MAHU MONTHLY ISN 4
OCTOBER 2021
NEWS ABOUT MAHU CHURCH AND MAHU VISION TRUST
WHAT'S NEW
HIGHLIGHTS
New Staff + Interns
Key updates Areas of need
OUR PEOPLE Faces of Mahu Church Celebrations
Level 3 allows building to continue We will miss Melissa!
Community support for Foodbank has been tremendous
Kiribati language lesson on Zoom
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ISN 4
OCTOBER 2021
"INTRODUCING OUR INTERNS” BY ALISHA MCLENNAN
MOE TABORU: Youth Intern <Favourite Chocolate: Whittakers Almond Gold> Kam na mauri! My name is Moe and I am from Kiribati and Tuvalu. I was born in the Solomon Islands, moved to Papua New Guinea and eventually to New Zealand in 2002. I have been working as a Youth Intern for Mahurangi Presbyterian Church and super excited to be studying at Laidlaw and working alongside the local youth here in Warkworth. The Christian Leadership Program 2021 at Laidlaw has given me an opportunity to go deeper in my knowledge of the Bible. As a Christian, it has certainly developed my spiritual growth as well as my understanding in leadership. I have enjoyed learning a lot about myself through the Clifton Strengths program and having regular supervision sessions as a staff member at Mahurangi Presbyterian. The practical experience through working at the Church and with Mahu Vision Trust has been immeasurable. I have enjoyed the experience of youth leadership at Northern Eastercamp, 24/7 youth work, and implementing Safety WOF and E Tū Tāngata values along the journey. Working with Sarah and the team has taught me so many skills in youth and community work. I have not only gained friends in the process but also family.
REBEKAH DANGERFIELD: Social Work Student on Placement <Favourite Chocolate: Kinder Surprise Eggs> I commenced a Bachelor of Social Work (Hons) degree at The University of Auckland and am currently in my final semester of studies, which includes a 60-Day placement. During this time, I am working on a research project assigned to me by Roger and Sarah from Mahu Vision Community Trust that aims to provide a current analysis of food security (or insecurity) specifically in the Mahurangi Region. I will also be guided by Rosanna, Janine and Sarah in my placement. Once Covid restrictions lower, I will initially observe these social community workers' practice and take notes for them as they engage with clients. I will then aspire and work towards taking on more of a lead social work role, with the aim to be competent enough to conduct interviews with clients with little to no input/direction from my field educator. Prior to my placement I have worked as a student aid taking notes for The University of Auckland’s Student Disability Services, been a YouthTown supervisor running afterschool and holiday programs, and worked as a special education paraeducator at Marcellin College in Royal Oak. In my time here, I hope to gather an understanding of how smaller social welfare organizations support the needs of those in rural communities, and how the church meets community needs. I also hope to build strong professional relationships with the staff here and create a professional network so I can better help future clients. Outside of work, in this lockdown I’ve enjoyed spending my time at the beach, watching Netflix, going for walks and creating lockdown memories with my family and fiancé. I enjoy singing, some of you who may know me might have seen me in the worship team at church. I also enjoy football and going to the gym. P. 2
“ INTRODUCING OUR INTERNS” CONT'D
REBEKAH SHEPARD: Church Intern <Favourite Chocolate: Whitakers Dark Chocolate (between 50%-70%) or Whitakers Berry and Biscuit> I am commencing an internship with the church starting in December, 2021 while studying for a Diploma in Christian Studies at Laidlaw College. I’ve grown up going to church and helping with youth group. At one point, when our church was between youth leaders, three of us actually ran the youth group without a leader because we wanted to keep going. I went to YWAM (Youth With A Mission) in 2018. With them, I had three months training in Amsterdam, a two week training and outreach in Israel, and a two month outreach in Georgia. With YWAM I learned lots about the bible, my identity, relationships and mission. While I was there, we did some work with children and youth, and I realised I wanted to get involved with youth back in New Zealand. When I got home, I volunteered to help lead and organise the admin for the youth group at Paparoa Community Church. I also annually help out with a kids camp - Day Camp. I have a Bachelor of Health Science from AUT, majoring in Paramedicine. I’ve spent the last 10 years with St John, starting as a St John Cadet at 16, frontline volunteering at 18 and I’m just finishing up my role as an EMT with the Warkworth station. Through my internship, I hope to learn a lot from the staff and church family around me, develop strengths and get a feel for what ministry work is like. In my spare time I enjoy camping, swimming, traveling and seeing friends.
