WelCom May 2023
The latest issue of WelCom is available to read here.
Welcom Archive 2007-2026
WelCom is the monthly newspaper of the Archdiocese of Wellington. Print copies of the eight-page newsletter are free and available in parishes, and sent to parishes and schools in PDF form. The archive contains WelCom stories published from 2007 to 2026 (May).
Restoring taonga
When Cyclone Gabrielle’s devastating floods tore through properties and homes across many parts of the North Island on 14 February, thousands of people were left homeless or with badly-damaged houses and properties, and ruined personal possessions. Among the most treasured but damaged personal items for some were their precious family Bibles, which had been passed down through generations. Within days a number of people were in contact with Bill Tito, master craftsman and book-repair specialist, asking for his help to mend and restore their rescued but near-ruined Bibles.
Hands up for New Zealand Sign Language
New Zealand Sign Language Week, from 8–14 May 2023, is organised by Deaf Aotearoa to raise awareness of the language and culture of New Zealand’s Deaf community. The theme for NZSL week 2023 is: ‘Together we can make NZSL thrive’ and the tagline is: ‘Hands up if you’re ready to sign with us!’
He Oranga Taurikura – Growing Thriving Lives in the Pacific and Asia
Out of the lingering economic and health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and in the face of the growing impact of climate change, Caritas partners across the Pacific and Asia regions are working to provide food and water security, build healthy lifestyles, and strengthen agriculture and income-earning opportunities.
‘Where true Charity is dwelling, God is present there’
Many WelCom readers will know that for me, Easter 2023 was very different from all other Easters in my almost 47 years of priesthood. Just a few days before Holy Week I underwent surgery on my spine, and thanks be to God, it has been very successful and has brought about much relief from what I have had to contend with for the last 12 months.
NZ Bishops welcome Vatican’s rejection of ‘Doctrine of Discovery’
The Catholic Bishops of Aotearoa New Zealand strongly support the Vatican’s repudiation of the colonial-era concept of the ‘Doctrine of Discovery’ used by European powers to take over many lands from their indigenous owners.
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: 21 May–28 May 2023
Do good; seek justice.’ – Isaiah 1:17
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is an ecumenical Christian observance celebrated internationally. This year it is celebrated from 21–28 May 2023 in New Zealand.
‘Government has ultimate responsibility for ensuring everyone has enough money to meet basic needs, and enjoy adequate housing’
– Archdiocese EJP Commission
The Wellington Archdiocese Commission for Ecology, Justice and Peace has been taking a close interest in the government’s forthcoming Budget, to be delivered on 18 May.
Oceania bishops publish response to Synod of Bishops’ document
The Catholic bishops of Oceania say their people’s reflections for the global Synod of Bishops for a Synodal Church have left them feeling ‘peace and joy’ but also called them to be prophetic and ready to ‘model ourselves on the love we proclaim’.
Royal Commission extended as new evidence emerges
The Government announced on 12 April 2023 that the Royal Commission into Abuse in Care must deliver its final report and recommendations by 28 March 2024. The previous deadline was 30 June 2023.