Tēnā koutou katoa,

Further to my statement to you earlier in the week on the tragic shootings in Christchurch I would like to share numerous links with you in order to resource our churches across New Zealand as we respond to these events.

Firstly I would like to share an update from Rev Clint Ussher in Christchurch. Rev Clint writes:

” It has been wonderful to see the outpouring of love and support across our city these past days. And I was encouraged to hear how the Body of Christ is responding at a gathering of citywide pastors yesterday.  We prayed together.  We shared what we sensed God saying.  And we discussed ways for us to respond collectively as the loving hands and feet of Jesus Christ.

One of the really encouraging things to hear was how churches are already mobilised across the city. You may not hear about it in the news, but rest assured the church in Christchurch has been actively supporting ever since Friday afternoon. One trend I observed was churches supporting those they had relational links with…”

For Rev Clint’s full update please click on the following link:  Update from Rev Clint Ussher in Christchurch

I would also like to alert you to the work of Rev Frank Ritchie (Commoners Wesleyan Methodist Community) who travelled to Christchurch to provide chaplaincy support to media covering the story. Frank was interviewed by Andrew Urquhart from the Rhema Network earlier this week. To watch the interview click on the following link:

Media Chaplain Rev Frank Ritchie Supports Journalists in the Wake of Mosque Shooting 

This week denominational leaders from across Aotearoa, New Zealand also met in Te Whanganui-a-Tara (Wellington) to express their deep sorrow over the recent terrorist attack against the Muslim community in Ōtautahi (Christchurch). You can find their joint statement along with some other relevant resources by clicking on the links below.

Joint Statement from National Church Leaders of Aotearoa New Zealand

Joint Statement from Auckland Church Leaders

Resources for Churches Responding Christchurch Terrorist Attacks

Please continue to keep the families of the bereaved in your prayers, and those injured, and all those who are giving practical support.

In Christian Service

Rev Dr Richard Waugh

National Superintendent