Rob Wayne died suddenly without pain and suffering, in March this year, aged just 60. With his wife Ria, Rob was a short-term mission partner with CMS, seconded to ICC (International Cooperation Cambodia) in Phnom Penh for five months in 2005–2006. Rob was a trained surveyor, water engineer and community development consultant whose work in Cambodia was mainly in rural agriculture, hydrology and water projects. He had many years’ experience in project design, grant management, sustainable development and environment safeguarding. At the time of his death, Rob was living in Christchurch and was International Partnership’s Lead with Christian World Service. Rob is sadly missed by Ria and their son David (19), his wider family, his church family, colleagues at his former workplace, and many overseas partners in developing countries.
Rob was brilliant at developing trusting and strong relationships, and his care and sensitivity resulted in enduring and successful partnerships. A detail-focused practitioner, his planning was careful and well thought out, and his account meticulous. He took beautiful photos which enabled people’s stories to be shared from places others could never visit. Rob has touched the lives of so many vulnerable people. Tens of thousands of lives have been made better because they have access to the fundamental human rights of water and education. Rob’s work has enabled people, often emerging from tragedy and injustice, to create new livelihoods. He cared deeply about his colleagues and was always supportive and encouraging. We feel his loss terribly. But we will remember him – always – his warmth, his kindness, his wisdom and guidance. Rob lived life well. He was a good friend and colleague. May he rest in peace.
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.