25 July 2026
Tena koutou katoa!
Services this Sunday: Takapau 9.30
Waipukurau 9.30
Ōtāne 10.00 – their patronal festival
Just a reminder that the book launch for Murder and Mojitos is on this Thursday, 30 July at 6pm, St Peter’s church. Tickets are $15, available from Kingfisher Gifts in Waipawa, and there will be raffles on the night. Money raised is going towards much needed repairs of St Peter’s.
Notes on the Readings – Ordinary Sunday 17A (26 July) 2026
Genesis 29:15-28: Jacob agrees to work seven years for Rachel, but on the wedding night Laban deceives him and gives him Leah instead. The story is uncomfortable: Jacob, who once tricked his brother and father, now experiences being tricked himself. Yet God continues to work through flawed people and difficult family relationships. Grace doesn’t wait for perfect circumstances. How might God be at work even in situations that don’t unfold as I hoped?
Romans 8:26-39: Paul acknowledges there are times when we don’t know how to pray, yet the Spirit helps us and prays with us. He declares that God is at work for good in those who love God, and then asks a series of rhetorical questions: if God is for us, who can be against us? If God has given us Christ, won’t God also give us all that’s needed? Nothing in all creation can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. What burdens am I carrying that I struggle to express in prayer? How might our lives change if we truly trusted that nothing can separate us from Christ’s love?
Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52: Jesus offers several small parables, comparisons of the kingdom of heaven to things and experiences known to his listeners. The kingdom often begins small and unnoticed, yet it grows beyond expectation. It is worth everything we have, inviting wholehearted commitment and discernment. The disciple learns to recognise God’s presence in both ordinary and surprising places. Where do we see small signs of God’s kingdom growing around us? What do you value most highly, and does that reflect the priorities of God’s kingdom? Ngā mihi, Reverend Deacon Donna
18 July 2026
Tena koutou katoa!
Services this Sunday: Waipukurau 9.30
Ormondville 10.30
I’ve been thinking about community this week. As the CHB parish, we are a community. We are also part of the communities we live and work in. As members of communities, when we need help, do we ask for it? It takes courage to ask for help, it’s a hard thing to do. Here are some things I’ve told myself when I needed help. ‘Everyone is busy; I should be able to manage; they might say yes when they really want to say no; they might say no; maybe I should just try harder.’ Have you ever had this sort of internal conversation?
Is the parish a place you have thought of as a possible source of help? Should it be? I don’t have any answers for you, just questions. From its earliest beginnings, the church was known as a place of support and help for anyone who needed it. How are we doing now? From what I can see in my own community, I can confidently say there is no shortage of need. As church, the first step is to become aware of the need around us. Keep your eyes open as you go through this coming week. Are people lonely? Overwhelmed? Cold? Exhausted? Hungry? Pay attention… and if you bump into me anywhere, I would love to hear what you’ve noticed.
Ōtāne St James’ church has a musician performing on Sunday 26 July at 2.30pm. Hanna Jøstensen is a Norwegian Kiwi singer-songwriter. Tickets are $20. If you’re feeling at a loose end next Sunday afternoon, go and enjoy some music.
Notes on the Readings – Ordinary Sunday 16A (19 July) 2026
Genesis 28:10–19a: Jacob is alone, vulnerable, and fleeing from the consequences of his own actions when God meets him in a dream. God renews the promises made to Abraham and Isaac and assures Jacob, “I am with you and will keep you wherever you go.” Jacob discovers that an ordinary place is holy ground and responds with worship and commitment. Have you ever experienced God’s presence in an unexpected place or situation?
Romans 8:12–25: Paul reminds believers that they belong to God as beloved children and heirs with Christ. “Flesh” isn’t about our bodies but a power, sin, that resists God’s Spirit. Paul acknowledges the reality of suffering. Creation itself is described as groaning in anticipation of renewal, while Christians live in hope for what is not yet fully seen. Christian hope is patient, trusting, and forward-looking. How might seeing yourself as a child of God shape your daily life? Where do you glimpse signs of God’s renewing work in creation and in our community?
Matthew 13:24–30, 36–43: Jesus’ parable about wheat and weeds growing together until the harvest. When the servants want to remove the weeds immediately, the landowner cautions patience lest the wheat be damaged as well. The parable challenges the desire to judge quickly and reminds us that God sees more clearly than we do. How might God be calling you to patience with others—or with yourself? What does this parable teach about humility in judging people and situations?
Ngā mihi, Reverend Deacon Donna
11 July 2026
Tena koutou katoa!
Services this Sunday: Waipukurau 9.30
Takapau 9.30
Ōtāne 10.00
Happy Matariki weekend! Matariki is such a wonderful, totally kiwi celebration. I hope you have done something around at least one of the main principles of Matariki – whanau gathering, food, remembering our loved ones who have died, and making plans for the new year that is beginning.
