As the year settles into its final chapter, the Andrew Murray Congregation in Oaklands has paused to reflect on what 2025 has meant for its people.

It has been a year marked by gentle acts of kindness, shared resilience, and a renewed sense of belonging that has quietly strengthened the fabric of the community.

Minister Carli Hugo expressed heartfelt gratitude for the congregation’s journey. She views 2025 as a reminder that connection is a daily choice, fostering friendships and embracing differences in a divided world.  As she looks to 2026, she hopes for a deeper spirit of openness that invites more stories and collaboration, emphasising that people thrive when they stand together.

Among the congregation’s proudest achievements this year is the continued growth of the Harvest of Hope vegetable garden. What began as a simple exercise in planting has unfolded into a lesson in dignity and self-sufficiency.

Read more: St Columba’s brings warmth and care to the community

Volunteers tended the gardens with unwavering dedication, and the project soon blossomed beyond the church grounds. The flourishing gardens at Maria Kloppers Children’s Home surpassed every expectation, while the newly established garden at Guild Cottage, created with the support of St Columba’s in Parkview, has quickly become a source of pride.

The vision for 2026 is to nurture deeper relationships with the communities served, understand their needs more closely, and encourage other faith groups to initiate their own vegetable projects.

The church’s first Street Store was another defining moment. Instead of a traditional clothing drive, the event invited homeless residents from the surrounding area to browse and choose clothing with dignity from beautifully arranged racks filled with donated items. The response was profoundly moving, with many asking when the next store would be held.

Planning has already begun for a larger edition in 2026, with hopes that the community will continue donating generously and keeping the spirit of giving alive.

Also read: Guild Cottage girls grow hope through new vegetable garden

The Moms Coffee Club has transformed from two hopeful mums into a lively group of over ten, meeting on the first Saturday of each month. Their walks and coffees foster a supportive environment, where babies babble, toddlers explore, and parents share honest experiences about raising children.

In 2026, they hope to welcome even more mums seeking connection and support. Hugo, and her husband Daniel, brought new warmth to the congregation in October 2024.

Their dedication to service and community shines through in both significant events and everyday gestures, like flipping pancakes after Sunday service. With aspirations for greater collaboration with St Luke’s, the congregation moves into 2026 with purpose and excitement.

As the year ends, a gentle confidence fills the air. The Andrew Murray Congregation recognises its strength in its people and the power of shared kindness.

This year has demonstrated the possibilities of open hearts, a spirit that will carry the community into the new year with hope and warmth.

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