Allan Anderson was a committed supporter of NZCMS and an extraordinary entrepreneur. He was philanthropic, future focused, visionary and passionate about putting his faith into action.
Allan led the NZCMS Branch in Whanganui for many years. In the early 1970s Allan and his wife Rosemary met NZCMS Mission Partners Ian and Bronwyn Foster while they were visiting NZ. The Fosters served in Buhemba Rural Training Centre in Musoma, located in the east shore of Lake Victoria, Tanzania.
Allan started supporting the ministry in practical ways, firstly through the provision of tools and equipment and followed by a much greater challenge — transporting a herd of 61 cows from New Zealand to rural Tanzania at the request of President Julius Nyerere in 1974. Through a series of amazing connections, committed NZCMS supporters and Allan’s tenacity, a plane was found, funds were raised, and the cattle travelled to Musoma.
Allan wrote about this venture, saying “This amazing episode teaches us what can be achieved when God’s people work together, when each and every one of us finds the essential role we have to play in the mission work of the church.”
Sadly, Allan passed away in 2019. He and three other supporters set up a Trust in 1984 and planted pine trees. When this forestry investment matures, a portion of the profits will be given to NZCMS.
We celebrate Allan’s faithfulness in practically supporting the work of global mission during his lifetime, his enduring legacy and his vision to plant seeds (literally through forestry!) for eternal impact.
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.