Notes from Yukiko’s Desk
Dear AGAC whanau,
What a great joy it was to celebrate St. Michael’s special birthday, surrounded by familiar faces, new friends, and the unshakable presence of God!
On Palm Sunday 1956, St. Michael’s was born at the heart of Greenhithe. The little church has stood at the same spot for 70 years; its bell towers a sentinel over generations. On the morning of last Sunday, sunlight spilled through stained glass, scattering colours across the pews like blessings. It was such a lovely moment. What fascinated me most, however, was the storiesthat people shared with me. Someone said she had married at St. Michael’s and all of her children and grandchildren were baptised there. Another lady said she was involved in children’s ministry for many years. The guy standing beside me with a rope of the bell in the photo (see the cover of this newsletter) said he was the first bell boy at St. Michael’s!
As I listened to these stories, I came to a profound realisation that the church’s history wasn’t just in the bricks or the records— it was in these moments, small and luminous, that had shaped the people as much as the people had shaped the church. It was also wonderful to see some Holy Cross people joining the celebration.
As we continue our spiritual journey together, let us carry forward the same spirit that has brought us this far. Let us keep telling the stories of God’s goodness, keep welcoming the stranger, keep lifting each other up in prayer. Sixth Sunday of Easter 10 05 2026 Year AMay our little church continue to be a place where hearts are healed, faith is strengthened, and God’s love is made visible every single day. Happy anniversary, church family — here’s to many more years of walking together in Christ.
Yukiko
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