es ee KAURILANDS CHURCH OF CHRIST TITIRANG! BAPTIST CHURCH JUBILEE 1954 — 2004 Them that Honour Me J with Honour 1 Sam 2:30Introduction. ‘This Booklet has been produced to mark the 50th. Anniversary of the establishment of a Church in the Kaurilands Valley of Titirangi in 1954, for the purpose of preaching the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ to the people in that area, its environs, ‘and beyond. It is an unusual situation in that for the first forty-three years of its history, the Church was part of the Churches of Christ (Life & Advent) until in November 1997, it became officially, the Titirangi Baptist Church. In 1994, when the Kaurilands Church of Christ celebrated its Fortieth Anniversary, a special booklet was published. It set out a brief history of the Church together with a number of relevant statisties such as attendances, officers, weddings etc For the 50", Jubilee, it has been decided to publish this Booklet which is the original 1994 one together with the history and statistics of the further ten years added and melded in to the earlier publication. {A fact of the age in which we live, isa rather sad disregard among the majority, of the importance of history and therefore the neglect to properly record important ‘matters or indeed decisions, even where they be minutes of properly, constituted ‘meetings. This also applies to meetings of the Church and its Committees ‘Therefore, without proper oF sufficient records, it has been extremely difficult to accurately develop a history of all that has happened throughout the entire fifty years, This should be a lesson to us all. Memory is not good enough when it comes io recording history Nevertheless, with the help of the Jubilee Committee, this booklet has been produced, If you are of the opinion it has omitted something or incorrectly represented an event ar whatever, please excuse such etrors or omissions.Kaurilands Church of Christ/Titirangi Baptist Church 1954 — 2004 Contents Jn the beginning. 3 The frst real Church buildings 4 The Decades ~ 1954 to 1964 5-8 1965 10 1974 8-10 1975 10 1984. 10-12 1985 to 1994 su 13 +16 1995 to 2004 16-21 Statistics ~ Average artendance 2 Pastors 2 Youth Pastors 2 Elders 2 Missionaries 4 Seeretaries mu Treasurers mM Deacons 25 Deaconesses 26 Organists 26 Pianists 6 Sunday Schoo! Superintendents 7 Youth Leaders 7 Church Officers 2004 28-29 Weddings 29-31 Missions and Other Work Supported 32 Conclusion 33 In the beginning... Kaurilands, atthe time of World War II, was an area of wilderness, broken-up with a few market gardens, poultry farms and metal roads without footpaths, Afier 1946, Auckland began to expand rapidly, pushing out into areas Tike Kaurilands which at that time was known on most maps as Atkinson Valley, but on others as Happy Valley [As soon as there were sufficient homes in the area, local residents organised a ‘Sunday School, but after a year or two it suffered from lack of leaders. ‘Through various contacts, the former Churches of Christ (Life & Advent) Association was asked to provide manpower and in 1952 the late Gordon MeKeeich from the Walters Road Church of Christ took up the leadership, assisted by Rob Carr. The owner of the land, the late Hubert Nicholls had a couple of Army Huts: rected at the road frontage and the Sunday School and then subsequently the first Church services, were held in these buildings, At the outset, it was called the Atkinson Valley Church of Christ.The first real Church buildings... 11954 he Wes Stet Church of Chri ide o foster this work which had een operating fora fe years. A meeting of al intersted wes calle. Stihs mesing Peldin te vo hus its agreed that a Church shouldbe bul on te tnd big donated ye ine kr Nicol ands were male ave an Kelty Hay Homes ented a prefitied hurch which consisted of 4 om porch i to small sie rooms, sn aifor, complet ith asd pulpit sen atta under two rer rooms, on ited tha sik bench and cepa anda sear srl bulding the rar wich housed voles th a aall olhed been The oon of the ont por ad ling doors opening ot he autora the price of a basic three bedroom house. . st nee om “The new and first church building proper, was opened on 18" September 1954. At this stage it was under the spiritual oversight and to a degree, the financial control of the West Street Church, In the beginning 0% of all collections were transferred to the Building Fund to help pay off the mortgage which the West Street Church had raised to assist in the construction, The General Account at the commencement of 1954, when the members were meeting in the sheds had amounted to just over $140. Quarterly business meetings were held on the first Sundays of March, June, September and December. The Church used folding chairs for its first seating and many items of furniture ete, were donated eg. communion trays, table, table lectern, and the upright reader’s lectern, Monies were spent on the following items prior to the official opening:- (a) a maroon velvet curtain for the front of the platform together with the small turned legs and rails necessary for its hanging, (b) a two and ‘ahalf gallon zip heater, (e) a carpet runner for the central aisle in the auditorium. ‘One early resolution passed at a business meeting reads, “That the Church building be used solely for the Sunday a.m, and p.m. services, Sunday School and associated activities and weddings.” The early members did not appear to have anticipated funerals! Two items approved soon after the opening of the Church, were the provision of a sign above the pulpit on which was sign-written the text 'Them that honour Me, I will honour! (words from Scripture which still challenge the congregation) and a clock which was placed on the wall facing the pulpit and which was meant 10 challenge speakers! ‘At a business meeting held at the beginning of 1955 when twelve members were present, the possible Call of a Pastor was considered and the first Deacons and Deaconesses were appointed together with a new Secretary and Treasurer. In May 1955, two important decisions were made ~ firstly, to start with mid-week meetings and secondly (with a Bank balance of just over $180, a weekly collection of $6 from an average attendance of 24), to make a Call to Pastor David Buick to come as the first Pastor of the Atkinson Valley Church of Christ. This decision was ‘On the 14 June 1955, the first Executive mecting was held. AL this meeting, it was reported that David Buick, a married man would understandably need a house or‘ehiole supplied by the Church if he were able to accept the Cal. He would be able ‘organise one bu nat both AS he Church could aor neither the Cll oped ‘One week later, on the 21" June 1955, the Church resolved to call Derek Hollman to th Paso Hes ple man who tld ind Bt and he oe yc and therefore had no need fora er. The Callas accepted ~ apparently a real Speeds the Induction Service vis held on $8 Tuy [88s Wil Ching was the Chairman, the Speakers being men al now deceased: vn Holi John G. Cameron Gordon MeKeieh and Pastor Wiliam Campbell who cared out the actual induction ‘The first youth clubs were started in August and were run by P: ust and were run by Pastor Hollman on ‘Thursday’aftemoons and evenings. Being the first year, there were naturally, many firsts. ‘The first fil evening on Saturday 27” August, the fist Church Social on Saturday 17 September to celebrate the first year since the opening of the Church, The fist Family Service was held next day on 18" September a8 pat of the celebration. By October that year, a further 25 chairs had to be purchased. At the meeting at