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    • Weekly Bulletin: Staying connected as a church - 13 November 2022
      • Kia ora St John’s whānau, This Sunday we have a Baptism, celebrate Communion and a special guest preacher (see below), and we will consider how much we rate human wisdom in relation to God’s power! <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > If you want to read the Bible readings before Sunday, they are: Isaiah 12: 2-6 and 1 Corinthians 2:4-5 Children start at 10am with their peer group in the St John’s Centre and join in Communion later. The Youth Group will stay in the whole service this Sunday, to hear Dr Gray Manicom. If you can’t gather in the city, and you want to join the worship service via Zoom, here are the details to access the live-stream: Zoom Meeting ID: 370 260 759Passcode: worship The link to join the Zoom worship service is below. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/370260759?pwd=b2ZkajZ5d28rTy9EN1VKZDJUM3N4dz09   If using your phone: dial 04 886 0026 (Meeting ID: 370 260 759#, Passcode: 1560107#) This is the link to the printable Service Sheet  <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/c2g9klv741oqk46/13th%20November%202022%20Order%20of%20Service.pdf?dl=0" class="sqs-block-button-element--medium sqs-button-element--primary sqs-block-button-element" > Printable Service Sheet <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/370260759?pwd=b2ZkajZ5d28rTy9EN1VKZDJUM3N4dz09" class="sqs-block-button-element--medium sqs-button-element--primary sqs-block-button-element" > Link to Zoom Service If worshipping via Zoom, please be prepared for Communion at home with your bread and cup. <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > VISITING MATHEMATICIAN We are delighted to be hosting Dr Gray Manicom for a visit at St John’s in the City this weekend (12th & 13th November)There will be three opportunities to hear him: on Saturday at 3pm (for students), in the Sunday morning service, and an informal presentation after the service. Dr Gray Manicom is a mathematician with interests in dynamical systems. His PhD is in the study of memory effects in heteroclinic networks. He is a research fellow in the Department of Physics at the University of Auckland, modelling and investigating the spread of the COVID-19 epidemic on a network. He loves cricket, movies and talking about ideas. Please help us share the Saturday event for students… <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > ‘Uses of Mathematics today: How Mathematics helps solve the world’s problems’Can 42 actually be the answer to the ultimate question? Can an equation take over the world? Can mathematics unlock lockdowns and quarantine pandemics? The next few decades of human development will depend on big data, AI, genetic editing, quantum computing, space travel and other fields that are, in essence, entirely dependent on mathematics. Quantum particles are too small, space too far, data too plentiful and AI too unpredictable to experiment on these things in traditional ways. Scientists in these fields typically no longer rely on experimental data to tell them what is true or not, instead, they rely on the language of mathematics' ability to describe the world. But is this trust justified? What are the differences between science and mathematics? And where does God fit in? Saturday 12th November, at 3pm in the St John’s Centre at St John’s in the City On Sunday after the morning service the talk in the St John’s Centre is: ‘Mathematics, Creativity and the Creator’All mathematics is created by people, and imagination is still the main tool for mathematical progress. However, just like with inspiring art, sometimes it seems to go beyond something created, beyond the imagination of the human creator, to suggest there was something fantastic and real waiting to be discovered the entire time. Join me as I reveal the secret life of the mathematician, and how my quest through the realm of mathematics has led me closer to the ultimate Creator.   OTHER THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT... THE MESSENGER The most recent St John’s Messenger newsletter reviews some recent events, and looks ahead to what is next. <a href="https://www.stjohnsinthecity.org.nz/news/october-messenger" class="sqs-block-button-element--medium sqs-button-element--primary sqs-block-button-element" > The Messenger Newsletter   RAISING THE STANDARD OF GIVING Last week, we highlighted the slides from the AGM about the church finances. <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/s9vqtz7wnuqaegp/AGM%20Finances%2030th%20October%202022%20slides.pdf?dl=0" class="sqs-block-button-element--medium sqs-button-element--primary sqs-block-button-element" > Slides from the AGM These show that we are continuing to navigate a difficult financial environment with multiple pressures. Even though St John’s achieved an “accounting surplus” for 2021/22, a large deficit of $400,000 is budgeted for 2022/23. This arises because of:• The need to inflation protect the Trust Fund – high inflation and low returns means very limited real returns are expected this year• Insurance costs are $176,000 (plus GST) for the year – a $20,000 increase on last year and a 50% increase over the last 3 years• Repairs and maintenance – painting the manse, washing the buildings on the St John’s site, and the repair of the Church reception roof have added to costs this year• Higher salaries arising from market demand and the intention to fill the youth and children’s ministry vacancies• A significant decline in annual congregational giving of about $60,000 compared with 2018.Some of these challenges, such as insurance, will require a regional or national approach, as other Churches are facing similar cost challenges. And some of these challenges are ours. Giving should be a joy that reflects our faith and enables our worship, ministry, mission and outreach. Jesus talked about money a lot. At least a third of his teaching was about money and property related matters – the incidents of the rich young ruler and the widow’s mite are forthright in their implications. Jesus did this because he knew that many of those he spoke to considered money more important than the Kingdom of God. Let’s prayerfully re-examine our giving as an important expression of our faith and rise to the challenge of an additional $20,000 a year over the next three years. <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " >   ONE CONFERENCE We are excited to have over 240 participants registered for the One Conference here at St John's in the City November 17-19. <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > You have the opportunity to attend any of the four main sessions of the conference for just $5 per session. For information on the main sessions go to: https://www.oneconference.org.nz/keynote-speakersYou do not need to preregister to attend, simply come with $5 cash before the session and pay it at the hospitality desk in the St Johns Centre.   