WMSCOG – POLITICIANS PITCH IN AT BIG CLEANUP [NEW ZEALAND]

JOHN KIRK-ANDERSON/Fairfax NZ

HELPING OUT: Christchurch city councillor Glenn Livingstone and MP Lianne Dalziel pull weeds on New Brighton Rd during a cleanup day by volunteers yesterday. 

Local politicians, volunteers and members of the Christchurch chapter of the Church of God have worked together to help tidy up their earthquake-hit community.

Pastor James Kim said yesterday’s event was part of an annual environmental cleanup day, which also aimed to help lift the spirits of residents who had been troubled by the earthquakes.

About 80 volunteers tackled litter, mowed lawns at abandoned homes and cleared silt along New Brighton Rd.

Six local politicians also joined the working bee, which was “really great encouragement and inspiration”, Kim said.

“It’s good to take action, even if it’s just a little step.”

The continuing earthquakes had created a “very sombre” atmosphere in Christchurch and the church wanted to help make their community a more pleasant and comfortable area, he said.

“The people’s hearts have grown weary, restless and stressed at the same time. Our church members [wanted] to bring a sense of belief and encouragement to the people of Christchurch by portraying and sharing the love of our Heavenly Father and Mother who are the source of love to our fellow neighbours.”

The World Mission Society Church of God was founded in Korea in 1964 and today has 2200 churches in 150 countries around the world. Its Christchurch chapter was established in 2007.