On a beautiful summers day our annual Christchurch Diocesan Passionist Family Group Day was held at the Star of the Sea Sumner.

We were privileged once again to have Fr Brian Traynor as the facilitator. Some of the sessions included -The Church and these Times,-Contemplative

Moments- and Times have Changed.

At these gatherings we are always challenged and we get the opportunity to ask many questions. The small group sharing is a vital part of these sessions and is always well received.

One of the attendees said “Please make sure you let me know when the date is set for next year”

For the first time St Mary’s Hokitika were represented by Maria & Mark Lockington and their children Grace, Meg and Danny. St Mary’s have two Passionist Family Groups that were established in 2015.

During our breaks we shared food and enjoyed the young children who were with us on the day.

Late afternoon we concluded with Eucharist which gave a special meaning to the day. We could come together as Passionist Family Members and be part of a wider Passionist Family. The day finished with a BBQ meal which many stayed on for and the conversations continued.

All those present enjoyed the annual opportunity to have their spiritual wellbeing nourished and be with fellow Passionists.DSCF7824 DSCF7812 DSCF7806