My particular involvement in the Anglican Church in Aotearoa, New Zealand and Polynesia, in addition to worship and parish life, has been as Diocesan Executive Officer, for the Diocese of Waiapu 1979 – 1995, followed by appointment as General Secretary of our three Tikanga Church 1995 – 2007, both positions I considered as privileges, involving some 28 years of my working life.
Being approached to consider being ‘Patron’ of the Anglican Insurance Board seemingly emanated from a chance suggestion at a meeting of Diocesan Secretaries and others, held in ‘the Loaves and Fishes’ at our Wellington Cathedral of St. Paul a number of years ago. The possibility of the pooling of expertise, advice and experience in order to effect a common approach in a number of the activities that all episcopal units need to exercise was surely a sensible and economic move. So it is with Insurance and the efforts and commitment of our Board through what could be classed as very tumultuous times in the insurance industry both in Aotearoa New Zealand and generally in the world in which we live.
A great deal has been learned as a result of those troubled times. The report to Te Hīnota Whānui in 2014 shows the learnings being taken on board, highlighting the ongoing potential and savings possible when we work together.
My observation and prayer is that this Church increasingly looks to achieving economies in time, and effort in secular matters while freeing itself to concentrate on
Living to be the agent and sign of the Kingdom of God.
Yours in Christ
Robin Nairn QSM