Lay Legends

Profiling just a few of the faithful volunteers across the diocese

From parish vestry members to community service volunteers, we're blessed to have legends donating their skills and time to serve our God. Let's honour our volunteers as the hands and feet of Jesus.

Phillipa and Gary smiling together outside with a wooden cross in the background

'Creative and crazy': Messy Church with Phillipa and Gary

Petra Oomen

18 Apr

"We see people meeting with Jesus wherever they are in their ages and stages," say Gary and Phillipa, leaders of Messy Church in Motueka.

local legend sheila budgen is handed a framed image of a ship to commemorate her time with the spirit of adventure trust

Spirit-led adventure with Grandma

Petra Oomen

29 Feb

“You’re not going to be beaten by a grandma are you?” works well when persuading them to do something a bit difficult for them – jumping over the side or climbing up the rigging.

Healing Horticulture: Marlborough's garden angel

Petra Oomen

31 Aug

Evidence shows that one in three kiwis experiences mental health issues. Don wanted to make a difference. But he's not a therapist – he's a gardener.

The ministry of presence

Jan Northfield

18 May

I’d always wished for more time to connect with patients when I was nursing, and now that’s the focus of my role. It is truly rewarding to share God's love.

a group of kids sitting around a table with a woman

Sowing seeds with Pauline Stengs

Petra Oomen

12 Apr

“Sometimes I feel like a voice crying out in the wilderness. But I will keep at it until the Lord tells me to stop, so more children will hear the gospel.”