WHĀNAU NIGHT 5pm-6.30pm, Sunday 20 November, BYO Picnic. The theme for the evening will be a youth-led Code Breaker night.We started off the year with a picnic in the park, and we are going to finish off with a picnic in the hall. We invite you to bring your own meal to our final celebration.This will be our LAST whānau night of 2022. And in order to continue whānau nights in 2023, we are looking for a committed leader to help orchestrate and organise teams, as Gordon Fitch is stepping down from this role. Please get in touch if you can to help organise whānau nights. <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " >   DCM Foodbank Appeal …Saturday 19th of November. St John's have been asked to collect from 9am -1pm at Chaffers St New World, with two collectors per hour. You might consider doing this for the sake of those in our city who need help. Please contact Carolyn Goudswaard, if you are able to help. Annual General Meeting …Monday 28th November. Their AGM is in the St John’s Centre. Refreshments will be served from 5:30pm with a meeting start time of 6pm. DCM’s Manahautū, Stephen Turnock, will offer a reflection.   SCOTS COLLEGE ADVENT SERVICE At St John’s in the City 4pm Sunday 27th November 2022.   COMBINED ADVENT SERVICE With St Mary of the Angels and St Peter’s.At St Mary of the Angels 7pm Sunday 27th November 2022 <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " >   FELLOWSHIP GROUP The Fellowship Group meets for the traditional Advent Service on Tuesday 29th November at 11am in the St John’s Church. Please note this is the fifth Tuesday of the month.The usual shared lunch will be enhanced by strawberries and ice-cream. And a koha will be invited in support of the work of Christian World Service.   The grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.Allister
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        • St John's, Willis Street, Te Aro, Wellington, Wellington City, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand (OpenStreetMap)


    • October Messenger
      • RASING THE STANDARD OF GIVING <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > ‘Raising the standard of giving’ – describes the thoughtful re-examination of our giving as an important expression for our faith.  We give meaningfully, not because the Church needs it (it does, of course) but because as Christians we need to give it for our own sake spiritually. Our giving connected to our:  Discipleship Shared mission and vision Expression of generosity in proportion to our means. Together we are encouraging one another to think about our values, to examine or re-examine our giving habits accordingly, to make carefully thought-out decisions, and to re-arrange our priorities in using money to enable us to carry out these decisions.  Money is a real responsibility. The more we have of it, the greater our responsibility. The place we give it in our lives, the purposes to which we put it, are very relevant to our Christian life.   Our attitude to money and possessions provides a practical test of our love of God and for others. Often our money may be taken as a yardstick measuring the value we put upon our beliefs. Our attitudes to money, the place we give it in our lives, provide a telling clue to our Christian character.  What is ‘token giving’? Giving is not primarily token by the size of the gift, but by its relationship to the financial means of the giver and how it relates to her/his intention in making it.  What about ‘sacrificial giving’? Graham Redding recently wrote:  “Has the concept of sacrificial giving had its day? For as long as people deem the act of giving to be an integral part of their sense of vocation, then the answer to that question must be no. What is freely and abundantly given, even at a sacrificial level, can be a joy, not a burden.”1  Sacrificial giving is best understood as generous enough to involve substantial cost, and so has real meaning to the giver. It brings to the giver a sense of fulfilment - of responsibilities faced and met. It comes only after careful thought, realisation of the issues involved, prayer and the planning that makes such a gift practicable. It makes a significant impression on the giver’s spiritual life because it brings into sharp focus the importance of spiritual values in life.  So, as we move forward on the journey of faith together, let us re-examination our giving as we put our faith into action every day.  [1] ‘Time to talk about responsible rather than sacrificial giving?’ Graham Redding, Otago Daily Times, 29th April 2022. https://www.odt.co.nz/opinion/time-talk-about-responsible-rather-sacrificial-giving LUMINARY Luminary is a sculptural installation by artist Auckland Karen Sewell which was installed in St John’s chapel from 29 July to 7 August this year, having earlier been shown as part of the collateral projects programme of the Venice Biennale 2022 in Italy and in Auckland, Dunedin and Christchurch. It explored the metaphor of light and light giving bodies and was an effort to revive the long-standing tradition of placing art in churches, in this case with contemporary art. It involved a large sphere illuminated in white and gold light high in the ceiling of the chapel, accompanied by a display of lumen prints, showing another aspect of light.  We saw it as more than that. While providing an opportunity for people to reflect on creation and light, it was also an opportunity for St John’s to connect with the wider community and tell people about our own historic building, with its own art works of high interest such as our stained-glass window of the Good Samaritan on our north wall or Christ’s last supper, shown in the chapel. It worked well. With support from the Congregation contributing to expenses and volunteers helping to open Church, more than 300 people saw the work, including more than 200 from beyond the Congregation. Some stayed for up to half an hour and engaged well about St Johns and what we do on site. A good range of people showed interest, including many students and younger people, some who just wanted to see inside the Church which is normally not open. The sale of Karen Sewell’s donated artworks raised $207 for DCM’s work with the homeless too.   A big thank you to all who helped, including to show us some other ways to connect with our community, as we want to fulfil our vision for St John’s.   