I have just finished reading Very Rev John Murray’s notes on his time as minister of St. Andrew’s on the Terrace from 1975 to 1993. An amazing vision for an inclusive city church. 29 years later I sit writing this as the newest minister of St. Andrew’s on the Terrace. Who would have thought that a prominent pakeha male minister in 1993 would be succeeded by a Pacific Island woman minister in 2022. I am indebted to Rev. John Murray, and all those ministers who came after him for keeping the vision and faith alive. A vision that St. Andrew’s on the Terrace continues to be the church that celebrates its inclusiveness, its mission to the city that surrounds it including parliament and all the corporate companies and NGO’s that live in the heart of the city. I certainly hope to continue their vision and vigour in a similar fashion.
I had the privilege of being invited to bless the halls of residence next door at No.40 The Terrace Uni-lodge. I was greeted by the resident assistants, they comprised of 3 Samoan young men, 1 Samoan young woman, 1 Cook Island young woman and an Indian young man, the manager was a black South African young man. I introduced myself and talked about St. Andrew’s on the Terrace and what we represented as an inclusive church in the heart of the city. We all went to one of the empty flats and I blessed each room as representative of the 13 floors which make up Uni-lodge. They were very welcoming and have invited me to come to a shared meal with them in the future. They were interested to know what time our services are so that is a hopeful sign (if they can get up that early on a Sunday).
I’m off to Auckland tomorrow to marry a couple from Pt. Chevalier who had to postpone their wedding due to Covid. Thank goodness for airpoints which has made it possible for me fly up there at no expense. It happens my foster brother’s son is also getting married tomorrow so I will be the celebrant at one wedding at 2.45pm staying for a short while afterwards then tallyhoing it into the viaduct for my foster nephews wedding reception at 5pm which I have the honour of doing a Toast (not sure what I am toasting yet). So it is quite a busy Friday for me. On Saturday I will spend time with my family and return to Wellington on the 6.30pm flight in time for Sunday service.
Sunday will be 1st May exactly a month since I officially became your minister. So much has happened including Holy week and I have managed to visit some of you and enjoy your hospitality and fellowship. Nothing is routine yet, but I certainly remain excited and look forward to what the future holds for us together. Blessings, Fei
To view the full e-news click here – https://mailchi.mp/cee0732b7e9a/this-weeks-newsletter-from-st-andrews-on-the-terrace-8878245