St Peter’s Waipawa is a beautiful old church. Buildings (like people) tend to need more and more time and money spent on repairs as they age, and St Peter’s is very old. Last year vestry held a community meeting in Waipawa, asking the community for help in saving the church, because more money is needed than the parish has. A community group of ‘Friends of St Peter’s’ was begun, and this month they are holding their first fundraiser. The owners of Wardini Books in Havelock North are also authors, and have just published their third book. It is called Murder and Mojitos, and is in a series called the Bookshop Detectives. They are having a book launch at St Peter’s on July 30. I have heard great things about this book, and it is bound to be a fun night. Tickets are available at Kingfisher Gifts in Waipawa. Bring a group of friends! There will be raffles on the night, and all money raised will go towards repairs at St Peter’s.
Notes on the Readings – Ordinary Sunday 15A (12 July) 2026
Genesis 25:19–34: God’s promise unfolds through a troubled family. Before their birth, Jacob and Esau embody struggle and reversal (two nations and two competing destinies), with God choosing the younger over the elder. Esau’s sale of his birthright shows a preference for immediate satisfaction over lasting inheritance. Where am I tempted to exchange long-term blessing for short-term comfort? Romans 8:1–11: In Christ there is no condemnation. God has done what the law couldn’t do, freeing people from the power of sin and death. Paul contrasts two orientations of life: living according to the flesh and living according to the Spirit. “Flesh” here refers not to the body, but to humanity turned inward on itself and separated from God. Life in the Spirit is marked by a new turning towards God and the hope of resurrection. What evidence of the Spirit’s work do we see in ourselves and our community? How are our minds being shaped by the Spirit rather than by self-interest? Matthew 13:1–9, 18–23: The parable highlights different responses to God’s word – the “seed” scattered with such generosity. Fruitfulness depends not on the quality of the seed, but on the readiness of the soil: distractions, hardship, and misunderstanding can hinder growth. The good soil isn’t necessarily the most talented soil – it’s soil that’s receptive, where there’s openness, patience, and perseverance. What kind of soil best reflects my current response to God’s word? How can we help each other to be good soil, capable of bringing forth a generous harvest?
Ngā mihi,
Reverend Deacon Donna
4 July 2026
Tena koutou katoa!
Services this Sunday: Waipukurau 9.30
Ormondville 10.30
The service at St Mary’s in Waipukurau this week is particularly for volunteers. If you are one of the many people who contribute to life at St Mary’s in any way – mowing lawns, providing flowers, helping with morning tea or doing any of the many other things that always need doing, please come along tomorrow so we can say thank you.
Growing through Grief is a great programme in our community for people who are experiencing change or have lost loved ones. A new group is starting in July. If you are interested in attending, or would like to find out more about what’s involved, contact Sally on 021 751814 or sally.white@acw.org.nz
Does anyone have a wheelchair they no longer have a use for? St Peter’s Waipawa have several parishioners who are finding the paths and steps challenging, and having a wheelchair available would be very helpful.
Today is the first day of the school holidays. As is often the case for holidays, the forecast for the week ahead is for rain. If you don’t have primary school age children and you know somebody who does, is there some way you could help? Offer to take kids to the library for an hour; get some craft supplies from the dollar shop and drop them off; or stay, help create mayhem… and clean up before you leave; make sure everyone’s got gumboots and raincoats and go for a walk in the rain. Do baking with kids; drop off a care package of junk food and chocolate; offer to fold washing or do dishes. What you do will depend on your abilities and the depth of relationship you have with the family, but please consider it.
Notes on the Readings – Ordinary Sunday 14A (5 July) 2026
Genesis 24:34–38, 42–49, 58–67: Abraham’s servant recounts God’s help in finding a wife for Isaac. The emphasis is on divine guidance and faithful discernment. Notice how Rebekah’s consent is part of the process. Where do I see God guiding my decisions, even in ordinary circumstances? What helps me say “I will go” when the future feels uncertain? Romans 7:15–25a: Paul describes the tension between wanting to do good, yet failing to do it: the reality of sin. He points toward dependence on God’s grace rather than self-reliance. The passage ends with thanksgiving: deliverance comes through Jesus Christ. Where do you experience this inner conflict most sharply? What practices help you rely on grace rather than willpower alone? Matthew 11:16–19, 25–30: Jesus critiques those who reject both John’s austerity and his own openness: nothing satisfies them. God’s truth is revealed to the “infants,” not those who think they’re wise. He invites us to come to him for rest. Jesus’ yoke is easy because it’s shared with him – discipleship is relational, not burdensome. What does it look like for me to be open and teachable? How might we learn a more life-giving rhythm from Jesus?
As you go through the week ahead, remember that you are a temple of the Holy Spirit. Love those around you, have courage and be kind.
Ngā mihi Reverend Deacon Donna
27 June 2026
Tena koutou katoa!
Services this Sunday: Waipawa 10am St Peter’s day service
Waipukurau 9.30am
Takapau 9.30am
It is lovely to be able to include a service at St Peter’s in this week’s newsletter! These don’t often happen, and I encourage you to go and worship in the beautiful Waipawa church tomorrow.
