Earlier this year a few families decided to host a mid-winter dessert evening in their back yard with mulled wine, a brazier and some fairy lights. We asked the families that we invited to bring their favourite Christmas desserts, and it was a feast. The kids' faces showed they couldn't believe their luck. It was such a celebratory way to hang out with our friends from our local community and get to connect in a deeper way by sharing our home with them. The sense of stretchy whānau this created was satisfying and addictive. 

This is just one of many stories from the inspiring group of individuals who have embarked on a journey to explore what it truly means to live as a whānau on mission within their local contexts. 

At the heart of our mission is our vision for growing multi-generational ‘extended faith families’ (oikos), intentionally living rhythms of discipleship, worship, and mission in their local context. Jesus encourages us to be active in making disciples, and our group is dedicated to embodying this call in practical and meaningful ways.

We've nicknamed this the "Oikos Incubator." We realise that balancing family life with a missional focus in our busy everyday lives takes some forethought. This initiative has created a space for learning and encouragement as families navigate the complexities of raising children while fostering a mission-oriented lifestyle. We've done this through fortnightly discipleship zoom huddles and termly in person gatherings where we practice together with our whānau.

Real-Life Challenges and Rewards

One of the most beautiful aspects of our gatherings is that we bring our children along. As I prepared to host one of our gatherings at my place, I was blessed by how my children chose to host with me. It was a collaborative effort, reinforcing the importance of learning to do this together. I embraced the idea of honest hospitality, even leaving a laundry basket of unfolded washing in the corner of the lounge, which—perhaps surprisingly—no one seemed to notice.

One memorable moment from our time together was a walking ‘car rally’ organised by my daughter, which added an element of fun and competition. I’m not sure who was more competitive! The adults or the children. A highlight for me this year has been the beautiful friendships formed between and across generations, fostering a genuine sense of community and enjoyment.

Hospitality and Sharing the Good News

We place a strong emphasis on modelling simple ways for families to practise hospitality and share the good news with those in their neighbourhoods. Recently, we were fortunate to hear from a couple whose children have grown and left home. Their insights into what it was like to live as a family on mission for over 20 years, even as circumstances changed for them, was incredibly encouraging. They reminded us that while the mission evolves, the core commitment to living purposefully remains.

Gratitude for Community

I am immensely grateful for this community of families who are committed to discovering what it means to be. This year we've had whānau from Island Bay, Churton Park, Johnsonville and Featherston in the incubator. The learning and growth we experience together enriches our lives and deepens our connections with one another as we explore living missionally.

If you’re interested in exploring the concept of Whānau on Mission further or you know a whānau who might be, I encourage you to reach out at ella@anglicanmovement.nz.