What a great day we had on Sunday the 7th of August! The Parish Council, congregation and our minister Revd Dr Jim Veitch welcomed a full church of friends and visitors to a special thanksgiving and celebration service – they had come from near and far, everyone with some connection to First Church. There was also a warm welcome to the Revd Richard Ward who was born and grew up in Martinborough who had come from Auckland to take part in this service.
We were very conscious of being surrounded by history as we thought of certain particular dates in the story of this church:
159 years since the forming of the first Presbyterian parish in the Wairarapa which at that time stretched from Masterton to Pirinoa.
145 years – since the first church known as the Waihenga Church, was opened on the site where the hall.
125 years ago our present larger church was built, and 5 years later the old church was shifted to become the vestry at its rear.
The church’s organ, bell and hall (from the Featherston Military camp) are also part of the history of the church. Following the service, Mate Higginson gave a most interesting account of the journey this Parish has taken over the past 145 years.
Following a sociable lunch in the hall, when many friendships were renewed and happy memories shared, certificates were presented to long-serving faithful members Miss Thelma Feist, Mr Mate Higginson, Mrs Elizabeth Higginson and Mrs Mary Smith. A certificate of appreciation from the church was also presented to our Minister Revd Dr Jim Veitch in recognition of the parish’s high regard for his scholarship, devotion and care for some 10 years.
With the Town Hall out of action, details of the Kirk Fair usually held on the second Saturday in October, are not yet confirmed.
Here’s a thought – from the Dalai Lama
There are only two days in the year that nothing can be done.
One is called yesterday, the other is called tomorrow.
Today is the right day.
Hi, I am Mary Tipoki. I am standing for Council because I believe I can bring experience and local knowledge to the decision-making table. I enjoy politics and have taken a keen interest since I first arrived here 45years ago. Although I have a clear vision of where I think we should go, I know that if elected my responsibility is to represent my electorate not myself. Having served the public at Lake Ferry Hotel for 21years I believe I am well known, approachable and a good listener. … Continue Reading
Adrienne Staples
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