Are you a musician? We have a desperate need for musicians at St Mary’s, Waipukurau. If you can play an organ, piano, guitar or even a ukulele, please make yourself known to the worship team at St Mary’s. You will be greeted with great joy and the best bits of morning tea will be saved for you!
With the cold, stormy weather we are currently experiencing, we also have a need for some knee rugs, particularly at St Mark’s, Takapau, where the heat pump has gone on strike. If you have any extra knee rugs you don’t need they would be greatly appreciated by the chilly St Mark’s worshippers.
Please take care in this winter weather. If you are not well, home communion is always available.
Notes on the Readings – Ordinary Sunday 13A (28 June) 2026
Genesis 22:1–14: A profound and troubling story of testing: God “tests” Abraham, not to learn, but to reveal trust. Abraham is asked to surrender Isaac, the child of promise. Abraham’s faith is expressed in obedience, though the story resists easy moral interpretation. God provides a ram, halting the sacrifice and affirming life over death. Where do I experience tension between trust in God and what I hold most dear? How might I discern the difference between faithful obedience and harmful demands? Romans 6:12–23: Paul contrasts two ways of living: under the power of sin, or under the grace of God. The imagery of slavery is stark: we’re always shaped by what we serve. Freedom in Christ is about being turned towards God. What habits or patterns seem to “rule” in my life? How does grace shape the way we make daily choices? Matthew 10:40–42: Jesus identifies himself with those sent in his name: to welcome the disciple is to welcome Christ, and the One who sent him. Small acts of hospitality (“a cup of cold water”) are honoured and remembered by God. How do we practise welcome, especially to those we might overlook? What small act of kindness might we offer this week as an expression of faith? And how do we receive welcome from others?
Ngā mihi, Reverend Deacon Donna
20 June 2026
Tena koutou katoa! (Hello everyone!)
Services this Sunday: Waipukurau 9.30am
Ormondville 10.30am
This year Disability Awareness Sunday is on 21st June.
The theme is “Kia noho katoatia ko te tinana o te Karaiti: Being fully the body of Christ.” Being fully the Body of Christ is living life as God’s image bearers looking outward and embracing the people God calls us to be. A statement from the Anglican Disability Network says, ‘We are committed to the full inclusion of all people as God’s image-bearers and full members of the church, that together we may become more fully the Body of Christ’.
What does this have to do with you? If you live with a disability, know that you are loved and accepted as you are, and that the gifts you carry are necessary for the building up of the whole body of Christ. If you do not yet live with a disability (they come to us all with age!) consider how your life could become more inclusive/generous, both physically and emotionally… and yes, the gifts you carry are also necessary for the building up of the whole body of Christ!
Notes on the Readings – Ordinary Sunday 12A (21 June) 2026
Genesis 21:8–21: Sarah feels threatened on behalf of Isaac, and demands that Abraham cast out Hagar and her son Ishmael. In the wilderness – the place of danger and vulnerability and also of encounter with God – God hears their cry, tells them “Do not be afraid,” and provides for them. Whose cries might I be overlooking, and how is God calling me to respond? Romans 6:1b–11: Baptism unites us with Christ’s death and resurrection, and we’re called to live as those freed from sin’s power. This new life isn’t abstract – it reshapes daily living, and that’s going to affect our priorities. How does my baptism shape my choices this week? What might “new life” look like in one concrete area of my life? Matthew 10:24–39: Disciples aren’t above their teacher: following Jesus means sharing his path, including the costs. Loyalty to Christ may disrupt even close relationships. But we shouldn’t fear – we’re not insignificant, any more than the sparrows are: we matter to God. What fear most shapes my silence or speech about Christ? Do I truly trust that I’m “of more value than many sparrows”?
Ngā mihi, Reverend Deacon Donna
13 June 2026
Tena koutou katoa! (Hello everyone!)
Today is Saturday. For some people it will be just another day. For some people it will have started early, wrangling kids and sports gear off to games in several directions. For some people it will be a day to finally catch up on the housework after working all week. And for others it will be a day to rest while they look at the housework that needs doing, after working all week! I know there are people in all these categories who read this newsletter. Wherever you fit, whatever stage of life you are in, whatever is happening in the news, here is your reminder.
You are a child of God. You are loved and cherished beyond all measure. Your existence brings joy to the heart of God. Your life is important.
Whether you get through your to-do list today or not; whether you even have a to-do list today or not… these are still the most true things about you.
