William Evans

Across the road from my childhood home in Ongaonga stood a rarely-used Anglican chapel. Growing up, I didn’t know what an Anglican was, nor what they believed. All I knew was that they weren’t part of my non-denominational world. It wasn’t until my mid 20’s when my wife and I decided to try an evening service at All Saints in Palmerston North. Having received two red books, and one liturgical jump-scare, it’s safe to say the whole thing was a bit of a culture shock. However, neither of us could deny the warmth of the congregation, nor the genuine manner of the presiding priest who welcomed us. In truth, neither of us had ever been made to feel so welcome in a setting so strange and unfamiliar.

Fast forward 7 years and, thanks to God’s ironic humour, I have found myself on the other side of the lectern. In those 7 years I have benefitted from the teaching and example of the most incredible leaders. From Nigel Dixon’s teaching, to the Hornblow’s reflective practices, the Rowe's theatrical evangelism and Andrew and Eliane Carson’s patient encouragement, I have seen the strength of ‘team’ at work. I am a beneficiary of the breadth and depth of expression of my church community, and our tradition as a whole. Whether I find myself running games at youth group, leading our family service or preaching at evensong, there exists a profound sense that we are a family, wild and diverse to be sure, but held in the grace of one Spirit.

My ultimate hope is to see people transformed by the Gospel. To see Christ’s welcome extended to the unsure and the unfamiliar. To see communities of disciples, making disciples, led by His Spirit, guided by His Word and empowered by the example of His Son.

I believe God has called me to this endeavour not as a lone individual, but as a member of a wider Christian collective.