Allan and Lynette Taylor have officially stepped down this month after nearly four decades of service at Eastgate Christian Centre in Pakuranga Heights.
Communications leader Kelly Donovan said the Taylors have been pillars of the community through their “visionary leadership and dedication to serving others”.
“Eastgate’s founding pastor, Allan, together with his wife Lynette, have guided the church’s growth from humble beginnings to the vibrant community it is today,” she said.
“While the church has grown exponentially, the Taylors have remained grounded by a heart for people above all else.
“Through discipleship, biblical teaching and pastoral care, they have continually invested in people. Their model of servant leadership has shaped Eastgate’s caring, intergenerational and multicultural atmosphere.
Milestones from the Taylors’ 37 years at Eastgate:
– Arrived at Eastgate in 1986 when it was Pigeon Mountain Fellowship, meeting at Farm Cove Intermediate
– Grew attendance from small beginnings to 1000 people today
– Purchased and developed current facilities in 1999 after outgrowing rented spaces
– Established programmes including Mainly Music, Alpha, Playgroup, community dinners, Life Fit, Divorce care and Careforce Lifekeys programmes
– Pioneered global outreach through short-term missions trips to India, Philippines, Mongolia and Papua New Guinea. These short-term missions trips have become integral part of the church’s ministry over the years, providing opportunities for members to serve communities overseas.
– Eastgate has also supported missionaries serving long-term in places like Spain and Mongolia.
– Introduced vibrant youth and young adult ministries in 1990s and 2000s
– Expanded multicultural ministries to serve Asian and Pasifika communities
– Grew the church’s reach and impact by launching a campus in Te Kauwhata in 2017
– Allan leaves a legacy of cultivating the next generation, having raised and trained many young people who now serve as effective church leaders across New Zealand.
– Allan provided oversight, preaching and vision as Senior Pastor for 37 years. Allan’s long-time leadership has anchored the church through seasons of growth and change.
Community impact highlights:
– Weekly community dinners since 2015. Eastgate volunteers serve a free weekly dinner to 70 – 80 people to support those in need.
– Annual Christmas Light Show and Walkthrough production since 2005. This elaborate production transforms the church into an interactive walkthrough experience. Each year, more than 5000 people from the community visit and are invited to reflect on the meaning of Christmas through the eyes of creative characters and scenes.
– Successful Eastgate Op Shop since 2001 supports church initiatives and the wider community. It has grown from a small boutique outlet to one of Auckland’s largest second-hand shops.
– Mainly Music programme running since 1993 serves hundreds of local families with young children. It fosters friendships and provides a fun environment for parents and kids alike.
– Weekly Playgroup from 2000-2019 built friendships and community
