The Revd Jekheli SIngh Jekheli Kibami Singh read from her contribution at the launch of our latest publication.[1] My story begins with my Sümi context of Nagaland and continues in my current ministry context of Aotearoa New Zealand. Brief Context of Sümi I am a woman of the Sümi Naga tribe (aka Sema), one of various ethnic groups found primarily in Zunheboto district, Nagaland, in the northeast of India. The majority of Sümi profess to be Christians. There is a strong connection between reading and understanding the biblical texts and understanding gender roles and relationships. Women often navigate around these societal, gendered parameters. Despite the male-priority … [Read more...]
Mum said, ‘I think you need to be a priest.’
Mele Prescott It was unheard of- a young single Tongan woman moving away from home. After working in travel and tourism for eight years, Mele Prescott left home in South Auckland to take a degree in theology. She saw this as a chance to wrestle with her thoughts and beliefs, as a young Christian follower in the Church. Her study led her to a position in Taranaki, where she was asked, What is a curate? Do you cure it?” Working in tikanga Pakeha, Mele has a wonderful story to tell. You can hear her being interviewed on Sweet Talk on Radio Taranaki https://www.accessradiotaranaki.com/player?ShowID=1316 … [Read more...]
Congratulations Wendy Scott
The karanga rang through the warm evening to welcome the arrival of the new Dean of Waikato. The Revd Wendy Scott escorted by many friends and whanau walked up the aisle of the Waikato Cathedral Church of St Peter, in Kirikiriroa , Hamilton. Suddenly a lone voice sang out - I thank you Lord for this amazing day The Revd Wendy Scott congratulated by the Revd Val Riches (left) , AWSC COUncillor,and Ms Ceridwyn Parr (right) AWSC administrator, at the reception after Wendy’s installation as Dean . Everyone joined with great enthusiasm as Wendy took her place up the front of the packed Cathedral. It was an amazing and historic event. Wendy is thought to be the first Maori to be … [Read more...]