Star light, shine bright...

To close our service on Christmas Eve, we all sang a song that was taught to us by Gary (one of our Sunday school teachers). A short but very sweet song. We know you will enjoy it! Thanks Gary and Lei'ite (pianist).

Christmas at Tamaki

Emmanuel - God with us was the theme of our Christmas Eve Service this year. It was a lovely evening with most if not all our families present. It was great to catch up with people of our parish who have moved overseas or to another part of NZ - back home for Christmas. Our Sunday school and youth prepared carols, a gameshow, dances, plays and a group song for our parish. The service was enjoyed by all present. Around 10pm - warm hugs were exchanged at the conclusion of our service. Some looking like they would stay catching up in the church carpark right up to midnight!
Glory be to God for all that was shared and celebrated - this the day we remember his birth.
God bless and keep you all safe in his steadfast care.
Have a blessed festive season.

Grade 4 Reflections for 2009

Sadly, the Sunday school teaching year came to a close yesterday. Like the rest of the Sunday school kids, Grade 4 will miss the learning and interaction that takes place every Sunday.

I would like to extend a huge thank you to the parents and families of my students. I have enjoyed every single minute of Sunday school this year. Your children are a credit to you parents and you should feel very proud of what they have achieved this year and also for the awesome kids that they are.

Here are some of their thoughts on what has been another fantastic and blessed year for our Sunday school. Have a Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year from Grade 4!

Ray and the Grade 4 students.

White Sunday

Every year on the second week of October we celebrate White Sunday or Lotu Tamaiti.

Some of the children from our Sunday School have created a short movie, sharing their reflections.

If you were part of or experienced White Sunday this year, then we would love to hear your thoughts and feelings on this special day.

What's on your mind?

Bible Class led our morning service a couple of weeks ago. Our message 'Having heaven on my mind'.
Recently we had a Bible Class camp that had the title - Camp Umm - Umm for being indecisive about what we do for ourselves, our families, our parish and most importantly for our Lord. We had a series of workshops that looked at the levels stated in the Bible - through to things that can prevent or help us to move through these different levels. By the end of our studies we learned the following: BC yell out phrase...

With all this in mind, the over-riding theme that sums up how the Lord can take us to the next level is the making sure heaven is on our minds. If that’s our destination then our actions should to work towards it. We need to wake up from our sleep, stand, walk and then run.
Run as Paul said - unto perfection. Run with heaven on our mind.

Bartercard Premiership Selection v Toa Samoa - NZRL Benefit Match

(October 10, 2009 in Auckland)
One of our very own home grown league players was in the Barter Card Premiership Team yesterday that played Toa Samoa. Yes that's right - the game where all money collected as an entry fee was donated to the Tsunami victims of Samoa. Further to that Peter Leitch was running a sausage sizzle. Whatever was raised was to be matched dollar for dollar by Mr Leitch. He matched it alright! Here's a very small video clip of Siali'i Tufeao (one of our Sunday School teachers) running in a try on this day! It was a great way to come together within the sporting community to support our families in Samoa. Maybe you'd like to share about what you did to help our people - or maybe some comments from you league fans!

Prayers for Samoa Tsunami

Sunday school today for the students of Grade 4 was spent talking about the events of last week and what we can do to help from this side of the world. Much as we would all like to, not everybody can donate money or fly over there to help but we can all offer prayers of support. Grade 4 of our Sunday school were moved to offer theirs for the people of Samoa.

"Dear God, please make Samoa and its people feel better and to forget what happened to their homes and places and to help them to heal themselves quickly and all the people in New Zealand will remember their loved ones who have died or are still alive. In Jesus' name, Amen."
Alo (Lalomanu)

"Dear Father, I pray that you help the families of Samoa that have lost their lives and that you may bless them with your Holy Spirit and to guide them through their lives. Lord I also pray that you help them to recover from the incident quickly. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen."
Tanielu (Ti'avea, Aleipata)


"Dear God our heavenly Father, I'm sorry to hear that people have died in Samoa because of the tsunami. I hope that you will send your guiding angels to bless them and take care of them. I hope you bless those who have lost loved ones, family, friends and any kind of relation. I hope you comfort them and help them. In Jesus name we pray through your most holy name, Amen."
Helen


"Dear Lord, I pray that you could help the people in Samoa to recover quickly. I ask you to bless them and be with them when they need help. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen."
Tevita (Faleatiu)


"Dear God, I pray that you will help all of Samoa to get through the tragice loss of family. In Jesus name, Amen."
Cruz

"Dear Father, I pray that you will help us support our homeland Samoa and you will still be with them no matter where they go or what happens to them, Amen."
Lamp (Saleimoa)"

Tsunami Samoa

1 Thessalonians 3:7 So we have been greatly encouraged in the midst of our troubles and suffering, dear brothers and sisters, because you have remained strong in your faith.
Yes Samoa, you encourage US. You are faced with a grim task everywhere you look yet you remain strong. We love so very much, we love you, we love you.

