Central North Island News

WelCom November 2021 Fr Bernard O’Donnell  Isolation is not a new thing for the Central North Island. While the pandemic lockdowns have caused changes and interruptions to Church services and…

Congregation after Mass at St Joseph’s Church Ohakune, 16 October, following the introduction to the worldwide synod. Photo: Merrilyn George

WelCom November 2021

Fr Bernard O’Donnell 

Isolation is not a new thing for the Central North Island. While the pandemic lockdowns have caused changes and interruptions to Church services and pastoral activities, some of the changes have brought out good in people who have responded in practical and kind ways.

Due to the difficulty of reaching Taihape in winter, help came from the Palmerston North circuit of priests. People appreciated having these visits to keep the continuity of Masses when churches were open.

In Ohakune social-service agencies from Ruapehu Whānau Transformation distributed parcels of food to the elderly and needy. Market gardeners came on board too to distribute vegetables. Social media platforms have become more important for keeping in contact. So, in a way, the added isolation through lockdowns, has brought people closer together through practical solutions and caring.