Wesley Methodist

A programme of church news, guests, and a variety of music hosted by John Thornley on behalf of the Wesley Methodist Church on Broadway in Palmerston North, produced by Manawatū People's Radio with the support of New Zealand On Air.

A programme of church news, guests, and a variety of music hosted by John Thornley on behalf of the Wesley Methodist Church on Broadway in Palmerston North, produced by Manawatū People's Radio with the support of New Zealand On Air.

A programme of church news, guests, and a variety of music hosted by John Thornley on behalf of the Wesley Methodist Church on Broadway in Palmerston North, produced by Manawatū People's Radio with the support of New Zealand On Air.

In this special episode of the Wesley Broadway Methodist Church programme, host Gillian Thornley imagines a conversation with renowned New Zealand hymn writer Colin Gibson, brought "back from heaven" to reflect on his life, faith, and music. Through readings and recordings of three of Gibson's best-loved hymns, listeners explore themes of creation, justice, inclusion, and hope. From the sweeping vision of These Hills Where the Hawk Flies Lonely to the theological depth of Praise the All-Sustaining Word and the joyful celebration of diversity in Welcome to the Rainbow World, this programme honours a remarkable songwriter whose words and music continue to inspire communities across Aotearoa New Zealand.

Hosted on behalf of the Wesley Methodist Church on Broadway in Palmerston North, produced by Manawatū People's Radio with the support of New Zealand On Air.

John Thornley is joined by Gillian for a reflective Wesley Broadway Church programme exploring the life, faith, and hymn writing of New Zealand hymn writer Shirley Erena Murray. Presented as a post-resurrection conversation, the episode shares Shirley’s own words on theology, creation care, peace, Christmas, and the deep meaning carried through hymns. The programme features three of her hymns: “God of the Galaxies,” “Set the Sun Dancing,” and “Loving Spirit,” with music from Douglas Mews Sr. and David Dell, and performances by the Orlando Singers of Auckland and the Wellington Secondary Students Choir.

Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with the support of NZ On Air.

In this episode, host John Thornley from Wesley Broadway Church in Palmerston North explores the meaning of Pentecost through a reflective selection of hymns and songs. Joined by Gillian, the programme features readings and music including “O Love That Will Not Let Me Go,” “Shine a Light,” “Love Divine, All Loves Excelling,” and a closing piece inspired by Bob Dylan’s “Knocking on Heaven’s Door.” Together, the selections highlight themes of the Holy Spirit, hope, struggle, and spiritual renewal.

Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.

John and Gillian Thornley present this episode reflecting on the transition from Easter to Pentecost and the work of the Holy Spirit in everyday life. Through four carefully chosen songs, the programme explores faith put into action, integrity between belief and living, and the Spirit’s presence in both personal and public spaces. Featuring music by Jim and Jean Strathdee, Marion Williams, Shirley Erena Murray, and Archie Roach, the programme connects Christian hope, social justice, and the call to live compassionately in a changing world.

Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.

This week's programme reflects on the Easter story through the song The Weight by The Band, exploring its themes of burden, compassion, and spiritual symbolism. John discusses the song’s background, various recordings, and connections to the Gospel narrative, before offering a theological interpretation of carrying one another’s burdens in the spirit of Good Friday.

Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.

Hosts John and Gillian Thornley share six pieces of music for Easter and Holy Week, moving from Good Friday to Easter Sunday. The programme features New Zealand hymnody, traditional choral works, contemporary interpretations, and reflections on themes of grief, hope, and resurrection. Music includes contributions from Viva Voce, the Vasari Singers, Jim and Jean Strathdee, Dave Dobbyn, Maddy Prior, and Sounds of Blackness.

Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.

A programme of church news, guests, and a variety of music hosted by John Thornley on behalf of the Wesley Methodist Church on Broadway in Palmerston North, produced by Manawatū People's Radio with the support of New Zealand On Air.