Weekly Notices - 18 October 2026
Jesus said, "Most assuredly I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain. He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life." John 12:24-25
Dear Everyone,
In the Gospels Jesus presents us with a profound paradox expressed most clearly in these two verses from John's gospel. Jesus is speaking to His disciples, foretelling His imminent crucifixion and resurrection. Jesus uses the picture of a grain of wheat falling to the earth and dying to bear much fruit, to show that His own death is necessary for the salvation of many.
This same principle of giving up something in order to gain something better is seen in many places in the New Testament and we have all experienced it in our own lives. Businesses that are losing money month after month have to make the hard decision to close: to let the business die in order to start again. Even though it means letting go of cherished dreams and ambitions. If it is done at the right time and in the right way it can be done with hope.
Jesus said, "If anyone desires to come after me let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it." (Matthew 16:24-25) These verses are easy to read but deeply challenging to put into practice. The key that makes such sacrifice possible are Jesus' words, "for my sake."
Blessings,
Peter
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, you know that our parish needs a new beginning. You know that our Hornby congregation needs a new place to call home, a new place to worship and grow in. We humbly ask to provide what is needed at the right time and help us to reach out to our three communities with Your Good News. In Jesus precious name. Amen.
NOTICE OF THE SPECIAL PARISH GENERAL MEETING 2026
Notice is hereby given that a Special General Meeting of the Parish of Hornby, Templeton and West Melton will be held on Sunday October 18, 2026, following a combined Parish Service at St Columba’s, Hornby.
The purpose of this meeting is to:
‘Decide on the future of the St Columba site, and the future direction of Anglican Worship in Hornby.’
And “The Parish recommends to the Bishop, Archdeacon, Wardens and Vestry, that the first priority for the future ministry in Hornby following the decision to sell St. Columba’s is to secure a permanent new venue for worship services and as a base for mission.” Subject to the first motion being passed.
You are valued members of our Parish and your input into this decision-making process is essential.
How to Pray
Come: In prayer to our heavenly Father. Present Him with the three ways forward. Tell Him how you feel about each option.
Listen: Write down any Bible verses or words that come into your mind as you wait on the Lord. Record any pictures or feelings that come to you as you pray.
Share: Email what you believe you have received from the Lord.
What is Happening at St Paul’s
Finding Answers from the Bible About Our Struggles: Final week of the three‑week Bible study that began on Thursday, 8 October, exploring the real struggles many of us face in the Christian life — and the hope Scripture offers. Each week we have looked at what the Bible says, draw on our Anglican tradition, share from our own experience, and pray for grace to grow as faithful disciples. The final topic is:
Distraction and Spiritual Drift
The topics may sound a little serious, but honest reflection is how we grow — and there’s plenty of joy and light on the other side! Each evening includes creative elements, supper, and the warm hospitality of Ross and Alice Jones!
If you’d like to join us, phone Mark on 0274327474
What is Happening at St St Columba’s
Today’s Sentence and Prayer
Sentence: “Exalt the LORD our God, and worship at His footstool— He is holy.” (Psalm 99:5, NKJV)
Prayer of the Day: Almighty God You are enthroned in unimaginable splendour and power, yet through Jesus Your Son, You are the God-Who-Forgives. You have brought us into Your presence, that with all the Redeemed of every nation and language, we may worship You, and call upon Your Holy Name. May our hearts praise You forever more. Amen.
Readings: Psalm 99:1-9 and Matthew 22:15-32
Theme: A Grain of Wheat Falls
Parish News
Special General Meeting
18 October at 11.30am at St Columba’s Church, Hornby
What is happening at St Columba’s
Time 4 U
Tuesday 20 October at 1.30pm at Columba's Church.
Guest Speaker from Civil Defence. Speaking on preparing for emergencies; preparation, El Nino etc
Afternoon tea provided gold coin donation would be appreciated.
Contact Gina for more details 027 766 5073
Craft Day
Saturday 31st October. 10 00am to 3.00pm.
What is Happening at St Paul’s
Finding Answers from the Bible About Our Struggles:
Final week of the three‑week Bible study that began on Thursday, 8 October, exploring the real struggles many of us face in the Christian life — and the hope Scripture offers. Each week we have looked at what the Bible says, draw on our Anglican tradition, share from our own experience, and pray for grace to grow as faithful disciples. The final topic is: Distraction and Spiritual Drift
The topics may sound a little serious, but honest reflection is how we grow — and there’s plenty of joy and light on the other side! Each evening includes creative elements, supper, and the warm hospitality of Ross and Alice Jones!
If you’d like to join us, phone Mark on 0274327474
What is happening at St Saviour’s
Young Adults group at St Saviour’s - seeking new members
We have a small young adults group (ages 18-35) who would love to get to know new members. If you know anyone who might be interested in joining, please contact Adam on 027 293 0582. If you are in being part of a Men’s group also ring Adam.
Bible Study Group
We’d love to welcome a few more ladies into our weekly Bible study group. We meet once a week on Riwai Street for friendship, encouragement, and time in the Word together. It’s relaxed, supportive, and a lovely way to connect with other women. If you’re interested or want to know more, message or call Nicola on 0273267647
Visiting
A couple of us have been visiting the sick and elderly! It is a joy to visit our church family when they can’t always come to the service. If you have a spare hour or so, we recommend paying a visit to someone who might not get so many visitors or can’t get out much at the moment.
Next Prayer Meetings
Templeton will be held on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday mornings of the month -
9:15am: at Jean’s place.
Hornby will be held on Wednesdays mornings -
Wednesday 10.30am, prayer gathering at Bolton's place
Anglican Parish of Hornby, Templeton and West Melton & Beyond…
Prayer for Leading Your Church into Growth
God of mission, who alone brings growth to your Church, send your Holy Spirit to give vision to our planning, wisdom to our actions, joy to our worship, and power to our witness. Help our parish churches to grow in numbers, in spiritual commitment to you, and in service to our local community. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
News from around the Diocese
See Anglican e-life: http://anglicanlife.org.nz/publications/e-life/
Helpful info
Groups
It’s easy to connect and get involved with some great social and faith-focused groups that meet regularly across the parish. You can find out about all our regular groups on our Groups page. If you have any questions, just click the contact button to connect with the group’s organiser.
Recycling
Used batteries can be placed in the boxes in each church or taken to Mitre 10
Soft plastics can be dropped off at participating store locations. This is any plastic you can fold up in your hand.
Pastoral Care
Need meals or other in-home pastoral support? Please contact the Parish Pastoral Care Co-ordinator.
In-Home Communion
If parishioners can't attend church but would still like to have communion, this can be brought to you at your home or rest home. Please get in touch with the Home Communion Co-ordinator to organise this.
Need prayer?
We’d love to pray for you. See the ‘Prayer Support’ section on the Help & Support page for more information on how we can help with your prayer needs. There are confidential and anonymous options available.
