A Week of Firsts
This week has been a week of firsts. Firsts for me and for you all.
Firstly, we had a wonderful evening Tuesday, with the opportunity to begin to get to know each other.
Wednesday was my first service celebrated here at St Mark’s, and
today is my first Sunday as part of the St Mark’s community.
I thank you for your warm welcome, it is a privilege and very humbling to be able to join you.
Earlier in the month I was given the opportunity to attend the the Anglican Schools Office Wānanga held at St John’s Theological College in Auckland. The aim of the Wānanga was to bring staff from our Anglican schools together to discuss the report He Ngākau Hou Kōtuitui (an in depth survey and analysis of the current “health” of Anglican Schools). It was also an opportunity to connect with others across the school network and reimagine the future.
The future for the Anglican Schools is certainly bright and this is recognised by the Archbishops. Archbishop Don Tamihere, Archbishop Sione Ulu’ilakepa and Archbishop Emeritus Philip Richardson offered plenary speeches and their presence provided and encouraged all to grasp the richness of our three Tikanga context.
Christian schools, and we would affirm particularly Anglican schools, are vital. As one principal said:
“We have to teach our children to follow Christ as the world will teach them not to.”
The relationship between the children of St Mark’s School and people of St Mark’s Church is a true blessing.
From the Vicar
Parish Officers
Parish Governance
Parish Groups
water