Bishop's Commendation

The Right Reverend Ross Bay, Bishop of the Diocese of Auckland commends Vaughan Park:

The Diocese of Auckland greatly values its association with Vaughan Park and the ministry which the Centre fulfils. We have benefitted beyond our imagination from the gift of Thomas and Margaret Vaughan that led to the establishment of Vaughan Park. It is one of the places that gives expression to our partnership with Te Pihopatanga o te Tai Tokerau.

Many groups from the parishes and ministry units of the Diocese use the Centre for planning days and retreats. It is unusual for me to visit the Centre without finding one of our clergy there taking time out to pray, read and refresh. The library and chapel facilities have enhanced the Centre’s ability to offer this type of ministry to the Church. The establishment of the scholarship programme and the annual Reeves Lecture is an exciting development.

Vaughan Park has proven to be an ideal location for our Diocesan Training Programme. This is one of the training and formation pathways for people preparing for ordination. The group meets residentially at Vaughan Park once a month through the year. The quietness, the generous hospitality, and the stunning setting in a beautiful part of God’s Creation add much to the experience of those in training.

The Director and staff of Vaughan Park have a good grasp on what it means to be engaged in God’s mission through their work. Their hospitality, conversation and theological encounter is the essence of what is to be a Christian community, providing opportunities for others to be in conference or retreat.