Church leaders share concerns with Prime Minister

Denominations and groups represented at the meeting were Anglican, Baptist, Catholic, Methodist, Presbyterian, Salvation Army, Te Runanga Whakawhanaunga I Nga Hahi O Aotearoa, and National Church Leaders of Aotearoa New Zealand. Archbishop of Wellington Paul Martin SM was among those who attended the meeting.

Priority issues for the Church leaders were listed in a letter to the Prime Minister. The letter covered upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi, ensuring economic growth delivers for the common good and stewardship of the environment. The Church leaders stated that a mindset of compliance concerning Te Tiriti o Waitangi needs to become a commitment to embed Te Tiriti o Waitangi in the nation’s governance and leadership.

“When Te Tiriti o Waitangi is lived rather than merely referenced, it becomes a powerful foundation for inclusive, just and thriving relationships that honour both Māori and Tauiwi worldviews. This is good for the economy, as evidenced by the growth in the Māori economy and health and social services,” the letter stated.

The leaders also recommended seeing economic growth through the eyes of the nation’s children, so as to shape the economy as one that benefits every child to thrive as they grow.

“We see some positive signs from Government through a focus on economic growth and support for those in need, as well as new approaches to government and community collaboration,” the leaders stated.

However, the leaders said that they continue to see and hear of challenges within communities such as homelessness, benefit sanctions, housing stability, cuts to social services and income inequality. They called for economic growth that honours the dignity of the individual and strengthens all of society by reducing long-term costs.

The Church leaders also sought urgent political action and courageous decisions for climate change mitigation and adaptation. The letter acknowledged “the wisdom and capacity of our democracy and leadership to draw on our nation’s strength to demonstrate leadership and hope”.

The theological foundations for the Church leaders’ statements were stated, as were specific recommendations concerning Te Tiriti, the economy and the environment.  

The Church leaders also met with the Leader of the Opposition Chris Hipkins and other Opposition MPs.

FULL STORY

A responsibility to place and people: A faith based call to honour Te Tiriti, Tangata, and Taiao – NZCCSS (NZCCSS)