Touchstone May 2024

Welcome to the May edition of Touchstone

The report of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care will be released in June, ending one more chapter in the biggest and most comprehensive inquiry ever undertaken in this country. General Secretary Rev Tara Tautari writes our lead article on the Methodist Church of New Zealand response to the inquiry, work being undertaken to provide redress for those impacted and changes in place to ensure that church is a haven for all people.

May 20 – 26 is Youth Week in Aotrearoa - a week where we recognise and celebrate the talents, skills, wisdom and contributions of young people. This year’s theme was borne out of korero and wananga with people involved in the youth sector.

‘Māwherangi a tama roto ka taka, kāpuia ake ka pūrangiaho’ ‘We may not have it all together, but together we have it all.’

Simulata Pope, a member of the Transition Team tasked with taking Mission Resourcing to Te Hāpai o ki Muri, reports on recent korero with Te Taha Māori rangatahi and Tauiwi youth. As the transition team deepens their understanding of youth ministry in today's church context, and the challenges youth face, they can work towards ensuring youth are given the opportunities and resources to influence and shape the church of the future.

Anaseini Nuku continues the narrative, acknowledging and thanking all the people who serve our youth, supporting, leading and working to ensure that young people have representation on boards and working groups.

Donald Phillips looks back on the efforts of E.P. Blamires, a devoted and progressive leader of the Youth Movement, at a time when youth were deeply impacted by ‘opposing forces’ and a rapidly changing society..

Rosalina Toilolo, from the Panmure Methodist Church, writes a tribute to Rev Fatuatia and his wife Suresa Tufuga, who recently retired after a tireless ministry spanning almost 30 years. And we welcome a new addition to the Connexion as Hamish Jarvie takes on the Methodist Alliance coordinator’s role, vacated late last year by Carol Barron.

Results from the Touchstone survey have been assessed and findings shared in this month’s edition. On behalf of the Publishing Board, I thank all those who responded and do hope content this month addresses some of the key outcomes.

I hope you enjoy the read and as always, I welcome your feedback.