Message from the Congregation
14th June 2026
Visitors to this website may know that the Congregation of St John’s Cooperating Church 245 Bucklands Beach Road has been in a position of uncertainty in 2026. The leaders of the church and of the three participating denominations have been involved in a discernment process regarding the future of the Cooperative Venture that was inaugurated 50 years ago, in 1975.
Times have changed, numbers at worship have declined and filling the current ministry vacancy is proving impossible for the small group of faithful members. Earlier this year, a Commission was set up by the Northern Presbytery to consider dissolving the congregation; the Commission, which has consulted widely, has recommended the parish be closed. This is a difficult time of sadness and grief for the members who have continued to meet weekly, despite the scarcity of resources.
Pentecost season is about the huge changes that took place among the first disciples as they grappled with the challenges in their changing context. They found, however, that the Holy Spirit gave them a new courage, commitment and community life. This is our prayer as we navigate our own difficult journey, knowing the love of God and the peace of Christ still guides us
Our times are in God’s hands.
The website has been simplified to avoid misleading online visitors, but over the next few weeks (June and early July) worship will still be offered on Sundays at 9.30am. The newsletter will be continually updated every fortnight and can be found here.
If you need more information, contact the Warden Julie Dickey by email at: juliedickey@ews.net.nz