Features
Kieran Fenn fms
31 May 2012
Love, gentleness and the joy of catching up are features of the Shalom group of Faith and Light’s monthly meetings in Waiwhetu.
Most of the group’s members come from the Dawn Trust, but there are several faithful regulars.
Jan’s brilliant baking makes afternoon teas a highlight but there are also the blessing of bible and candle, the welcoming song, the prayer intentions, the dramatisation of a biblical passage – ‘These are my favourite scripture sessions,’ Br Kieran Fenn says.
Songs, a colouring page from the bible topic of the day and such activities as skittles, golf and handball fill in the afternoon.
As well as the special members’ delight in being there, the wonder is in the warmth and friendship the caregivers share with one another.
This group began in Wellington with Sr Frances Gibbs CSB as its foundation leader, then moved to Petone and is now based in Lower Hutt.
The Marist Brothers have long been involved. For 18 years Br James McBride was the leader then chaplain, assisted by Br Des Quirke. Natalie Atkinson then took over the leadership.
Many young adults have become part of Faith and Light through the Grove Community.
At present the group is led by Peter Foster with the energetic support of his son, Andrew.
Shalom is part of the wider body of Faith and Light whose stories have appeared in Wel-com in the past few months.