Our hearts go out to our New Zealand friends, as it does to those in so many countries after the Year of Disasters, 2011. So may of us are still reeling from all that befell us last year, even those of us who weren't personally affected, but who have been involved in all manner of ways to help others.

Out of these disasters, the human spirit has shone like a beacon, as communities rallied to support each other, and still are. It is so good to see that we can think beyond the norm and offer such an innovative solution to help as the massive reconstruction of entire communities is undertaken. Wherever in the world you are, and whether you were personally affected or not, spare a thought for those whose lives will never be the same and reach out to offer your strength.

Cardboard cathedral to be built in Christchurch

Posted April 17, 2012 07:23:11

Photo: The cathedral lies in ruins after an earthquake struck Christchurch on February 22, 2011. (Tess Woolcock: twitpic.com/42dzk8)

New Zealand's Anglican church will build a temporary cathedral made of cardboard in earthquake-devastated Christchurch as it works towards a permanent replacement for its 131-year old landmark destroyed last year.

The Victorian-era, Gothic-style cathedral, which dominated the city's central square, was badly damaged in the February 2011 quake and is being demolished.

The replacement, an A-frame structure designed by Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, will be built on the site of another historic church, which was also destroyed in the 6.3 magnitude quake.

"The Transitional Cathedral is a symbol of hope for the future of this city as well as being sustainable and affordable," spokesman Richard Gray said.

The temporary cathedral will be made of cardboard tubes, timber beams, structural steel and a concrete pad, and is intended to last more than 20 years.

"It is expected to be finished in time for Christmas services in December."

Read the whole story here...

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-04-17/cardboard-cathedral-to-be-built-in-christchurch/3954148