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ISN 4
OCTOBER 2021 NEW MINISTRY
“VOLLEYBALL” BY ALISHA MCLENNAN
A young-adult-led volleyball team has been achieving placings in multiple tournaments and establishing community and leadership skills through Kiribati Youth in the Rodney area.
“They are a group of young people who are very enthusiastic and have a vision. The vision is to encourage the Kiribati youth to develop leadership skills through volleyball and basketball.
The team is led by Chairperson Kaburee Boitabu, Secretary Victoria Teokila, Deputy Chair Aborina Arawatau and Treasurer Mokareitita Baiteke. After attending a tournament early in the year, despite performing well the team found costs and travel to the event difficult. A parent of a member contacted Moe Taboru to see if Mahu Vision Trust could help.
"They pretty much lead themselves,” Moe says, “and have a general idea of what they want to do. We are here to help them achieve their goals. They know and understand what their communities need."
The team started meeting with Moe and Arney Bingham on a fortnightly basis in the lead up to the next tournament.
“It’s really hard to get young people together and you need something that they’re passionate about. Volleyball is like their rugby. There’s nothing in this community volley-ball-wise and they’re trying to fill that gap,” Arney says. The members are quick learners and very engaged. Moe says that by only their second meeting Mokareitita (the team’s treasurer) was already taking minutes and setting up zoom meetings herself. In some of their early meetings they have put strategies in place, applied for funding, enjoyed games and eaten all the food that was provided. With a combination of their own fundraising, donations from outside organisations including Mahu Vision Trust, the team was able to fund their next tournament in Waikato. At that tournament they performed well, with the B Boys Volleyball claiming 1st place in their pool. Moe and Arney have been keeping in touch with the team over lockdown.
LEARNING
“KIRIBATI LANGUAGE CLASSES” The past few weeks have seen a return to Kiribati Language School, but this time, like the fate of all things these days, over zoom. After overcoming technical issues in the first class, the lesson managed to engage all of the listeners. The targeted students were the 6-10 year olds, but Moe and Arney noticed that throughout the hour younger siblings and parents were starting to participate as well. The classes have been hosted by Etitara Beia. A guest host, Taeang Erika, helped lead the first class. “I know it’s cliché but seeing them happy makes us happy too,” says Moe. P. 4
OCTOBER 2021
ISN 4
“FOODBANK” BY ALISHA MCLENNAN
A huge increase in demand driven mainly by the Covid 19 lockdown has seen the foodbank supply the most boxes ever in its 29 year history. In August the number of foodboxes distributed reached 88 and this was followed in September with 128. Prior to lockdown the weekly average was 10 boxes per week and after lockdown the weekly average has increased to 30. Foodbank co-ordinator Michelle Saleupolu says, “We’re really glad Warkworth Christian Foodlink is in a position to offer this level of support to families in the community.” Warkworth Christian Foodlink, is an initiative of the Warkworth Churches. It is based at the Presbyterian Church on Pulham Road and its day to day operation is managed by Mahu Vision Community Trust by staff and volunteers. Most of volunteers haven’t been able to work on site due to COVID regulations but some have been able to work from home repackaging bulk bags of flour, sugar and washing powder into smaller 250gsm and 500gsm bags. Lockdown restrictions, saw Sarah implement a Covid-19 Health and Safety Plan. This plan ensures everyone follows the prescribed health and safety guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health for the safe operation of foodbanks and includes contactless foodbox pickups and/or deliveries. Sarah, Rebekah and Melissa take a turn each week to make sure everyone is following the rules and they have become known at the office as “THE SANITISER SQUAD.” Historically most support for the foodbank has usually come from donations of food being made by church members, community groups, business houses and social and service clubs. According to Mahu Vision Trust Treasurer Megan Boyce, prior to lockdown WW Christian Foodlink received financial support from only a small group of individuals and churches (less than 10), giving a total of around $1500 per month.
