It’s been over six months now since the September 4 earthquake hit Christchurch, and coming up to a month since the February 22 quake. I recently had a chance to talk with members of my family who were there when it all happened, and was reminded again about the emotional impact of trauma (high levels of adrenaline change the body’s chemistry for a long time), disruption (closed schools and roads) and hardship (lack of water, power, sewage system). I was impressed to see the caring environment being shown in places like Auckland Airport where residents of Christchurch were welcomed and offered support. At another level, I’m hearing about Presbyterian church leaders in Christchurch who are facing deep issues as buildings are assessed for damage, repair or destruction, and people rethink the shape of ministry and mission in an unstable city.

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