which this purchase was approved, the Chuteh resolved tht meoming services commence at I1am and conchide not later than 12.10pm! The Sunday School roll at this time was 80, oo or al In November, the Ladies’ Guild started. At that time also H.Ed Aldridge was appointed Choirmaster. March 1956 saw the Sunday School roll at 96. It was decided to hold a Harvest Festival, the produce to be sold and the proceeds put into the Building Fund. Much effort was given to money-making projects to help this Fund and films were shown every Saturday night to help in this regard. They were well attended by members both from the Church and from the West Street Church and from folk living in the Valley. At that time a Readers’ Plan was instituted, By 29! July 1956, the Church, was discussing possible extensions to its buildings and in September a Building Committee was appointed. The original Church building had been sheathed with brown creosoted weatherboards giving it a very drab appearance. The Church folk decided to paint it © make it look more attractive and so the first Painting Bee was held. December of that year was very important. The erection of a hall was ay erection of a hall was approved and the builder, the late Bert Moss was contracted for the work, He was the father of Veta Nicholls. The first Christmas Day service was held in 1956, A Mission was held in March 1957 when the speakers were Pastors Cyril Cooney, Wim Campbell, James Beattie and Alf Walton. Pastor Hollman resigned in July 1957 and a call was made to Pastor Ron Stewart ‘This was accepted and the Church was overjoyed to have an immediate upsurge in its numbers with the arrival of Ron and Dorothy Stewart and their three children Later that year with the completion of the hall, fifty Czechoslovakian Bentwood chairs were purchased from the Auckland Town Hall at one dollar each, The new Church Fall was to prove a wonderful boon to the work of the Chureh, With the arrival of 1958, a caretaking raster was commenced and the erection of Manse was mooted. By now the average attendance was 27, the average collection $10 and the new hall had cost $4,350. Early in this year, the first Church wedding, ‘was held. Patricia Sherwin married a young man from another area so the newly~ ‘weds were not able to attend the Church. In May 1958, the first Boys Brigade group was formed and a Saturday night Youth Club commenced. Two months later the Church held its first Family Retreat —at Salisbury House. The baptistry had its first use in August. ‘November that year was another month of highlights. The Church changed its name ‘to Kaurilands Church of Christ, the Girls Brigade group was formed and because of continued illness, Pastor Stewart resigned. He remained a member of the Church and so he and his family continued to give great assistance to the work. Church Parades of uniformed groups were started on 28° June 1959 and these were held quarterly, usually in conjunetion with Family Services and were quite an event in the whole neighbourhood as the groups were marched from Robb’s Store at the comer of Atkinson Road and Kaurilands Road, to the Church. ‘They would match fon the roadway with colours unfurled and drums beating and all traffic would be brought to a halt. ‘The congregation would wait outside and enter the Church after the groups on parade (other than the Colour Parties) were seated. All would then stand as the Colour Parties entered the Church and the Chairman of the service ot the visiting speaker would accept the Colours, By July/August 1959, the Church had debts of:- Hall, $3 806; Manse section, $606 ‘and an average attendance of 33 and collection of $12, On the 29% November 1959, Pastor David Green accepted a Call from the Church, his Ministry to commence on 1" February 1960. In February 1960, the Church inducted Pastor Green. On Good Friday 1960, a Communion Service was held a¢ 10am, starting a procedute that was followed for many years. An Open-air service was held at Titirangi on 27 March and attended by over 300 peopleDuring April, it was decided to have plans prepared for the eredtion of a Manse. On. 11* September 1960, an annual Family Rally Day was inaugurated. At this time, the average attendance had climbed to 48 and the collection had declined to just over $9. After the Sunday evening service held before Christmas Day, most of the congregation went around the Valley, singing Christmas Carols at selected points and returning to the hall for supper. This very joyful procedure was carried out for many years until with the advent of TV and its universal use, few, if any folk bothered to come out to listen to the Carols and it was finally abandoned. At this time, it became routine for many of the young people of the Church to go to 8 Member's home after the Evening Service and gather around a piano, singing choruses with great gusto and sharing supper together. This procedure was also carried out for many years. On 2 March 1961, a section adjoining the Church was purchased and this is now the Church Parking area, In June 1961, a tender submitted by Mr Keith Dustin for the erection of the Manse, was accepted. The Manse was officially opened at a special function on 4" November 1961. In September 1963, the Church agreed to hold an annual reunion each September. 1965 to 1974 From 1989 t0 1967 while Dave Green was Pastor, the Church grew tremendously ‘The Sunday School work was very suecessful and Sunday School Anniversaries would have about 200 children and teachers onthe tiered platform erected in the hal for these occasions. The music of the Church received a great fillip during this period with Joy Green organising and running a ladies choral group called the Kautilanders. She also organised Cantatas which were rendered at Christmas and Easter. In later years, other Song Leaders would organise these very fine musical works. By1965, the average attendance was 50 with a collection of over $21. On 8" April that year, the Church pews, stil in use in 1994 were purchased for $220 (actually ‘two of the pews later in use were not purchased at that time but were specially made ‘many years later — each one cost considerably more thatthe total purchase in 1965), Ata business meeting in mid-1965, it was reported that the Church buildings were in use every night of the week, After eleven years of operating under the motherhood of the West Street church, Kaurilands was granted its autonomy in August 1965, Of course, by then with ® motorway development in the Newton gully area West Street had ceased to exist and the re-located mother church was now the East Street Church, In November of that year, the hall was extended by seven metres in the direction of the parking area, During the hall construction work, a new kitchen was erected in its ‘present place. For two weeks during the month of March 1966, a Faith-Finder Films Mission was held and in June 1966, Pastor Green resigned to take up a Bible-teaching post at the Illawarra Bible School in Australia, It was September 1967 before the Church made any real move to appoint Elders but no action was taken after considerable discussion, From 1968 to 1970, Pastor Cyril Cooney worked for the Church on a parttime basis. [An important decision was made in April 1969 when it was decided to give 10% of all Church offerings to Missions, both home and overseas. Later that year in September, the front of the Church was reconstructed with a new entrance, the existing coloured glass panels, a larger foyer and the generally attractive gable front with the alun Ross Carter accepted a Call to the Pastorate and