By Jonathan Carson, Former NZCMS Mission Partner in Pakistan
Patricia and her husband, Stewart and three of their five children went to Pakistan in April 1977 under NZCMS. They took up residence in Hyderabad in the St Philip’s Church compound, where missionary and local diocesan workers lived. Stewart assisted Bishop Bashir Jiwan with administrative tasks. Patricia fitted into life in Pakistan and befriended many of the people living on the compound. She was able to use her skills as a nurse, particularly when she was part of a team that nursed Dr Jocelyn Williams when she was critically ill. Unfortunately, Patricia developed brucellosis, and this was so debilitating that it was decided that the Entwistles should return to Christchurch in July 1983. While she was recovering, Stewart took up a position in the NZCMS office. Patricia’s health improved sufficiently for them to return to Pakistan in February 1989, and they remained there until August 1993.
People who knew Patricia knew her as someone who was interested in others, caring, kind, thoughtful, gentle and accepting. Her strong determination came to the fore when she proposed a Christian retreat centre for people recovering from illness or in need of a quiet time out. This vision ultimately led to the founding of Te Waiora House at Hororata. She was much loved by many people. Please uphold Patricia’s 5 children and their families as they mourn her loss.
Patricia Entwistle (10 June 1933 – 21 July 2025)
Thank you, Tessa. I remember Ray (and Jean) very warmly from our time at St Tim’s before we left for St John’s College at the beginning of 1987, and was excited many years later to learn of their visit to the Elliotts in Uganda. (We visited them in 1997 on study leave.) That visit, and a later one, showed their quiet growth in faith and mission during the years. I praise God for Ray’s life and service, and pray for the Comforter’s presence to be so close to Jean.
Hey there,
A friend of mine told me about you guys and I’d love to come along on Monday!
Cheers,
Caleb Croker
Hi Caleb, I’ve just seen your message. I apologise that this was missed. I assume you’re talking about the Seriously Interested in Mission group? The next one is August 11 and we’d love you to join. Can you email us at office@nzcms.org.nz (Rosie writing here)
Thank you Tessa
Thank you Archdeacon Fran. Mothers Union appreciated your input when we visited the Far North recently. Your wisdom and wise counsel made it a memorable weekend. God bless you in your new role.
Rev Fran, you and Rapiata are a gift to the Church. May the Lord bless you as you serve in this next season
With reference to the article ‘By invitation not invasion’. My husband and I were involved with CMS from the 1960s onward and this was always the attitude of CMS leadership. They deferred to the church leadership opinions whenever possible, wherever there was a local church. I’m not aware if this has change. It isn’t something new.
Hi Pauline,
I agree with you!! I don’t think this has changed, just good to re-iterate why and we send mission partners. This is Rosie writing — hope you’re doing well!
Yes Pauline it was the same for Alan and me. When we went to Singapore 1966–69 it was in response to a request from the Bishop oof Singapore and Malaya.