Services this Sunday: Waipukurau 9.30am
Takapau 9.30am
Ōtāne 10am
Notes on the Readings – Ordinary Sunday 11A (14 June) 2026
Genesis 18:1–15: God appears to Abraham in the form of three visitors; hospitality is immediate and lavish. God promises that Abraham and Sarah will have a son – at which Sarah laughs, her doubt shaped by age and experience. God’s response (“Is anything too wonderful for the LORD?”) reframes the story: divine promise transcends human limitation. How does hospitality become a place of encounter with God in this passage – and in my life? Romans 5:1–8: Through Christ, we’re brought into a place of peace and right relationship with God. We can live with hope, looking toward sharing in God’s life and glory. Difficult times aren’t ignored; they can deepen endurance, shape who we are, and strengthen hope.What does it feel like to live in peace with God, rather than striving? How have challenges shaped your character or deepened your hope? Matthew 9:35–10:8: Jesus teaches, proclaims good news, and heals: he cares for the whole person, moved with compassion for people who are worn down and without guidance. The twelve disciples are named and sent out to continue his work, to give freely what they’ve received: healing, hope, and freedom. What have I received from God that I am called to give freely to others?
Ngā mihi, Reverend Deacon Donna
6 June 2026
Tena koutou!
This is being written in haste, on my phone, in a cafe in Christchurch. Apologies for any errors!
Services this Sunday: Waipukurau 9.30, Ormondville 10.30
Notes on the Readings – Te Pouhere Sunday (7 June): On Te Pouhere Sunday (the 2nd Sunday after Pentecost) we celebrate our life as a Three Tikanga Church, established in 1992 by our Constitution / Te Pouhere. Isaiah 42:10–20: A new song arises because God is doing a new thing: bringing freedom, restoration, and justice. We might see this as a call to renewed vision across the whole Church, especially where we have been inattentive to one another. What “new song” is God inviting our community to sing now? 2 Corinthians 5:14–19: Christ’s transformative love reshapes our identity and action. Reconciliation is central to God’s work in Christ – and this is a ministry that has been entrusted to us. What does it mean for our parish or our diocese to live as a new creation? John 15:9–17: Jesus speaks to his disciples the night before he is killed. Relationship is what’s important: “Abide in my love.” His commandment is simple but demanding: love one another as I have loved you. Fruitfulness flows from abiding love, not from effort alone, and unity is grounded in Christ’s love, not uniformity. What does abiding in Christ’s love look like in our shared life across our three Tikanga?
Ngā mihi,
Donna
30 May 2026
Tena koutou katoa! (Hello everyone!)
Happy King’s birthday weekend! A long weekend is just what I need after an extremely busy few weeks. As of last Saturday I am now an officially ordained deacon. It was a wonderful day, and I am very grateful for the support, prayers and encouragement of so many from this parish and across the diocese.
There has been a lot of fundraising happening over the last few weeks. John Wright has been bagging and selling sheep manure. He’s raised $260 from this, (that’s a lot of bags!) which has been put towards the new lawn mower at St Mary’s. There was also a fair at the green patch this month which raised $1200 which has been donated towards buying ‘wander safe’ trackers.
We had a vestry meeting last week, which included a lot of discussion around the St Peter’s church buildings. This is a much loved part of the parish and community… it is also a very old building which needs a LOT of money spent on repairs and maintenance. Vestry would appreciate your prayers as we try to find wise solutions.
Service this Sunday: Waipukurau 9.30
Notes on the Readings – Trinity A (31 May) 2026 On Trinity Sunday we remember and celebrate how we encounter and live within God’s relational love. Genesis 1:1–2:4a: The opening to Scripture presents God as both transcendent (creating all that is) and intimately involved (speaking, seeing, blessing). It’s a rich, layered picture of divine life: God, Word, Spirit – all involved in creation. Humanity is created in the image of God, hinting at relationality, community, and shared life. We’re created in the image of this relational God, so how might that invite us to relate to others and to the wider creation this week? 2 Corinthians 13:11–13: Paul concludes his letter with what’s become a key text for the Church: “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit…” It’s one of the clearest New Testament expressions of a threefold pattern of God’s life: grace revealed in Christ, love grounded in God the Father, communion (koinonia) enacted by the Spirit. The Trinity is known in lived experience – grace received, love shared, community sustained. How can our parish better reflect the relational life of God in how we welcome, serve, and care? Matthew 28:16–20: Jesus commissions the disciples: they (we) are sent to make disciples, to baptise “in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,” and to teach a way of life shaped by Jesus’ commands. “I am with you always,” echoes God’s ongoing presence through the Spirit. The Church’s mission flows from, and participates in, the life of the Triune God. How might you respond to God’s invitation to live within this shared divine life?
Ngā mihi, Reverend Deacon Donna
23 May 2026
Tena koutou katoa!
(Hello everyone!)
It’s a short newsletter today. I have an ordination happening this morning, and getting into an alb is more complicated than you might think!
We have two services across the parish this Sunday.
Takapau 10am This is a combined service.
Porongahau 10am
Ordination at Napier cathedral on Saturday 23 May at 11am. As previously mentioned, I am being ordained as a deacon. If you can attend I would be very grateful for your support. If you can’t attend but would like to see what happens at an ordination there will be a livestream of the service in the cathedral website. Regardless of whether you can attend or not, I am very grateful for all prayers, kind thoughts or positive vibes.
