Congratulations to NZ Rally on 75 years of Rally in New Zealand!
We caught up with Denis and Joy Wallace, event organisers: “God has blessed NZ Rally so much and it was a delight and an encouragement to see so many attend the celebration of this milestone, especially those who have faithfully served the Lord over many years.”
80 people attended the jubilee dinner at Willow Park Camp in Auckland last weekend and had a wonderful time reminiscing, sharing the highs and lows of NZ Rally work, and enjoying a ‘fashion’ parade of past NZ Rally uniforms.
Long service awards acknowledged the faithful commitment of many volunteers, says Joy: “John Thurlow received an award for 59 years of faithful Rally leadership and also Anne Paynter who has worked with Rally for 62 years!”
Speakers Russell Burt and Graham Ashby remarked on God’s faithfulness in the history of NZ Rally. Russell encouraged the group that while Rally may involve hard work, God calls us to give our utmost to teach our children.
Graham reminded the crowd that although lots has changed in society since NZ Rally started, the solution hasn’t changed: A relationship with Jesus Christ.
If you missed out on the celebration, there may be a possibility of another event further South, says Joy, “Please let me know if you would be interested in an event in the lower North Island or upper South Island, email denisandjoy@gmail.com to talk further”.
Tony Foster is the new NZ Rally Facilitator, and has been appointed to work part-time with rallies all over NZ to support, encourage and equip teams.
He shared that there are some churches he is talking with which are interested in starting rallies, and that existing rallies have been supportive and encouraging.
Tony will be working closely with Murray Brown, CCCNZ National Youth Enabler, and Julie McKinnon, CCCNZ National Children and Families Ministry Enabler.
At 75 years young, the NZ Rally team is prayerfully exploring fresh ways of discipling children and young people, while keeping the gospel of Jesus Christ at the centre of what they do.
