Margie Rea is on a mission.
The Crookston woman, who has recently ordained as a Locally Ordained Minister (LOM) with the Southern Presbytery, is leading a new ministry that sees the idea of going to church differently.
Rev Rea said the ministry, known as Kiwi Church, offers a less structured approach to traditional church services.
“Kiwi Church is not about buildings or programmes but about creating real and authentic connections as we explore God’s importance in today’s world,” she said.
“We hold monthly gatherings at people’s homes with great food, great conversation and God-focused discussions.”
Gatherings include a Beer and BBQ Church which is held every second Sunday.
Kiwi Church is a recognised Southern Presbyterian ministry that was started in Christchurch in 2017 by Darryl Tempero.
“It’s been quite well received by the Crookston community. We are a growing group with a small bunch of regulars and others that come less often,” she said.
“People are open to finding fresh ways to think about church and faith and exploring how to live out that.”
She hopes that Kiwi Church will help to ease the negative impressions that some churches have gained so people can simply focus on God.
“God is important in today’s world and wants relationship with the people of today,” she said.
Rev Rea, who is also a dance teacher, received her ordination after completing a degree in theology and an 18-month training course with the Southern Presbytery.
