The passing of a generous friend...

I've just returned tonight from the Family service of a good church friend who was a humble but straight forward servant of God who loved to serve in the church in many capacities.

I've known her for over 30 years and she was the Prayer Breakfast leader of a group that I founded some 25+ years ago in my birth church. I remember how she would pray for her family, friends and church members.

She also was so generous in sharing the bread from the bread ministry, that my late father had founded at the church, with bread given to her neighbours and family who lived close by. It was so sad to think that we no longer be able to hear her loud but clear voice. Her songs and guitar strumming and her heart filled with love for so many.

The church service was full with over 300+ persons of Cook Islands, Niuean and Samoan descent (our church congregation) but she was able to touch so many people's lives. Unfortunately, her husband died a few months ago and she is survived by her two children with one who is currently in hospital with ailing health.

Our thoughts and prayers are with her family in now living life without their matriarch. She passed away in her early 70s but she was such a strong woman that no one thought that her time had come so soon.

I still remember how she would always be asking after my parents when I would attend prayer meeting and she would always remember to lift them up in prayer. She was definitely a prayer warrior and very passionate about her faith and encouraging people in her good works.

I'm definitely going to miss her presence. In times like these, we are reminded to hug and share love with our beloved family members. Those of whom we often take for granted that we will always see them. It's also a reminder to be grateful for the legacy of those who've passed and who have shared beautiful memories with us.

Dearest Kei, you have been called to rest as a faith-filled servant now rejoicing in the presence of the One that you believed in for so long. Now with my late father and other church pioneers who helped to build a place that welcomes Pacific peoples into a space of love and belonging. You are dearly missed but not forgotten. Ua manuia lou malaga (your journey is blessed).