Farewell Freedom

I would like to give a shout out to all those at Freedom Church in Queenstown. When I first arrived in Queenstown, I questioned if I would like it but now thanks to those at Freedom, it is hard to leave. What started as 3 weeks turned into 4 and then 5 and now after 6 weeks of being in Queenstown, the time to move on has come. I could easily stay longer yet I have other things I want to see and don’t want to leave with regret.

It all began when I boarded the plane in Wellington; sitting next to a young woman who introduced herself as Sam. In the seat pocket in front of her was a Bible. Knowing that we had something in common, I began talking to her. We had a delightful conversation and before long she told me about her brother’s church in Queenstown. When we arrived at the airport in Queenstown her father met her and they were kind enough to give me a lift into the town center. I arrived on a Thursday and I anxiously awaited for Sunday to come. As I approached the primary school, where the service was held, I was greeted by Alistair, the pastor of the church. I walked into a small gymnasium with movable benches and a wooden floor. I found a seat and was introduced to Stephanie, from France. I happened to be taking her cleaning position at the hostel. A short while later, Alistair came up with a young man by the name of Hugh, Sam’s brother. We had a brief conversation before the service began. By the time I left church that night, I had rides arranged for youth group on Monday and Bible study on Tuesday. For the next 6 weeks, I was actively involved with the happenings of Freedom Church. Without question, I was instantly welcomed into the family. After 6 days of knowing these people, I went on a weekend road trip with them to the Catlins. I was fed, given a place to do laundry, a place to sleep, and best of all, friendship. This church excels in actively being the body of Christ and accepting people where they are at. Through conversations and observation I have grown and been challenged in many ways. So all of you at Freedom Church, thank you. I have been so blessed to have met you all.

Hugh

The lovely Raquel

The lovely Jess

Bonnie and Raquel

Holly