Perhaps a church can be more than just a building. Papakura Wesleyan Church is more than just a place of worship. It embodies community spirit and outreach. Let’s delve into the story of this unique church.
Papakura Wesleyan Church emerged from the Methodist Church. This happened when the Wesleyan Methodist Church of Aotearoa-New Zealand was newly formed in the late 90s and early 2000s. The church felt drawn to Red Hill in Papakura. Red Hill faced many challenges, especially among its youth. Papakura Wesleyan Church wanted to serve this community.
Rev. Edgar Hornblow was the founding minister. He envisioned a church in Red Hill that was also a community center. It would be a one-stop-shop. It would meet the needs of people from pre-birth to adulthood. Des and Verna Vince, church members, donated 15 Croskery Road. A trust deed formed Papakura Community Trust in 2004. The address later changed to 163 Dominion Road. This is where Papakura Wesleyan Church stands today.
The original prefab building on the site became the new home for the church. It was known as the Papakura Wesleyan Christian Centre. Resources were limited. Yet, the church began organizing programs. These included Kids’ Club and Youth Group. A social worker supported the local community. Rev. Ruth Boswell became the minister. Rev. Hornblow remained part of the church and the Trust.
In 2005, Papakura Community Trust opened Little Sunbeams Christian Early Childhood Centre. It provided Christian education to the local community. Papakura Wesleyan Church grew. They began worshipping in the new building. Missionaries from the U.S., Rev. Josh and Becca Bowlin, supported the church’s work.
At the end of 2008, Papakura Community Trust fundraised for the site’s final development. In 2009, the Redhill Community Centre opened. It included an auditorium and a gymnasium with a Rockwall. It also had a kitchen/café and meeting rooms.
Papakura Wesleyan Church developed its Vision, Mission, and Values. These guided their involvement with Papakura Community Trust. The Vision is connecting Christ and Community. The Mission is to connect people to Jesus Christ and His church. It also empowers them to be His fully devoted followers in their community. The Values are Christ-centered, Bible Based, Community, Connection, Transformation.
Fundraising included a 10-year partnership with the Papakura District Council, now Auckland Council. This assisted with building the community centre. Papakura Wesleyan Church manages the premises. They facilitate access and meet the community’s needs.
Over the years, Redhill Community Centre and its partners provided services. These included youth programs, playgroups, and financial literacy courses. Parenting programs, music programs, and movie nights were also offered. People enjoyed rock climbing, fitness classes, and social sports. A community lunch and coffee group was available, along with counseling.
The centre’s facilities are available for hire. Community groups, agencies, businesses, and families use them. They host meetings, training courses, presentations, and functions.
Today, Papakura Wesleyan Church continues its work. It supports Papakura Community Trust, the Redhill Community Centre, and Little Sunbeams. Church members volunteer. They form the backbone of its operations. Papakura Wesleyan Church continues to connect Christ and community. It empowers people to be followers of Jesus in their community. It truly is a special place.