Team of the Year 2010

Tomorrow sees the start of Orientation week at Victoria University, Wellington.  It’s the start of the year and another new chapter of ministry amongst students here in Aotearoa, New Zealand. 

The new year brings a new team to work together here in Wellington.  So, let me introduce them & ask you to pray for us as we lead the students in reaching other students for Christ at Victoria University & Massey University.

So, starting in the bottom left, is Gina Wong.  Gina is a Staff Worker and much of the day to day involvement with the students is spear-headed by her – I’m thankful for her faithfulness daily to the students.  Please pray as she trains the leaders in Bible-study methods and leadership, particularly in the coming weeks.

On Gina’s right is Peta-Maria Harris, more commonly known as PM.  PM has just finished her studies in teaching, and we are delighted she has joined the team as part of the MINTY programme.  She will be spending her time specifically with the International Christian Fellowship, but also as part of the ‘Rongopai’ initiative, which is a missional community living together right next to campus seeking to reach out to those on their doorstep.  I will be particularly trying to encourage her to think through how she can develop her evangelistic gifts, as well as engaging with her Maori heritage.  We are excited about the opportunities the two together can bring.

To my left, is Phil Luey.  Phil has decided to spend a second year doing MINTY.  I’m thankful to God for Phil, and particularly for the growth in him over the past year.  Phil will be working this year with the Christian Union and I’m keen to see him continue the good work he has been doing with the lads in the group.

Which just leaves me…

My work in Wellington is just one part of the work.  For 2 days a week, my work is specifically focussed on Wellington, whilst the remaining 3 working days are given to the wider evangelistic work around the country.  I’d value your prayers as I lead the team, am involved in supervising Gina & Phil, and encouraging PM, as well as some more intentional time of discipling two guys, Peng and Josh over the coming year.  I’m also trying to help the students and groups in Wellington to make the most of the opportunities for the gospel that are there on campus.  We’re giving this some serious thought, particularly in regards to how we help them break out of the “Christian bubble”, but more on that another time.

So, we’d value your prayers.  Of course, the team is just one part of the work – really, the students are the ones involved in the day to day, nitty gritty work of living out and sharing the gospel with those around them.  So, do please pray for us all!