With due authorization from the Central Administration, the Ecclesiastical District of New Zealand South leadership recently established a group worship service (GWS) in Gore, a town and district in the Southland region of New Zealand’s South Island.

Its members originally from the Local Congregation of Invercargill South, the new GWS held its inaugural worship service at Bill Richardson Transport World, 491 Tay Street, Invercargill, New Zealand on April 25, 2026.

Brother Uziel B. Bongares, district supervising minister, officiated at the momentous occasion. At some point in his homily, he impressed on the brethren that establishment of the Gore GWS reflects the continuing progress of the Church in their part of the world. He expressed hope that may it further inspire them to be devoted to the worship service as it has become more accessible to them.

Right after the homily, the pioneering set of officers in the said GWS took their oath of office.

“I’m filled with joy because God has granted our long-held prayer to have a group worship service here in Gore,” said GWS overseer Jovel Flores.

“A great blessing,” enthused congregation secretary, Vivian Rabuya. “The establishment of the GWS is very helpful for each member, especially since we reside quite far from the Invercargill South Congregation. With this progress, our travel burden has eased, especially now that our place of worship is much nearer.”