Local News for Local Communities
Issue 1,204
Friday 10th October 2025
Phone: 03 318 7450 | Email: info@malvernnews.co.nz | Web: www.malvernnews.co.nz Got something Newsworthy? Let us know too!
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Peaceful Pines Aged Care Facility Shines Page 4
STEPPING FORWARD IN FAITH Reverend Lynmaree Sopoaga, affectionately known as Aunty Lyn, is preparing to leave Malvern Cooperating Parish after seven impactful years. She submitted her resignation last month and will step down in December, with plans to return to Christchurch. “I feel there’s something God wants me to do, but I don’t know what yet,” she says. With no set plan or home lined up, Aunty Lyn is stepping forward
in faith. Her ministry journey began in 2018 after hearing a divine whisper: “Mission.” At the time, she was session clerk at St. Paul’s Trinity Pacific Presbyterian Church in Christchurch, delivering eulogies. A friend she hadn’t seen in 40 years encouraged her to become a minister. Though hesitant, Aunty Lyn discovered the Locally Ordained Ministry (LOM)
training path, allowing her to study and intern simultaneously. In March 2019, she moved to Darfield with her two cats, ready to study and serve. “I’d never driven more than 60 kilometres before that,” she says. Despite finding theology challenging, she persevered. She soon embraced country life and became a beloved local figure – known not just for her faith, but for her heart. Recognised for her warm presence and community
focus, Aunty Lyn believes church must go beyond the building. She’s often recognised while out and about – even if she doesn’t always know who’s waving. “They know my RAV,” she says. Her commitment to connection led to initiatives like Hot Chocolate Wednesdays, where students passing the church were greeted with a warm drink and a smile. Despite limited sessions this year, around 100 cups were handed out each week.
Continued on page 3…...
150th Year Celebrated In Style Pages 7
Julia Chamberlain Conquers Pyrenees 82K Page 12
Well-known in the community, Reverend Lynmaree Sopoaga, aka Aunty Lyn, has embraced the local community and encouraged more intergenerational interaction within and beyond in her parish.
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