commenced on 1” January 1970. Soon after, the Church building was extended so that the auditorium included the old ‘and niow empty kitchen and the adjoining room. The Church and Sunday School ‘were continuing to grow and the growth was given quite a boost by two Ambassadors for Christ Crusades held in March 1971 and again in Mareh 1972, The Church had set a goal of six new families and this was easily reached. The Whole spirit of the Chureh rose in joy. Late in 1971, a Pastoral Committee had been appointed consisting Pastor Carter, Rob Cart, Russ Penman and Wayne Nicholls. Pastor Carter resigned in 1972 to take over the Pastorate at New Plymouth. It was February 1973 belore the first Elders were appointed and they were Tom Atkins and Dave Green, Dave had finished his time at Illawarra and had retumed to Auckland and bought a house near the Church which was so pleased to have the Green family back in their midst. Jn April that year the 10% giving to Missions was increased to 20%. An innovation which was a great success was the setting up of the K.K.K. or the Kaurilands Konereting Klub or the Kaurilands Kontracting Klub. The Klub comprised most of the Church menfolk and sprang into action when anyone (not necessarily a Church member or attender) wanted any work done on their property. It worked well and there were many happy recipients.Daring 1973, the Chureh was able to purchase quite cheaply, a large stock of Living Bibles and carried outa fre distribution in the neighbourhood. Although without a Pastor, the work continued to grow. In December, just prior to Christmas, a baptismal service yas held at Corvallis Beach when a large number of young people were baptised. In January 1974, with the membership now in the 60°s, a Call was sent to Pastor Toothe but it was declined. The 20% giving to Missions was again inereased in February 1974, this time to 30% - the figure which is still in use today. Ralph Wood had offered to carry out the Pastoral work and he was appointed Acting Pastor. He and Wayne Nicholls were appointed Elders in July 1974. During the following month, the Church purchased its first sound-system, During Pastor Green's ministry, the Church had co-operated with the Titirangi Churches on oceasions and in August 1974, a Kaurilands group conducted the Evening Service at the Titirangi Presbyterian Church, 1975 to 1984 ‘The Church year for the purposes of this brief history is taken from September to September, so itis fitting to note some very interesting events at the close of 1974, During October, the Church had a visit by ten Capemwray students who were billeted by members and who joined in all activities. They were from a number of countries as well as some fiom other parts of New Zealand and it helped to consolidate the already strong bond which had developed between the Church and Capernwray. In November, it was decided that visitation should be carried out by members gifted in that direction ~ not just by the Elders. This concept continues to be held today. ‘Then in that same month, the Church determined that in the appointment of a Pastor, the vote on such a matter must be by secret ballot and an affirmative decision must hhave 80% of the votes as @ minimum, By September 1975, the Church was 21 years of age, so a Special Dinner was held in August to celebrate this event. The membership at this time totalled 71. 0 ‘The Pastorate was filled again when in 1976 the Church appointed Ray Keymer the Ministty to commence on {* Janey. 1977. "On 29" September 1978, be resigned as Pastor, ‘The following year, 1979 was another milestone when the Church celebrated its Silver Jubilee with a Special Dinner. Then in 1981, the Church sent a Call to Tim Long to take up the Ministry at Kaurilands. He commenced on 1* January 1982. ‘The Church had been enjoying a time of considerable spiritual joy and this impetus was taken up by the new Pastor and the growth numerically and spiritually accelerated. ‘That year saw the Cl namely a Joyce Landorf series originally intended for the ladies on Wednesday ‘mornings and extended to Wednesday evenings so the menfolk could view the films. Large numbers attended. A further series was one of James Dobson's and this was 2 ‘ereat encouragement to the young parents of the Church. ‘The Church continued to grow at a brisk pace and it was agreed that the original church building was now too small and so services were held in the hall with the Sunday School (now sadly declining) using the chureh building. Approval was given to prepare plans for a new Church. The first Mens” camp was held in 1982. In 1983, with some sadness, the Chureh discontinued its long history of involvement with the various uniformed organizations. ‘That year also saw the acquisition of the first copying machine, A necessary but very cost-intensive piece of equipment and therefore a mixed blessing! Tim Long introduced some very innovative ideas for strengthening the bonds of fellowship ineluding “Dinners for Eight” and a special jigsww, pieces of which were taken by Church folk who were paired with each other ‘0 as lo arrange some activity together. ‘The Church membership figure had now reached 98 with a large number of adherents and so on 26° June 1983, approval was given for the erection of a new church building being built attached to and parallel to the hall and over the top of the existing old church which was then demolished. ‘The work was carried out by Don Twist who was assisted by a fow retired members and Working Bees. One tireless worker was the late Ernie Rosser. Steve Healy acted as Site Manager and his help was of great value, as too was thal of the Church treasurer, Erie Bowler.It vas atime of great joy when the new building was completed, opened and pt o use. In fat the ft activity in Tt was a celcetion diner held in the new auditorium. 1983 also saw the intodustion of a new type of Home Group teled OIKOS) whereby members were encouraged to love and car for enh other snd so assist wit the Under Shephording ofthe Church lk [198510 1994 | The average Church attendance in 1985 had reached 120. It was the strongest period of growth in the history of the Church up to that time. A group from the Church joined Men for Missions for a project in Papua-New Guinea. A similar project, only this time to Japan was carried out in 1987 and then further ones to the Philippines in 1990 and again in 1993, The latter two were Advent Christian Mission ventures and all were supported by Kaurilands by way of members, prayer ‘and finance. The end of 1987 saw the completion of Tim Long’s ministry. By now the membership totalled 128. A Task-foree was set up to consider and advise the Church on the role of Pastors and Elders. ‘The commencement of 1991 coincided with the appointment of Jonathan and Dooze Weir as Youth Leaders on a part-time basis. Their able leadership saw a phenomenal growth and a change of direction in Youth activities unknown hitherto, The growth was so rapid, that it was joyfully agreed that the Youth Leaders be employed full-time and Jonathan appointed Youth Pastor. ‘The emphasis in youth ‘work was changed from quantity to quality. Although that statement may be thought to be an over-simplification, it was to have profound affect on the spiritual growth of the Church. Early in 1991, during the month of March, twenty-two of the Church folk travelled to Rarotonga to attend the wedding of Michael Cart to Tete Short, Tt was a time of ‘reat joy for those who attended. During this year, the Church appointed Special pastoral groups who would take a major share of work involved