Diocese of Dunedin


In this issue of our pānui we look at recent correspondence to members of Parliament, look towards Easter, hear more about one of our smaller churches and look back at an ordination with a garden theme...


There are more articles than will appear in your email summary - follow the links to explore the full publication. We have also released an announcement from Bishop Steven Benford today.


Click here for a printable PDF copy of this edition and see our newsletter webpage to see previous ones and for accessible viewing options. Have a look at our regular features that may not be featured in this newsletter: Vacancies, Events and Calendar, Bishop's Diary, Nourishing Faith Resources, Latest COVID-19 Advice.


The Diocesan Office and Resource Centre (Peter Mann House) is open 9am to 3 pm Monday to Friday -
click here for more information.


Our next edition will be on Thursday 15 February 2024. Please forward any news to bishops.pa@calledsouth.org.nz by 9 am Monday 12 February 2024.

Ko Te Tonga kei te Karaka - The South Calling: ISSN 2744-6514. Published fortnightly on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month.


  1. Video: A Garden Ordination

    On Sunday 28 January at 2 pm, Rev'd Joel Stutter was ordained to the Order of Priests at an outdoor altar next to the garden of St ... Read more…
  2. Video: Being Small Well

    Some of our smaller centres are learning how to celebrate "being small" and the extra intimacy it offers. Read more…
  3. Housing Former Refugees - Can you help?

    "[Lord,] when did we see you a stranger and invite you in? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you? The King will ... Read more…
  4. Distracted? Refocus this Easter at a Church Near You

    This year we are inviting our wider communities to join with us to refocus on Good News. Read on for Bishop Steve's message and watch ... Read more…
  5. Synod Correspondence with Members of Parliament

    In our September Synod a motion was passed in relation to Gaza... and this month we wrote to members of parliament on your behalf... Read more…
  6. World Day of Prayer 1 March 2024

    World Day of Prayer is an international, inter-church organisation led by women which enables us to hear the thoughts, hopes, concerns ... Read more…
  7. Local Houses of Prayer

    The vision of a Local House of Prayer is: ‘To see the kingdom come and God’s will be done on this particular area of earth, as in ... Read more…
  8. Dunedin Diocesan Trust Board

    The Dunedin Diocesan Trust Board (DDTB) is an important part of our Diocese, and is currently looking for two new Trustees... Read more…
  9. Remember to register for the annual Lay Ministry Training Day in Balclutha!

    "The Kingdom of God is justice and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit" (Rom 14:17) Read more…
  10. Register for Talking Circle workshops. How do we work together better? (UPDATED)

    In April this year we will have the chance to learn from an expert about the possibilities of "Talking Circles". The workshops are ... Read more…
  11. Calling all hymn and song writers!

    Are you a poet, a writer of hymns and songs... with something to share? Read more…
  12. Messy Church Roadshow May 2024

    The Messy Church National Team and Dr Dave Gregory (UK) and Rev Greg Ross (Western Australia) are all very excited to be bringing the ... Read more…
  13. Tikanga Youth Synod 2024

    Join us at the Anglican Tikanga Youth Synod in Auckland from February 9th to 11th, 2024! If you're aged 16 or above and eager to be ... Read more…
  14. Diocesan Children Ministry Hui March 2024

    Get ready for a dynamic and inspiring Diocesan Children Ministry Hui, bringing together individuals passionate about children's ... Read more…
  15. Lent 2025 Study Resources

    Read on for links to options we have for Lenten study resources, including Lent Studies by Anne van Gend. Read more…
  16. I te Pāpaho - Media and Latest News

    Keeping up to date with recent news about our parishes, organisations and the wider church. Read more…