The Haere Mai Leadership Team, led by Vicar Deo Vistar, recently conducted two successful training sessions for the Hosts and Facilitators of the upcoming Haere Mai Home Groups at St Christopher’s Church. The training, which took place on March 16th and 23rd at 2pm in the Parish Lounge, was attended by all the participants, ensuring they were well-prepared for the launch of the groups this Easter Sunday.

The Haere Mai Home Groups will use the Christianity Explored course, which offers a welcoming and engaging platform for exploring the core questions of the Christian faith: Who is Jesus? Why did He come? What does it mean to follow Him? The course aims to provide both an introduction to Christianity for those exploring the faith and an opportunity for deeper reflection for existing believers.

Deo shared why the church is running this course: “At St Christopher’s, we are committed to making disciples of Jesus. That is our vision and mission. We recognise that in today’s world, many people have questions about Christianity—some are skeptical, some are curious, and some simply don’t know where to begin. Christianity Explored provides a clear and welcoming space for people to engage with the gospel message, ask honest questions, and consider for themselves who Jesus is.” He went on to explain that the course aligns with St Christopher’s mission in three significant ways: providing a starting point for those interested in Christianity, strengthening the faith of believers, and equipping Christians to share the gospel with confidence.

The Haere Mai Hosts and Facilitators include Garry and Lynette Stanley, Rev Kevin and Sheryll Gwynne, Jackie Hall, Guan Wang, Madgeline Pelvin, and Judith Jariel. Keith Buck, Alan Nicholson, Steve and Lindy Scaife, and Garth and Francy Mushet also participated in the training, while Valerie Nicholson generously assisted with serving afternoon tea, for which the team is deeply grateful.

The Haere Mai groups will meet at various times throughout the week:

Garry and Lynette Stanley, Tuesday at 7pm
Rev Kevin and Sheryll Gwynne, Wednesday at 7pm
Jackie Hall, Wednesday at 1pm
Guan Wang (Chinese group), Wednesday at 6.30pm
Madgeline Pelvin and Judith Jariel (Filipino group), Sunday at 6pm

There is still time and space for anyone interested to join the Haere Mai groups. To sign up, please contact the group leaders directly or email the church office for more information.

St Christopher’s Anglican Church is excited to see how these groups will help people connect, explore faith, and grow in their walk with Jesus.

Submitted by Church Staff

Haere Mai Hosts and Facilitators Training