By Tessa Laing, Mission Partner in Uganda
Sadly, we announce that Ray passed away at Burwood Hospital, aged 79 years. He was the loved son of the late Eric and Una Hollis, and loved brother of Marilyn Parker. Ray was the precious husband of Jean, and loved and loving father, father-in-law and grandfather. One of our Mission Partners in Uganda, Tessa Laing, reflects on the life and impact of Ray on her life and the lives of many others.
We give thanks for the life of Ray Hollis, a long-time friend and supporter of NZCMS, who passed away in May 2025.
I first encountered Ray in my late teens at St Timothy’s evening service. I remember speaking in a youth service for the first time, filled with anxiety. Afterwards, Ray met my eyes and gave me this warm little nod, and I felt seen and encouraged; later, he shared St Francis of Assisi’s quote about sharing the Gospel through our actions that I pondered for weeks. It was an exciting but chaotic time, as many of us were discovering faith, wrestling with how to live in light of God’s justice, and experimenting wildly. In the midst of it all, Ray, his wife Jean, and a few other couples were a steady presence. Ray’s consistency, cheeky humour, quiet acts of service, twinkling eyes, and few-but-warm words encouraged and grounded us.
When my husband Nick and I travelled to Uganda for his medical elective, we discovered Ray’s deep love for Uganda and for mission. Back in 2002, he had spent six months in Mbale supporting Ross and Pauline Elliot, long-term NZCMS mission partners, during a time of real need. His financial and practical skills were no doubt invaluable at the Elliot’s vocational training college, which was still going strong when I visited in 2010.
Ray and Jean kept in close contact with Ugandan friends after that first trip through phone calls, emails, and even a return visit to attend (and, I suspect, quietly help out behind the scenes at) a family wedding. Back in Christchurch, they continued to advocate for NZCMS and served faithfully as mission mobilisers at St Tim’s. Over our years in Uganda, they remained in touch, encouraged us regularly, and welcomed us warmly into their home each time we visited.
Even in January this year, as Ray’s memory faded, his recollections of Uganda remained vivid. We are grateful to have known this faithful servant of God—a gentle man drawn deeply to what God is doing in the world and the lives of those around him.
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.