Four days on the world is still reeling from the catastrophic events of Tuesday the 29th of September. The reality is only beginning to hit most people. A desperate sense of wanting to help the people of Samoa lingers over all who sit and watch updates on Samoa in NZ and further. All week long parishes, communities and individuals have been uplifting prayers and collecting donations of all sorts to send to our beloved people. Across Auckland this week there have been prayer meetings and services every night.
In our parish we have families who have been impacted hugely with the loss of life and homes. We are in the process of looking at the best avenue to send support to Samoa. We know this will be an ongoing task for us as Samoans and as part of the body of Christ. May God bless and help us to do all we can to support and provide for our people who are in desperate need.
To our people of Samoa, we love you very much, our tears flow and hearts break but we know as you do that God has all in his care.
Please feel welcome to leave a comment or prayer request as we want to support one another as we travel through this difficult time together.

Who we are - Grade 9 & 10 Family Service

“God has given you a talent, why would you dishonour him by not
using it”.“Don’t let fear stop you from using the gifts God has given.
This line from the musical ‘Who we are’ sums up the message that the
students and teachers of Grade 9 & 10 wanted our church to see,
hear and understand.

The third servant in the Parable of the Three Servants (Mat 25:14-30)
hid what the master gave. We may not physically dig a hole and hide
our talents but nevertheless many of us hide them. Don’t hide your gifts, use it. If you have a gift of smiling, keep smiling, if you can encourage, do it. If you have music, let it pour out from every part of you. If you can read, share the word of God with others. If you can pray then pray. 2 Timothy 1:6 says: fan into flames the gift God has given you. Keep alive the gifts God gave – honour Him by using His gifts. Jesus is coming back, wouldn’t you want him to say “YOU good and faithful servant….come on in and share in my happiness.

In carrying out the mammoth task of putting together a musical we were prepared. However the belief that we could do it began to sway and it was only the staying power of Jesus and wonderful people who helped us stay faithful. A lot of hard work was put into this service and it is with the humblest of hearts that we would like to thank our great and loving Father who gave us the inspiration and strength to share his word. To Ite Lemalu for using his God given gift of music to help us. Without his patience and commitment to fulfill the vision we had, the success of the day would not have been possible. To Aloema Fainu’u thank you for your encouragement, your willingness and devotion to help and attend practices. Your act of kindness helped to see us through and so we are thankful to you. Thank you to all who had a hand in our service, may the love of God continue to be with you all. God Bless

Love from the teachers and students of Grade 9 & 10
Grade 9: David, Pateru, Pasineta, Renee, Eleni & Mary
Grade 10: Amataga, Eti, Faafeu, Fetaui, Josie, Juliet, Junior, Mele, Metita, Senio, Sina, Valu, William, Laki & Teiho

Family Service Quiz

Answer the questions correctly to be in a draw to win this prize pack

Send your answers to teiho@healthstarpacifico.nz Deadline is Thursday 10th September 2009 at 3pm. You may enter as many times as you like but there only to be one entry per day.

QUESTIONS:
1. What bible version was used for 2 Timothy 1:6?
2. Name three songs sung in the musical
3. In the family Jackson five – who was the fifth Jackson
4. Why did Junior have an accident happen?
5. What could be felt in the atmosphere?

Check out the trailer of grade 9 & 10's awesome family service, 'Who we are.'

God Bless

Nancy - a pleasure and priviledge...

Today I was touched and saddened to learn of the passing of Mrs.Nancy Cook or as most of us knew her by “Nancy”.

I had the pleasure of chaperoning our European mothers to church every Sunday morning. When dad (Tama) first told me “son, I have a special job for you, I want you to pick up our old mothers for church every Sunday morning” at first being young and selfish I thought of the half hours sleep that I would lose every Sunday morning, but as time went on I came to realise my duty was not only God given but a pleasure and priviledge.

