Sacramental altar wine used to need ecclesiastical approval. It sort of still does. In 1995 the New Zealand Catholic Bishops’ Conference decided that, “Given the more frequent practice of Holy Communion under both kinds, it seems opportune to assure priests that it is no longer necessary always to use ‘ecclesiastically approved’ wine”. A widespread practice Read more
Social media is a lazy and ineffective way for politicians to communicate with voters says Tino Mahowa, a student at St Bernard’s College in Lower Hutt. “If any politician were to use social media as a way to communicate, it would be to their detriment. It’s a terrible means of conveying detailed information.” “Candidates could Read more
Each year, individuals, trusts and charities give around $3 billion dollars to New Zealand causes. Famous and not-so-famous wealthy individuals have generously given billions, established trusts, foundations, and charities. However, based on the available figures, it’s ordinary Kiwis who give the most to the philanthropic sector. Continue reading
The merger of the four parishes in Invercargill will take place about the first Sunday in Advent this year, according to St Mary’s parish priest Fr Chris O’Neill. In preparation for this, the number of Masses in the city will be reduced in mid-June. The most significant effect will be that at several of the Read more
The Prime Minister Bill English says that “if you’re looking to the Government to be the arbiter of morality, you are going to be constantly, consistently disappointed.” He believes what drives constructive social behaviour “is our families, our iwi, our churches, our communities.” English was the guest at Family First’s 10th annual “Forum on the Read more
Six former students of Francis Douglas Memorial College featured in this year’s British and Irish Lions tour. The three Barrett brothers, Beauden, Scott and Jordie and Liam Coltman were in the All Blacks. Ricky Riccitelli played for the Hurricanes. Teihorangi Walden was in the Highlander’s team. Watch Video: What’s in the Water at Francis Douglas Read more
St. Mary’s Pro-Cathedral in Christchurch was packed with around 800 people to celebrate and witness Graeme Blackburn, Alister Castillo and Huynh Tran’s ordinations on Saturday 1 July. All three were ordained as diocesan priests for the Christchurch diocese, where they have been working as deacons. Supporters witnessing their priestly promises of obedience and service of Read more
Property developer Mark Dunajtschik has gifted $50 million to build a new children’s hospital in Wellington, in an act described by the Government as “unparalleled” generosity. The new hospital for the Wellington region is expected to be around 7,000 square metres, three floors, and include 50 inpatient hospital beds. Continue reading
Hollywood star Tom Cruise has been spotted in Auckland visiting the Church of Scientology premises. Cruise was seen entering the building in the suburb of Grafton, which opened in January, Newshub reported. Continue reading
Christchurch Regeneration Minister Nicky Wagner announced on Tuesday that a new deal had been presented to the church as a means of saving the earthquake-damaged cathedral. The package comprised a $10 million grant and $15m suspensory loan from government, a $10m city council contribution, at least $13.7m in philanthropic donations and the church’s own $42m insurance payout. Read more