NZMWF National Council Meeting 2024
Our theme is supported by Philippians 4:19: “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus”.
The NZMWF Council Meeting included District leaders, Presidents, secretaries, and treasurers. These 40 representatives come from various regions, including six from Sinoti Samoa, Wasewase Fiji, NZ District; two representatives from Auckland central, North Canterbury, Dargaville, Waikato Thames Valley, Waitemata, Wellington and the NZMWF executive team.
A wonderful celebration of faith, unity and young talent
We were honoured to have Vice President of the Methodist Church, Te Rito Peyroux-Semu, as our esteemed guest speaker. Her inspiring address and words of encouragement set the tone for a productive and uplifting gathering. We were also blessed with vibrant performances from: Mangere Methodist youth, Papatoetoe Saione Sunday school and Sinoti Samoan Manurewa Methodist youth. These talented young people brought energy and joy to our meeting, emphasising the importance of inclusivity and unity within our faith community. Rev Kalo Kaisa from Avalon Parish led our thought-provoking Bible study and closing service, further enriching our spiritual journey.
Key initiatives included:
Effective communication with quarterly newsletters, regular contributions to Touchstone, and NZMWF updates online.
Grants and scholarships from the Smethurst Fund and Friendship Scholarship Fund to assist girls and women.
World Assembly 2026 NZMWF will host the next World Assembly in 2026. We expect up to 1,000 Methodist women from around the world. The Local Arrangements Committee (LAC) will be led by Vice President Simulata Pope.
Constitution Review A thorough review of the constitution is currently underway, guided by Ruby Schaumkel, the church's legal counsel.
Review of Executive Roles In addition to the constitution review, a task group reviewed job descriptions. Special thanks are extended to Simulata and Dr. Soana for their expert guidance in revamping these descriptions. The recommendations are now being presented to the review committee for endorsement.
New President Judith Herbert from the Waikato/Thames Valley District has been nominated to succeed President Lesieli Tiulipe Pope as the new president of the New Zealand Methodist Women's Fellowship (NZMWF) for the 2025-2027 term. This nomination was confirmed during the recent NZMWF Council meeting, where the new executive team for 2025-2027 was elected.
Moving forward; the aim is to unite all in prayer, study, fellowship, and service, with a focus on connecting with young women, in pursuit of our mission to grow in Christ and be a life giver.’. Leading the NZMWF has been a humbling experience, and I am deeply thankful for the dedication and expertise of our president and my team. The rest, “God will provide all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus”.