We share with sadness the news of the passing of Jennifer Jones, wife of retired Presbyter Barry Jones. Jennifer died on 17 March from serious injuries sustained in a fall while visiting Kyoto, Japan.

Jennifer was a deeply valued companion in Barry’s ministry, supporting him throughout his five full-time appointments and five part-time supply roles following his retirement in 2004. Her presence, support, and friendship were warmly appreciated by parishioners in every place they served.

In the 1980s, while part of the Laings Road Methodist congregation, Jennifer also served on the National Executive of the Methodist Women’s Fellowship, offering her gifts in leadership and service to the wider Church.

Ngā manaakitanga

Rev Tara Tautari | General Secretary

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It is with sadness that I inform you of the passing of Rev. Marcia Baker, who died on Saturday, 29 March, at the age of 95 at Addington Gardens Care Centre.

Marcia began her ministry journey in 1949 when she moved to Christchurch to train as a deaconess. Her first appointment was in a newly developed housing area in Invercargill, where she served for two years before transferring to the Dunedin Central Mission. After her marriage to Fred in 1955, she developed a strong interest in women’s ministry within the Church.

While stationed in the Paparoa Circuit, Marcia became the first President of the Northland Guild Fellowship. During this time, she also served on the Waitemata Methodist Women’s Fellowship District Council and was later appointed as the New Zealand Programme Convener at the Invercargill Convention. From 1982 to 1984, she was a member of the National Executive when it was based in Christchurch.

Marcia also made a lasting contribution as Archivist at the Connexional Office, a role she held for 26 years (1979–2005). She was ordained at the Nelson Conference in 1987 and retired from active ministry in 1992.

We give thanks for Marcia’s faithful service and the significant contribution she made to our Connexion and the Connexional Office. Her dedication and leadership will be fondly remembered. She will be deeply missed.

A family Cremation was held on April 1st.

Ngā manaakitanga

Rev Tara Tautari | General Secretary