The Centre offers spiritual ambience

WARWICK SMITH/Manawatu Standard

INTERFAITH: At yesterday's opening ceremony were, from left, Rev Sir Paul Reeves, Massey University Community Christian Centre Trust chairwoman Morva Croxson, Catholic Bishop Peter Cullinane, Massey chaplain Paul Stock, Ian Warrington, Anglican Bishop Tom Brown and Palmerston North Mayor Jono Naylor.

Christians, Muslims, Buddhists and atheists are all welcome at a new centre for reflection at Massey University.

The $1.5 million facility was officially opened yesterday after nine years of planning.

Students can make a coffee in the kitchen, lounge on couches or chat to the chaplain at The Centre, also known as Te Waiora.

Massey University Community Christian Centre Trust chairwoman Morva Croxson greeted 130 guests at the opening.

"Christian wellness permeates, not engulfs, at The Centre," she said. The space also has the capacity to celebrate and grieve.

Weddings, memorials and conferences can be held there.

The trust wants students to find spiritual value, rather than having it imposed on them, she said.

Centre chaplain Paul Stock said students and staff would be welcomed, regardless of their spirituality. Christian guidance was also offered.

Te Waiora, meaning water of life, will resonate with people wanting to quench their spiritual thirst, he said.

The Centre's patron, Sir Paul Reeves, flew to Palmerston North for the opening. "It has a sense of intimacy and welcoming about it, which is strikingly modest," he said. "People can come here on their own terms."

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