Beckenham Methodist Church

The Michella Purrrkinson Interviews

A conversation with Rev. Roger Wigg
or
'I'm the new 'supa' - get me out of here!'

Intrepid reporter Michella Purrrkinson asked the new superintendent minister of the Bromley Circuit some questions...

Where were you born?

In Napier, New Zealand, my family are from NZ although my great grandfather was a Norwegian master mariner.

Have you a favourite childhood memory?

I have fond memories of summer holidays at the family 'batch' - our seaside home. There were lots of boats and fishing -idyllic!

Who inspired you to the ministry?

After I had attended a Billy Graham rally, my minister at St. Paul's in Napier, Revd Ron Hay, asked me what I was going to do with my life. It was then that I decided to join the ministry.

How old were you?

18 yrs old. I was intending to go to university and become an industrial chemist, but instead I trained to become a minister, which in those days took seven years!

Can you tell us about the kinds of ministry that you have been involved in?

Yes. I have had experience in a variety of ministries. As a post-graduate I worked as a Christian Educator, a curriculum editor/writer, I have been a university tutor teaching Educational Administration. I have ministered to large inner-city churches both in New Zealand and Australia and have worked as an editor and publisher for both Presbyterians and Methodists in New Zealand.

Marriage - What, in your view, is the model that Christian couples should take from the Bible?

Look to Jesus! Love one another - this means seeking to recognise the presence of God in our lives and in marriage.

Are you a cat person or dog person?

Cat person.

Any hobbies?

I enjoy gardening, furniture restoration and carpentry and swim three times a week but I'd rather be out sailing!

What worship opportunities and styles of worship would you like to see in the Circuit?

I would like to see a wide variety of worship styles. We must continue the variety - in recent years we have had worship conferences, circuit celebrations of Pentecost, reflective, quiet services with photographs to contemplate on and labyrinths. We must encourage variety, connect with the culture of today and take risks through change - but - what is important is that worship is deep and real,. We must ask ourselves the question - Has it changed us more into the likeness of Christ?

Thank-you Roger, may God shower His blessings upon you!

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