A Saint of the Parish

Our latest Saint of the Parish is Ruth McNamara and she is heading away south.

No matter where Ruth has been she voluntarily gives of her time and efforts for the benefit of those around her. Through her many activities, the communities in which she lives are the better for it.

When her family lived in Lauder, Ruth was involved with the local school fighting to keep it open. As a member of the Lauder Presbyte-rian Parish, she was Superintendent of the Becks Church Sunday School, member of the Lauder Board of Managers, and organiser of the annual Christmas carol singing to the local elderly. While still living at Lauder, she would travel to Alexandra almost daily with her involvement in the Church and Waste Busters.

When the Lauder Parish became a part of the Alexandra/Clyde/Lauder Union Parish, Ruth became a Parish Councillor, convenor of the

Social Action committee, organising social events for the parish and was a parish representative to conferences. Since 1999 she’s been an important member of our L/C Worship team, helping take services at Ophir, Clyde, and Alexandra and latterly, at Castlewood and Ranui Rest Homes. She is a parish visitor, keeping in touch with her area through visits and delivery of the ACLaim. Recently she has also printed and delivered personally, the sermons from our weekly services to those unable to attend services. She assembles and distributes the weekly free will offering envelopes for the parish and is on various rosters for door duty, serving communion and morning teas for special events.

These are just some of the tasks Ruth undertakes and there are probably more, but did you know, she prints your weekly newsletter and makes sure there are activities for the children each week?

She is very caring and aware of others needs and will often visit, usually with a meal, those in times of stress or sadness.

Ruth has wholeheartedly given of herself to individuals and organisations. She is willing to go the ‘extra mile’ and through her thoughtful and caring acts has make a difference to her community.

We will miss you Ruth, not just for all you do for our Parish, but we will miss YOU, a true and loyal friend to us all.

Linda Armstrong