Go to https://www.facebook.com/WaiapuCathedral to see the recording.
Notes on the Readings – Pentecost A (24 May) 2026 Acts 2:1–21: The Holy Spirit is given publicly, visibly, and inclusively: wind, fire, and many languages signal God crossing boundaries. Mission begins in diversity: Peter reads the moment through Joel: “all flesh” includes young and old, women and men, slaves and free. The gift of the Spirit is both empowerment for witness and a sign of the “last days” breaking into the present. Where do you see the Holy Spirit crossing boundaries in your context – cultural, linguistic, or social?
1 Corinthians 12:3b–13: Confessing “Jesus is Lord” is itself enabled by the Holy Spirit: unity begins in shared allegiance. There are varieties of gifts, but one Spirit: diversity isn’t a problem to solve but a grace to steward, and the body image resists hierarchy. What gifts
are present in our community? What are your gifts? John 20:19–23: This is John’s “Pentecost moment” as Jesus breathes the Holy Spirit onto the disciples. The risen Christ meets fearful disciples with peace, not reproach. “As the Father has sent me, so I send you”: mission flows from resurrection peace. Where do we need to receive Christ’s peace amid anxiety – and what does it look like for us to be sent out by Jesus?
Finally, a blessing.
May God surround you with his love and fill your spirit with his perfect peace today and always.
Ngā mihi,
(almost) Reverend Deacon Donna
16 May 2026
Tena koutou katoa! (Hello everyone!)
Church services this Sunday: Waipukurau 9.30am, Ormondville 10.30am
I’m writing this on a cold, grey morning with the fire going and a cozy blanket over me. It feels like maybe winter has arrived! I hope everyone’s woodsheds are stocked and heat pumps are primed. Tis the season for slowing down a little and eating more soup and less salad.
Speaking of seasons, the church is still in the season of Easter – the time from Jesus’ death and resurrection to the celebration of the arrival of the Holy Spirit (Pentecost). For Jesus’ family, friends and followers this would have been a time of immense change, huge emotional highs and lows and lots of uncertainty. If you feel like your life fits somewhere in that description, here is what Jesus said to his disciples in the Easter season before his ascension. ‘Behold, I am with you always…’(Matthew 28:20). Despite anything and everything that life can throw at us, Jesus is always with us.
Notes on the Readings for 17 May – the Sunday after Ascension
Acts 1:6–14:40 days after the resurrection, Jesus tells the disciples to stay in Jerusalem and wait for the promised Holy Spirit, after which they’ll bear witness to him. And then he disappears, leaving them staring up into heaven. The community (which includes Jesus’ family) waits together in prayer. The Ascension isn’t really about Jesus disappearing, but about his presence being shared with the whole world through the Holy Spirit. The Church is born in hopeful, prayerful waiting. What does faithful waiting look like in our parish right now?
1 Peter 4:12–14; 5:6–11: The letter addresses communities experiencing hostility, urging humility and trust in God’s care. Suffering isn’t presented as failure, but as participation in Christ’s life. Hope is grounded not in comfort, but in God’s faithfulness over time. What helps us “cast our anxieties on God” in practice?
John 17:1–11: On the day before he’s arrested, Jesus prays not for escape, but for glory revealed through self‑giving love. Eternal life is relational: knowing the Father and the Son. Jesus entrusts the disciples to God’s care as he prepares to depart. Unity isn’t rooted in sameness, but in God’s sustaining name and purpose. How does Jesus’ prayer shape the way we pray for the Church? And what does “knowing God” look like in daily life?
A Special General Meeting to elect a lay Synod Representative and an Alternate Synod Representative will be held on Sunday 24 May, at the conclusion of the CHB Combined service (which begins at 10am at St Mark’s Takapau). Nominations will close at 12 noon in writing to one of the wardens. Nomination forms will be available at each service until then. We are still looking for an Alternate Synod Representative. This is someone who is only needed if the Synod Representative cannot attend synod for some reason.
Fundraiser A sale of squash pumpkins was organised by John Wright. This has raised $300 which is going to go towards the new mower for St Mary’s. Thank you John!
Ordination at Napier cathedral on Saturday 23 May at 11am. I am being ordained as a deacon next Saturday. It has been a long journey to get to this point, and I would be very grateful for your support and prayers as I make this next step. If you feel you can attend I would be delighted to see you there!
As we prepare for another week, may the Creator bless you and keep you; may the beloved companion face you and have mercy upon you; may the eternal Spirit’s countenance be turned to you and give you peace; may the Three in One bless you.
Ngā mihi,
Donna
9 May 2026
This will make sense once you read my text!
Tena koutou katoa!
(Hello everyone!)
Deborah has given up a few jobs now that she is no longer priest-in-charge of the CHB parish, and one of them is writing this newsletter. Last week was her last newsletter, which means that this week is my first newsletter.
Hi, I’m Donna Cruickshank.
