What we do in our community:
At St Paul’s, faith is more than Sunday worship—it’s about connection, care, and service throughout the week. Here are some of the ways we support our people and our city:
Pastoral Visits
Our Pastoral Care team regularly visits members of our church whānau, including both regular attendees and those who are unable to attend. These visits help maintain meaningful connections, offer encouragement, and support anyone who may be feeling distant or considering reconnecting.
Prayer
Personal Prayer Needs
Sundays | After each service, there is an open invitation to receive prayer from our team. Whether you’re carrying a burden, seeking healing, needing wisdom, or praying for a loved one—you’re not alone. We believe in the power of prayer to bring peace, comfort, and breakthrough. Our prayer team offers a safe and confidential space to lift your needs before God. Alternatively, send you prayer needs to our office.
Weekly Prayer Gathering
Tuesdays | 9:20-9:50am
A quiet, reflective time set aside each Tuesday morning to lift up our city, our church family, and the ministries we’re involved in. All are welcome to come and pray—whether silently or aloud—for Whanganui, the life and mission of St Paul’s, its members, leaders, local outreach, and any current needs or concerns.
Bible Study & Library Books
Wednesdays | 1:30pm 11 Stark Street, Durie Hill
A relaxed and friendly midweek Bible study open to anyone who wants to grow in their understanding of Scripture and deepen their walk with God. Each week includes time in the Word, shared insights, honest questions, and mutual encouragement in faith. Whether you’re new to the Bible or have studied it for years, you’ll be made to feel welcome.
Our library is open twice a week and offers something for everyone — from devotionals and Christian living books to novels, children’s stories, and reference materials. Feel free to browse the shelves or ask Joy if you’re looking for something specific — she’s always happy to help!
Sundays | after church – Tuesdays | 10-11.55am
Twinkle Toes – Music & Movement for Pre-Schoolers
Fridays | 10:00–11:00am (During School Terms)
A fun, energetic programme for young ones and their caregivers. Expect laughter and fun while your little ones (0-5 yrs) build connection and rhythm through music. After the session, everyone is invited to stay for morning tea and a short time of games to finish up. Gold coin koha per family.
Café Connections
Men’s Get Together
Fridays | 10:00am at Columbus café in Mitre 10.
Build friendships, swap stories and share life over coffee. A relaxed, welcoming space for men—whether you’re part of the church or just needing some company.
Women’s Get Together
Fridays | 10:00am at Mischief café in Guyton St.
Women from all walks of life gather at an inner city café for a hot drink, great conversation and mutual encouragement. Come as you are, make new connections and enjoy friendship.
Girls Youth Group
Tuesdays | 3.30pm last Tuesday of the month (During School Terms).
Once a month, high school-aged teens gather for an engaging time of Bible study, discussion, and connection. Real-life questions are explored through Scripture, alongside fun activities and opportunities to grow in faith and friendship. It’s a safe, welcoming space to be yourself, ask questions, and deepen your relationship with God.
Friday evenings, our youth join with others from across Whanganui for a lively and faith-filled youth group at St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Glasgow St. Includes games, food, worship, discussions, and opportunities to build lasting friendships in a Christ-centred environment.
All People Welcome (APW)
Tuesdays | 1:30pm on the second Tuesday of each month in St Paul’s Brechin lounge.
This friendly daytime group gathers to hear engaging speakers and support projects through fundraising and hands-on care. Members also knit baby and toddler clothing, which is donated locally and further afield. Faith in action, friendship in motion. All are welcome—bring a friend.
Women’s Retreat and Men’s Breakfast
Each year, St Paul’s hosts two special events designed to encourage spiritual growth, build community, and provide space for meaningful connection.
These events are open to all—whether you’re part of the St Paul’s community or just looking for a place to grow and belong.
Supporting City Mission – Whanganui Christian Social Services
Each Sunday, we collect food and grocery donations for the City Mission food bank. Our volunteers also lend hands-on help throughout the week at the Mission Centre. As a member church of the Mission, we support this important work financially and by nominating members to serve on its board. We believe no one should go hungry in our city, and we’re proud to play our part.
To help support the City Mission, donations of household goods can be given to the Zest for Mission second-hand shop in Victoria Ave.
Eco Church NZ
St Paul’s is proud to be part of Eco Church NZ, a project of A Rocha Aotearoa New Zealand. As part of living out our care for creation, we’ve taken on the upkeep of a little street park just down the road. Our Eco Team keeps an eye on weeds and rubbish, helping to keep it clean and tidy so it remains a welcoming space for our community to enjoy.