Pastor returned

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 6, Issue 290, 13 June 1989, Page 3

Pastor returned

New Raetihi/Ohakune Baptist Pastor, Peter Barnes, is no stranger to the Waimarino.

Mr Barnes, a formei post office technician, worked in Ohakune in 1975 and represented the Raetihi Old Boys rugby team. Mr Barnes and his wife Alison, with chil-

dren Michael 6 and Holly 3, moved to the Waimarino from Auckland early last month. The former New Zealand Post employee said he received his calling to the church

and in 1984 entered a four year training course at the Baptist Theological College in Remuera. He emerged with a Bachelor of Theology degree. The Baptist Church's combined congregation totals 30 and is Mr Barne's first placement. The position had been

vacant since 1984 and was earlier filled on a part-time basis. More recently the region was visited on a regular basis by pastors from Wanganui and Taumarunui. The couple's earlier feelings of trepidation about living in the Waimarino quickly vanished after meeting some of the residents. "We came down earlier and met some of the local people," said Alison. "We were received with such openness and warmth. It was wonderful." The couple are both committed to their chosen vocation. Alison, described by Peter as his "life support", is concerned at the lack of activities for younger church-goers and intends to form a youth group and Sunday School. They were both previously involved with youth groups in Auckland. Alison has a keen interest in dance and drama. Peter is an enthusiastic photographer and squash player.