Megan says “Following the August lockdown and after notification of the needs of the foodbank through social media, a ground swell of financial support from our community has been received with more than 120 individuals and businesses giving more than $20,000 in the 6 weeks to the end of Sept.” Michelle adds, “The community support has been awesome. One person who had received a parcel in the past showed up with bags and bags of groceries to donate. The Warehouse has donated a couple of van loads of food, and a local company donated some bulk honey. Tremendous support has continued from Warkworth Rotary & Lions Food Rescue Service, Kiwi Harvest, and from the wider community through the Countdown Donation Box.” The Food Bank tries to not only give essential foods, but to provide extra comforts which can make a huge difference to a family stuck at home. Food Bank Coordinator Davina Monds says “we are privileged to share God’s love for people through the ministry of the foodbank as we bless families with good food.” The staff also want to thank Robyn Fisher and Anna Dangerfield for delivering them fresh baking and warm scones to keep the team going throughout Level 4 and Level 3. Note: The retail cost of an average size foodbox is $150 which means in the past 2 months the foodbank has been able to give food worth more than $32,000 to families who need a hand at this time.
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OCTOBER 2021
ISN 4
“COMMUNITY WORKERS SPREADING THE LOVE” BY ALISHA MCLENNAN
Mahu Vision Community Trust’s Social Workers have been busy throughout these last two months, keeping in regular contact with and supporting vulnerable families during this lockdown.
Access to a community Facebook page has made a real difference to communication since last year. Letting people know where vaccines are available and offering support to youth and families has become easier and reached a broader audience faster.
Community Worker for the trust, Rosanna Ball says that the dedicated team has been working hard to organise While food parcels are great for families in need, they do food parcels and groceries for families who need them. not always cover specific requirements families might have. The team have undertaken grocery shopping for Arney Bingham has been organising food parcels, Janine some of the families who had to self-isolate during the Paewai keeping in touch with clients and giving advice on Warkworth outbreak. domestic situations, Etitara Beia has been keeping in touch with families and running Kiribati classes, and Moe Rosanna says that local businesses and emergency Taboru has been doing fundraising work from home along housing have been working together well throughout this with Laidlaw assignments.. time. The team has also been checking in with families to see how kids are finding their schoolwork. Rosanna says Primary School students seem to be doing well, but Secondary School students are finding study more difficult. Help from the community has been gratefully received.
A highlight Rosanna has seen through this lockdown is the formation of the Kiribati Rodney Charitable Trust by local Kiribati leaders. The aim of the Kiribati community in forming this trust is to allow them to apply for any funding for various projects that they may wish to undertake. It will also provide a united voice as a community in government agencies and the greater community.
“I have found there are so many people who have reached out to help wherever they can. There are so many caring “The people involved in forming this trust are really people in the Rodney community,” Rosanna says. involved in their community. They are currently in the process of putting their constitution together, but they are already doing great work,” she says.
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“PETS OF MAHU”
Jana Saleupolu
ZheeZhee Monds (Means girl of the land in Welsh 8 YO, loves watermelons, grapes)
“LOCKDOWN HOBBIES”
Karen Jones assembled a garden shed and painted a fence!
The Mori-Robertsons have been busy in the garden!
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ISN 4
OCTOBER 2021
“BEFORE/AFTER - LEVEL 3” The first sip of coffee was like life was breathed back into my soul.” - Melissa.