My Sunday pick ups consisted of picking up Mrs.Doris Church, Mrs Eunice Anderson and finally Mrs.Nancy Cook. Each morning was interesting as we would share about each others weeks, chasing Mrs.Anderson’s cats out of the house, running up to Mrs.Church’s flat to see if she had forgotten I was picking her up or slept in, and on the odd special occasion the ladies would share treasures of history about our church right from its foundations to where it is today, we had truly been blessed to have had these special women at our church and I believe they will remain foundation stones of our church forever. Though old in age they were sharp in mind and spirit and I would refer to them as the “Flygirls”. So every Sunday there was my routine “mum if anyone asks I’m off to pick up the Flygirls”.

As time went by with the cold weather deterring my passengers and the ultimate passing our dear mothers Eunice and Doris my “pasese” was reduced to just Nancy. Right up to my last voyages with Nancy until I believe Aniva Laulu took my place when I departed, Nancy remained sharp and always cheerful. Sunday pickups would become the weeks round up of sport where we would discuss the form of the current NZ and Auckland sides especially in the cricket and rugby. Nancy was an avid sports fan and would often surprise me with her in depth knowledge of the game and opinions on current players.

The time I spent with the “flygirls” and later just Nancy were reward and satisfying enough though I was blown away everyear during Christmas time they would never miss giving me a small gift and card for the rides to church. Just the thought of them giving was a blessing. Like everyone who had been in contact with Nancy I had been blessed by her presence and devotion to our Lord and her undying support for the work here at Tamaki PIPC. I would ask myself sometimes at her age what drives her health permitting to make every Sunday morning. I am persuaded that it was her FAITH and LOVE for her Lord, hunger for the word and fellowship with Gods people, our people. What an example for us all!

Farewell Nancy and may God keep you his faithful servant.

Ia Manuia le Malaga.

With Love and Sincere Condolences
Pouena,Tehani,Teanui and Kayla

Pouena & Tehanis children - Kayla & Teanui

Vale Elizabeth Annie Cook (Nancy) 14/01/21 - 12/08/09

It is with sadness that we share about our Mama Nancy Cook. Last week the oldest and longest serving member of our parish passed on. Nancy Cook has been a loyal servant of our community for many years. Dating back to when our church was called Pt England Presbyterian.
Age was not a barrier for her, you would find her every Sunday morning in church, and at every elders meeting - rain or shine. She always had a smile on her face as she entered and left church. Nancy was a living testimony of a woman who's faith did not waver over time, a woman who loved and relied on her Lord. Nancy was a fine example of a faithful and comitted woman of God. We thank God for her many good works over the years that have helped mould our church to be what it is today. Thank you Nancy, from the bottom of our hearts for being an example of what we all hope to grow up and become - people who will be steadfast and content in the work of our Lord.

Zina and Fou have submitted their class' first tribute to Mama Nancy.

Nancy Cook

N - Never gave up coming to church

A - A woman with strong faith

N - Now in a happy and safe place with God and Jesus

C - Cried joyful tears

Y - You will always be in our hearts

By Zina and Fou, Grade 5
Photo Mama Nancy Cook at our last family service - July 2009.

Sweet smelling

Grade 4:Imagine that everything you do in life produces a smell. That's right a smell. We're not talking about shampoo in your hair, perfume before coming to church. No we're talking about all the things you do. For example, you help someone in need - a nice smell is produced. You do something naughty - of no use to people - it sends off a bad smell. Interesting aye!
We learnt some new words too from the Bible. For example nice smell = a sweet smelling fragrance, bad smell = a 'stench'. This was a good follow on from our lesson the week before where we learnt about the rich fool who tried to store all his riches selfishly. We made the link with the fact that every time we do something we are building up our riches in God's store house in heaven. In this light we strive to do good things as it pleases God and it sends a 'sweet smelling fragrance' up to Him.
Here are some photos from an activity we did at the beginning of our lesson. We had to guess what it was we were smelling. Lamp and Natascha did very well and almost guessed all correctly. The rest of us had a great time watching and recording what they were made to smell. We couldn't wait to tell them what they were really smelling!

If you have JESUS as your foundation, then everything's awesome

For over 20 years, our Samoan congregation have prepared monthly family services. Families enjoy the unity and fellowship in organising their best performances for their family service as well as have the opportunity to beautify the house of our Lord for the month.

