All Saints Church: Memoirs

Isabel Weenink (86)

On a fine Sunday in February 1969, my family and I arrived as strangers at All Saints’ for the very first time. We were so welcomed by those gathered, Māori and Pākehā, that we made an instant decision following the service to continue, although at that time there was only a monthly celebration of Holy Communion. After the Church was rebuilt and extended, services were held every Sunday and this is where my commitment is today.

It is a joy and a blessing to be surrounded by so much love and care for both spiritual and earthly needs at all times and to share the richness of wisdom and understanding that abounds within these walls. And let me not forget the great number of Vicars who have served here and given so freely by sharing timely sermons and spiritual guidance to us all – their names are too many to list. To the end of my days here, I will delight in the grace I have been given to belong to All Saints’.

Barbara Webb (87)

I moved to Tauranga in 1995 and went looking for a church to join. I live in Maungatapu so All Saints’ was closest. The first time I went I was greeted at the door and welcomed in. There is a special warmth and aura so I am still here. In those days it was still under the Holy Trinity Ministry.

We have been well served over many years by many wonderful Clergy who have cared for us and the building. We celebrated 175 years of worship in 2011. Over the years I have seen many friends and ministers pass on but that is life. In May 2016, All Saints’ was passed back into Tikanga Māori care. I am still there enjoying the ongoing aroha and warmth and have made more friends. This is ‘my other home’.

Te Purewa Kururangi (83)

(Whare karakia) is part of my life – I’ve always gone to church. He pai rawa atu! It’s beautiful, lovely people – great singing and a message of peace – E Aroha ana ahau ki te haere ki te Whare Karakia! Āe… Āe!

It has always been a part of my life– I was brought up with it. We always prayed together and worshiped with whānau, friends and neighbours. My dad and father in-law did morning and evening services at home at the Marae. Ka waiatatia e mātou ngā waiata! Āe… I was confirmed at All Saints by the Bishop or Priest… 1950’s or 60’s? .… Ray Haua and Heeni Te Kani were there and Mum, a big crowd, there was no heater in the church and I wore white; a white blouse and white skirt … Āe… Me aha … Kāti rā!

Liz Rumbal (57)

When I felt the need to come back to church, I decided All Saints’ was the place to come. I used to come to Christmas Eve Services with my family when my parents were alive. My Mum was part of the congregation there for many years.

For me now, it fills so many parts of my life not only for my spiritual needs. They love and support you when things go wrong and they pick you up emotionally when you feel the world is crashing in on you. I now have a lot more mums, brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews. It’s a family!