On Wednesday, mourners from around the country gathered at the Transitional Cathedral for Kaihapa whakawhetai mō te Oranga o Pīhopa Rihari (a Eucharistic service of thanksgiving for the life of Bishop Richard Wallace).

This week we have farewelled Bishop Richard Wallace, the Māori Bishop of Te Waipounamu (the South Island). A Eucharist service, held at the Transitional Cathedral, was part of his tangihanga (funeral) led by the Archbishops of Aotearoa New Zealand and Polynesia. The service was full of powerful waiata (song), moving karakia (prayers) and heartfelt tribute, including from Bishop Peter Carrell who movingly shared about his long-standing friendship with Bishop Richard. 

Bishop Richard's influence was wide and deep, especially in how he worked patiently, tirelessly and with aroha (love) toward strengthening partnership between Māori and Pākeha. He leaves behind a tremendous legacy, which we will now collectively seek to honour. To this parish, he gifted our Lifestreams congregation its te reo name ngā puna waiora. On a personal note, I remember with affection the important role he played in my ordination as a deacon last year. 

I want to acknowledge and thank those who joined me from Fendalton parish at this service, including Bishop Brian and May Carrell, Rev'd Pauline Stewart, Rev'd Mike Coleman, Marjorie Smart, Corinne Haines, and Yvette Butcher, along with many others who watched the livestream. For those who are interested, the service can be viewed online.  

Finally, there's a whakataukī (proverb) in Māori which seems right to share as we remember and mourn Bishop Richard: "Kua hinga te tōtara o Te Waonui a Tāne" (the totara in the great forest of Tāne has fallen). 

Arohanui - Andrew