See the video production of the installation at St John’s in the city https://www.luminaryvenice.com/luminary-wellington-video  See more at www.luminaryvenice.com  David Galt  <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > CHURCH CAMP 2022 This month saw our church whānau join together at Forest Lakes campground for Church Camp 2022. We were treated to lovely spring weather, a plethora of activities, and meaningful worship sessions all packed into just 2 nights! <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > Arriving on Friday night, we quickly stowed our things in our cabins, then started camp right with icebreaker games, and a session in the chapel. We got to sing along with the combined worship band and hear more about our theme of “Journeying together”. It felt apt knowing that not only had we all journeyed to Otaki to be together, but we’ve all been on our own journeys through COVID and a rapidly changing world. Games and movies and supper sufficiently tired us all out ready for what we hoped would be a good nights’ sleep in cold cabins. Saturday dawned bright and the whole day stretched before us. After breakfast it was time to welcome our day campers and get stuck into more worship. Truly, guitars and clapping and singing - such a great way to wake up! Then came a life auction; working together in multi-generational teams and trying to build a meaningful life on a (imaginary) budget created rich conversations for sure. Being a part of a ‘poorer’ group really did make our group focus on just a few, top priority qualities that make a huge difference to a good life. Digesting this while hearing more stories of people on a journey brought home how lucky we are, and how we can keep going towards more. Free time in the sun followed our time together, with kayaking, golfing, archery and more. Kids entertained and happy campers mingling together and chatting through life with smiles beaming. <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > After more games and then dinner, it was time for the long-awaited camp concert. What talent our church whānau possesses! From dancing to singing to karate to hose trumpets, it all ended with a blow out youth band jam session. What do you do when you’re alone in an elevator?? And of course, camp wouldn’t be complete without the bonfire. We saw roaring flames, gooey marshmallows, and warmth all on a beautifully still night. A perfect chance to be real, and engage with one another. <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > Sunday morning worship and we tied together our journeying theme of the weekend. All tied together like a fairy tale.Church camp had been just another casualty of the COVID cancellation era last year, and it was fantastic that we got to pick it up and revive it for this year. It seemed extra rewarding that it came following a big time of post-pandemic change and busy-ness in our lives. A huge thanks to the team of volunteers who helped plan and organise to get it going, and to all those that helped while we were there to keep things running smoothly for us all. God is definitely close when we’re moving towards Him together. Amanda Fitch A FUTURE IN THE CITY In 1853 St John’s was surrounded by paddocks, on the fringe of a new settlement town. Down the road was Te Aro Pa, and in and around Dixon St were ramshackle shanty buildings and an abattoir. Muddy roads, typhoid outbreaks and a British immigrant population were seeking a new beginning having bought land from the unscrupulous NZ Company. Meanwhile Tangata Whenua hailing from Taranaki Whanui and Te Ati Awa were slowly being disenfranchised from their land. The history of Wellington’s settlement is far from pretty. By 1893 women had the vote and there was a strong movement for social improvement. As expressed in the NZ Presbyterian magazine the ‘Christian Outlook’, the place of cities, their influence, the call to be a part of the social fabric and be Christ ‘where you are’ was strong. To ‘Make that one corner, room, house, office as like heaven as you can.’… to “Beautify it, ventilate it, drain it.’… Educate it, Amuse it, Church it. Christianise capital; dignify labour.’’ In 1895, the church was calling members to get involved in the nitty gritty and dirty parts of life, to use their capital for good. To be involved in the hard stuff, to engage in social issues and matters of justice. Not to sit back and watch, but to “Join councils and committees. Provide for the poor, the sick, and the widow. So will you serve the city." This is the whakapapa of St Johns – In the City. Fast forward to 2022. 169 years later we are asking ourselves once again, what does it mean to be part of the City? How do we be Christ’s hands and feet amongst the high-rises, the apartments, and the shadows of the City where loneliness is common? How do we provide a place of restoration in a world of hard tarmac and where open spaces are rare? How do we meaningfully share the knowledge of a loving, hope-filled God to a understandably cynical generation, who have heard more about the damage meted out by religious authority, and never had firsthand experience of the church as a loving, accepting and generous community? This is what we have been grappling with for the last year. We’ve been asking ourselves what is our future? Who do we need to be for a new generation? How do we demonstrate Christ’s message of love, hope and create a place where people feel they belong and can find respite, in order to recharge for whatever life throws at them?After much deliberation, prayerful, presbyterian debate and discussion, we agreed the following statement captured our Vision for the future:We explore and share the gospel with our dynamic neighbourhood. We create safe spaces to be, to belong, and to navigate the tough stuff. Getting to know God is a team sport – that’s why we do this together, not alone. <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > The Pohutukawa tree represents our community, our hopes and aspirations – with strong roots in God’s love building faith together, a trunk with many strands that is a place of acceptance and belonging, reaching out our branches in many diverse ways to connect with the dynamic community that surrounds our site and explore the Gospel together.Quickly moving onto Actions, we have tried to put legs on good intentions, and turn theory into practical actions providing a renewed sense of community purpose post-COVID. An interactive workshop where members got a chance to choose a project team they wanted to participate in kicked off this stage. Site and Space TeamChristmas in the Courtyard - a celebration with food, music and carols    Friday 9 DecemberContact Rob Anderson or Judi Ferguson , Phone: 021 239 1702    Community Rebuild Supporting Attendance at Church Camp and Talent Show. 20 older congregation members came to church camp for the day! Awesome job team!!  Whānau Night ExtensionYouth Lead Code Breaker Night, 20 November 2022 – Come along! Vision Communication and ConnectionsImproving Signage and Billboards, Contact: Elizabeth Gibbs. This group has met and made plans. Now…full steam ahead! Getting to Know our Neighbours / Understanding Our Eco System/CommunityParticipating in Wellington Heritage Week (with our Open Day on 5 November), connecting with local property developers to understand future populations.  Contact: Pamela Cohen  Phone:  027 440 1838 Fiona Purchas NOTABLE MENTIONS New MembersAnjali George, Robyn Albertson Pearse Lane for receiving the Chief Scout Award, as well as a Karori Youth Award and MVP for his Football season with Wellington College. Alice Carter won Hutt singing competition and sang in the national Memorial Service for QEII Leon Scohpa (Son of Richard Hpa and Chantelle Scoon) for his Baptism. Bhanu Pancha for her Baptism