Many of you will know me, but for those that don’t, I live in Takapau, work as a teacher aide, have been on vestry for many years, am about to be ordained as a deacon (more on that later) and am now the writer of most of this newsletter.
Deborah is still writing the bits about the readings, but I am responsible for everything else.
We have three services across the parish this Sunday. Waipukurau 9.30am, Takapau 9.30am, Ōtāne 10am
Notes on the Readings: Acts 17:22–31: Visiting Athens, Paul speaks to people with very different beliefs from his own. He starts with something familiar to them (rather than criticising their religion): God is the creator of all life, and is close to everyone, even to those who don’t yet know God. And then Paul points to Jesus’ resurrection as the key sign of God’s action. Notice how Paul connects with his listeners: how might you do something similar? 1 Peter 3:13–22: Christians are encouraged not to be afraid, even when doing the right thing is hard. Explain your faith – “the hope that is in you” – calmly, kindly, and with respect. Suffering isn’t a sign of failure, but part of following Christ, remembering that Jesus’ suffering and resurrection give meaning and hope to present struggles. How do you speak of “the hope that is in you” because of Christ? John 14:15–21: Love for Jesus is shown through actions, not just words. Jesus promises that his followers won’t be left alone: the Holy Spirit will come to be God’s continuing presence, offering guidance and strength. What does loving Jesus look like in everyday life? How does this promise speak into times of loss or uncertainty?
A Special General Meeting to elect a lay Synod Representative and an Alternate Synod Representative will be held on Sunday 24 May, at the conclusion of the CHB Combined service (which begins at 10am at St Mark’s Takapau). Nominations will close at 12 noon in writing to one of the wardens. Nomination forms will be available at each service until then.
Please consider this opportunity. You get to meet lots of interesting people, both clergy and laity; you learn a lot about how the church governs itself; you are comfortably housed, very well fed and your expenses will be reimbursed by the diocese – what’s not to like?!
Ordination at Napier Cathedral on Saturday 23 May at 11am. As previously mentioned, I am being ordained as a deacon. It has been a long journey to get to this point, and I would be very grateful for your support and prayers as I make this next step.
Parish fair
This is happening next Saturday 16 May from 10-12.30. There’s always lots of great home baking, plants and other goodies to be had. This year the funds raised are going to the police to help buy ‘wander safe’ trackers, which are a great resource to help keep people with dementia safe.
Finally, a blessing.
The love of the Creator be all around you, The love of the Saviour be above and beneath you, The love of the Holy Spirit be within you.
Have a great week, and I look forward to seeing some of you at church tomorrow!
Donna
1 May 2026
Kia ora, friends
Over the past week the mopping up from the last lot of heavy rain has continued in several of our church buildings – Omakere church hall, St Peter’s Waipawa hall and church, St Mary’s Waipukurau, and St Mark’s Takapau have all been affected. I want to acknowledge the work of our Bishop’s Warden Stephanie Bond, who looks after a lot of our property matters on behalf of Vestry, and also our Diocesan Property Manager Steve Orme, both of whom have been inspecting buildings and liaising with tradespeople and the loss adjuster.
This will be my last CHB parish email – as of today my role as Priest-in-Charge of this parish comes to an end, and I begin as Archdeacon of Hawke’s Bay Coast, an Archdeaconry which takes in the centres of Havelock North, Waipukurau and Dannevirke as well as all the rural communities that make up this region. And I’m also Archdeacon of Hawke’s Bay Cities, working with the parishes of Napier and Hastings. I’ve really valued my time as part of CHB parish – thank you for all that you do! In my role as Archdeacon I’ll continue to work with the CHB Vestry and clergy team, as well as joining in worship at combined services in CHB, and no doubt other events – so some of my links with this parish will continue.
Have you checked out the new parish website yet? – https://chbanglican.org And have you thought about becoming the next CHB lay Synod rep?
This Sunday’s services are at Waipukurau (9.30am) and Ormondville (a Presbyterian service at 10.30am).
In our readings this Sunday: Acts 7:55–60: After a long speech which angered his audience, Stephen is stoned, becoming the Church’s first martyr. His vision affirms Jesus’ resurrection and reign and his final words echo Jesus on the cross: entrusting his spirit to God, and praying forgiveness for his killers. How do Stephen’s words shape our understanding of forgiveness and courage? 1 Peter 2:2–10: The letter invites baptised believers to discover their shared calling as the people of God: chosen, called, and holy. Just as Christ is the living cornerstone, the community is being built together into God’s dwelling place. How do we understand our shared identity as “living stones” in our local context? John 14:1–14: before he dies, Jesus speaks words of reassurance to anxious disciples. He doesn’t offer a map but himself, as the way, the truth, and the life. To know Jesus is to know God, and to live in a relationship marked by trust. The promise of continued work “in my name” points to a life shaped by prayer and participation in Christ’s mission. How might we live more deeply “in the way” of Christ this week?
