A new era has dawned for youth ministry in the Anglican dioceses of New Zealand.

Mr Phil Trotter was commissioned as National Youth Advisor at the Inter-Diocesan Conference in Nadi this morning.

He takes over from Rev John Hebenton who has held the position for nine years. That makes Phil the new shaker and mover for all things youth throughout the Pakeha strand of this church. 

Receiving the commission, Phil asked for prayer that he may build on the foundation of Christ in his new role.

He hopes this position will be a place where he can continue to “act with wisdom, be a peacemaker, and thirst for justice and righteousness.” 

He came forward surrounded by colleagues from Christchurch who spoke of his energy and experience as they 'handed' him over as a taonga for youth ministry.

Phil has been instrumental in bringing life to youth ministry throughout his 27 years in ministry, the last 10 with Christchurch diocese. 

Archbishop David Moxon welcomed Phil's move into the national youth ministry sphere and thanked Christchurch on behalf of the New Zealand dioceses.

The Commissioner for youth across Maori, Pakeha and Polynesian strands of the church, the Rev Michael Tamihere, also welcomed Phil and looked to fruitful youth ministry cooperation within Aotearoa New Zealand. 

The chair of the Tikanga Toru Youth Commission, Benjamin Brock-Smith, sees Phil bringing plentiful skills to the role, 

“Phil has a real passion for grassroots youth ministry. He remains at the coalface in his work with young people, and that’s important when you’re in a national position.

"His knowledge and long experience in youth ministry, especially in mentoring young leaders, will benefit the whole church.”