Crowd farewells popular minister

June 4th, 2014
[by David Armstrong, photo by Jan Baily]

A large crowd farewelled Rev Peter Norman over a pot luck lunch at Memorial Hall as he and his wife Lynnette prepare to shift to take up his new ministry in Takapuna. (See our earlier story.)

The informal event brought about 120 people from a broad cross-section of the Motueka community to offer their heart-felt appreciation for what Peter and Lynnette have given to the town in their six and a half years, and to wish them well up north.

Of course, many of those attending were attached in some way to the St Andrews Uniting Church parish which Peter served, but probably around half were other people who had worked with Peter in his general community work, New World colleagues of Lynnette, and generally friends of the couple. Clergy of some other churches were are present.

Four people addressed the crowd about aspects of Peter's work which had touched them, and Peter responded, as anyone knowing him would expect, that he was "humbled" and left relatively speechless by the kind words.

And he renewed his promise that after his five-year posting at Takapuna, the couple will return to Motueka to retire but also to renew his community interests.

Comment by Peter Norman:
[Posted 18 June 2014]

I would like to take this opportunity to once again say thank you to the people of the township, the villages, the valleys and the hill. The nature of my role has allowed me the privilege of getting to know many of the wonderful people who live in this beautiful part of the country.

I have to acknowledge those visionaries who have a real passion for the well being of the people of this region. There are many constantly working behind the scenes to ensure the best possible quality of life for all.

I look forward to the time when Lynnette and I can return and once again be embraced by the love and warmth of the people who live in this special place. Nga mihi nui, Peter and Lynnette.

>> , to be added to the page. [If this link doesn't work, use this form instead]

[ Return ]
[ Other news articles ]

We wish to thank these local community-minded businesses who generously sponsor our site. They recognise the value of supporting this community asset, and in return Motueka Online is pleased to use and recommend their services whenever appropriate.

Ray White Motueka, Motueka Floral Studio, Nelson Building Society,
House of Travel, , Steph Wills Dental Surgery