Here is a clip from the talented families from Manurewa, led by Meauli.

If you have JESUS as your foundation, then everything's awesome!

God Bless!

Green Fertilisers!

This movie is a snippet from our camp concert night. The green team 'Green fertilisers' - lead by their leader Lone - had a few chants and actions to share on the night. Leave the green team a comment!

Faiga Lotu a le Tupulaga Matagaluega i Sasa'e

Today, Sunday the 19th of July, tupulaga - youth of our Matagaluega - lead an entire service in the Samoan language. It was a time that was enjoyed by all. We even had visitors from our PIC family - Ranui and Newton in amidst the congregation.
The congregation listened, laughed, cried and were still at different times throughout the service . The focus of today's service was to remind all that 'God is in us' and He requires us to shine like lamps that have been put on the lamp stand for all to see (Matthew 5:14-16). The message was well received and our minister - Reverend Setefano was moved to tears when sharing his joy at all that was presented today. We hope to bring you further blog posts from our youth that will reflect on the preparations as well as the service. We have put together a short piece that will show you the different parts that made up today's service. If you are interested in a full version then please contact Gary, Meauli or Aloema for a copy.
God bless and keep you all as you shine your light brightly for our Lord. 'O lo'o i ai le Atua ia te oe'.

The King Of Pop - Canaan's tribute to Michael Jackson

In a few hours time millions of people around the world will remember Michael Jackson in a memorial service 2 weeks after his passing. 18,000 people will be in attendance at the Staples Centre in Los Angeles and millions more will be glued to their TV sets and computers with the memorial service being screened live on TV and on the internet.
Michael Jackson was certainly a person that God has blessed with talent both in singing and dancing – he was the ultimate entertainer.
He will also be remembered as one of the most generous with his contributions to charity and humanitarian causes over the years numbering in the millions!
If you have been following this blog you will know that we have many fans of the amazing ‘MJ’ within our Sunday school.
Following is a tribute from one such fan, Canaan.

"Wow, I was shocked when I heard Michael Jackson died. First I didn't believe it, but when everyone started to talk about it - I knew that was it.
I am a huge fan of his. I first got into MJ when I came home one day in 2007, and I turned the TV onto C4 and it said the number 1 song on U Choose 40 - was 'Thriller...Thriller night'.
It was the creepiest video I have ever seen, but was the coolest too.
The scariest part is when he changed into a werewolf at the start of the clip, and his green eyes at the end.
Thriller is the best selling CD in the world.
MJ is my favorite singer and dancer in the world.
I started to get into all his other songs including: Bad, Beat it, Smooth Criminal, Black and White.
I started learning his moves and that was how I first got into MJ.
Me and my brother Xavier dedicate the Smooth Criminal dance we did at Tamaki's got talent to him. It was fun learning the dance routine.

I pray for MJ - He will always be my no.1 singer."

RIP MJ 1958 - 2009.

A night with Lapi Part 2

We were meant to sing with Lapi to close our evening, instead we ended up listening to him, you'll agree that he sounded beautiful solo. Maybe next time we'll have a bit more of a warm up for our vocals and we'll join in.
Thanks again Lapi.(Don't forget to check out part 1 post of this evening)

A Night With Lapi Mariner

Tonight - 29th of June 2009, we were blessed with the presence of our brother Lapi Mariner. Many of you may know him as a professional singer, entertainer - a very humourous young man and much much more. For those of you who don't know - he's now the Worship Pastor for the Hosana World Harvest Church based in Manurewa.
His visit was timely as on this evening we also had a very exciting report from our very own worship team based on their weekend retreat that they had just returned from.
Lapi shared about his life so far...life in the PIC, professional singer at the age of 16, TV appearances, travelling opportunities, his current work as a Prison Warden, Bible College and Worship Pastor.
Watch our short movie, it has some of the gems Lapi shared with us as well as him singing for us before we shared a light supper and a few laughs together. You could leave a comment for Lapi or Bible Class. Lapi will be visiting our blog to check out what we're up to.
Thanks Lapi for taking the time out to come and share with your PIC brothers and sisters. God bless you and your family.
Lots of love - Tamaki Bible Class

Parables of Jesus

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2 Timothy 2:15 (New Living Translation)
An Approved Worker
15 Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.