“One does not live on pie and coffee alone… but is life without pie and coffee really worth living?” Indy
“Coffee is the oxygen mask I strap on myself before I assist others. Once it has been drunk, you may approach. But keep a social distance.” Sarah
“Much like God nourishes my soul, Level 3 trips to Savans bakery nourishes my tummy.” - Doug
“I had an express coffee machine at home. I had a constant supply of good coffee all through lockdown, and still do.” - Rebekah
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“COLOURING COMPETITION” Let's see who is best at colouring....! Once done, email the photo to media@mahu.org.nz and we will announce the winner in the next issue for each age groups!
NAME:
AGE:
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OCTOBER 2021
ISN 4
BUILDING UPDATE All footings except foyer offices block poured. Sand spread ready for activity centre floor slab boxing to go up.
DONATION If you would like to make a financial contribution, you can donate to:
MAHU PRES CAPITAL FUNDRAISING ACCOUNT 12-3105-0003156-02
In the reference, please include your name for a tax deductible receipt.
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ISN 4
OCTOBER 2021 FACES OF MAHU CHURCH
“ NEW CHAPTER FOR MELISSA” Our beloved children’s pastor Melissa North is leaving us. Here’s what she has to say for herself: I’m going to go study early childhood teaching. I feel like God is calling me to the next step of my life. I have enjoyed working alongside the team, both staff and volunteers… My volunteers have been so amazing!! As is everyone who’s been praying for the ministries. It’s been a blessing to walk alongside them. It has been meaningful getting to know all the kids and youth, and building these relationships through all of the programs, I’ve been able to embrace my childishness! I’ve definitely grown as a person both spiritually and emotionally. I’ve been supported by the staff in amazing ways, they have my back. They’ve shared their life experiences with me. I’m looking forward to being able to spend more time with younger kids and watching them grow. Kids learn so much from ages 0 to 5.
We completely covered her office in balloons, and we gift wrapped all the things on her desk and all the pictures on the walls. I got a group of the youth leaders and Lara to help me, it was awesome. I’m really going to miss the Youth, they have this spark, they’ve been such an awesome group to work with. I’d consider them friends, little brothers and sisters, not just youthies.
“I’m nervous about studying. I have studied before but it was practical based. I’m not an academic person. It’ll be tough but I’ve got people who can help me.”
And the kids, they have so much fun and have so much energy, we can spend hours running in circles. Well, they can spend hours running in circles, I’d just collapse. It’s crazy how fast they’re all growing up!
I’m known as a bit of a prankster around the office, but my all time favourite scheme was Sarah’s Office: 2019.
Of course, I’ll have to come back and see how things are going.
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ISN 4
OCTOBER 2021
DEAR MELISSA... FROM THE YOUTHIES: The reason I love Melissa is because she is always so welcoming! Walking into junior youth and seeing her smile and greeting everyone puts a smile on our faces. She is kind and empathetic and is an extremely hard worker. That is just some of the reasons I love Melissa... - Kayla Melissa, where do we start? You’re an outgoing superstar worker with enthusiasm that could power a thousand people. I am sad but happy for you to see you go. Thank you for putting all your work in for us and I wish you the best of luck with your next job!! And as a true friend, never say goodbye, as I would like to say see you soon - Lyall I love Melissa because she has the mindset of “I can do anything” and “Nothing is going to slow me down” and she uses that mindset to give back to the people around her. - Megan Melissa’s a really sweet and caring person. One of those who you are really comfortable to talk to and that you could share anything with. - Jono Melissa is a kind, caring all round bubbly person that lights up the room with her smile. She can also go very quickly to yelling at everyone. - Anna I love Melissa because she is one of the kindest, most caring, empathetic people I know and ever since I met her she has treated me like nothing less than her own brother which I have truly appreciated. Every day she has been at youth we’ve had so much fun and we’ve all loved every minute of it. Her happiness is so infectious and we all love Melissa. Thank you for everything. - George I like playing with her, we have tickle fights, she reads me stories, doing stuff with her like playing with balloons. - X
