Thought For The Week 18.11.2022

Last Monday we received the wonderful news that our country entered a new phase in our long battle with Covid 19 when the government scraped the traffic light system that governed our public health measures. Masks are no longer required except when visiting hospitals, pharmacies and rest homes to protect the most vulnerable. The dangers of catching and spreading the virus has greatly reduced thanks to the high levels of vaccination plus new treatment medications available.

This means the following steps can now be taken:

Our ministers will continue routine weekly testing

We will cease daily disinfecting of contact areas at St Stephens

We will remove mask wearing requirements and signage

We will be supportive of those who choose to continue wearing a mask

In other positive news, our parish will have the privilege of hosting a ministry intern for 2 years beginning in Feb 2023. Interns are now funded through the national church so there is minimal financial impact on our parish. In exchange we provide mentoring and training opportunities as they journey towards National Ordination.  Luke Blackbeard and his wife Teresa and children Sophie (11) and Jonathan (9) will be coming to Timaru (from Gore) over the weekend of October 1-2 to meet us and explore our parish. They will be looking for a house to rent so if you know of anything please get in touch with me. We are very excited about this and believe it will be of great benefit to our church and community.

Blessings in Christ,

Brent