: Many thanks to Rev Anne Stewart and the team from Village Presbyterian Church (Papanui & Bryndwr) for making this available to the people of St Martins.

Moderator’s live streaming of devotions every Sunday at 9am. Go to the Moderator’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/modpcanz/

Watch Sunday’s service from Beckenham Methodist: the video link/s are available after 11am from their webpage:  www.bmc.nz  Services/Reflections

Want to re-stock your pantry? Sue has the following for sale:

Bottled – Black Boy Peaches, Pears, Plums, Peaches, Tomato Puree

Chutneys – Pasta Sauce, Relishes, Tomato Sauce

Jams – Feijoa & Ginger, Feijoa & Pear, Feijoa & Lemon

Chilli Sauces – some with only a little sugar in them.

Kasundi – tomato relish

Give her a phone call 960 7657 to place an order. As we will be in ‘Level 3’ from Tuesday, and you will be able to travel a little further, Sue will leave your order in her letterbox for you to collect and leave money there.

Charitable Giving Tax Credit 

Our treasurer, Joan Macdonald, will have your receipts available for you once the COVID19 lockdown is over.

You may have been considering donating your Charitable Giving Tax Credit to the church. For more information, contact Joan – 337 1648.

Psalm 23 (from CEV Bible):                                                                          You, Lord, are my shepherd. I will never be in need.                                                  You let me rest in fields of green grass.                                                                     You lead me to streams of peaceful water, and you refresh my life.                        You are true to your name, and you lead me along the right paths.                             I may walk through valleys as dark as death, but I won’t be afraid.                         You are with me, and your shepherd’s rod makes me feel safe.                            You treat me to a feast, while my enemies watch.                                                          You honour me as your guest, and you fill my cup until it overflows.                           Your kindness and love will always be with me each day of my life,                      and I will live for ever in your house, Lord.

Kia kaha                                 Be strong

Kia maia                                 Be brave

Kia manawanui                      Be steadfast

From the Council: Unite Against Covid-19

Under Alert Level 3 you still need to Stay Home, Save Lives. If you’re going out for fresh air, stay local. Take care of yourselves and stay connected with family and friends over the phone.

Some takeaway businesses will be open.

If you need welfare assistance, call the CCC helpline 0800 24 24 11

When walking the dog, keep them on the lead.

Recycling will be sorted again from May – please make sure you only put recyclables in the yellow bin.

The Eco Depots are open, but you must book in advance.

For health advice, contact Healthline 0800 358 5453. If you are feeling unwell, call your GP before you visit.

Call the free Government Helpline 0800 779 997 (8am-1am) 7 days a week if you need advice.

Keep an eye on the official website – Covid19.govt.nz – for updates.

The St Martins facilities will remain closed under Level 3 Covid-19 restrictions

Sunday Service: Many thanks to Rev Anne Stewart and the team from Village Presbyterian Church (Papanui & Bryndwr) for making this available to the people of St Martins. There is also a midweek reflection which will be e-mailed to you.

Moderator’s live streaming of devotions every Sunday at 9am. Go to the Moderator’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/modpcanz/

Watch Sunday’s service from Beckenham Methodist: the video link/s are available after 11am from their webpage:  www.bmc.nz  Services/Reflections

Want to re-stock your pantry? Sue has the following for sale:

Bottled – Black Boy Peaches, Pears, Plums, Peaches, Tomato Puree

Chutneys – Pasta Sauce, Relishes, Tomato Sauce

Jams – Feijoa & Ginger, Feijoa & Pear, Feijoa & Lemon

Chilli Sauces – some with only a little sugar in them.

Kasundi – tomato relish

Give her a phone call 960 7657 to place an order. As we will be in ‘Level 3’ from Tuesday, and you will be able to travel a little further, Sue will leave your order in her letterbox for you to collect and leave money there.

Charitable Giving Tax Credit 

Our treasurer, Joan Macdonald, will have your receipts available for you once the COVID19 lockdown is over.

You may have been considering donating your Charitable Giving Tax Credit to the church. For more information, contact Joan – 337 1648.

Moderator’s Anzac Day Message
Greetings

“Love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends.” (John 15:12-14)

The words of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ ring and echo loudly in our situation today.

In fact, as we all attest to this truth in life, it is the sound of Jesus’ words that permeate our being as we move from Easter toward Anzac Day. Easter was very different this year, with the crowds and gatherings, worship and fellowship, meals of fish and bread, communion – all carried out using digital communication. This is an unprecedented situation due to unusual times affecting the whole world. What stands out for me each and every year is: “Jesus died on the Cross, for you and I”.

ANZAC Day appropriately follows Easter on our calendar. The underlying theme of the Cross is echoed by the soldiers that died for “God, King and country”. Their lives, their commitments, their sacrifices were for you and I, which is commemorated on ANZAC. It is poignant, significant and sacred.

Many lives were lost. We are forever indebted to the brave men and women who died on the frontier of the battlefields for our freedom, for all that we have. We will never forget them. We remember and recall ANZAC every year, and we educate our children about this alliance. We will remember them: they are our heroes, our champions, our “game-changers”.

