‘Mr Ngahe said providing a place for children to safely and efficiently do their homework was something that was desperately needed in the community.
“I love to see kids achieve in themselves and their education – I love to see them coming in to do their homework and achieving their goals,” he said.
“It’s not only preaching the good word, it’s about actions – how can you put that into action? It’s important to preach in a practical way too.”
The church – which is part of the Avondale Union Parish – is continuing to fundraise to help pay for the renovations.
Mr Ngahe said the church was over 100 years old and was a building that had served the Avondale community long and proud.
“Finding ways to continue to use it for the benefit of locals was the priority rather than destroying a building that had long been a part of the community,” he said.
“It’s something for the community, by the community – something that will benefit and help make our community better.”
“We can’t stop the history of this place – we’re trying to write another story.” ‘
From an article ‘New role as community hub saves church from closure,’ by Vaimoana Tapaleao quoted in Weaving, Networking & Taking Flight: Engaged ministry in Avondale Union and Manurewa Methodist parishes 2006–2014. by Rev ‘Alifeleti Vaitu’ulala Ngahe