Last Saturday afternoon, we gathered in Hadfield Hall, Ōtaki to celebrate the ordination of Colette Stevens as a Vocational Deacon.

Hadfield Hall has become an important hub for the Ōtaki community and it was quite special being able to hold the ordination there where Colette has established the intergenerational ministry for the parish and where many of the locals feel at home.

The whole day was about the people of God celebrating alongside our wider community what Jesus is doing. Jesus living in us can change the world!

Colette was touched by the wonderful welcome and generous hospitality created by her parish whānau. She loved the way everyone was included in the celebrations, from the curiosity of the youngest parishioner as she watched Bishop Ellie wash Colette’s feet (a highlight for many), to the welcome and consideration shown to those who feel at home in a church and those who do not.

Read more about Colette’s story.