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        • St John's, Willis Street, Te Aro, Wellington, Wellington City, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand (OpenStreetMap)


    • Weekly Bulletin: Staying connected as a church - 11 September 2022
      • Kia ora St John’s whānau, This Sunday’s date recalls a day of terror, which for most of us was within living memory: September 11 <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > Stephen Harris is our Guest Preacher, and will be reflecting on how the scriptures speak to the current perils of our world. His sermon is titled ‘Biblical Times’. If you want to read the Bible readings before Sunday, they are: Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28 and 2 Timothy 3: 1-5, 14-17 Our youth and kids will start at 10am in their peer groups (in the Centre) and join together in the Church for Communion. After the service we have our Quarterly Communion Lunch, so please bring food to share If you can’t get into the city, and you want to join the worship service via Zoom, here are the details to access the live-stream: Zoom Meeting ID: 370 260 759Passcode: worship The link to join the Zoom worship service is below. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/370260759?pwd=b2ZkajZ5d28rTy9EN1VKZDJUM3N4dz09   If using your phone: dial 04 886 0026 (Meeting ID: 370 260 759#, Passcode: 1560107#) This is the link to the printable Service Sheet  <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/kzpicbcfm4xq4j4/11%20September%202022%20Order%20of%20Service.pdf?dl=0" class="sqs-block-button-element--medium sqs-button-element--primary sqs-block-button-element" > Printable Service Sheet <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/370260759?pwd=b2ZkajZ5d28rTy9EN1VKZDJUM3N4dz09" class="sqs-block-button-element--medium sqs-button-element--primary sqs-block-button-element" > Link to Zoom Service  ELECTION OF NEW ELDERS At last week’s Congregational Meeting we elected two new elders: Jason Fyfe and Nisha George. We thank God for their sense of call and look forward to their ordination to this leadership role in our church  ST JOHN’S CHURCH CAMP This is a special weekend for all of us! 16th – 18th September 2022The theme is ‘Journeying Together’. Online registrations are closed. But we might be able to squeeze in some extras. Please contact Naomi to enquire. Contact: Naomi Contact: Naomi <form method="POST" novalidate data-form-id="631949492645ee7c5a5dcd8e" data-success-redirect="" autocomplete="on" action="https://stjohnsinthecity.squarespace.com" data-dynamic-strings onsubmit="return (function (form) { Y.use('squarespace-form-submit', 'node', function usingFormSubmit(Y) { (new Y.Squarespace.FormSubmit(form)).submit({ formId: '631949492645ee7c5a5dcd8e', collectionId: '5eaba2aa9758022539788d0f', objectName: 'item-63194863e1325949ba993a7e' }); }); return false; })(this);" > Name * <input data-title="First" spellcheck="false" maxlength="30" name="fname" aria-required="true" type="text" class="field-element field-control" x-autocompletetype="given-name" /> First Name <input data-title="Last" spellcheck="false" maxlength="30" name="lname" aria-required="true" type="text" class="field-element field-control" x-autocompletetype="surname" /> Last Name Email * <input autocomplete="email" spellcheck="false" name="email" aria-required="true" id="email-yui_3_17_2_1_1662601295138_56015-field" type="email" class="field-element" /> Subject * <input aria-required="true" id="text-yui_3_17_2_1_1662601295138_56016-field" type="text" class="field-element text" /> Message * <textarea aria-required="true" id="textarea-yui_3_17_2_1_1662601295138_56017-field" class="field-element " > <input type="submit" class="button sqs-system-button sqs-editable-button sqs-button-element--primary" value="Submit" /> Thank you! <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > VISION TO ACTION <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > Our Vision: We explore and share the gospel with our dynamic neighbourhood. We create safe spaces to be, to belong, and to navigate the tough stuff. Getting to know God is a team sport – that’s why we do this together, not alone. How to get involved… Join a project team – everyone is welcome!!Site and Space – Get involved in exploring how the St John’s site can be used in an outreach capacity. This could involve physical changes, projects, use of the Centre.Current Project: Community Christmas MarketContact Rob Anderson or Judi Ferguson       Community Rebuild – Help re-establish and build back internal relationships and friendship in the St John’s community post COVID.Current Project: Supporting Attendance at Church Camp and Talent ShowContact: Margaret Gilkison or Jemma August Caring for Specific Groups of Need in the St John’s Community – Help us intentionally build connections between generations and serve specific groups of need e.g. young, elderly, youth.Contact: TBC Whānau Night Extension – Get involved in building on the success of Whānau Night. Held each month during school terms in the St John’s Centre or in homes. Food, fun, faith and focus.Current Project: Youth Lead Code Breaker Night, 20 November 2022Coordinator contacts for 20 November Whanau Night: Antonia Milkop and Bronwyn Wood with St John’s Youth GroupWhat we need:  In order for the church to carry on running Whanau Nights from 2023 onwards, we will need to find a committed leader to help orchestrate and organise teams to run future Whanau nights.  