On Sunday the 21st of June our Sunday School alongside many others across New Zealand took part in the New Zealand Sunday School Union Scripture examinations. We had students from the age of 6 up 21 sit the exams. Also 4 of our teachers sat. This year the exams looked at 6 parables of Jesus.
On Monday evening those in Bible Class had the opportunity to reflect on the preparation that took place for these exams. We came to an agreement that our minds are amazing - thank you Lord! The amount of scripture and application that we trained ourselves to remember was fantastic.
Some think these exams are a thing of the past. We are glad to report that we enjoy taking part in them, in fact for many of us it's a good reminder of how we are very capable of committing God's Word to memory as he wants us to regularly. It's certainly something that we hope to continue being part of. Thanks NZ SSU!

This is an invitation to all our students who took part in the exams this year. Please leave a comment that contains your reflections on how you found the exam and your preparation this year. The class who have the most comments posted by Sunday morning will have a special prize presented to them at the end of our fun day. As well as signing your name please state which class you are in. Check out our voting poll too.

Looking forward to reading all your comments.

TGT featuring Grades 7 & 8

Tena koutou, tena koutou, tena koutou katoa.
Here is a special clip of the performance by grades 7 & 8 from our Parish Anniversary Ball. We are very blessed in that we have a number of Maori students in our Sunday School. As mentioned in a blogpost earlier for this group (Te Reo @ Tamaki), we have children who come from well known families who are fluent and gifted in the use of Te Reo.

Are you ready? He's coming soon

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

Are you ready? He's coming soon, was the theme for this months family service conducted by Grades 1 & 2. The very talented children proclaimed through drama, creative dance and song this very important message that no one knows the day nor the hour when he will return, therefore we must be ready and prepared.

Thank you to all the wonderful children and also our parents for all your commitment and support towards our service for our Lord.
May God bless you abundantly for all your good works.
Soifua,

Finau, Soteria, Mene and Siali'i (Grade 1 & 2 Teachers)

Tamaki's Got Sporting Talent

At Tamaki PIPC, we have many very talented young sportsmen and women. Many of our children are involved in sports either with their schools, or their local sports clubs.
Tala o Tamaki will endeavour to bring you some of the sporting exploits of our budding young stars this year.
This week the spotlight goes on 4 budding young Warriors from our Sunday school - Kane (Grade 6), George & Beau (Grade 5) and Tanielu (Grade 4) in action for their rugby league team - the Mt Wellington Warriors Under 12's.
Tala o Tamaki was on hand to catch some of the action from their match last week against the Richmond Bulldogs.

CamParable Pathfinders

We have a fantastic series of parables that we've studied since the beginning of the year. With the Sunday School Exams drawing near, many of us have been visiting church for some extra coaching classes to help us prepare. If you recall our studies were kicked off well and truly by our CamParable. The parable we used as a base for all we did at camp - was that of the sower. So as you can imagine our groups named themselves accordingly. Red - 'Red Roots', Blue - 'Pathfinders', Green - 'Green Fertilisers' and yellow...can you help me remember please (leave in a comment).

At CamParable we were given the opportunity to complete an item that would be part of the Rally on Saturday evening. These were run by members of our open class(great to see young leadership in action). Four groups in total covered prayers, creative dances, skits and a singing or rap number. We've posted here the rap and song that was created and performed by our blue group - the 'Pathfinders'. You will hear a familiar tune accompanied by some original lyrics and dance moves.

We hope this little movie helps you with your preparations for the upcoming NZ Sunday School Union Scripture examinations.

Hopefully at the time of - Tam talent DVD release - we'll be able to have CamParable ready too.

Don't forget to leave the Pathfinders a comment!
God bless. Be of good soil, good soil, good good....

Tamaki's 29th Anniversary Ball 09 Part II

Tamaki's 29th Anniversary Ball 09 Slideshow Part II

Postcards from the Middle East

Those of you who have family & friends who are travelling or overseas will nod your head in agreement that the conversation, when catching up with your loved ones, will most times lead back to something along the lines of "...how's church/Sunday school/BC...."?

Part of the reason for establishing this Blog page was so that our church members who are living and working abroad can be kept up to date and informed as to whats going on back at their spritual home.

This week Tala o Tamaki caught up with May Salu who's job as an International Claims & Disputes Officer has taken her across the world to live & work in the Middle East regions. Based in Dubai, May recently took advantage of a 2 week break to take in the sights of some places I'm sure you our readers will be familiar with.

