Dear friends of Parish of Albany Greenhithe,
Last week, Christian, Robert and I attended the 58th Synod of the Anglican Diocese of Auckland held at Holy Trinity in Parnell. The meeting included interesting topics such as ministry resources for the last stage of life, Inclusive Bible, the first third generation.
At the closing, Bishop Ross reminded us that 14th September marks 200 years since the baptism of Christian Rangi, the first Māori baptised by Rev. Henry Williams. As many of you know, our parishioner, Diana Harris wrote a story about Henry William in a novel form, which I did enjoy so much. If you have not read it, it is highly recommended!
For many Māori at that time, the idea that a Māori could be converted from the traditions of his ancestors was considered an impossibility: Māori had their own atua and had no need for “the white man’s God”. But Rangi persisted in seeking the God of whom the missionaries spoke and with their encouragement, he began to pray for a new heart within. Rangi told missionaries that “his heart was very full of love to Jesus Christ, that he was very ill in his body but that he hoped to be soon in the good place.”
14th September 1825, just one day before his death, he was baptised. Since then, many people have been baptised in Aotearoa. I am one of them.
What fascinates me is that this special 200th anniversary happens to be Holy Cross Day! This Sunday at Holy Cross, Les will preside and share our journey at Holy Cross. Let’s give thanks to God who has been guiding us in our journey together.
Joyfully in Christ,
Yukiko
