Happy 8th Birthday Steve

I first met Steve Palframan at a CU houseparty in 1994. He asked me an awkward question before he even said hello. He's always been a bit awkward - insisting on well thought through answers, encouraging people to live for Jesus rather than themselves. It was a pleasure being Steve's staff worker when he was a student. It feels a privilege to still call him a friend.

Steve is a leap day kid. Maybe this accounts for his awkwardness. I once asked him when he celebrates his birthday in a non-leap year. "I hate that question, whenever I want I suppose" was his answer. Well this year he celebrates when he should - the date of his birth!

HAPPY 8TH BIRTHDAY!!!!

News updates...

I'm currently in Wellington for the TSCF new staff orientation conference. Things are going well and we've had fun as well as been thinking about culture, the gospel and the student world. I'll write more on this when I have a photo to share too!

In the meantime wanted to share some news links with you; living here brings sharp contrasts and significant challenges - as well as one or two curiosities.

NZ's oldest immigrant arrives

One child recounts another child's sad end to life

A geeky hobby causes standstill in Auckland

Another youth dies

Kiwi Braves Baltic Justice

and our near neighbour makes an internationally significant apology.

Oh, and finally - I heard from Denis (see below) speaking of how he felt encouraged to know people are praying for him and that he has been strengthened in the midst of a tense situation.