Christ Church, Russell

On July 22 Chris Swannell was ordained into the priesthood after a 13 year wait since he was ordained deacon. Arch Bishop John Paterson presided with Bishop Jim White ordaining Chris. It was a long awaited joyful occasion held at Christ Church Whangarei because of the anticipated large  number of friends, well wishers, clergy and family who attended. The Reverend Chris Swannell presided at his first service on August 5.

Christ Church newsletters are published twice a year. Contact gpfranklin@xtra.co.nz  or heatherbelle @xtra.co.nz  for the latest copy. They can be sent on a pdf file or posted to you when you send an address.

On Christ the King Sunday 20 Nov 2016 Christ Church celebrated 180 yrs of service to the community of Russell. High lights were the piece of weaving created by the congregation at the time of intercession and the guest speaker Prof. Lineham.

Peter Lineham spoke of the significance of Christ Church in the progress of Christianity in the new colony. A meal followed with Peter Lineham cutting the cake to celebrate the 180yrs.

The violin virtuoso Murray van Hoorn gave a superb performance along with story teller Keith Levy at a fund raising concert on 12 Nov at Christ Church. The evening began and concluded with delicious canapes and dessert prepared by Mary Wyatt.

With a wonderful array of animals including worms, much loved stuffed toys, photos of deceased pets, the service lead by Deacon Chris Swannell was a very happy occasion,

along with the more serious message of our need to look after God’s creation given By Revd Heather Lindauer.

A very enjoyable time was had by all. Here’s the winning team. Thanks to Heather and Maggie the organisers

The Rangatahi Youth of Te Roopu Rangatahi o Waimate Taumarere
treated us to some beautiful singing
and inspiring reflections.

A highlight of the Easter Sunday service was the children’s story about a very scary rooster!

From left to right, Maggie Sales Narrator, Mary Wyatt, Roger Wyatt, Chris Swanell, Emil Nye

On Dec 5 on a largely beautiful morning locals gathered to sell pre loved items from their car boots. Stalls in the hall, buskers, and a sausage sizzle set the scene for a very successful gala occasion. Proceeds this year went to the new hall toilet project.