Our Passionist Family Group, perhaps much like yours, is eclectic. We enjoy coming together and connecting, and for many this group is the only real point of connection with the church and its kaupapa.
Covid blew up a number of enterprises across all sections of society. Church was not exempt. We have struggled to maintain community – people are exhausted and have little capacity for more than they are doing as their own family unit. However, what we cannot overlook is that there is substantial joy in coming together.
To this end, we have worked together on purposeful activities. For example, social works, providing for families in need. We have run citywide Passionist Family Group quiz nights which we open up to those who may be searching for deeper connection. We holiday together, we come together to support and care at times of sadness and celebrate the things we find in the seasons of joy. We can only do this effectively if we spend time together and grow our social connections.
Some of the recent initiatives we have tried is a Dads and Dudes Happy hour at the pub at the end of the week once a month. It is a great way to informally catch up and connect for just the guys. This is important as there are not many channels for guys to open up and chat about the things that are hard for them.
The ladies weren’t going to miss out, so we decided on a high tea event. Then we decided to open it up to the other local PFG. Then we decided to blow it wide open and invite all women who wanted to come. They had to bring their own teacups and discussion starters were around why this tea cup was significant. It was a magnificently well attended event and made us think about the need that sits out there for people to connect post-covid.
For effective comms, we have a Facebook page where we can share events photos, ideas, updates and so on. For quick comms we have a messenger group so that all folks feel part of what is going on.
Is it perfect? No. Is it difficult sometimes? Yes. Would it be easy to walk away and do something else? Maybe, but the social benefit would be destroyed and we have worked for years at this building relationships and connections, and that is far too valuable to walk away from.
What we are learning is that investing in means dividend out. No investment means no dividend. So ultimately, we are faced with a question? What do we value? I value social connections and relationships with people, so I am going to invest there. How about you?
Kia kaha, kia māia, kia manawanui,
Nick Wilson (he/him)
Pou Ārahi o te Mana Whānau Mana Taiohi – Diocesan Young Catholics Team Leader
Pou Hono Wairua o Manawatū – Manawatū Catholic Tertiary Chaplain
Heamana/Chair – NZCBC Council for Young People