Touchstone November 2023

Welcome to the November issue of Touchstone.

This month’s edition includes articles from guest contributors invited to write on an area of their expertise. Rev Keith Rowe, former MCNZ President, and long-time observer and commentator on the Israeli / Palestinian conflict has written a thought-provoking article that draws on his specialized knowledge of the complex situation as he reflects on the ‘If only’ actions that might have prevented the current bloodshed.

Rev Sharon Hollis, President Uniting Church in Australia Assembly, shares her thoughts on the outcome of the referendum in Australia that defeated a call to recognise Indigenous People by enshrining an advisory voice (The Voice) to Parliament in the Australian Constitution. Rev Hollis writes, “As Christians we lament the grief and sorrow of most Indigenous people at the result, and we wait.”

Rev Dr Jione Havea, Senior Research Fellow, Trinity Theological College, New Zealand, writes a compelling piece that encourages us to see, judge and act beyond the confines of church for those whose voices are not heard. And Dr ‘Elisapesi Hepi Havea shares insights from her recent attendance and presentation at the World Methodist Council Consultation on Migration in Manila, Philippines.

I hope you will take time to read the variety of articles that give voice to the work of Te Hāhi Weteriana o Aotearoa, here and on the world stage. Next week we come together for our online 2023 Conference. We ask for your prayers and blessings that the outcomes and decisions will be reached with love and discernment.

Ngā mihi nui

Ady Shannon