Dear Diocese of Dunedin Whanau,

With prayerful excitement we are approaching the ordination and installation of Bishop-Elect Anne van Gend this Saturday 29th March. A celebration like this doesn’t materialise without considerable praying, listening, and mahi. We have been blessed to have Bishop Ross Bay as our Episcopal Commissary over these months. He has led us through an episcopal discernment process, offered leadership and advice to us for a myriad of situations and been an exceptional prayerful, calm, wise presence as we have journeyed through this time of transition. Thank you, Bishop Ross.

I acknowledge with grateful thanks the Archdeacons, Diocesan Council and the Office team who have worked cooperatively together, to ensure the pastoral and administrative tasks necessary for the support of the mission of God in this place have proceeded. Thank you everyone.

I have enjoyed serving with Bishop Ross and our team, it has been a real joy and at times a stretch. It has been good for reminding me that we offer our lives in God’s service and through God’s strength. When the Archbishops were choosing a time for the ordination, I laughingly mentioned to our team the only date I wouldn’t be available was the 29th March because my niece is getting married. I will not be able to join you at the ordination on Saturday but assure you of my prayers as our new Bishop is installed. I look forward to serving with and supporting Anne, as she begins a new ministry in this Southern See.

On Saturday, Ven Liz Cheyne has agreed to act as Vicar General in my absence. Thank you, Liz, for your willingness to support our Diocese in this role.

May we continue to be a praying Church, waiting on the leading of the Holy Spirit and willing to respond to God’s call.

In Christ’s service

Jan Clark

Reminder re Saturday's Ordination and Installation service - click here for details

Please contact Nicola Wong bishops.pa@calledsouth.org.nz if you have any questions.