Special Service at Nelson Mosque

Around the country today there were vigils and special services in support of the Muslim communities of New Zealand. Only recently we discovered Nelson's Muslim Community Center is right next to my work place, behind the church.The turnout was much bigger than I expected, and many women, including the EMT staff, had covered their heads. There were speeches by civic and religious leaders, singing, Adhan/Azan, and later prayer on rugs in front of the steps. I had to return to work so there may have been more later.  

Preparations, the street in front, police, fire and and emergency medical services were present.

These guys posed after I asked if I could take pics. Since New Zealand police do not usually carry weapons, I'm not sure if they are from Nelson or from elsewhere as members of Armed Offenders Squad. It was also the first time I saw a rifle, well, two, in real life. Other officers were armed with tasers.

Meg is disappointed as she has the flu and could not attend; among other things she's loved Adhan/Azan as long as she can remember and missed the, urrrr, "live" version. 

Nelson Mail Article

Kia Kaha Christchurch

You've seen the news. Today it was some grownups but also some kids' turn to show solidarity in support of Christchurch and to New Zealand's Moslem community.

This is as close to "church" as it gets for us, but nevertheless we support. (Mitre10 Mega is the biggest hardware store chain in New Zealand.)

Climate Action Movement

 

Here is how it started worldwide movement 

Online Petition here!

Coffee Break

Branch at TOZETTI in town and before eating...  had a little coffee break with nice sample of cookies. 


This is the one ordered by Meg.   "decaf flat white".    Me?, always long black ( or may be short in some case ) .