The Anglican Archbishop has been celebrated for his skill as a communicator at a farewell service in Hamilton as he prepares to leave for the Vatican City in Rome, where he will be the church's ambassador.
About 900 people attended a farewell for Archbishop David Moxon at the chapel of Christ the King at St Paul's Collegiate.
The Archbishop Emeritus will take up the post next month. His message to those gathered was to stay centred on their relationships and love for one another, but also to observe the simple, back to basics approach of the new Pope.
Reverend Jayson Rhodes said Archbishop Moxon was celebrated for his ability to communicate his faith and the farewell was very emotional.
The church will now begin the process of appointing a new Bishop for Waikato.