Gumboots will be required at the 10am service at Waiapu Cathedral, Napier this Sunday (3 July) – and not because of the recent rains but in solidarity with Christchurch.
 
Parishioners are invited to church in gumboots and the service will focus on prayers for Christchurch. The idea for Gumboot Sunday came from the young people of the Diocese and some churches took it up last Sunday, with the Cathedral choosing this Sunday.

Gumboots are so essential to life in Christchurch, with widespread liquefaction and broken footpaths, they have become a symbol of life there now.
 
Dean Helen Jacobi said: “We need to not lose sight of the ongoing support Christchurch needs. During our service parishioners will make cards to be given out at one of the community lunches the church runs; just to give people a lift and know they are not forgotten.

"We follow the news of the church communities closely and are very aware they are losing their churches as well as their homes. It is tough going.”
 
Donations will also be collected to go to the Bishop’s Relief Fund for Christchurch.
 
Dean Helen Jacobi again “We also plan to have some fun; it is not every day the clergy and choristers will be seen with gumboots under their robes. People are going to decorate their boots and we might try some gumboot throwing after the service.”
 
Photographers welcome.