Bishop's Update

A message to the Diocese of Waiapu

Returning from summer leave, I’ve been grateful for the steady rhythm of re‑entering the life of our Diocese—catching up with many of you, stepping back into familiar routines, and noticing signs of energy and renewal as the year begins. The time away reminded me how deeply I value the relationships and shared ministry we hold across Waiapu, and I’m thankful for all who carried the life of our communities through the quieter months.

A particular joy has been reconnecting with clergy across the regions. Hearing stories of the small but significant pastoral moments that continue even through summer has been encouraging, and a reminder of the faithful and often unseen work that sustains our common life.

In the midst of these early‑year rhythms, I travelled to Mt Maunganui to support the parish and wider community following the recent landslide. Standing beneath Mauao alongside families, mana whenua, emergency services, and those ministering in the aftermath was a poignant reminder of the resilience and compassion that flow through our people in times of disaster. Soon after, I attended the Hawke’s Bay Earthquake Memorial service at the Cathedral—an annual moment of solemn remembrance that continues to bind our region together in shared memory and hope. Both occasions held a deep sense of community supporting community.

We have also begun settling into the new offices beside the Cathedral—still a building site for a few more weeks, but already a good and energising space for our work together. We look forward to the formal opening in due course. Planning with the leadership team has resumed as we look toward the year ahead: reviewing mission priorities, preparing for upcoming gatherings, and reflecting on the Faith Giving Life survey. Graeme Brock is currently on personal leave supporting his family while his father receives palliative care; we continue to hold them all in prayer. On Graeme’s return he will share the feedback and our reflections from the survey.

February included significant gatherings, including the House of Bishops meeting in Nelson, hosting the Bishops’ EAs training in Ahuriri/Napier, St John’s Theological College powhiri, time in Gisborne in wananga with te Pīhopatanga, and several board meetings. I also valued two noho marae sessions with Shared Services and ACW staff at Ōmahu and Maungatapu marae, marking the beginning of the E Tipu E Rea cultural capability programme. It was a privilege to explore our diocesan whakapapa together and draw connections from our current context back to Ruatara and Marsden, 1814.

We have also experienced comings and goings. In February we commended to God the Reverend Rosemary Russell at her funeral at the Cathedral—a pioneer as one of the first women to be ordained priest in our church, whose ministry and resolve opened pathways for many. The Rev’d Alan Burnett has concluded his ministry at Taradale to take up a chaplaincy role at Iona College. Taradale Parish held a farewell service for Alan last week and we give thanks for his ministry among us and wish Alan, Sarah, and their family every blessing. I’m grateful to the Rev’d Christine Scott for stepping into the Priest‑in‑Charge role for the next three months.

As we move further into the year, I am hopeful. There is much happening across Waiapu, and many signs of life and growth. My prayer is that we continue to encourage and uphold one another, deepening our sense of being one body in Christ across many communities.

Thank you for the warm welcome back, and for the ministry you each offer in your own place. I look forward to sharing more stories and reflections in the weeks to come.

Grace and peace,

+Andrew Waiapu