Captured by a sense of wonder
People have always taken a keen interest in the starry skies. The constellations have been, and still are, a source of wonder. In Psalm 8 we read, ‘When I behold your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars which you set in place, what is humanity that you should be mindful of us? Who are we that you should care for us?’ It is difficult to be outside on a starlit night and not be captured by a sense of wonder.
Over the last few years we have been given the opportunity to consider the stars anew, as we became aware of the feast of Matariki and as it was recognised as an important celebration for our country. Each of the stars has a different meaning but together they all bring an awareness of the importance of our natural world and our need to preserve it, and a reminder of those who have gone before us and those that we share this world with now.
It is good to contemplate our sense of place in the cosmos and our membership of the human race; we inherit it from those who have lived before us and, at Matariki, we remember those who will receive it from us. Let us think about our stewardship of this earth and of the faith we will also hand on.
From the Vicar
Christ sends the Holy Spirit who empowers and guides the followers of Jesus after he withdraws from them into heaven, at the Ascension.
After the Resurrection Jesus spent forty days with his disciples and then “ While he was blessing them, he withdrew from them and was carried up into heaven” (Luke 24:51 NRSV).
How fortunate we are to be part of a vibrant, Christ centred, prayerful worshipping community.
Parish Officers
Parish Governance
The executive team of Vicar, churchwardens and treasurer meet constantly on parish business.
Parish Groups
Worship leaders, lay readers, servers, ushers, greeters, flower arrangers, cleaners, counters, intercessors and cup bearers all join together to support the service.
Christ sends the Holy Spirit who empowers and guides the followers of Jesus after he withdraws from them into heaven, at the Ascension.
After the Resurrection Jesus spent forty days with his disciples and then “ While he was blessing them, he withdrew from them and was carried up into heaven” (Luke 24:51 NRSV).
How fortunate we are to be part of a vibrant, Christ centred, prayerful worshipping community.
Community Fair bringing affordable toys, books, china, vintage clothes and more from the Opawa - St Martins Parish.