Today, in our world and in our country, we have new heroes, champions and “game-changers”. These new heroes are the many men, women and children who have stepped up, arisen, “taken the bull by the horns” and made a difference in the lives of many during the Covid-19 crisis. To all the essential workers (police, nurses, doctors, firefighters, rest home carers, orderlies, supermarket workers, chaplains… the list is long), thank you. Bless you.

Your service for the masses, for our country, is both courageous and brave. You are valued and loved, appreciated and cherished. You risk your lives every day against an unseen enemy – Covid-19. You work is in the same order of sacrifice as our Lord Jesus on the Cross and the soldiers on the battlefields. Your lives are on the line every time you step up and step out. We salute you and keep you and your loved ones in our prayers. We will not forget you.

Jesus said, “I came that you may have life, life in all its fullness”. (John 10:10)

Blessings,
Right Reverend Fakaofo Kaio, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand

A Prayer for Anzac Day:

Almighty God and Heavenly Father, whose kingdom rules over all and in whom there is perfect freedom. We give you thanks at this time for all who have served in the defence of this country.

As we remember those men and women who served – in the ranks of our Navy, Army, Air Force, Merchant Navy and Police, we give thanks to you, gracious God, for their great sacrifices in conflict and in captivity – for the cause of peace and freedom. In our nation of wealth, prosperity and comfort, let us not forget the cost of these privileges which we now enjoy. 

We pray for peace. Have mercy on our broken and divided world and banish the spirit that makes for war. We ask that leaders of nations and governments will pursue freedom, justice and the welfare of all peoples.

We pray for ourselves. In the midst of worldly turmoil and lockdown, make us yearn for peace – not only with each other – but peace with you through our crucified and risen Saviour.  Trusting in Him for the forgiveness of our sins, help us to look forward to His kingly return.

Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

From the Council: Unite Against Covid-19

Under Alert Level 3 you still need to Stay Home, Save Lives. If you’re going out for fresh air, stay local. Take care of yourselves and stay connected with family and friends over the phone.

Some takeaway businesses will be open.

If you need welfare assistance, call the CCC helpline 0800 24 24 11

When walking the dog, keep them on the lead.

Recycling will be sorted again from May – please make sure you only put recyclables in the yellow bin.

The Eco Depots will be open from Tuesday.

For health advice, contact Healthline 0800 358 5453. If you are feeling unwell, call your GP before you visit.

Call the free Government Helpline 0800 779 997 (8am-1am) 7 days a week if you need advice.

Keep an eye on the official website – Covid19.govt.nz – for updates.

Due to Coronavirus lock-down the St Martins facilities are closed until further notice.

Moderator’s live streaming of devotions every Sunday at 9am. Go to the Moderator’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/modpcanz/

Watch Sunday’s service from Beckenham Methodist: the video link/s are available after 11am from their webpage:  www.bmc.nz  Services/Reflections

We would like to thank our friends at St Martins for their thoughts and concern for Rob and myself.

We are both well and well looked after and today we will have meals back in the dining room and can move a little.

Our rooms are very close and Rob comes to my room a lot of the time. Today there will be activities again in small groups.

It has certainly been a different Celebration time of Easter but technology  has helped a little.

I  wondered how I would manage living in one Room but we both have a nice bright  sunny room with an outside door on to a courtyard and small flower beds.

Greetings to each one.

God bless you all

Margaret and Rob McLean

Charitable Giving Tax Credit 

Our treasurer, Joan Macdonald, will have available your receipts for you once the COVID19 lockdown is over.

You may have been considering donating your Charitable Giving Tax Credit to the church. For more information, contact Joan – 337 1648.

Two Prayers by Bill Wallace

Easter

Easter hope shines out like snow on the mountain peaks

Clear and defining, high and promising

God of resurrection,

help us look beyond the foreground of our worries,

to the glorious hope of the risen Christ. Amen.

Easter Life and Light

Dear God, this is the best season of the year.

The autumn leaves are banners of colourful joy.

Jesus who was dead is alive for ever.

In this Easter season help us see your love,

and push aside the darkness that holds us.

For Jesus lives,

In the power of the Father and the Spirit. Amen.

From the Council: Unite Against Covid-19

Thanks for heeding the call to Stay Home, Save Lives. If you’re going out for fresh air, stay local. Take care of yourselves and stay connected with family and friends over the phone.

Information about when we move to Level 3, and how it will work will be available next week.

If you need welfare assistance, call the CCC helpline 0800 24 24 11

Ratepayers facing financial hardship will be able to defer the rate payments for up to six months.

When walking the dog, keep them on the lead and please take used dog poo bags home with you.

Please keep neighbourhood noise down.

Kerbside rubbish collection continues as normal.

Street sweeping also continues.

For health advice, contact Healthline 0800 358 5453. If you are feeling unwell, call your GP before you visit.

Call the free Government Helpline 0800 779 997 (8am-1am) 7 days a week if you need advice.

Keep an eye on the official website – Covid19.govt.nz – for updates.