I was not quite prepared for what was about to happen.  At the conclusion of our Praise & Harmony workshop in Tauranga, New Zealand, Steve Raine called me to the front and informed me I was about to be honored.  The next thing that I heard was a startlingly loud series of warrior screams emanating from a young man who was moving toward me.



I did not smile as I witnessed his approach in this ancient ritual that was obviously new to me.  Roger and Dawn Ferguson of Madison traveled with us to the South Pacific.  Maybe they can explain more of the background of this warrior tradition, or perhaps one of the New Zealanders.

The history of New Zealand is fascinating.  As you can see, this was an experience we will not soon forget.