From Ben – 28 Nov 2021

I am very aware how we all need to express our deep gratitude and thanks to the Lord for His profound goodness and constant provision for us as individuals and for our church. This Sunday we will hold our AGM. As you read through the reports from the various departments of our church it will soon become evident that, despite one of the most disruptive and fragmented years in the history of our church, yet by God’s grace, we have remained strong and united and have continued to provide ministry through an international pandemic. By God’s grace, our online services have been well received and viewed by increasing numbers of people, both in NZ and in other countries around the world. Zoom meetings for our children, youth and home groups have been effective in providing weekly encouragement to our people.
 
Yes, it is true that God has had His hand on our church community for which I worship and thank Him. From next week (5th December) we hope to make a start to services at our church. The services will be restricted under the red traffic light criteria, which means we can only accommodate those with a vaccine passport, will require the wearing of masks and are limited to 100 people, but after 120 days apart, it will be wonderful to be in church together again. Praise the Lord! We will also continue our online service at 9.30am for those unable or hesitant to gather in a bigger setting with us. This pandemic could have decimated our church, but under God we have met the challenge and stayed strong together. Thank you to all those who have reached out to others and shown pastoral concern for our church family. Thank you, Lord for your provision.