The writing of
I write as an apostolic kingdom strategist, an intercessor, and a watchman, listening to God before I speak and naming what I see.
For thirty-two years I stood at prison gates, alongside families carrying a weight no court could measure. Pillars Ka Pou Whakahou grew from that ground, and INCCIP followed, now reaching over twenty-seven countries.
Read my story
In 1983, police knocked on Verna McFelin's door in New Zealand and arrested her husband Paul for kidnapping. He was sentenced to eleven years. She was left with her children, her faith, and no name for what she was living. Not a widow. Not divorced.
“Institutional maltreatment met with extraordinary resilience.”Sir Kim Workman, KNZM
In New Zealand and would like an autographed copy? Email Verna directly.
Forthcoming · My Dad Is In Prison · Pillars of Strength
Overnight, I became invisible. Not a widow, not divorced, simply forgotten by the system.
In 1983 my husband was imprisoned. So I set about building what my family had needed all along, and Pillars was born while he was still behind the wire.
I led that work for more than thirty years, and watched it grow from something very small into something with international reach.
The work was never about the honours. But over the years it was seen, by communities, by leaders, and by the Crown.
A series of reflections on faith, leadership, and the long work of caring for people, drawn from a lifetime of shepherding.
Read the reflections
Verna speaks to churches, community groups, and gatherings across New Zealand, on faith, resilience, and the families the justice system forgets.
Invite Verna to speak2021 · Christchurch
The Invisible Sentence, Book LaunchA gathering to mark the release of Verna's memoir, with readings and signed copies.News of new writing and books, plus a free copy of When Life Hurts — 7 Truths That Will Help You Find Strength, Hope and Purpose Again to welcome you.