Julie Roberts — February 3, 2025
At Methodist Mission Southern, we believe in the abundance of love, care, and resources that our community can offer. Yet, for too many in our society, life is about getting by with what’s leftover—what’s unwanted or barely enough to survive.
But this is not the way of aroha. True care does not measure out the bare minimum or offer only what is convenient to give. It sees the inherent worth in every person and says: You are worthy of the best.
When a young mum walks through the doors of our Young Mums’ Transition House, she is greeted with dignity and compassion. She finds the resources she needs to care for her baby and the support to build a sustainable, hopeful future.
For the rangatahi who come to our Youth Transition Houses, the message is the same. These are not places of charity but of empowerment—where young people receive nutritious meals, warm beds, and opportunities to grow their skills and confidence.
One of our Taituarā a Hāpori (Community Support Workers) shared a special moment from this Christmas. Each resident woke up on Christmas morning to find a gift bag outside their door. Inside were small, thoughtful items: toiletries, sweet treats, and tokens of care. “I was with some of the residents when they opened their packs, and they were absolutely delighted,” they shared.
It is humbling to think how something as basic as a bar of soap or a bottle of shampoo can feel like an extraordinary gift. In a world of excess consumerism, where some children discard extravagant toys, these teenagers were grateful for simple, practical kindness.
Our mission is built on the belief that there is more than enough to go around. Whether it’s swimming lessons for the babies of young mums, confidence-building workshops with horses, or a new pair of togs for a rangatahi who’s never been to a pool before, we show the people we support that they deserve more than the dregs.
This vision of abundance is deeply rooted in faith. Jesus didn’t provide the bare minimum at the wedding in Cana—he gave the best wine when no one expected it. In the same way, we aim to offer those in need more than just what’s left over. We want them to experience joy, dignity, and hope.
We see this joy in moments big and small—like a young mum’s pride when her baby takes their first swimming lesson or the confidence of a teenager who’s learned a new skill. These are the glimpses of the Kingdom of God at work here on earth, where everyone is valued, respected, and given the chance to flourish.
At Methodist Mission Southern, we know there is more than enough in our community. With care, generosity, and love, we can share it in a way that uplifts everyone.
Would you consider becoming a regular giver? With your help, we can ensure that no one in our community is left to make do with the dregs. Let’s show them that there is more than enough.
Visit our website to set up a regular donation or find out more about the Mission’s work.
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