FROM CO-WORKERS: Melissa, you are Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious, I love your endless enthusiasm, crazy love for craft and all things messy. I love how we can look across the staff meeting at each other and have a conversation with our eyes. You are a warrior woman for the defenceless and disadvantaged and you are never afraid to dance in the rain. I will miss you so much. - Sarah Melissa has a warm ‘big sister’ personality that makes you feel welcome and safe around her. Melissa is a genuine listening friend, ever ready to help and gives her utmost best. Her full of life character is contagious and her puns are addictive. You won’t find another like her because she is one of a kind! We love you so much Melissa! - Moe It’s been great to see how Melissa has come through from one of our youthies to becoming a confident and faithful leader in the church in her own right. We are really proud of how she has grown as a contributing member of our team over the time that she has been with us. She has been a great representative of our church to the community as a children’s pastor and as a youth leader. We have been really blessed to have her as part of our church family, and while we are pretty gutted to see her go we know that she has a great future ahead of her. - Nick You will be greatly missed by my children and me!! Our kids LOVED going to Sunday School mostly because of you! You made such an impact on their lives. Thank you so much for connecting with each one of my kids. It is such a gift you have with children! We wish you all the very best for your next venture!! - Hana
FROM MAINLY MUSIC KIDS: Melissa swings me up high Melissa is real fun and cool. Melissa tips me upside and then slides me down to the ground, then tickles me to make me laugh! I like the dye colour of her hair I like the colour of her glasses and the elephant on her mainly music t-shirt She tickles me to make me laugh She’s fun and helps me build high towers with the blocks. Thank you for taking us for a walk! I hope you enjoy studying for your new job. (By Maya) I will miss you very much. I think that you will be WONDERFUL at being a teacher. (By Yuka) Please visit us again!! - Kisses and Hugs (By Kenji)
FROM EX-FLATMATES: I loved you when you cooked me food and when I almost died trying to find something in your room. I love you as much as you love dragons and dinosaurs and Winnie the Pooh. I will love you forever. You’re an inspiration to the people around you and if anyone tells you anything different I’ll come to wherever you are and beat them up. - Alisha MELISSA….. We will miss you so so much! You are full of energy and puns. You are such a happy gal and put a smile on our faces when you walk into the room. - Rebekah I think Melissa is the kindest and most considerate soft hearted person I know. I look forward to seeing what she does in her life because I know damn well it’s gonna be good. - Joseph
OCTOBER 2021
ISN 4
COMING UP! Sun, 17 Oct <Full Church Meeting Online @ 10:30am>
We will aim to have an online church with everyone! Keep tuned!
Sun, 31 Oct <Kowhai Festival - Combined Church Service> To be announced- watch this space
CELEBRATING LIFE! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Oct 1 Oct 4 Oct 7 Oct 10 Oct 15 Oct 15 Oct 26 Oct 30 Oct 31 Oct 31
Marie Frame Moe Taboru Vaimalie (Tiiua) Biremon Bernie Donovan Julie Calvert David Young Talia Teokila Michael Smith Eunice Lanyon Bev Lewington
NOTICES Washing machine needed! A small washing machine for a family in De Paul housing. They need one that's no bigger than 500mm wide. Please contact Rosanna at Rosanna@mahu.org.nz if you have one that can be donated. Accommodation needed! Valerie Jiam, a Christian young lady is moving to Warkworth to take up a job in marine biology. She needs accommodation from mid November - either boarding or flatting. She prefers to be in or close to Warkworth township. If anyone knows of an opportunity, please contact her directly at 027-203-6664 or email valjiam@gmail.com Online Prayer Room Online Prayer Room is for anyone who would like someone to pray with personally and confidentially with them about any matter at all. Contact prayer@mahu.org.nz or ring Barbara at 021 255 0274.
If we missed your birthday, or want to announce happy news, make some prayer requests or simply want to give us some feedback on the newsletter, please email Hana (hana@mahu.org.nz). P. 13