I wish you many blessings as we move into the season of winter. The cooler months highlight the need for good housing so families and people can be safe and warm. Two stories, Chris – From track to tranquility and Amannuel – Hope is our fuel, highlight the gift of a home.

Thank you for your generosity to the Mission of Compassion.

Your thoughtfulness enables people to be more settled in facing day to day living. The Compassion whānau can provide safe housing, food distribution, a good meal and a quiet place to reflect and pray.

Having a place to call home is settling and special. The other day I met Tim as I was walking, via the golf course, to the Home of Compassion to join others for prayer. He was at the back of his van using an electric saw. I said, “You have an early start to your workday.” He said “My landlord sold my flat, thankfully I have this van. I borrowed these tools and with an adjustment here and there I have a new home, it is good.”

I have a new home and I am slowly settling in. Together with Sisters Josephine and Sue, and Francis Fanning, I have been looking for a place to live for 12 months on the No. 1 bus route. There was nothing wrong with where I was, a beautiful apartment within the Home of Compassion complex. The challenge was living under the same roof as my work. I am thankful, it still amazes me that I have a new home. When possible, I walk to prayer and work, instead of down the corridor to reach my office.

Recalling the words of Meri Hōhepa Suzanne Aubert “We can never exceed in true hope, which can never be too great since it is founded on the mercy of God and the merits of Jesus Christ”