2007
January
The year starts off with a trip to Christchurch for 'Hearts Aflame'. Shortly after returning to Wellington, Kev and Chris both move into Albemarle Street in Wilton, the home of the FM Connection, affectionately known as 'The Man-Grove'. They begin the many tasks to make the building a centre for a new community. A few days later, Michael Andrewartha, Michael Gribble and Andrew Moraes also visit their home-to-be for the first time.
February
This month sees the official beginning of the FM Connection. Both Mikes move in, and a number of informal, summery activities happen, including fish and chips and icecream at Seatoun, lawn mowing, and a drive around the Bays. The community members attend a number of 21sts and farewells for friends. Chris and Kev have a short break in Otaki to make the most of the sun and beach. Meetings begin regarding WYD SYD 08 (World Youth Day, Sydney, 2008). The FM Connection receives the beginning of what will be a constant stream of visitors.
March
March begins with a goal setting session for the FM Connection. Regular community meetings occur on Mondays, and more relaxed community evening on Wednesdays. On 11 March a number of friends are involved in the Archdiocesan LFP (Leadership Formation Programme) Graduation.
April
The first of April is Palm Sunday, which is also World Youth Day all over the world. On Good Friday and Easter Saturday, the FM Connection leads a retreat called 'Silence of the Lamb'. On Easter Sunday the community goes to dinner at the Grove in Lower Hutt. Chris' brother Terry visits for a holiday.
May
The FM Connection meets to discuss its contribution to the local parish, St Thomas More, Sunday dinners, youth in the pastoral area and mission and ministry. Mike Gribble's birthday is celebrated on 6 May. The official opening of the FM Connection is celebrated on 19 May, with an open day for visitors, especially friends, families, and members of the local parish.
June
Winter is survived with a great many visitors, quiz nights, and excitement about the upcoming World Youth Day.
July
August
In August the community hikes up Wright's Hill. The school with which the FM Connection shares its grounds, Cardinal McKeefry, celebrates the Assumption with a feast day Mass. Later in the month a pot luck dinner is shared with the parish.
September
Birthdays are celebrated this month for both Chris and Andrew.
October
The wedding of Dan Siave and Rebekah Prescott, both workers in youth ministry in Wellington, is celebrated in Tawa. The community keeps busy with a number of outdoors jobs, including painting and building a garden shed. Kev's mother visits for a few days.
November
The FM Connection has a Mass and Meal on Wednesday night for visitors. Mike Andrewartha's birthday is celebrated with a barbeque, and the community attends a quiz night.
December
December is a quiet month with a lot of people away. Kev and Chris attend the New Zealand Province Chapter. Members of the community celebrate Christmas with their families.