We are The Salvation Army in Petone, Wellington and we're in the community, for the community. We are still forming at the moment but we see a place that is centred in the community and is for the community.
Any of the events we run are for everyone. However our events aren't what we're all about! We want to follow Jesus example and live in such a way that people, all people, can experience the best life possible. That is what we believe God wants and why Jesus lived, died, and was resurrected!
What
We aren't a church as you would probably expect, in fact some may struggle to even call us a church. For a start there is a lot more coffee than you're used to and it is a lot better than you get at most churches! There is also a lot more participation, we don't typically have sermons and prefer a guided discussion around a passage from the bible. The focus of our discussion is always how can become more like Jesus. The Message translation of Matthew 5 verse 13 sums it up well, Let me tell you why you are here. You're here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? You've lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage.
We are a community of people who are figuring out how our faith in Jesus relates to our everyday (Monday through Saturday) lives. While we met on Sundays we're intensely interested in how we actually live and in sharing the love we've found in Jesus. The Message translation of James 2 puts it well, isn't it obvious that God-talk without God-acts is outrageous nonsense?
We want everyone to be able to live the best life possible because that is what we believe God wants! That is why Jesus came and what the point of his life, death, and resurrection actually is. God isn't all about pointing out the bad things we've done, or making up rules, he is all about full and fulfilling lives. Again The Message translation of the bible puts this succinctly in John 3:17 God didn't go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again.
When
Our @10 gatherings are 10am on a Sunday morning (coffee & fresh baking is served from 9:30am). These aren't church like you've previously experienced it and once a month we go into the community to serve. There is a kids church aspect when we gather so they are well looked after BUT they do start off with us (the coffee, and the baking)!
Kneedrill is 9am every Sunday we have an @10 gathering. If we have a cafe or different event on then the time of Kneedrill will vary. Thursday morning is a breakfast prayer meeting also (a great way to start the day).
Cafe dates are published but generally the last Sunday of the month from 9am - 11:30am ('ish). Playgroup & Sports Academy run during term time and in the holidays we have a kids programme.
Where
On the corner of Cuba & High Streets in Petone, we're in the community. Don't know where that is? Click here!