in the care of all the Church folk thus assisting in the heavy work-load of the Elders 1992 was another year of important decisions, In April, a new style of Moming Service was commenced. Sunday School still remained at 9.15am but the children joined the Church at 10am when a Family time was held. ‘This concluded at 10.30am when all were invited to have tea or coffee in the hall, About 15 minutes later, a Communion and preaching service was held commencing with a Worsh time. It was agreed to discontinue the traditional Evening Service and have a Celebration at 6.30pm on the first Sunday of each month. On the other Sunday evenings, a special service geared for young people was held at 6.30pm. ‘This was entitled Impact and was very well supported. ‘The Church membership at this time totalled 127.AAs the year eame 0 a close, the Church appointed Jonathan Weir as its full Pastor, the first term to commence on 1" January 1993. ‘The Church also agreed to support his attendance at the Master’s Seminary at Los Angeles for 3 years, with his ‘returning to Kaurilands at the end of each year for 3 months work with the Church, ‘This appointment included a further 3 years at Kaurilands atthe end of the 3 years ‘The excellent results of the work of Jonathan and Dooze with the young people of the Church were shown at the end of 1992 with Bridget Callaghan (now Stubbs), Warren Stubbs and Jeremy Nicholls being accepted for 3 years study at the Bible College of NZ, Chantelle Sutton for 12 months at a School at Kiwi Ranch and Julian Miller for 12 months at the Assembly Bible School at Kelston, At the end of the year and spilling over into 1993, the Church organised its first ever Beach Mission and this was held at Whangamata over the Christmas — New Year holidays. The Mission made quite a positive impact on the spirit of the Church and con the centre of Whangamata, 1993 saw a further change to the format of the new style of services ~ more refining. perhaps. The Sunday School, which by now was extremely small, would start at 10am with a Children’s Church style of operation, The Chureh woild start at 1am. also and have a teaching/preaching service followed by a break for tea or coffee after which all would gather together for a Worship time, Communion and sharing, twas also agreed that the monthly evening services would no longer carry the title of Celebration. Later in the year, they changed from monthly to weekly and to the old traditional time of 7pm. In August 1993, very sad Church farewelled the Pastor and his family as they departed for their first semester at the Seminary in Los Angeles, Wayne Nicholls retired as an Elder, but further Elders were appointed during the year, namely Mark Page and Grant Aldridge so that with John Nicholls, Rob Carr and Doug Angove, this brought the number to five ~ the greatest number holding office at one time in the history of the Church. ‘The Church was indeed blessed with this strengthened leadership. Atthe conclusion of 1993, a further work-team was organised for the College at Oro in the Philippines. A large number of the team were Kaurilands folk and as in the past, the whole Church shared in the spiritual joy of the team members, Before proceeding to Los Angeles, Pastor Weir and the Elders prepared an excellent programme of speakers for the Sunday Services during the Pastor's absence and they were times of real spiritual joy for the members. The Church folk were kept ‘well informed of the Pastor’s life in the U.S.A. — particularly at the time when to the 4 _preat alarm of everybody, Los Angeles suffered an horrific earthquake, the epicentre of which was very near to the Weit's residence. A joyous Church weleomed the Pastor and his family back for a 4 month period on 11" May 1994, in plenty of time for the 40 Reunion. This event was held on Saturday 9" and Sunday 10” July 1994, the programme being as follows Saturday 9" July Reunion Tea and programme Sunday’ 10! July AM Service : Jim Chamley PM Service: Pastor Weir Past members and adherents and scholars were invited to all the functions and all ‘members of other Churches of Christ were invited to the Sunday evening service. The Church was thrilled to have six of its ex-Pastors at the Saturday evening programme, together with Pastor Jonathan and each of these six men said a few words. A large gathering took much pleasure in this function which, because of its numbers, was held in the Glen Eden Intermediate School Hall. The two services held in the Church on the Sunday were well attended and enjoyed by all, The Church folk felt that they had achieved this milestone in the history of the Church through hard work and a response to the call of the Lord in the hearts of al. But it was manifestly clear that it was the Lord Himself who had directed it all. We ‘who worked in the Church were His tools, His hands, His feet, His voice and His eyes. He had been in everything blessing us in such a wonderful wayEven though Pastor Jonathan and his family had to return to the College in Los Angeles for him to continue his Masters studies, the Church was 10 enjoy: much Spiritual enthusiasm and many highlights, Warren and Bridget Stubbs together with Feremy Nicholls continued their studies at the BCNZ in Henderson, graduating in 1995. The Prayer meeting which had been commenced in the Chureh foyer prior to the morning service was now firmly established, Kim Beale, part ofthe OAC Team in Auckland, who had joined the Church in 1991 hhad now taken over much of the Children's work carted out duting the working week. ‘This included Bible in Schools, afterschool Kids’ Clubs ete. He matried Angela and lived in close proximity t the Church, His expertise inthis area and his experience have been greatly appreciated. He also undertook the organization of annual Beach Missions to Ohope Beach as part of his OAC work and was instrumental in having support from the Church in running them. At the end of the year, Church members supported a Work team to India by Ch fork team to India by prayer, finance and by enrolling in the team, Those who participated had a taste of Mission life and were able to do some very helpful work. 1995 to 2004 By 1995, the_stongly Biblical method of family-rarng called “Growing Kids Goa's Way." inode originally in USA arin se by some of the, Church families sine 1993, had been expanding progressively and eventual, many groups had been formed and ad taken number ofthe courses Inet one ofthe Church members, Grant Warner ws appointed New Zealand Director ofthe organo full-time post which he holds today. : In 1996, Judy Nicholls was responsible for setting-up an innovative weekly activi that would henceforth change Tuesday momings completly. This vas the M&Ms (Mainly Mase). From its foundation, large numbers of patents, Mostly Mothers,(!) with their toddlers, descended on the Church and Judy very expertly took the children through their “workout.” She was assisted by other ladies who had specific tasks, It grew 30 rapidly that now, there are two sessions each Tuesday morning. A real success story. : This was a year for excitement. Pastor Jonathan Weir and bis famil wan Weir and his family retumed to ‘New Zealand as Jonathan had completed his Masters Degree, gaining excellent results in all examinations. His degree had been conferred and the Church was 16 rightfully very proud of him, In this year Gary Grut was appointed Youth Pastor and he and his family were gratefully received into the work of the Church. Jeremy Nicholls left his Homeland to do Mission work in Chicago with Jesus People USA. He subsequently married