Celebration in Ōamaru!

Sunday 15 December 2024 was a significant time of celebration for Ōamaru Corps (church), with the enrolment of three new adherents and the commissioning of a local officer.

One of the three was Larisa Te Awa (Ngāpuhi), who has been attending the corps and volunteering for the past three months. Larisa’s enrolment certificate was unique because it includes a te reo Māori translation. Major Christine De Maine (Pōkarekare Māori Ki Te Tai Aroha) attended the ceremony to represent Māori Ministry and to offer karakia (prayer) and join with the corps whanau (family) as they sang waiata to Larisa—which was unexpected and a welcome surprise. Larisa was thrilled to see the bilingual certificate and is excited about what God has in store for her in the future.

Paul and Tina Toschi, who hail from South Africa, were also enrolled as adherent members. The couple live in the town of Palmerston, which is situated at the south end of Ōamaru Salvation Army’s geographical reach. Captain Jocelyn Smith, corps officer at Ōamaru Corps, explains that Paul and Tina have a heart to see mission for Jesus extended to Palmerston.

‘They have very much spearheaded the push to extend our tent pegs. We’ve just piloted a carol service in Palmerston, which included a BBQ and ice blocks for the children. About 40 people attended, and Paul and Tina are very eager to run an Alpha course and possibly start a monthly meeting. It’s our new dream and we are excited about what God has planted within Paul and Tina.’

Long-time soldier of Ōamaru Corps Bridget McLay was commissioned as a local officer during the service, with the title children and family mission coordinator. ‘Bridget has just commenced a 12-month contract for 25 hours a week to extend and grow ministry to children and families, as well as pilot the Aspire programme,’ says Jocelyn. ‘It is wonderful to see our community increasingly reflected in our congregation, and we are so excited to be part of what God is doing in and through the people of Ōamaru Corps.’