A vigil of hope

Kaitaia has had more than its fair share of trauma and heartache recently, and St Joseph's Catholic parish is responding to that, and the myriad issues facing young people and families in the Far North, with a 24-hour ecumenical prayer vigil.

Organiser Connie Hassan said the 'Vigil of Hope' would take place at St Joseph's Church in Kaitaia, beginning at 6pm on Friday November 23 with a combined church service and concluding with a similar service at 5pm on the Saturday. The passing of each hour throughout the 24 hours would be marked with communal prayers, scripture readings, reflections and music.

The vigil would also provide an opportunity for quiet reflection and personal prayer.

"We have shared so much heartache and grief in our community in recent times, and we need to come together to pray for and support each other," Ms Hassan said.

"With Christmas approaching we are aware of the financial strains, burdens, loneliness and grief that will face many families. But Christmas should also be a time of hope, and it is with these concerns in mind that we have called it a Vigil of Hope.

"Our young people need direction and hope," she added.

"As adults, we need to be right with each other and with God in order to offer them hope. Families who are struggling, whether financially, emotionally or for some other reason, also need a sense of hope and direction.

"When Jesus went into the the Garden of Gethsemane to pray, He himself was overwhelmed by anguish and distress and His soul was full of sorrow. When He returned to His companions they were asleep, and He said to them, 'Could you not stay awake with me for one hour?'

"We hope that during this vigil people will give up an hour of their time to come and participate, not only at the beginning but also to join those who have volunteered to remain at the church in prayer for the 24-hour period."

The vigil would be open to all, and anyone who would like to lead one of the prayer hours was welcome to contact Ms Hassan on 408-7481.