Does this sound like you? Vision Communication and Connections – Ensuring St John’s is communicating our Vision with the wider community and supporting the project teams.Current Project: Improving Signage and BillboardsContact: Elizabeth Gibbs Getting to Know our Neighbours /Understanding Our - Eco System/Community – Building direct relationships with our immediate neighbourhood i.e. business and organisations, Victoria University of Wellington and Massey University, Kaianga Ora, building developers, WCC, neighbouring Churches, schools.Current Projects: Follow-up event from Art Installation and Connecting with local property developers to understand future populations.Contact: Pamela Cohen         The St John’s Vision is a key focus for Session Leaders so feel free to contact any one of them about this. In particular you can contact the Session Clerk, Rob Anderson New IdeasSt John’s wants to innovate and try new things that fit in with our Vision. If you have a creative idea the following information might help you work out how to progress that from a thought to action. <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > If needed, talk to Ino Pasullean so he can connect you with the right project team or provide further advice.  NAME TAGS As we turn our Vision into action, one very easy and practical way we can build community is to wear a name tag.This Sunday all those who wear a name tag (or sign up to get one) will get a chocolate!Please keep your name tag on when you come over for Morning Tea in the Centre, and there will be a receptacle to drop your name tag into before you leave.  LEADERSHIP FOR OUR MINISTRY WITH YOUNG PEOPLE We are looking for new paid leadership to support our ministry with Children & Families and Youth. These are important and life-giving ministries for us at St John’s and we remain committed to these ministries as an expression of our faith shared and grown together.While we have existing position descriptions for these roles (half-time for the Children & Families role, and full-time for the Youth Pastor role), we are also wanting to be flexible and shape the responsibilities of these roles, where appropriate, to match a) the strengths of suitable applicants, and b) with the emerging needs at St John’s.Our St John’s Vision is encouraging us to focus on being intergenerational, having safe spaces for people to belong, being flexible and responsive, with an open-minded and positive culture.We are open to explore possibilities with anyone who has a passion and aptitude for these ministries.If you, or someone you know, might consider these roles, please contact Rev Allister Lane for more information, including the current position descriptions (Ph: 021 466 526).Applications close 23rd September 2022. including a CV and a covering letter that lays out your vision for the role. <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " >  FREE GAMELAN CONCERT <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " >  FELLOWSHIP GROUP “Seeing the Invisible: Black Holes, the Universe and our place in it”This was the title of a presentation given last month at a Science & Faith seminar at St John’s by Prof Jeff Tallon.At this month’s Fellowship Group you can hear this presentation again, along with the wondrous images from the deepest parts of space.Tuesday 27th September, 11am in the Hall.  ONE CONFERENCE This leadership training conference for the Presbyterian Church is being hosted at St John’s in November (2pm 17th of November - 2:30pm Saturday the 19th of November).We will have many folks travelling from out of town and many have asked if there any possibility of being billeted. Would you like to consider billeting out-of-town attendees to the conference?Conference attendees will have all meals provided at the conference except breakfast. If you can offer billeting please fill in this form One Conference Billet Host Form or email grace@presbyterian.org.nz <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " >  The grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.Allister
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        • St John's, Willis Street, Te Aro, Wellington, Wellington City, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand (OpenStreetMap)


    • Weekly Bulletin: Staying connected as a church - 17 July 2022
      • Kia ora St John’s whānau, This Sunday we hear Jesus point out what is most important in how we live in a busy world  … we might feel challenged by what he points out about us! <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > If you want to read the Bible readings before Sunday, they are Amos 8:1-12 and Luke 10: 38-42And if you want to hear a weekly Rev’s Ramble on the Bible readings, click here. https://www.facebook.com/KhandallahPresbyterianChurch This is the middle weekend of the school holidays and we are having a one-week break from peer groups and holiday programmes – so we will all remain together for the whole worship service. If you want to join the worship service via Zoom, here are the details to access the live-stream: Zoom Meeting ID: 370 260 759Passcode: worship The link to join the Zoom worship service is below. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/370260759?pwd=b2ZkajZ5d28rTy9EN1VKZDJUM3N4dz09   If using your phone: dial 04 886 0026 (Meeting ID: 370 260 759#, Passcode: 1560107#) This is the link to the printable Service Sheet  <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/wclfv5luwk0ngly/17th%20July%202022%20Order%20of%20Service.pdf?dl=0" class="sqs-block-button-element--medium sqs-button-element--primary sqs-block-button-element" > Printable Service Sheet <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/370260759?pwd=b2ZkajZ5d28rTy9EN1VKZDJUM3N4dz09" class="sqs-block-button-element--medium sqs-button-element--primary sqs-block-button-element" > Link to Zoom Service  OTHER THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT ST JOHN’S VISION We have articulated a fresh Vision for St John’s. And everyone is invited to get involved as we follow this Vision as a way to reform, restore and rebuild us as a Church. <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > Over several weeks we have had various presentations and discussions, and a summary of the Vision is available to read here: <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/9ah3ioisxxsnm2e/StJohns_Vision-one-pager_June.pdf?dl=0" class="sqs-block-button-element--medium sqs-button-element--primary sqs-block-button-element" > Summary of the vision “We explore and share the gospel with our dynamic neighbourhood. We create safe spaces to be, to belong, and to navigate the tough stuff. Getting to know God is a team sport – that’s why we do this together, not alone.” The invitation is for us to activate our Vision through projects that interest us. We can get together with others to collaborate.  FELLOWSHIP GROUP AGM The group’s Annual General Meeting is near! On Tuesday 26th July the group will gather at 11am in the St John’s Centre Hall. Rev Allister Lane will be the speaker.  