Thought For the Week 9 March 2025

Welcome to our service today being led by Lois Shipley as I take a weekend off after what has been a busy period of ministry.  Part of this busyness has been doing quarterly home communion services for folk who are mostly residing in elder care facilities. One of these was someone who found themselves quite suddenly no longer able to live in their own home, due to a change in their health. I was struck by how quickly this person adjusted to a new normal  after what was a life-changing move.  We humans, even when we get older, can adapt to new circumstances.

Today is the 4^th Sunday of our new arrangement of worshipping at St Stephens and I am very mindful of some teething issues, especially as we meld together our different traditions and practices. How we do communion, morning tea, music and flowers in a less familiar space can be unsettling, but we will get there! We will adapt as we need to and our culture- the way we are together- will begin to change to reflect the new reality. Last week we had our first Sunday afternoon ‘Heritage’ service at Trinity which was a good start to what I hope will become a significant part of our worshipping rhythm.

Catherine and I had an opportunity to share a meal with the Blackbeard’s in their Christchurch manse. We are happy to report they are settling in well to new schools and routines but have yet to unpack everything as they are waiting for new carpet to be laid. Luke did have the garage work bench well organised, and the bikes hung on racks already. He clearly has his priorities right! Rory is also settling in well enjoying their new location.  Andrea is still looking for suitable work and Jono is fully involved in school, regularly leaving home at 7am and returning 7pm after sports practice. Whew! That’s a long day for a 17-yr old.

Nga mihi nui

Brent Richardson