RECENT NEWS OF THE PARISH

May 21^st was the 50^th anniversary of the ordination of Canon Bob Newman and the parish celebrated with a special Eucharist at 10 a.m. followed by lunch in the hall. Bishop John preached at the service which was attended by many of Bob’s old friends, colleagues, fellow clergy and family members. It was a very happy occasion though Bob, in typically humble fashion, said he didn’t much like being the centre of attention. Bob’s 50 year ministry has included working in many different parishes as vicar, including the Bay of Islands, Thames, Tuakau, Pokeno and of course Holy Trinity, Otahuhu. He has trained as a transitional priest and helped several parishes through periods of change. His work as part of a team producing the New Zealand Prayer Book lasted 25 years and is a lasting tribute to his scholarship. He has also served as a councillor on community boards and takes a keen interest in local affairs.

The following day was Trinity Sunday and celebrated as our patronal festival. The choir of King’s College joined us for the 9.30 a.m. service and livened the congregation with some rap music – toes were tapping to the beat. The Rev’d Warner Wilder preached with some memorable words on forgiveness.

Several members of the church attended a workshop on publication and presentation of newsletters, magazines and websites. It was a most interesting Sunday afternoon and finished with an evensong service at which Canon Rod Oram preached. He had taken one of the workshop sessions. Rev’d Stephen Brooker had masterminded the outlines of the day and as editor of the Anglican has a vested interest in improving the quality of the material sent in for publication. Hopefully his work will bear fruit.