On a mild evening in Waikaia on 30 June, just over twenty people gathered in the pub to join Roman Catholic Bishop Michael Dooley and our Bishop Steve.

The occasion involved everyone mulling over mulled wine and questions more or less of faith. The evening was masterminded by the Rev'd Dr Anne van Gend, Diocesan Community Ministry Enabler, and at the local level was organized by Helen Christie, somehow finding time before heading off for equestrian judging at the Olympics. 

Travellers came from as far away as Balclutha, Gore and Riversdale (the Riversdale-Waikaia Presbyetrian Parish was well represented), and those present willingly fired questions on paddle pop sticks into a fine looking episcopal Ascot Cap (I'm told!). From there Bishop Steve drew the questions out for comment and discussion. 

 Questions ranged from "Why Jesus?", "What about Matariki?" "Why do clergy dress up?" ("some do, some don't, and that's okay" said both bishops), "how do you pray?", "what should Christians (and government) do about housing?" Answers came from the clergy present, but came too from the gathered group . 

This was the first of a rolling engagement with rural communities around Southland and Otago. The mulled wine was great, the food was great (thanks, Waikaia Commercial Hotel staff!), the conversation and koinonia (fellowship) was greater. 

The next day, another small (ecumenical) group met at Helen and Ray Christie's home for an informal thanksgiving eucharist led by Bishop Steve and a lovely lunch.

What's not to like?!