Here is May's account along with photos of a spirtual and fulfilling journey which took her to the shores of the Red Sea, the Sinai Peninsula and even saw her ascend the foothills of Mt Sinai itself! Enjoy...!

Hi everybody!

So much has happened since I left Auckland after Christmas, and well...firstly it’s been awesome to know, and see what our Sunday school and church has been up to, through the Blog page this past week. I really enjoyed browsing, and seeing photos of the ball, the talent show and the services and lessons.

When first asked by Tala o Tamaki to contribute a post to the blog a month or so ago, I was just into the final leg of my Tour de Egypt. This was my 2nd visit to Egypt. After returning in April from Nice in the south of France where I had been based for work since January, I flew home to Dubai where I live, and was glad to be back, to feel the heat of the desert. I took the next plane to Egypt, after a few hours rest.

Egypt is one of the most incredible countries I have visited, and I have visited many, but none has compared to the inspiring Holy Lands in the Middle East. I spent 12 nights in Egypt, and travelled from Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor, sailed to Aswan (Abu Simbel), and travelling via faluka (sail boat) across the River Nile, my last 3 nights were to be the best, and the final destination of my Tour.

Faluka - (Egyptian sail-boat)

I flew to Sharm El Sheik the port of entry to The Red Sea and Sinai. When I arrived at my hotel on the Red Sea, it was all peaceful; there were many tourists, but not much noise, just the sound of the sea. Just being there, and knowing that this is where the 'Miracle Parting' occurred was unbelievable! Imagining the story in the Bible and experiencing its trueness being their physically was awe inspiring. I had travelled to Egypt alone, but not once did it feel like I was alone or even scared. The number of tourists there were from all over the world coming to one place was in itself amazing. Everywhere I went and everywhere I travelled there were bus loads, and not 30 buses but more on every site I visited. I have never seen so many tourists ever in one place at any one time.

I travelled with my guides throughout my trip, they were of course Egyptian - Arabic / English speaking, though I couldn’t understand much of their English, but with my little spoken Arabic, and their little spoken English it was enough for me to understand all the remarkable stories they had to tell of the Holy Lands.

I was very interested to hear what they knew about Moses, given they were Egyptian and living in the Holy Lands. They knew enough to be able to tell me the stories of Manna in the desert, the burning bush, and the plagues that hit Egypt. Later that evening we travelled to Sinai which is a 3 hour drive from the Red Sea. We left at around 11pm and arrived at the bottom of Sinai at just before 2am.

St Catherines Monastery (bottom of Mt Sinai)

The ascend was hard having climbed over 3000 steps, it was cold, the air starts to thin out, breathing gets a little hard, and my legs started to feel the pain, there were camels available to take you to the top, but there were also people in the 50’s and 60’s walking, if they could get to the top at that age then I could too. Waiting with many other believers to see the sunrise from the summit, is an experience not to be forgotten, to be able to stand where Moses received the 10 Commandments, was unbelievably real!

Sunrise on Mt Sinai

There is so much to tell and so much more to write but having taught lessons on Miracles in Sunday school one year, knowing the Word of God, and having stood, being there physically, to hear, feel and encounter God and his mighty power is truly one memorable, and life changing experience.

Til next time...

May.

Sinai Peninsula

Te Reo @ Tamaki

Our preparation... Even though everyone was very busy throughout the week - we all still managed to come together as a combined class and create an item for the talent night. Two short practices and we were rearing to go. Kia kaha! Talent Night Highlights Participation - awesome to see parents taking part and fully dressing up for the ocassion! Fun and exciting performances by all classes and family acts. Our favourites for the night were the video clip (open class), troopers, high school musical, Canaan and Xavier. A night fully enjoyed by the teachers and students of grade 7 - 100%
Students of Grade 7

Practices...
-Practices were really long
-we knew that it would have a good outcome
-it was great doing something different and serious
-the performance on the night was awesome!
-it was good to see everyone getting involved and going hard out.
"Kia kaha, kia mana, kia manuia"
Te Reo Karanga Crew, Grade 8

Open Class Edition - Cool It Now

Our talented students of the Open Class, ranging from 17 years to 24 worked quietly around church one Sunday, recording this MTV. New Edition - one of our favourite groups of the past inspired us to make this. It was hoped that our on camera grooving and singing would bring laughter and joy to those who would be watching the 'Tamaki's got talent'.

