Tauweru - St Alban's

St Alban's opens: 1905

Last Updated on Thursday, 05 January 2012 20:42 Sunday, 28 August 2011 20:05

Interior of St Alban's, undated. The lamp in the centre of the nave would suggest that electricity had not yet reached St Alban's.

St Alban's, Tauweru, is an architectural gem within Anglican Parish of Masterton. Designed by Frederic de Jersey Clere, it was opened in April 1905.

The Wairarapa Daily Times carried the story.

This pretty little church was formally opened, yesterday afternoon, by the Vicar of St. Matthew's. Standing as it does a short distance from the main road, it forms a conspicuous object to all passers-by.

Painted a light green, picked out with dark green facings with its roof of red Marseilles tiles, it looked quite a picture in the bright sunshine of yesterday; Inside, the mellow light from the stained glass windows contrasted well with the dark woodwork of the building. The acoustic properties of the building are excellent.

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August 2011 Parish Newsletter: The very Good and very Sad

Last Updated on Thursday, 05 January 2012 20:46 Sunday, 31 July 2011 22:48

I start with the good and our congratulations go to St Alban’s parishioner, Harry Tolley, who was awarded the Queen’s Service Medal for his contribution to the community, including the establishment of Probus groups throughout the Wairarapa. Harry continues to be a selfless example of Christ working in our midst.

And to the very sad. The following is an extract of a short tribute I gave whilst conducting the funeral of James Hay, a 31 year old husband and father who died in a tragic car accident near Taueru on 21st July.

“On 26th May 2007, an excited young couple stood in front of me at their wedding ceremony at St Alban’s church, Taueru.

Today should never have been part of their long term plans.

At times I am asked ‘How can God let this tragedy happen to a young family starting out in their life together?’ The answer is that God does not let it happen. We as humans are given a freedom of choice by God, about how we relate to Him and how we run our lives.

None of us know what led up to the events of James’ death and it would be wrong to speculate on it. However, James made a choice to drive home that night and for whatever reason, it cost him his life and affected the lives of those who loved him dearly, forever.

Already I have had a conversation with someone who was at the same farm discussion day that James was at, and he has already made a decision to change his future behaviour for the sake of his family.

With that in mind, can I appeal especially to the young rural men who are here today, make good choices in future for the sake of your family. James’ death has been a hard lesson for all of us but learn from it and do not let it be repeated.”

RIP James Richard Hay
21st October 1979 - 21st July 2011

Rev’d Merv Jones