Meet the Glenmark - Waikari Parish team

The Reverend Dr. Elspeth Wingham

I began training for ministry aged 60 years and Glenmark-Waikari is my second parish. I may be older but I am not worn out. I particularly enjoy country parishes. Often the congregations are small but the people are “big” in spirit. They are friendly, welcoming, kind, generous, caring and faithful. My husband, John Preece, helps me with all the technical content of the service. This is not my strong point but I am committed to embracing technology because I can see how useful it can be to reach people who can’t attend a regular Sunday service.

We are currently living on a farm at Omihi in a rented house. I have eight chooks and a veggie garden. Our home is close to St Paul’s, Glenmark and St Aidan’s, Scargill but not so handy for the Church of the Ascension, Waikari or St James, Hawarden. For part of the week, John and I are commercial flower growers and our garden is at Conway Flat, Cheviot.

We have two daughters; one is a writer and is loosely home-based. The other is married, lives in Sumner and has two children. My parents lived with us until they passed away and so living in a multi-generational household is my norm.

I have a straightforward approach to Christianity. The two commandments that Jesus gave us guide my life. Jesus didn’t select the academics to hear His Word; He talked to everyday people. I try to make the message each Sunday, clear and concise. No long sermons; they are usually 10 to 12 minutes. With church music, I try to have one traditional hymn each service. I came from a Christian family and my faith has been my guide through life. I try to be open and non-judgmental.

If I had to explain why I am a Christian, I would borrow the line from Harry Steele;

“Life with Christ is better than life without Christ.”

Blessings, Elspeth

Richard Murchison - Licensed Lay Minister

I have been on Vestry for many years and have served as People’s Warden and Bishop’s Warden. I am currently the Synod representative and have responsibility for the Parish Buildings, CYPSO and other portfolios. I have been involved in The North Canterbury Wine and Food Festival since its inception and am currently co-Chair on the Board.

I am a trustee and treasurer of the Hawarden Waikari Community Vehicle Trust and a volunteer rural fire fighter.

I grew up in the Weka Pass and continue to reside on the family farm with my wife Brenda. Here we run sheep, cattle, and deer.

Isobel - Bishop's Warden

Annette - People's Warden

Jo and Bill - Lay Ministers

Jo & Bill faithfully set up the Church and hall for the Anglican service held monthly at St James, Hawarden. They have been Lay Ministers for many years and Jo has a special Ministry in taking funerals and supporting families.