Great news - it did - there was a loud laughter while watching these lads strut their stuff. Congratulations Open Class - you looked like the real thing (well almost!). Looking forward to hearing what our parish enjoyed about your item. Share the love and leave the Open Class a comment!

Showcasing our talent shows the true spirit of Christ working through us. Something that really stood out for me was the turn out of people. The support of the parents and just the talents showcased on the night was brilliant!
As with our own performance, we ALL had fun making the video!!
Lonetona, 19 years
Open Class

The Parable of the 10 Bridesmaids - The Thriller Remix

Grade 4's item for Tamaki's Got Talent was based on one of the parables of Jesus that they have been studying this year in Sunday school.

10 bridesmaids wait up all night with their lamps for the groom to arrive. To keep themselves awake they decide to practice their wedding dance...

Tamaki's 29th Anniversary Ball 09

Tamaki's 29th Anniversary Ball 09 -Slideshow Part I

Tamaki's Got Talent - Grade 4 reflections

Well the dust has settled on a fantastic night of fun, fellowship and entertainment. The consensus is that it was a hugely blessed and enjoyable night for both young and old. Grade 4 were fortunate to win the ‘Sunday School Class’ category of the talent quest with their item – The Parable of the 10 Bridesmaids: The Thriller Remix.
This morning at Sunday school, Grade 4 were still beaming and basking in the honour of having being adjudged the top placegetters, so Tala o Tamaki asked them – What was the highlight of your evening?

"What I liked about the Tamaki’s Got Talent was performing in front of people and watching all the classes and other people’s performance." - Alo

"What I liked about the talent quest was – everything!" - Helen

"My highlight that I enjoyed was performing in front of a lot of people." - Moses

"Yesterday the best highlight for me was dancing and performing and most of all showing that Grade 4 has talent as well as the whole of Tamaki PIPC." - Tascha

"My highlight was coming 1st and watching all the classes dance." - Cruz

"The things I enjoyed most last night were performing our group performance – The Thriller, and just busting my moves with my mates and watching other groups perform….and having supper!"Tanielu

"The thing I liked about last night was performing to other people and supper. But most important is that I liked spending time and dancing with my friends – Tanielu. Cruz and Moses and my class mates." - Jacob

Tamaki's Got Talent a huge success!

A great night, seeing the kids in action! There were no problems, the night flowed well. It was awesome to see our church in a fired up mood (good fire). A very important night for our church, such events like our talent night help us to grow as individuals and as a church.
Logo - Open Class

The best was when all of the kids performed and showed their talents. I think they will have a better future and will keep showing their talents through church, the music industry...they will go very far with these talents!
Lemuelu I - Open Class


Tamaki PIC Ball was an awesome blessing. The atmosphere was full of talent and people showing their passion! An evening full of energetic entertainment will be hard to top. Not to mention that everyone couldn't resist the DJ's flavour of music as they boogied all night. We all danced as if there was no tomorrow.
Malia - Open Class

Grade 5 & 6’s Doctor Dance Reflections

5, 4, 3, 2, 1 ACTION!
Hey people,
Grade 5 & 6 Dance was solid aye! “How did our dance come second?” I hear you say, well…it all started when our teacher Bob told us to practice with a mop!!! Yes a mop. We only had one week to suss it out.Practices were fun and really energetic. We started with really easy moves then it started to shine.
The girl’s were really on to it - shaking their hips while the boys were struggling with shaking our legs and doing our actions as well (hey boy’s can’t multi task like girls do).
Then all the hard work, all the hard things we practiced - pulled off on the night of the talent quest.
We all enjoyed dancing and laughing at our practices. This wouldn’t have happened without our teacher’s Bob, Emma, Aniva and Rasalama.
Thanks to everyone who helped. Peace out.
Leauma T (Grade 5 & 6)

Tamaki’s 29th Anniversary was awesome. Practices were challenging but fun. Yesterday the 16th May 2009 we had our 29th anniversary. The theme we had was that of a ‘Ball’. It was very nice to see the beautiful formal dresses that were worn.
Oh my - it was our grade’s turn to go and perform! It was thrilling when we went on stage, seeing everyone cheering for us was so cool!
The talent quest is over and overall we came second!
Student 11-12 year old (Grade 5 & 6)


