Rev Keita Hotere used Deepart AI to modify this image of Tumuaki Rev Arapera and  Rev Sandra participating in celebrations at Ratana Pā. by Rev Keita Hotere.

He Inoi Mō Te Iwi Morehu

Aue Ihoa tiakina tō iwi Morehu ... E te whetu o te ata tiro mai ki tō iwi e noho nei Huakina mai e koe he ngākau, te manawa huarahi Aue Ihoa, aue aue manaakitia mātou Hei whakaū te waka nei te rangimārie

I begin with the words of the waiata ‘Te Iwi Morehu’ composed by Myra Te Rehita Maraku. This composition speaks to ‘the people, the followers’ of Tahupōtiki Wiremu Ratana reminding them of certain touchstones of their faith. It is these spiritual and cultural traditions, that form part of the deeply rooted legacy of the Ratana faith. The words call for God’s protection, a spiritual devotion and unity of the people, grounded in peace.

This year marked 152 years of gathering to celebrate the birthday of Tahupōtiki Wiremu Ratana. Representatives from Te Taha Māori, and the Connexion journeyed to Ratana Pā. We are called to these sacred places. President Te Aroha, Lower North Island Synod and Methodist Mission Northern representatives shared the experience of being amongst Te Iwi Morehu at their home, Ratana Pā. The anniversary offers an opportunity to celebrate and reflect on the life of Tahupōtiki Wiremu Ratana, the founder of the Ratana faith and the movements of his people Te Iwi Morehu.

This annual event draws us to this sacred place every year to renew ties and for the common witness and service of all churches living in Aotearoa today. It particularly speaks to our Methodist church heritage and reminds us of the commitment of Father Seamer and those Deaconesses who supported the people of Ratana Pā, Tahupōtiki Wiremu Ratana and his church in their beginnings.

The distinctive call of Te Iwi Morehu is an invitation for the faithful to gather and to renew commitments to their faith, but they also extend that invitation to all denominations, to Kiingitanga, and to the political leaders of the country. When the political leaders talk to their plans for the year ahead, representation from Maoridom across the motu are present.

It is rewarding to rekindle the cherished tradition of a Methodist presence at Ratana Pā. Tumuaki Arapera Ngaha shared, “In the procession to the temepara tapu our Weteiana clergy were invited to participate honouring of connections and relationships”.

Lower North Island synod representative Rev Sandra Williams shared the highlight for her, “was the way the celebrations included the whole whānau. At the centre of the festivities was a sports field with games for the children and youth and each evening the stage rocked with entertainment for the young and young at heart. There were speakers addressing issues relevant to young people, health checks for the adults and food trucks to ensure all were taken care of with food and drink.”

I resonate with the voice of Rev Sandra when she spoke of “the privilege of being immersed in a culture that is not of our own and experiencing the beauty of welcome and inclusion”. We thank Te Iwi Morehu for their welcoming of us into their sacred space and offer our blessings for their continued wellbeing as they continue their faith journey as a people with God.   



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