Beth, one of his fellow workers and they work together, still at JPUSA. A Family Camp was held in October and plans were underway to send another Work-team to Oro Bible College in the Philippines. Kim Beale ‘organised a further OAC Beach Mission at Ohope Beach and had plenty of assistance from the Church folk.. Grant Aldridge retired as an Elder Significant decisions were made in 1997. After some years of discussion and negotiation, the Church had decided it should consider moving into the Baptist denomination, As a preliminary step and to gauge and experience the value of such a ‘move, the Church took an ‘associate’ or *honorary” membership for a year or two before the final decision. ‘This came in 1997 when the Church, having been greatly assisted by the Baptist Union during the probationary period, decided to apply for full membership of the Union. On the 14", November, the Kaurilands Church of Christ (Life & Advent) changed its name to Titirangi Baptist Church and was officially accepted into _membership of the Baptist Union of New Zealand. Among the new members we welcomed during 1997 were Bill and Beryl Ching. Bill was a foundation member of the Church but had left the work when he and his wife Connie took a position serving the Lord in Mt Eden, running a Maori Boys Hostel. Connie died and Bill had lived on as a lone widower in Mt Eden. Bill and Beryl married and eventually bought a house near the Church. We were so thrilled to have them — Bill back in our work and Beryl one of the most highly regarded ‘women in the history of the Church of Christ Movement. With her qualifications, her forty-one years of experience on the mission field in India and her undoubted abilities in all aspects of church work and in particular, Bible study, she is a great asset. In September of this same year, the Church had so outgrown its auditorium, that it began having its morning services in the Glen Eden Intermediate Schoo! hall. Also in this month, a Church Family Camp was held. Doug Angove retired as an Elder ‘and Ian Richmond was appointed to the Eldership. Our Youth Pastor, Gary Grut was also responsible for Evangelism and outreach and in 1998, he inaugurated a very special event at Easter and called it “Easter in the Park.” In doing so, he introduced the expression “Titirangi Baptist, The Chureh on the Movel!” It was held at Cerameo Park and ‘commenced with an outdoor Service in the morning and had throughout the rest of ”the day, stalls, outdoor activities, eating places etc. — just heaps of fun for all. A large number of people attended; the day was beautiful and it was a great success. During these last few years, the administration of the Church had undergone major changes. The Executive made up of Deacons and representatives of "various departments and meeting monthly, had been set aside and an Administration Team hhad been formed to care for the Church infrastructure. With the use of Servers 10 carry out the taking of the offering and delivery of the Communion, it was considered that there was no longer the need for Deacons. The appointment of Deaconesses was allowed fo lapse. The pastoral care of the Church folk is in the hhands of the Church leadership which to a large extent delegated this fo the Leaders and members of the Home Groups. This covered much of the needs of the majority but it was soon realised there was a group of people who were not members of Home Groups ~ perhaps because of being newcomers or maybe for other reasons they did not wish to join a Group. As these people may need care from time to time, it was decided in 1998 to appoint Deacons who would have specific people t0 care for until such people decided to join a Home Group. Such appointees were men or ‘women and these Deacons have fulfilled an important role, In this year, Judy Nicholls who was the organiser of M&M’s, turned her attention to the other end of the age spectrum and commenced Evergreens for the older ones. In this she was and still is, ably assisted by Mary Callaghan and Beryl Ching who runs the Bible Study which is an excellent adjunct. Rob Carr retired as an Elder. Kim Beale organised the Beach Mission at Ruakaka. Titirangi Baptist was “on the move” again in 1999 as Gary Grut organised another “Easter in the Park” — a wonderful occasion when thousands were once more attracted to Cerameo Park. A group of young people were taken to Fiji by Gary Grut in the same year, 1999 and spent a short period evangelising and experiencing another culture Jn this year, Hudson Deane was appointed an Elder ‘The following year, 2000, saw a further important appointment with Charles “Hewlett being added to our Pastoral Team, Mark Page retired from the Eldership in 2000 and in this year, the Glen Eden Intermediate School undertook extensive alterations and the Church therefore moved into the newly erected hall at the Kaurilands School, In February of 2000, our Pastor Jonathan Weir went to India for two weeks to assist with a programme of instruction for Indian Pastors, having been chosen because of his obvious ability in this regard. It is regrettable that he came back to New Zealand 18 suffering fiom some debilitating infection which has caused problems with his health ever since, It had become obvious that the Church would continue to grow and it was considered by many that consideration should be given to having a Church building which could house the Church services and all departments of the work. AAs the existing site is not big enough to encompass such a desirable building, a Committee was formed to look at possibilities, During 2000, the large 3-Guys supermarket building at Glen Eden came on the ‘market and the Church leadership hurriedly worked on the massive and complicated details of buying and suitably refurbishing the property There was so much detail to work out, The cost would be considerable, It was understood that the property would be sold by auction and that it was being sought by a developer. The Church held lots of meetings and prayer times and it was agreed that if it was God's will that the Church should have the property, it would indeed happen... A huge amount of finance would have to be raised and the debt would be considerable, Schemes were devised whereby the Church building as finally designed using the 3 Guys building and adjoining properties included in the total project, would include profitable operations of those parts not required by the Church. The proposition as finally laid before the Church showed that it would be feasible provided the Church's highest bid at the auction was successful, In the auction which was held to dispose of the site, the Church was left behind in the bidding very early in the sae, In 2001, for the third time, Gary Grut organised the “Church on the move” and on Easter Sunday, the Church's forces were mobilised into “Easter in the Park” at Ceratnco Park. Again, leaflets were very widely distributed and lots of stalls and programmes established, The crowds flocked in large numbers to enjoy a real fun day. for the local community. In this year, the Church appointed four Interns, Warren Stubbs, Greg Laing, Eamon Sullivan and Jabin Lamble for a two-year course of practical training, while attending studies at the Bible College of New Zealand, Also in 2001 Martin and Joy Williams left us to work as Missionaries in Cameroon.. ‘The world-wide course established by Nicky Gumbel, Minister of Holy Trinity Church at Brompton in London and called “Alpha” was held during July/August! September in 2002, and run according to the normal practice with an introduetory