Here’s a prayer for this week, which picks up the Gospel reading:
Eternal God, your son Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life for all creation; grant us grace to walk in his way, to rejoice in his truth, and to share his risen life. Amen.
Waipukurau Home Group: a home group is starting up soon in Waipukurau, and will meet weekly on Mondays at 2.00pm at 3 St Mary’s Road. It will begin with a six-week study which looks at the Gospel of Matthew.
Senior Chef
Something else that’s starting soon is the next Senior Chef course. Senior Chef is a short course for the over 60’s. It’s under the umbrella of the Anglican Diocese Waiapu, is free of charge, and designed to help men and women gain confidence and motivation with basic cooking as well as meeting new friends and having fun. The course runs once a week for three hours and continues for eight weeks. Numbers are kept to a maximum of nine.
For further information, please contact Viv Paton 06 8558394 or 021 671 516.
The Prayer Book Course is starting on 11 May!
The Prayer Book: Rites, Rubrics, and Reasons is a short (5-week) course to help people understand more about our Prayer Book, what’s in it, and why we have it. It’s designed for those with a lay ministry licence for leading worship and also for anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of and participation in worship. To find out more details and to enrol, go to https://www.waiapuanglicans.org.nz/the-prayer-book . The first lecture is ready to watch already.
Coming up:
Saturday 9 May, Concert by Jules Riding, 7pm St Peter’s Hall, Kenilworth St, Waipawa. Entry by Koha. See https://www.julesriding.com/tour-dates/
Mini-Fair Saturday 16 May at the Green Patch in Waipukurau. Starts 10am. There’ll be the usual stalls – baking, plants, sausage sizzle, and a bumper grocery raffle. The proceeds will go towards the personal trackers project. There’s a box at the back of St Mary’s for contributions towards the grocery raffle.
Donna Cruickshank’s ordination as a Vocational Deacon: Saturday 23 May, 11am at Waiapu Cathedral in Napier.
Followed by our next CHB Parish Combined service: Sunday 24 May, 10.00am at St Mark’s Takapau (note corrected time): An opportunity for the whole parish to welcome Donna as a Deacon.
Blessings
Deborah
24 April 2026
Kia ora, friends
This week – for this parish and for others around our diocese – has been one of mopping up after the heavy rain which came after the cyclone. There are plenty of church buildings where buckets have been strategically deployed and things are starting to dry out – and others where serious damage has occurred. I’m thinking here particularly of the Omakere Church Hall where there was serious flooding. St Peter’s Waipawa has also been affected.
Tomorrow is ANZAC Day and there will be civic and other services in which several of us are involved. Here’s a link to where they’re happening: – https://www.chbdc.govt.nz/our-district/living-here/anzac-day-services/
We have a new parish website you might want to check out – https://chbanglican.org
This Sunday we have services at Waipukurau (9.30am), Ōtāne (10am) and Takapau (9.30am).
This Sunday’s readings: Acts 2:42–47 gives a glimpse of the earliest Christian community, shaped by resurrection faith and held together through shared practices: learning, fellowship, Eucharist, and prayer. These aren’t extras, but the ways faith is sustained. Which of these practices is strengthening your faith at the moment? 1 Peter 2:19–25 speaks to Christians living under pressure. It doesn’t glorify suffering or excuse injustice, but points to Christ, whose response was faithfulness, trust in God, and refusal to return harm for harm. He is named as the shepherd and guardian of our souls. What might it mean to entrust ourselves to God “who judges justly”? John 10:1–10 presents Jesus as shepherd and gate. His relationship with the sheep is based on recognition and trust, not fear or force. Belonging leads not to confinement but to freedom — going out to find pasture. Jesus promises abundant life: life that’s whole and grounded in God, even amid uncertainty. How do we recognise Christ’s voice among many others? What might abundant life look like in everyday terms?
Here’s something for this Sunday afternoon: Son et Lumière- Sunday 26th April, 2 – 3pm at St James Church, Ōtāne. Baroque Ensemble Inégal present, ‘Son et Lumiere’ – Sound and Light. Our concert opens with a short talk about the art and history of the beautiful windows at St James, followed by some of our favourite baroque music. Members of the ensemble are Bob Cross (baroque oboe, oboe d’amore, bassoon and recorder), Jenny Cross (baroque recorders) Pat Gallagher (spinet), Quentin Maioha (cello) and Heloise Valdivia (viola). Music is by Handel, Loiellet, Purcell, Albinoni and more. $10 cash at the door, students $5. We would love for you to join us!
We’ll soon be electing a new Lay Synod representative and an alternate, at a Special General Meeting – date to be advised shortly. Could you be our next lay Synod rep? Synod is the Governing Body of the Diocese. It meets once a year, generally in October. Parishes are represented by a lay person; licenced clergy are also part of Synod. The relationship between Synod (meets annually) and the diocesan Standing Committee (meets every couple of months or so) is kind of like the relationship between our parish AGM and our Vestry. Being at Synod gives you a sense of what’s happening in the diocese as a whole and how everything fits together.
