Baptist Presence Bolsters Canterbury

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NZ Baptist churches have shifted their annual assembly to Christchurch in a show of support for Canterbury, following the region's loss of business and events due to recent earthquakes.

Auckland, New Zealand., November 8, 2011 - (PressReleasePoint) - When Christchurch’s infrastructure took a hit last year and again in February, the region lost more than buildings and roads. A myriad of events, from Rugby World Cup games to weekend conferences, also migrated elsewhere. The Baptist Churches of NZ decided to buck this demoralizing trend. Following the February 22 earthquake, the leadership moved its annual assembly – originally slated for Hamilton this weekend, November 10-13 – to the Lincoln University campus near Christchurch.

“The decision was taken to affirm the people of Christchurch at a time when other conferences were leaving,” said Rodney Macann, the outgoing National Leader. New Zealand’s 244 Baptist congregations have responded positively. Around 600 representatives have registered, a 50% increase on usual attendance numbers. Christchurch Deputy Mayor Ngaire Button will welcome the delegates.
Several Baptist church buildings in Christchurch suffered earthquake damage. Iconic Oxford Terrace, built in 1881, collapsed on February 22. The historic Beckenham Baptist building didn’t fare much better and was demolished days later.

The churches rallied together, however, meeting in school halls and other temporary accommodation while finding ways to help their neighbourhoods through a shaky winter. The twenty congregations in and around Christchurch helped distribute heaters, gas refills and snuggle sacks. Teams from around the country came to help clear liquefaction and add manpower to the cleanup efforts in the days and months following the quakes.
A nationwide Baptist appeal has raised more than $436,500 to date, which has helped community initiatives such as children’s programmes and counseling along with the physical cleanup. The Baptist churches also appointed an Earthquake Response Coordinator, William Drury-Turnbull, who is employed full time to make sure that the donations and volunteer efforts are channeled to best effect. 

Average weekly attendance at all NZ Baptist churches is 40,000. The churches are notable for their community involvement, and there is an emphasis on youth and family. Youth Easter camps around the country have an annual attendance of 10,000-11,000.
This year’s assembly highlights the Baptist churches’ emphasis on caring for families and children with guest speakers known for their practical advice for parents and teachers. Mark Holmen and John Dawson are authors from the USA, and Kiwis Ian and Mary Grant (Parents Inc.) and Di Grennell (Whanau Ora) are known nationally for their work to strengthen families.

For more information:

William Drury-Turnbull, Earthquake Response Coordinator: (03) 929 0539, william@baptist.org.nz; Rodney Macann, National Leader: (09) 526 0338, rodney.macann@baptist.org.nz; http://www.baptist.org.nz – click on “earthquake” for past updates