Kiwi Small Catechism launched

The Lutheran Church of New Zealand (LCNZ) has its own ‘Kiwi’ Catechism.

The new translation of Martin Luther’s Small Catechism in Maori and English was launched at the LCNZ’s 40th Convention of Synod, held in Hamilton, from 7 to 9 June.

This gift to Lutheran families in Aotearoa (New Zealand) was produced with financial assistance from members of Whakatane Lutheran Church after its closure in 2017.

In his foreword to the new resource, LCNZ Bishop Mark Whitfield said Luther ‘would have appreciated Taiarahia Black’s translation, as he wrote his Small Catechism in 1529, faced with … “deplorable and miserable conditions” amongst the … church with regard to Christian knowledge’.

Also at the biennial gathering at St Matthew Lutheran Church, the synod rejoiced as St Matthew member Kenneth ‘Bunty’ Meyer, supported by his wife Wilma, was presented the LCA/NZ’s Servant of Christ award. Bunty has been the epitome of relational mission as he has served in many roles at both Hamilton and at St David’s in Taumarunui, where he led regular worship services for many years until its closure in October 2008.

In synod business, Bishop Whitfield was re-elected as leader of the LCNZ for a further four-year term. He was first elected to the post, then known as president, in June 2011, succeeding Pastor Robert Erickson.

Pastor Jim Pietsch was re-elected as assistant bishop for a further four-year term. Assistant Bishop Pietsch also serves as pastor to St Pauls congregation in Wellington and St Francis congregation in Greymouth. Both district leaders were elected unopposed.

– with reporting by LCNZ Synod Council member
and St Matthew Lutheran Church Chair Lesley Johnson