Please bring some food to share. ART INSTALLATION AT ST JOHN'S:LUMINARY - HE TINANA TIRETIERA The Dawning of Dreams Aotearoa New Zealand Church & Cathedral Tour 2022Sunday 31 July to Sunday 7 August, 2022   Opening Hours: 10am to 4 pm (except Sundays start at 1pm)Cost: Free   St John’s in the City Church, Corner Willis St & Dixon St, WellingtonKaren Sewell is a significant Auckland artist, recently returned from this year’s Venice Biennale where her work was featured as a collateral part of the 2022 Venice Biennale. The work shown below is touring New Zealand in Cathedrals and Churches.St John’s is showing this work both to showcase it as a fascinating artwork and to offer an opportunity for the wider Wellington community to connect with St Johns, seeing our Church and what we do as well the art. <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " >  NEW ZEALAND CHRISTIANS IN SCIENCE EVENT Wellington Winter Lectures on Physics and Ethics: "Science and Faith in an Age of Misinformation"Saturday 6 August at St Johns in the City. <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > Prof. Jeff Tallon, ‘Seeing the Invisible – black holes, the universe and our place in it’Dr. Greg Liston, ‘Spirit, Time and Trasnformation’Dr. Gray Manicom, ‘What the Mysteries of Mathematics Reveal About the Creator’Dr. Nicola Hoggard Creegan, ‘From Hiroshima to Recombinant DNA: The importance of ethical reflection’Cost: Only $10Register at www.nzcis.org/upcoming-eventsFacebook: https://fb.me/e/3CgwX8RYH  ST JOHN'S CHURCH CAMP After having to defer the Church Camp because of covid, we are excited about having this special weekend this year. Please SAVE THE DATE for the St John’s Church Camp:16th – 18th September 2022The theme is ‘Journeying Together’.  Not to be missed! <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " >  ORPHEUS CHOIR PRESENTS BRAHMS GERMAN REQUIEM Saturday 10 September at 7.30 pm at the Michael Fowler Centre. Discount tickets of $45 A reserve and $40 B reserve are available from Linda Van Milligan, 027 2889210 or lindavanmilligan@gmail.com
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        • St John's, Willis Street, Te Aro, Wellington, Wellington City, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand (OpenStreetMap)


    • Weekly Bulletin: Staying connected as a church - 17 July 2022
      • Kia ora St John’s whānau, This Sunday we hear Jesus point out what is most important in how we live in a busy world … we might feel challenged by what he points out about us! <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > If you want to read the Bible readings before Sunday, they are Amos 8:1-12 and Luke 10: 38-42And if you want to hear a weekly Rev’s Ramble on the Bible readings, click here. https://www.facebook.com/KhandallahPresbyterianChurch This is the middle weekend of the school holidays and we are having a one-week break from peer groups and holiday programmes – so we will all remain together for the whole worship service. If you want to join the worship service via Zoom, here are the details to access the live-stream: Zoom Meeting ID: 370 260 759Passcode: worship The link to join the Zoom worship service is below. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/370260759?pwd=b2ZkajZ5d28rTy9EN1VKZDJUM3N4dz09   If using your phone: dial 04 886 0026 (Meeting ID: 370 260 759#, Passcode: 1560107#) This is the link to the printable Service Sheet  <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/giz5s0wbcajwhi0/24th%20July%202022%20Order%20of%20Service.pdf?dl=0" class="sqs-block-button-element--medium sqs-button-element--primary sqs-block-button-element" > Printable Service Sheet <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/370260759?pwd=b2ZkajZ5d28rTy9EN1VKZDJUM3N4dz09" class="sqs-block-button-element--medium sqs-button-element--primary sqs-block-button-element" > Link to Zoom Service  OTHER THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT ST JOHN’S VISION We have articulated a fresh Vision for St John’s. And everyone is invited to get involved as we follow this Vision as a way to reform, restore and rebuild us as a Church. <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > Over several weeks we have had various presentations and discussions, and a summary of the Vision is available to read here: <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/9ah3ioisxxsnm2e/StJohns_Vision-one-pager_June.pdf?dl=0" class="sqs-block-button-element--medium sqs-button-element--primary sqs-block-button-element" > Summary of the vision “We explore and share the gospel with our dynamic neighbourhood. We create safe spaces to be, to belong, and to navigate the tough stuff. Getting to know God is a team sport – that’s why we do this together, not alone.” The invitation is for us to activate our Vision through projects that interest us. We can get together with others to collaborate.  FELLOWSHIP GROUP AGM The group’s Annual General Meeting is near! On Tuesday 26th July the group will gather at 11am in the St John’s Centre Hall. Rev Allister Lane will be the speaker.  Please bring some food to share. ART INSTALLATION AT ST JOHN'S:LUMINARY - HE TINANA TIRETIERA The Dawning of Dreams Aotearoa New Zealand Church & Cathedral Tour 2022Sunday 31 July to Sunday 7 August, 2022   Opening Hours: 10am to 4 pm (except Sundays start at 1pm)Cost: Free   St John’s in the City Church, Corner Willis St & Dixon St, WellingtonKaren Sewell is a significant Auckland artist, recently returned from this year’s Venice Biennale where her work was featured as a collateral part of the 2022 Venice Biennale. The work shown below is touring New Zealand in Cathedrals and Churches.St John’s is showing this work both to showcase it as a fascinating artwork and to offer an opportunity for the wider Wellington community to connect with St Johns, seeing our Church and what we do as well the art. <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " >  NEW ZEALAND CHRISTIANS IN SCIENCE EVENT Wellington Winter Lectures on Physics and Ethics: "Science and Faith in an Age of Misinformation"Saturday 6 August at St Johns in the City. <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > Prof. Jeff Tallon, ‘Seeing the Invisible – black holes, the universe and our place in it’Dr. Greg Liston, ‘Spirit, Time and Trasnformation’Dr. Gray Manicom, ‘What the Mysteries of Mathematics Reveal About the Creator’Dr. Nicola Hoggard Creegan, ‘From Hiroshima to Recombinant DNA: The importance of ethical reflection’Cost: Only $10Register at www.nzcis.org/upcoming-eventsFacebook: https://fb.me/e/3CgwX8RYH  ST JOHN'S CHURCH CAMP After having to defer the Church Camp because of covid, we are excited about having this special weekend this year. Please SAVE THE DATE for the St John’s Church Camp:16th – 18th September 2022The theme is ‘Journeying Together’.  Not to be missed! <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " >  ORPHEUS CHOIR PRESENTS BRAHMS GERMAN REQUIEM Saturday 10 September at 7.30 pm at the Michael Fowler Centre. Discount tickets of $45 A reserve and $40 B reserve are available from Linda Van Milligan, 027 2889210 or lindavanmilligan@gmail.com
