This year marked a decade of pilgrimage for Bishop Justin and members of the Anglican Diocese of Wellington to Ratana Pa, an annual celebration of faith and unity.

This year, the Diocese welcomed international guests to join the celebration, including Bishop Richard Jackson of Hereford, UK, his wife Deborah, and Greg Trainor of the New Wine movement in Australia. For the visitors, it was their first experience of a pōwhiri and the renowned hospitality of Ratana Marae.

Revered Sue Fordyce expressed gratitude to Matua Rev. Don Rangi, who once again graciously spoke on behalf of the Diocese. "His kindly remarks were well received by our hosts," she noted.

She also emphasized the significance of this ongoing tradition, saying, "We go because we are neighbours of faith. The way the church distanced itself in earlier times was hurtful, and our faithful reengagement is an important symbol of our regret about that history."

Reflecting on why the Diocese continues to attend, Fordyce said, "We go to remember the great move of God and to choose connection, sharing in a vision for the kingdom of God with others whose eyes are also set on that same goal."

Ratana Pa, a place of profound spiritual significance, was the site of a great move of God in the 1920s, which sparked a faith movement that continues to inspire.

"The movement had a profound impact on Māori at the time, both locally and across the motu, encouraging them and launching a faith movement that remains influential in the lives of many Māori to this day," said Sue.

Today, Te Ratana Haahi has more than 40,000 members.

Despite the heat on the plains of Ratana, the day served as a reminder of the privilege of building warm relationships and fostering generous hearts.

(Photo: Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images)