dinner followed by fourteen weekly video lessons with one weekend retreat included. Each weekly lesson started with an excellent meal followed by the video and then discussion. Pastor Jonathan Weir led the course and as the attendance was high, it was very successful 6During this year, a move was made to commence a new social group fellowship for those fifty and over. It has a very clever title ~ “Primetime!” and it meets for various activities on an irregular basis. In 2002, we farewelled Maurice and Michelle Lee and their three children as they ‘went to Nepal where Maurice is working as a Medical Missionary In the same year, Grant Aldridge went on the Mission field to the Philippines to the Bible College at Oro. ‘Sadly, during the early part of 2003, we found that Jonathan our Senior Pastor was suffering from "Burn-out" and would need to have a complete break. The Church ‘was advised that it could be a slow road to recovery and in the meantime he would be off all duties, Also sadly in 2003, Gary Grut decided that God was leading him to further fields of activity and he resigned his position as Youth Pastor and he and his family moved to the Bay of Plenty. They are missed in the Church and its activities. Carolyn Hanson was appointed to direct Children's Ministries and Grant Warner was appointed an Elder. With the absence of Pastor Weir from the pulpit, the Church has had many fine visiting speakers as well as excellent devotional leadership from out own men, We now come to our Jubilee year and itis difficult to realise that fifty years have passed so quickly. New visions are always being received by our people and this year Sue Bishop aeting on such a revelation, commenced a Friday Cafe at the Church cleverly called “The Weekly Grind.” It has been very successful. Jarrod Angove and Greg Laing have been enrolled for study and training at the Carey Baptist College and Jarrod is the Director of the young people's activities and ‘organises the Sunday evening Impacts. This year, Martin and Joy Williams have returned from the Mission field in Cameroon and they have taken up life in Dune‘ so Martin can study for his Doctorate - Jordan Mortis went on a short-term Mission to Thailand. Sue Smith, who has been overseas on so many short-term mission ‘ventures has been quiet in recent times because of family requirements — but what ‘wonderful work she has achieved over the years. Two smaller Alpha Courses have been held this year. Joe Ayres was appointed a Church Elder. ‘The statisties that follow tell a story on their own and those regarding attendances, indicate the growth of the Church which in the last decade has been very good. ‘Some might say it would be because the Church is now part ofa large denomination ‘That may be partly: so; but many would consider that it has been to a very great extent, the result of the high quality of the preaching and teaching of Pastor Weir and for this and all his work, the Church is very grateful. 0 ‘And for so much of the last year, during Jonathan's illness and indeed from the day he came to us, we need to declare our great debt of gratitude to Charles Hewlet for the mighty way he has shouldered so much of the burden. Again the Church is very grateful to him and also to the Church leadership. But as we did after forty years, ‘we need to do so again — just pause and observe the wonder of the Lord working in every aspect of the whole of our Church organization. To HIM be ALL. the Glory. The proceedings to celebrate the Jubilee are planned for Saturday 16" and Sunday 17° Oetober withthe main activites Being a bile Tea and socal programme on 16 and a morning service on 17" followed by a family plenie,During this year, a move was made to commence a new social group fellowship for those fifty and over, It has a very clever title ~ “Primetime!” and it meets for vatious activities on an irregular basis. In 2002, we farewelled Maurice and Michelle Lee and their three children as they went to Nepal where Maurice is working as a Medical Missionary In the same year, Grant Aldridge went on the Mission field to the Philippines to the Bible College at Oro. Sadly, during the early part of 2003, we found that Jonathan our Senior Pastor was suffering, from “Bum-out” and would need to have a complete break. ‘The Church ‘was advised that it could be a slow road to recovery and in the meantime he would be off all duties, Also sadly in 2003, Gary Grut decided that God was leading him to further fields of activity and he resigned his position as Youth Pastor and he and his family moved to the Bay of Plenty. They are missed in the Church and its ‘activities. Carolyn Hanson was appointed to direct Children’s Ministries and Grant Warmer was appointed an Elder. With the absence of Pastor Weir from the pulpit, the Church has had many fine visiting speakers as well as excellent devotional leadership from our own men. We now come to our Jubilee year and it is difficult to realise that fifty years have passed so quickly. New visions are always being received by our people and this Year Sue Bishop acting on such a revelation, commenced a Friday Cafe at the ‘Church cleverly called “The Weekly Grind.” It has been very successful. Jarrod ‘Angove and Greg Laing have been enrolled for study and training at the Carey Baptist College and Jarrod is the Director of the young people's activities and organises the Sunday evening Impacts. This year, Martin and Joy Williams have returned from the Mission field in Cameroon and they have taken up life in Dunedin so Martin can study for his Doctorate . Jordan Mortis went on a short-term Mission to Thailand. Sue Smith, who has been overseas on so many short-term mission ‘ventures has been quiet in recent times because of family requirements ~ but what ‘wonderful work she has achieved over the years. Two smaller Alpha Courses have been held this year. Joe Ayres was appointed a Church Elder. ‘The statistics that follow tell a story on their own and those regarding attendances, indicate the growth of the Church which in the last decade has been very good. Some might say it would be because the Church is now part of a large denomination. ‘That may be partly so; but many would consider that it has been to a very great extent, the result of the high quality of the preaching and teaching of Pastor Weir ‘and for this and all his work, the Church is very grateful And for so much of the last year, during Jonathan’s illness and indeed from the day he came to us, we need to declare our great debt of gratitude to Charles Hewlett for the mighty way he has shouldered so much of the burden. Again the Chureh is very grateful to him and also to the Church leadership. But as we did after forty years, we need to do so again — just pause and observe the wonder of the Lord working in every aspect of the whole of our Church organization. To HIM be ALL the Glory The proceedings to celebrate the Jubilee are planned for Saturday 16" and Sunday 1 October with the main activities being a Jubilee Tea and social programme on 16" and a morning service on 17" followed by a family picnic,Average Auendance 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 los 198s 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 199 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 120 128 28 8 9 118 127 03 98 100 10 181 200 240 250 351 325 Pastors Derek Hollman Ron Stewart David Green Cyril Cooney (Part-time) Ross Carter Ralph Wood (Acting & Part-time) Ray Keymer Tim Long Jonathan Weir Gary Grut Charles Hewlett Youth Pastors Fonathan Weir Gary Grut l9ss~ 1957 1957-1958, 1960 ~ 1967 1968 ~ 1970 1970-1972 1974-1976 1977-1978 1982— 1987 1993 ~ Present 1998 - 2003 2000 -P it 1989 ~ 1992 1998 — 2003 Elders (Pastors are members of the Elders' Board) David Green Rob Care Tom Atkins John Nicholls Wayne Nicholls Doug Angove Ralph Wood Mark Page Colin Warner Tan Richmond Grant Aldridge Grant Warner Toe Ayres Hudson DeaneMissionaries Ted Casting Denis & Carol Green ‘Sue Smith Jeremy & Beth Nicholls Martyn & Joy Williams Grant Aldridge ‘Maurice & Michelle Lee Jordan Mortis Secretaries Gordon MeKeich Barberry Holmes Will Ching Wayne Nicholls Will Ching Wayne Nicholls John Nicholls John Robinson Peier & Mari Polglase Erie Bowler ‘Wayne Nicholls Joe Aytes Treasurers Gordon MeKeieh Frank Fraser Rab Care Wayne Nicholls Erie Bowler Bronwyn Taylor 1954 1954-1955 1955-1957 1957 - 1964 1964 ~ 1965 1965 ~ 1974 1974-1986 1986-1990 1990 1991 1991 ~- 1998 1998 - 1999 1999 present 1955 — 1964 1965 — 1966 1966-1977 1977-1981 1982 ~ 2001 2001-present 24 Deacons (Early system) SB.Lewers Dave Turnbull ‘Vern Booth Emie Rosser Gary Keymer David Brunton Bill Ching Frank Ching Brian Carr Jim Sheppard Tony Callaghan Kerry Hart Mark Page Barry Shaw Don Twist Clive Downes John Hocksbergen Ron Fraser Brett Nicholls Norval Ball ‘Mal Green AIPStubbs Grant Warner Deacons (Pastoral) Doug Angove (Leader) Alison Angove Brie Bowler Judy Nicholls Linda Prat Clive Sleeman Marge Sleeman ‘Ann Ball Pateicia Carr Hubert Nicholls H, Bd -Aldridge Johan Van Den Hoek Ted Casting Gordon McKeich rank Fraser Ralph Wood Russ Penman Charles Carter Bruce Fraser Denis Green Russ Palmer Ian Richmond Graeme Page Doug Angove Erie Bowler Kevin Sutton John Robinson Roger Poletlase Steve Healy Bill Hodges John Nicholls Ray Keymer Barry Sutton Rob Carr Mal Carr Ina Vlaanderen Liz West ‘Wayne Nicholls Veta Nicholls Mary Callaghan Alton Ridgway Sally Rideway Andrew WalshDeaconesses Lily Nicholls Grace MeKeich Helen Aldridge Vera Turnbull Norene Bolton Rita Carter Joy Green ‘Norma Penman Joyce Huxford ‘Anne Ching Mat} Nicholls ‘Ann Ball Sheila Bowler Peatl Sheppard Judy Nicholls Mary Callaghan Gaye Polglase Organists Grace MeKeich Helen Aldridge Antoinette Foster Maria Van Den Hoek Toy Green Roger Polglase Pianists David Richmond Joy Green Robyn Polglase Irene Downes Heather Sutton Barberry Holmes Connie Ching Dorothy Stewart Veta Nicholls June Brunton Pauline Richmond Nell Davidson Jean Garwood Patricia Carr Margaret Rosser Hazel Wood Bette Page Mary Long, Ethel Warner Barbara Sutton Glenda Twist Jan Sutton Bill Ching, ‘Ann Watson Grant Aldridge Marlene Carter Judy Nicholls ‘Trevor Polglase Norma Penman Judy Nicholls, Julie Twist Gaye Polglase 26 ‘Sunday School Superintendents Gordon MeKeich Ron Fraser Vern Booth Russ Penman, Ian Richmond Ralph Wood Judy Nicholls Doug Angove Pearl Sheppard Jim Sheppard Barry Shaw Mary Callaghan Kim Beale Mal Carr Bronwyn Taylor Carolyn Hanson Sue Thatcher Youth Leaders H. Ed, Aldridge Connie Ching Bill & Connie Ching Russ Penman Brian Carr Wayne Nicholls Russ Penman Committee: Norval Ball, Wayne Nicholls, Russ Penman, Mal Green, Brett Nicholls John Nicholls, Ross Carter, Gary Keymer, Ray Keymer, Ian Richmond Graeme Page Grant Warner Mark Page Keith Redit Barry Sutton Geoff & Karen Hill Jim Sheppard Mal Carr Jonathan & Dooze Weir Committee: Warwick Aldridge, Karen Bearda, Leonie Green, Greg Laing, Nicole Laing, Jeremy Nicholls, Warren Stubbs, Bridget Stubbs, Lisa Williams. Committee: Warwick Aldridge, Tony Kuypers, Greg Laing, Murray Long, Chantetle Sutton, 2Church Officers 2004 Pastors Secretary Treasurer Pastoral Care Team Childrens Ministries Youth Ministries Family Ministries ‘Small Groupy Jonathan Weir Charles Hewlett John Nicholls Tan Richmond Hudson Deane Grant Warner Joe Ayres, Joe Ayres Bronwyn Taylor Doug Angove ‘Alison Angove Ann Ball Clive Sleeman Marge Sleeman Wayne Nicholls, Veta Nicholls Mary Callaghan Alton Ridgway Sally Ridgway Judy Nicholls “Andrew Walsh Carolyn Hanson Jarrod & Jess Angove Grant & Michelle Warner Glen & Anne Cleary Charles Hewlett Music Ministry Missions Convenor Prayer Chain Convenor Mainly Music Evergreens Primetime Tape Ministry ings | 22.02.1958 WE. Carter 15.03.1958 AN. Bennett 02.01.1960 C.1.B. Gillan 12.11.1960 OG. Aldridge 22.04.1961 R. de Jong 18.07.1964 —_T.C, Stephens 05.09.1964 J. Mason 19.02.1966 BC. Fraser 07.05.1966 KW. Judson 14.01.1967 RL. Alexander 24.02.1968 E.R, Alexander 05.04.1969 JA. Sharp 20.09.1969 AH. Skilton 21.02.1970 DJ. Smith 17.04.1970, Tunnielifte 03.10.1970 B.Cunningham 15.05.1971 GE.Sutelitfe Warwick Aldridge Lynnette Long Alana Ramsay Linda Pratt Carol Burgess Judy Nicholls John Nicholls Tony Tuner to AJ. Skinner to PCM. Sherwin to NE, Olesen to BA. Broad to J.G.M. Chandler to V.B. Sherwin to MLL. Brabant fo HLL Tumbull fo SM. Wilson to AG. MeKeieh to S.A. Brunton to — RL. Simms to BM. Stansfield MM. Carter to RM, Sehollum to MA.V.D, Jardin to LJ. Dobbinson24.07.1971 12.11.1971 15.05.1972 03.03.1973 12.05.1973 22.06.1974 28.08.1976 09.10.1976, 16.10.1976 27.11.1976 27.11.1976 01.12.1979 19.07.1980 01.11.1980) 13.12.1980 06.09.1981 19.12.1981 (08.05.1982 30.01.1983 15.10.1983 09.06.1984 16.02.1985 06.04.1985 18.05.1985 29.06.1985 03.08.1985 21.09.1985 22.03.1986 12.04.1986, 30.08.1986 (06.09.1986 01.11.1986 20.12.1986 27.03.1987 24.10.1987 15.10.1988. 14.10.1989 07.04.1990 12.05.1990 19.01.1991 24.02.1991 13.04.1991 L.A. Falconer Dil. Green K.J. Johnson BD. Johnson LA. Richmond TER Atkins BM. Sorenson CJ, Stoneham DR Angove ‘SM. Healy R. Legg GI. Cross Mi. Sheppard GF, Rayner GA. Warner MN. Hart P.B. Sykes A.W. Price TA. Pratt KL. Middleton M.B. Hart M4. Davies GM. Janiszewski N. Ball S.J. Henderson MW. Shaw PR. Rosser S.G. Kern C.D. Hankins HR. Gill P.M, MeLindon ME. Day S.J. Howard S.1 Sheppard MK. Silvester P-T. Polglase MS. Carr CR Downes A.C. Healy. GPW. Crump 0 rs © Ma. Brunton CA. George JA. Newel LG. Stanley BW. Nichols HA. Mowat LE. Aperahama S.A. Brandon AG. Page B. Nicholls MAB. Budden We. Care TM, Wood DR Bright MD. Hart, R. Gaunt V.A. Bidenead SP. Newel LIM. Nicholson Wal. Nesley M1. Paris Bu. Long KS. Bowler VA. Silvester 5.L, Penman S.A, Cresswell J.C. Menzies $11 Bowler Ad. Bowker GE. Moodie P35. Bromwich GP. Sheppard LD. Brookes SD. Kosier MLL. oyce MC. Lake RM. Long T. Henderson PI. Shas LE, Suton F.d'Ranaud K. Staniey 02.11,199, 08.05.1995 14.08.1993 27.11.1993 29.01.1994 23.07.1994 01.10.1994 07.09.1996 22.03.1997 25.07.1998) 06.03.1999 01.05.1999 06.01.2001 13.04.2001 01.09.2001 19.01.2002 02.02.2002 21.12.2002 22.02.2003, 09.03.2003 31.01.2004 13.03.2004 28.03.2004 17.04.2004 17.07.2004 ACT. Barrie GAA. Laing K Beale Ml, Long W.B. Stubbs: W. Aldridge W. Kuypers. GD Taylor C Bell J. Nicholls M. Hopkins G, Baddeley B. Aldridge B. Rowllings J. Angove K. Setiu B. Harris D. Stubbs M Wright L Sheppard D. Pankhurst B. Richmond A. Healy B Kuypers, D. Wilkes, Q 6 J to CL. Parris to N.C. Hall to A. Grossi to LJ. Aldridge to B.A. Callaghan to J, Twist to — L.Green to — BAldridge to RLuxton to KBearda to C, Campbell to L-Riehmond to S$. Baegent to CMaditt to J. Bates, to, Vlaanderen to N.Holland fo A, Spence to R.Kamphuis to L.Nicholls to RHenderson fo VHolmes to S$. Russell to L. Jamieson to —N. Baker i auMissions and Other Work Supported a Ex the 10%, 20% and 30% of the Membership Giving ‘The main support for the year 2003/04 has been as follows:~ © Martin & Joy Williams ~ Cameroon Bible Seminary 5 Jeremy & Beth Nicholls ~ JPUSA, Chicago, USA ‘© Maurice & Michelle Lee ~ International Nepal Fellowship, Tansen Hospital © Grant Aldridge Oro Bible College, Administration (9 Jordan Morris — Short term mission, Thailand (© Andrew & Denielle Walsh - VOM © Grant Warner = GENZ Beach Mission TBC Kim & Angela Beale ~ WYNRS NZ, Soccer Plus Ministry ve the yeas the Church as used the Mision Fund spp any Home and OS. Mision an ese have included, Advent Cheian Mins, Reath-Out Stn Gene gees isonet th Kaurans Chic, eso Towsip, ANC, Garp Resign SI, WEC, OAC, Atbeotre Tt Bo {Cy Pa Coleg of WE ots Noe a oe woul have (ee PSI it had nt bent forte gents giving of ments vere yea é DP ¢ 2 Conclusion This record has covered the history of the Kaurilands Church of Christ and the Titirangi Baptist Church in ‘ten year’ groupings, not in great detail but mostly the highlights. From the outset, the Church was a member of the Churches of Christ (Life & Advent) and its constitution included clauses in line with theie particular teaching. That of course strengthened its development which has been along a conservative evangelical pattern, maintaining the supreme importance of the Scriptures which have been the guide of the Church throughout its history. It has been a family-orientated Church and has endeavoured to establish itself as a warm and hospitable congregation. It achieved this according to the many comments it received, It would be most difficult to know just how many people have attended the Chureh over the fifty years and heard the Gospel of God’s redeeming love and sacrifice hhow many have come to know the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and have accepted His Lordship. We know that we have had some hundreds of members and adherents over that period and I guess we could say that some thousands (!) may have entered the doors either to attend Church, Sunday School, Girls Brigade, Boys Brigade, Youth Club, Weddings, Funerals ete, etc. The whole fifty years has been a time of spiritual excitement and the Lord alone, knows the eventual harvest. One tremendous strength over the years ~ at least over the first forty odd years particularly, has been the ‘Ladies’ Work’. The ladies of the Church gave themselves devotedly and with great zeal (a host of activities in support of all areas of Church ‘work as well as co-operating with many other organizations ~ in particular, the work oF C.W.C1. Mention should be made of Connie Ching, a member at the start, who in the early days of the Church, ted the Ladies work for many years. It could be said that she pioneered this task, a role which has been ably filled by all the ladies who have followed, A considerable number of young people of the Church have responded to the call to study full time to better fit themselves for service for the Lord, Over the years, most have attended the Bible College of NZ. but in later times, some have attended other colleges. The Church has always been thrilled to support these young ones by way of prayers, encouragement, advice and finanee. ‘There are hosts of people to thank and to acknowledge but apart from the very few already mentioned, it cannot be done personally or some will be missed, This booklet will attempt to spell it out in @ general fashion and even then some will be overlooked. In those cases, those readers who find their names missing, please forgive the lapses and errors ~ they have not be intentional‘The special ones include all our Pastors who have rendered such wonderful service to the Church ~ thank you. But these exceptional ones must also allow for two of our men to receive our thanks a8 we specially record their service. One of them no longer lives in the district or attends the Church. Russell Penman spent hours every week keeping our Church tidy and in wonderfal condition ~ both outside and inside. Not everyone noticed it but there were many who did, ‘The Church records its very special thanks to Russell. ‘The other is Norval Ball, He was converted at our Church after an Arthur Hill Crusade thirty-three years ayo. Being a highly qualified joiner by trade, he was immediately asked to help with the maintenance of the Church property and he has continued to do so to this very day. Most of the people attending our Church today are not aware of the debt we owe to Norval for all these years of faithful time- consuming work to ensure the property is well maintained. The Church again records its special thanks to Norval ‘The list that follows includes groups who have rendered service since the establishment of the Church. Because it is only fifty years old and many people involved in the Church in its early days are alive today and stil with ot connected to the Church, the list included in the 1994 booklet has been incorporated with ‘comments where applicable. The Church therefore thanks:~ (Those currently serving are automatically included,) |All who have ministered to us as Pastors and to that we add our thanks to their wives All who have ministered to us, be they Elders, Speakers (visiting of otherwise), or Readers ‘The Girls Brigade Officers and Leaders The Boys Brigade Officers and Leaders “The Sound Equipment Controllers, and lately the Production Ministry “The Rangers Leaders The Busy Bee Leaders ‘The Organisers and Leaders of : Priday night clubs, Thursday Knights, Wednesday Warriors, Rock Solid, Saturday night Youth Club, Impact 4 ‘The Presidents, Secretaries and other officers ofthe Ladies Guild and subsequenty the Ladies Coffee Hours, TBC Café - M & M's Co-ordinators and Helpers The Mission Committees andl Convenors Seniors Ministry ~ Evergreens Co-ordinators And Helpers Primetime Organisers The Muse Directors The Leader and Members of the Kaurilanders ‘Those who conducted Christmas or Easter Cantatas, Easter in the Park, and Christmas in the Courtyard CChoirmasters and Choirmistresses ‘The Bible Standard Reporters, Baptist Union Reporter ‘The Leper Mission Secretaries The Salisbury House Camp Committee Representatives Delegates tothe Annual Conferences Chuteh Representatives on The Association Executive Programme Committee Members Church Secretaries Church Treasurers Organist and Pianists All other musicians Anyone acting in any capacity while there was a vacaney, temporary or otherwise Members of the Church Executives Deacons Deaconesses Servers & Doorkeepers Organisers of Working and Painting Bees Members ofthe Kaurilands Konereting and Kontracting Klubs 3sChurch cleaners, garden maintainers. Organisers of Church Camps and Retreats Those who organised and helped with the building of the Hall and more latterly the Church ~a special word of thanks to Don Twist ‘Those who graciously allowed their names to be included on the vast host of rosters that have operated over fifty years Those who have prayed for us, made donations to us and supported us in so many ways: ‘The Sunday School Superintendents and Leaders who have directed the Sunday ‘Schools through fifty years and for the many, many who have taught our children in the Sunday School Once again, those who have taught us, preached to us exhorted us, visited us and counselled us. As the typist (and not the writer) of this Booklet I am able to add another word of thanks this time to Wayne and Vela Nicholls whose tremendous contribution over 50 years has been a real enrichment and blessing to our Fellowship, And last, but only last because we want everything at this point, to focus on Him, we want to thank our Gracious Heavenly Father for giving us this little plot in the Kauritands area to till, sow, nourish and water and so help Him with His harvest. ‘00000000000000000 36 ohnowledgement Cur thanks to the people whe contributed to the uniting and production of the Booklet. Wayne Nicholls, Can Ball, Jolin Nicholls, Sue Cuayle and the TBE Office Staff