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        • St John's, Willis Street, Te Aro, Wellington, Wellington City, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand (OpenStreetMap)


    • Weekly Bulletin: Staying connected as a Church 28 November 2021
      • Kia ora St John’s whānau, This Sunday is the first Sunday of Advent! <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > Young people will start in the service at 10:00am for 15-20 minutes of worship all together, before peer group time.   Our Guest Preacher on Sunday is Dr Andrew Shepherd, Lecturer in Theology and Public Issues for Otago University – based in Wellington.   We know that while we remain under Alert Level 2 the maximum numbers for gatherings is 100.  So, as well as worshipping at St John’s in the City this Sunday, we also offer a live stream option. Here are the details for joining in worship via Zoom…   Zoom Meeting ID: 370 260 759 Passcode: worship   The link to join the Zoom worship service is below.  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/370260759?pwd=b2ZkajZ5d28rTy9EN1VKZDJUM3N4dz09 ’> If using your phone: dial 04 886 0026 (Meeting ID: 370 260 759#, Passcode: 1560107#) This is the link to the printable Service Sheet <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/azzu73pgyehkju2/OOS%2028%20Nov%202021.docx?dl=0" class="sqs-block-button-element--medium sqs-button-element--primary sqs-block-button-element" > Printable Service Sheet This Sunday after the service, you are invited to stay for tea and coffee and the Congregational Forum on the new Covid Traffic Light system: The new Traffic Light Protection Framework is coming into effect this week. While the media has highlighted the conflict around this, the St John’s Session are wanting to find a way to manage this that bears witness to our faith. Before Session makes necessary decisions, there is the opportunity for anyone to join a discussion to better understand the relevant issues for us as a Church. Please come ready to share and listen together, so we can recognise the range of perspectives and maintain unity.  (Ephesians 4:3) <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " >  OTHER THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT ADVENT FAITH EXPERIENCES <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > Mary and Joseph walked 145k from Nazareth to Bethlehem, before Mary gave birth to Jesus. This advent many people in our congregation are going to either walk or run 145 km's, and you are very welcome to join the challenge. It may surprise you to know that walking is considered an ancient spiritual practice for many people, in fact walking is mentioned 247 times in the bible. In proverbs 14:15 it tells us that “the prudent give thought to their steps” We have created a booklet in which people can record their daily km traveled. If you would like a copy please let us know, and we will get one to you. <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > Another way to prepare your heart for the birth of Christ this Advent, is to listen to our podcast via Spotify, Apple Music or from our Podcast Website. 22 members of our congregation, of all ages, have recorded these daily devotions, so listen each day to hear very familiar voices.  Each devotion is focused on a different scripture, and includes a reflection and prayer. The devotions have been written by Advent Conspiracy.  WE ARE LOOKING FOR A CHILDREN & FAMILIES MINISTRY WORKER We are passionate about ministry with young people, and seeking passionate leadership for coordinating this in our midst. Our VISION STATEMENT for ministry with young people is “Enjoying faith formation with young people in an intergenerational community, equipping them for a lifetime of discipleship and encouraging them to worship, grow, live, and share as children of God.”This part-time permanent position is for 18.75 hours per week with flexibility when the hours are worked. This role includes our gathered time as a Church community on Sunday mornings. Those interested in up to full-time equivalent work may also consider a harmonious position working with young people in a part-time Assistant Chaplain role currently advertised by Scots College. https://www.scotscollege.school.nz/scots-college-assistant-chaplain/ Perhaps you know someone you could you pass this information on to…? For the position description or any questions Please contact: enquiries@stjohnsinthecity.org.nz    Phone: 04 385 1546Closing date for applications is Friday 3rd December 2021 <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " >  FELLOWSHIP GROUP This year the Fellowship Group Advent Meeting actually falls into Advent – on Tuesday 30 November 2021.  Starting in the Church at 11am for worship, moving to the St John’s Centre afterwards for a finger food lunch (which is provided), complete with ice cream and strawberries!  Please bring a koha for Christian World Service.  CHRISTMAS STAR BOXES At St John’s we have empty Christmas Star Boxes from Wellington City Mission – for us to fill them with gifts! Filling these boxes is a way to spread love as we celebrate Christmas, and will make a joyous difference for people in need.  Gifts are to be unwrapped, and here are some ideas: Vouchers (e.g. Movies/Zoo/Pool/Supermarket), construction toys (e.g. Lego/Meccano/Blocks) books, puzzles & board games, sports gear.  The last Sunday before the Christmas Star Boxes are collected is 5th December – so we have just a few weeks to make our donations! <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " >  MENTORING PROGRAMME We give thanks to God for the first-ever 12 month Mentoring Programme which recently concluded. Next year, we are running our second St John's Mentoring Programme. As part of our St John's inter-generational faith formation, this Mentoring Programme expresses our Mission Statement very well. Will you be involved as a Mentor?  Will you be involved as a Mentee? As the start of this Mentoring Programme will be at the beginning of 2022, we encourage you to register your interest early. <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfSntlX1oCcWSljMKunqED9t6-LLBXSRNzpXYl4S00_BfQMZQ/viewform" class="sqs-block-button-element--small sqs-button-element--tertiary sqs-block-button-element" > Sign up as a mentee <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScwXk8C5flT7Qz9Q0xqX40bvkvZzGR5qFab_s2BCTUGyGhyLw/viewform" class="sqs-block-button-element--small sqs-button-element--tertiary sqs-block-button-element" > Sign up as a mentor <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " >  
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        • St John's, Willis Street, Te Aro, Wellington, Wellington City, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand (OpenStreetMap)


