A Place of Learning
“One of the gems of St Isaac’s is the library which is accessed from the Chapel so that you make a connected move from contemplating the icons there to the library’s treasures. At the centre of the collection are the books of Clementina Gordon ranging from St Isaac of Nineveh (7th century) and St Ephrem the Syrian (4th century). An original set of Teilhard de Chardin for example to 19th and 20th century writers on the spiritual life; Rowan Williams, Evelyn Underhill and Henri Nouwen and many others. There are also good selections on NZ history especially of the far North, NZ church history, biblical studies, feminist theology, poetry, liturgy, art history, to the relaxation of Alexander McCall Smith and classic thrillers. This is a place for tracking down something particular or especially for browsing for that book you didn’t know about!”
– Margaret Bedggood & Rev’d Lynne Wall
Being on the sofa of the library brought me peace. To have the four walls of books hugging me and the maunga gazing over my shoulders.
One of my many past times is needle craft as an art form. Such a joy to create this at St Isaacs on a recent visit and the first of many return visits.
– Jieying
Surround yourself with the company of books at St. Isaac’s library, where each visit becomes a journey of deep reading, contemplation, and peace. Immerse yourself in a treasure trove of exciting topics in the serene setting adjacent to the chapel. Let the transition from worship to reading enhance your experience, creating a seamless blend of sacred and intellectual pursuits. Discover a place where the past and present meet, offering a space of tranquillity, reflection, and inspiration. Retreat yourself at St. Isaac’s, where nature and the wisdom of great thinkers welcome you.
– Eunice Fuchs
