WestFlow Ministry FAQ

Q1: What does it mean that you’re an ordained reverend?
A: Being ordained is a legal title that lets me lead my own ministry. It’s not about following any church rules or traditional religious doctrine. WestFlow is my personal mission to heal, grow, and build community — not a Christian church or religious group.

Q2: Are you a Christian or religious?
A: Nah, I’m non-denominational and not a hard Christian. I draw from many sources — including the Bible, Māori values, Sikh teachings, and life experience — but I don’t follow any specific religion. WestFlow is about positivity, healing, and service, not preaching or conversion.

Q3: Why do you reference the Bible if you’re not religious?
A: The Bible is a complex document with light and dark parts. I use it like a tool , picking out messages that inspire hope, healing, and strength while leaving behind what doesn’t help. It’s not about blind belief or dogma. I’m focused on what moves me and our community forward.

Q4: What’s the mission of WestFlow Ministry?
A: To create a positive, supportive space for people who’ve been hurt or let down by systems — especially trauma survivors. It’s about healing, building community, spreading love, and doing real mahi on the ground. No judgment, no preaching, just real support.

Q5: How do you handle criticism or questions about religion?
A: I appreciate honest, respectful feedback and try to listen. But I’m not here to debate theology or defend my personal journey to everyone. If you wanna chat or get involved, the door’s open. If you wanna argue religion, this ain’t the place.

Q6: Will WestFlow try to convert me or push religion on me?
A: Nope, not at all. WestFlow is about inclusivity and respect. We welcome everyone — no matter your beliefs or background. We focus on love, healing, and community, not converting or preaching.

Q7: How can I get involved or support WestFlow?
A: Reach out directly. We’re all about real action and support — whether it’s volunteering, chatting, or just being part of the positive vibes.

Q8: What if I don’t get your ministry or disagree with your use of the Bible?
A: That’s cool. We don’t expect everyone to agree or understand right away. Just know WestFlow isn’t about religion or perfect theology — it’s about healing and positivity for those who want it. No pressure, no judgment.

Q9: Why do you keep the title “Reverend” if you’re not religious?
A: The title lets me lead WestFlow officially and shows respect for the role I take seriously. It doesn’t mean I’m following traditional Christian rules or doctrine. It’s more about leadership and responsibility than religion.

Q10: What's the meaning behind the name "WestFlow"? A: The "West" part is for Greymouth on the West Coast, where I'm from, but it also represents things flowing west—like a new beginning. "Flow" is a double meaning: it's for the powerful rivers of the West Coast and also my own journey to learn to "ride the flow" of life. It’s all about moving forward, growing strong, and building something beautiful together.

Q11: What kind of work do you actually do? A: We're all about boots on the street and hands in the dirt. We help out with things like community clean-ups, helping to move furniture, gardening, or just being there to listen when someone needs to talk. It’s about real, practical support.

Q12: Is WestFlow a registered charity? A: Nah, not yet. WestFlow is a faith-driven mission and ministry right now. Our goal is to get to a place where we can expand and become a registered charity, but for now, we're building things up from the ground, one step at a time.

Q13: What’s your background and how did WestFlow start? A: My journey hasn’t been easy. I’ve faced addiction, homelessness, and a lot of hardship. But I found a way to turn my life around and use those experiences to help others. WestFlow Ministry is a way to channel all that into something bigger than myself—a way to build bridges instead of walls.

Q14: Do you talk about your past struggles with addiction and homelessness? A: I'm an open book about my journey. I believe my past is part of my strength, and I talk about it to show others that there's a way back from the darkest places. My mission is to use my own experiences to help light a path for others.

Q15: Do you work with other organizations or groups? A: Yeah, for sure. We're all about building bridges. If there are other groups doing good mahi in the community, we're always keen to connect and work together. It's about a team effort to make Aotearoa a better place.

Q16: Is there an age limit for getting involved? A: Not at all. WestFlow is for everyone—from young people to wise kaumātua. The only requirement is a good heart and a willingness to get your hands dirty.

Q17: How can I support WestFlow if I'm not local? A: Your support means the world, no matter where you are! Spreading the word about our mission, following us online, or helping with our fundraising goals are all massive ways you can help us keep doing the work we love.