    • A response to the Destiny Church: applying Christian ethics in a time of pandemic - Rev Allister Lane
      • <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > Last week Brian Tamaki vowed to hold a Destiny service this Sunday in defiance of the decision by the Government to continue the ban on large gatherings under Alert Level 2. Tamaki urged other churches to join him (see Stuff Article). Many of us will have our own instincts in responding to the pandemic, with varying appetites for social controls and government guidelines. So, as well as assessing the risks of the virus, how do we assess how we do ‘the right thing’? What should guide us in whether we side with the opinion of Destiny Church, or not? Christian ethics offer resources for us at this time, to know how best to respond as individuals, as churches, as communities, being attentive to what really matters. Here are five points of Christian ethics for us to consider in how we respond to the pandemic. The sanctity of human life Truth telling Social justice Church Witness in the world Government. Each of these is consider in more detail below as an offering toward a moral framework to help respond well in a time of pandemic. 1. The sanctity of human life. God has shown through scripture and the incarnation of Jesus that human beings have sacred worth. Given this understanding of the inviolable sacredness of human life, there is an imperative for us to protect human life. This value of human life is linked to love of neighbour. In Jesus’ parable of the Good Samaritan, we are invited to consider what this means with regard to responding to the physical health, safety and well-being of the stranger (Luke 10:25-37). In his book Kingdom Ethics, David Gushee states “Love sees with compassion and enters into the situation of persons in bondage.” (David P. Gushee, Kingdom Ethics (Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 2016), 204. ) The life and teaching of Jesus has shaped our understanding of prioritizing human health, and influenced the medicine and nursing vocations in caring for the sick, disabled and dying. Because Christians value the sanctity of human life, we strive to minimize any threat that destroys human life. We have all been presented with the evidence of the risks of large gatherings and how they unduly danger the lives and health of our neighbours. 2. Truth telling. A commitment to truthfulness is recognised as a hallmark of humility and forgiveness exercised in Christian discipleship. An openness to recognising the evidence and facing reality, in a way that allows our perceptions to be changed, is necessary in the pursuit of truth and the sharing of truth. We can therefore support the provision of clear and transparent information that offers guidance for making informed decisions. Insofar as the New Zealand Government and Health officials have offered clear and direct guidelines for mitigating the risks of the pandemic by limiting large gatherings, Christians should take this into account. 3. Social justice Scripture shows that human freedom is important to maintain. But human freedom is not ‘individualistic moral authority’ ( Gushee, Kingdom Ethics, 209) , rather it thrives when we live with love toward others by fostering compassionate justice. We must always recognise and advance the freedom of the other. In scripture justice is always ‘from below’, showing consideration and caring for the most vulnerable among us. Justice is only full when it includes justice for those who are the least in society. A pandemic affects everybody, but does not affect everybody equally. Our response must pay special attention therefore to those who are most vulnerable. Covid-19 is particularly dangerous and deadly to those among us who are elderly and have underlying health issues. Christians must therefore have particular regard for these vulnerable people among us. 4. Church Witness in the world Jesus says to his followers “…you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8) The witness of the Church is to point to the person of Jesus as God’s revelation of truth, justice and compassion. What does the Church look and sound like when getting all grouchy and demanding our rights? Civil disobedience can be noble, and has been part of campaigns by Christians for standing up for what is right, but whose interests are we protecting? If we are witnesses to Christ, our actions will align with the interests of the least powerful and influential; we will demonstrate Christ’s love for those who may be otherwise overlooked by society. The Church exists for the sake of the world, and therefore its primary concern is not the preservation of its own internal activity. 5. Government. As part of Christian ethics, the Church must consider what is the ‘right’ relationship to hold with the Government. This needs to be assessed according to the system of government and the particular governing authorities of the time. In scripture we hear the deliberately subversive teaching of Jesus, who stated “render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s” (Mark 12:13-17; Matthew 22:15-22; Luke 20:20-26). Jesus distanced himself from the Roman power structure and tax system that oppressed the poor, and cultivated idolatry. Christians live in a tension that recognises the appropriate role of the governing authorities, while giving ultimate loyalty to God as citizens of heaven (Philippians 3:20). Importantly, the prohibition on large gatherings is not a prohibition of worship. Indeed, most churches are creatively using multiple forms of technology to continue worshipping. Therefore the ban on large gatherings for the sake of the common good is part of the appropriate role of the governing authorities – it is part of ‘the things that are Caesar’s’! Conclusion These five points of Christian ethics are offered to assist us in adequately considering how we best respond to the pandemic. They are guidance for us, as we try to do the right thing. These points are offered as a contribution toward a robust moral framework that helps us assess particular actions, decisions, proposals and priorities. But, we also need to maintain a gracious disposition toward others – especially those immediately around us. Let us not be too quick to condemn. With grace as our guide, we can assume the best in others, discover the way forward together and default to human solidarity – just as Jesus shows us. With thanks for the input of Dr Derek Woodard-Lehman and the group members of the St John’s Daily Devotion Together.
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        • St John's, Willis Street, Te Aro, Wellington, Wellington City, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand (OpenStreetMap)


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