Our 29th anniversary was based on a talent quest. The theme was a formal ball. Everyone including the parents came looking absolutely stunning.
Everything was running smoothly, I was enjoying all the performances, especially Canaan and Xavier’s Michael Jackson item.
Time was running by and oh my - you know it - it was our grade’s time to go and perform.
We were doing a cool hula dance. It was so thrilling when we went on stage seeing everyone cheer for us was so cool. I didn’t care about anything but having fun. To my amazement I didn't get any of the actions wrong. Our dance was coming to an end, to tell you the truth I was actually glad, I just wanted to get it over and done with. We went off the stage and everyone was cheering again. It felt awesome.
I was back on the dance floor breaking out my groovy dance moves I was going hard! It was neat! The DJ played some mean sounds.
Overall the night was great!
Student 11-12 year old (Grade 5 & 6)

Black and White Bonanza 2008

Last year's annual church dance had the theme of 'Black and White Bonanza'. It was a night of dancing and disco games that had our parish on their feet most of the night. Whilst the games were planned for the children our parents didn't hold back and were right in there competing for the prizes on offer!

A highlight of the evening was a dance challenge between the Sunday School teachers and students. The students were amazed by the slick dance moves of their teachers. This definately made the heart merry ' A merry heart doeth good like a medicine'...do you know where this is found in the Bible?

The games and dance battle was followed by a parade of some very creative costumes!

These types of events are always enjoyed by our parish, an opportunity to kick back and relax while the Sunday School teachers treat us all to a fun night of fellowship.
All we have to do is dress up and come along!
This time next week we hope to bring you photos and some short movies of our annual dance that will be on this coming weekend - 16th May, as mentioned in our recent post 'Tamaki's got talent'. It's all on! Our classes and teachers are all practicing hard for this competition! We are all looking forward to what God willing - will be another super time together!

Don't forget to leave us a comment! Our children are keen to share more with you!

Attached are some photos from our 2008 Black and White Bonanza.

Tamaki's Got Talent 2009

HAPPY 29TH BIRTHDAY TAMAKI PIPC!
That's right, its our church's 29th Anniversary Ball and we're celebrating the big occasion with our very own Tamaki's got Talent 2009!!! Do you remember our last groovy talent quest in 2001? Watch our movie and reminisce on a very memorable and fun night.

Parent's Night, Bible Class

Photos from our Parent's Night. February 2009.

Bible Class is the senior Sunday school component of our church which is Year 7 (Form 3 in the 'old' days...) and up. Bible Class, or 'BC' for short, is held every Monday night from the middle of February right through to the end of November.

At the beginning of every year we have a parent's night.

This is where we invite parents along with their families to a dinner. All our members the weeks before were sent home with invitations for their parents as well as an open invite announced at all our ethnic services on Sunday.

On the evening... before the dinner is served we have the joy of sharing with our parents our plans for the year as well as a encouraging word from our Reverend Setefano. He is called Tama by all the children in our parish - meaning father in Samoan.
Tama opened our evening with a short devotion which was based upon Paul's first letter to Timothy.

1 Timothy 4:12 (New International Version)

¹²Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.

We were encouraged by Tama, to work hard to SHOW and LEAD people to Jesus through our actions. Not to let our age become a barrier.

Following the devotion, our plans were shared and an opportunity given to our parents for any questions or comments they had. This time didn't last very long as all our parents were very happy with the plans and were ready for dinner!

It was a successful evening where everyone left with smiles. The leaders hugely blessed by the presence of all who attended and the loving words of encouragement offered by our parents who stood to speak before our closing prayer. God continue to keep us in his steadfast love.

BC Leaders

Sunday School Camp 2009

CamParable was held at the Presbyterian Hunua Falls campsite. As per our previous camps, the theme was taken from our Sunday school curriculum - this year being the parables of Jesus. We paid particular emphasis on The Parable of the Sower - the story being incorporated into all facets of our weekend including our sports, rally night and devotions & Bible study sessions.
Camp is always a wonderful opportunity for us to spend time away from our normal surrounds and in the company of our fellow Sunday school members. Truly a time to enjoy the green and lush settings of Hunua along with the fantastic activities. Have a look at our photos of the campers in action!

Erene, a 9 year old member of Sunday School has a blog post on his school blog about his experience at CamParable. Click here to check it out!