Coming up:
Saturday 9 May, Concert by Jules Riding, 7pm St Peter’s Hall, Kenilworth St, Waipawa. Entry by Koha. See https://www.julesriding.com/tour-dates/
Mini-Fair Saturday 16 May at the Green Patch in Waipukurau. Starts 10am. There’ll be the usual stalls – baking, plants, sausage sizzle, and a bumper grocery raffle. The proceeds will go towards tracking devices for those who need them. There is a box at the back of St Mary’s for contributions towards the grocery raffle.
Donna Cruickshank’s ordination as a Vocational Deacon: Saturday 23 May, 11am at Waiapu Cathedral in Napier.
Followed by our next CHB Parish Combined service: Sunday 24 May, 10.00am at St Mark’s Takapau (note corrected time)
Blessings
Deborah
16 April 2026
Kia ora, friends
I hope you all got through Cyclone Vaianu all right – Hawkes Bay seems to have got off much more lightly than we originally thought, and certainly had an easier time than other regions. It was good to see some of you joining in the Zoom Morning Prayer offered by the Cathedral team on Sunday morning.
This Sunday things will be back to normal. There are services at Waipukurau (9.30am), Ōtāne (10am – rescheduled from last week), and Ormondville (10.30am).
Our readings this Sunday: Acts 2:14a, 36–41: Peter proclaims the resurrection as God’s vindication of Jesus, both Lord and Messiah. The crowd’s response matters: repentance and baptism signal a real change of life, not just private belief. Salvation is communal, forming a new people of God. How is our life different because of Easter? 1 Peter 1:17–23: Believers are called to live responsibly, knowing their lives matter to a just and faithful God who brings life out of death. Hope leads to changed behaviour, especially love within the community. Love isn’t optional; it’s the clearest sign of new life. What old ways might we need to leave behind? How does hope shape how we treat one another? Luke 24:13–35: Resurrection faith unfolds over time. Disappointment and grief are taken seriously as the risen Christ is recognised through Scripture, the breaking of bread, and shared community. Where do we struggle to recognise Christ amid confusion or loss? How do your encounters with the risen Christ shape your sense of mission?
Here’s a prayer for this week:
Jesus, we believe you;
all we heard is true.
You break the bread, we recognise you,
you are the fire that burns within us;
use us to light the world.
Hear this prayer for your love’s sake. Amen.
We’ll soon be electing a new Lay Synod representative and an alternate. Why? That’s because the people who hold these roles currently have been ordained, or are about to be. They’ll still be attending our Annual Synod (in October, this year in the Hawkes Bay), but can’t represent our parish as lay people. We’ll hold a Special General Meeting for this election – date to be advised shortly.
Could you be our next lay Synod rep? To inspire you, here’s some reflections from the Rev’d Birgitta Rolston, who represented CHB parish in 2024:
“I was elected as Synod lay representative for our CHB parish in 2024. Synod met that year in Gisborne, over a weekend in October. Your petrol, accommodation and main meals are all paid for by parish funds. Highlights for me included the lovely and frequent ‘food stops.’ Food aside, it was lovely to see everyone from across our whole church region all gathered in person. I loved meeting new people, or people that I had heard of but had never met before – or even people who I was training with online, who I now met face to face. There was a real feeling of camaraderie and friendliness, and it felt like one, huge extended family – which was really fun to be a part of.
The biggest highlight for me was listening to our Tikanga Māori Archbishop Don Tamihere, who spoke candidly about the history of Te Tairawhiti, which was both powerful and humbling – particularly when I learned more from him firsthand about the chequered past of our own Anglican church in this region. His words inspired in me a renewed vision of us all still learning, and growing, and improving in our efforts to become a multi-Tikanga church for all New Zealanders.
Coming up:
Mini-Fair Saturday 16 May at the Green Patch in Waipukurau. Starts 10am. More details to come.
Donna Cruickshank’s ordination as a Vocational Deacon: Saturday 23 May, 11am at Waiapu Cathedral in Napier.
Followed by our next CHB Parish Combined service: Sunday 24 May, 10.30am at St Mark’s Takapau
Blessings
Deborah
11 April 2026 5pm
Kia ora, friends
Things are moving fast out there. Bishop Andrew has contacted me to say he is now recommending that all church services throughout Waiapu be cancelled tomorrow. He’s concerned about both clergy and lay parishioners travelling and getting caught up in the storm.
In view of this, all worship services in CHB are cancelled for tomorrow morning, ie there will now not be in-person worship in Waipukurau, Ōtāne or Takapau.
Instead, please feel very welcome to join in Morning Worship by zoom at 10am hosted by Waiapu Cathedral. Here is the zoom link for that::
Morning Worship by Zoom 12 April 2026 with the Cathedral at 10.00am
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87512560739?pwd=iyfLtNzrUyJ1EbSpKkrRFu8PD9dtad.1
Blessings
Deborah
CHBanglican.org 