What a packed night in the city Friday was. Marilyn and I caught the ferry in from Pine Harbour which was fine, but on reaching the city it was almost impossible to get off as the streets were so full for the Rugby World Cup opening. We squeezed our way around; got a burger for dinner and found a good spot against the fence in the Viaduct right in front of a big screen. So we got to watch the fireworks display especially from the Sky Tower, and the Rugby on the screen.
Was it worth it? No probably not but we did it, and it is unlikely the city will have an event like this again.
Sad to see the Government take the management of the down-town activities off the City Council for the event. I feel for Mayor Len Brown as he is a top bloke and has become a great friend of the church.

Brett and Alison’s wedding day was perfect with a beautiful day. Brett is an ex All Black so I thought he would have planned his wedding to not clash with the Rugby World Cup!

Tuesday was our combined campus staff meeting and our weekend guest Mike Francen gave some great teaching to the team.

Auckland does not normally get excited about anything but World Cup Rugby fever has hit. This morning someone had put an Aussie flag on my office door; I think that is the only flag unsold in shops! Tonight Marilyn and I are taking the ferry into the city for the celebrations. Go the All Blacks!

Tomorrow I have the privilege of taking Alison and Brett’s wedding here in the church. Alison is our Office Manager and has been a valued member of our staff for many years; we have journeyed with her when Graeme sadly passed away and are thrilled that the Lord has brought Brett into her life. She is an awesome team member.

On Sunday Marilyn and I will be in the South. In the East our special guest is Mike Francen. Mike is from the States and over the past twenty five years has ministered in ninety six nations to audiences of over 300,000 people a night. He has a great heart for seeing people won to Christ and healed from sicknesses. Mike will be ministering in every service.