The Salvation Army
Media Release

Salvation Army Appointment Strengthens Maori Links

Wellington, 9 August 2007 - The Salvation Army is strengthening linkages with Maori through the appointment of two full-time leaders of its national Maori Ministries.

Joe and Nan Patea took up their new appointment from 30 July after having held the same roles in a voluntary capacity since June last year.

Salvation Army Secretary for Programme Major Ross Gower says that the Patea's will play a key role in enhancing The Salvation Army's linkages with Maori.

'They will develop new relationships with the many tribal (iwi) groups throughout New Zealand, as well as build on existing relationships.

'They will provide encouragement for Maori Salvationists and contribute to ideas for improving Salvation Army links to local iwi. In doing so, they will draw on the resources of their own valued network of kaumatua.

'In addition, the Patea's will provide an important cultural resource and give advice directly to Salvation Army leadership.'

Major Gower says that the Patea's will continue as core members of The Salvation Army's Maori Fellowship Council, which provides guidance for their work. One of their first official duties will be to represent The Salvation Army at the coronation of the Maori King, Te Arikinui Tuheitia Paki, at Turangawaewae Marae on 21 August.

Joe is of Te Ati-Haunui-a-Paparangi descent and Nan is of Ngati Porou. They have five children, three girls (one deceased) and two boys, and live in Porirua.

ENDS

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