In July Enid Dawson celebrated her 100th birthday with her family and close friends.

I had the privilege of being her minister for three years at St Mary’s Glen Innes Co-operating Parish and what a light she was. Her bubbly personality filled the church and her musical giftedness on the piano lifted our worship. Enid is still a devout member of the parish and attends the occasional celebratory service when a family member is able to take her.

Enid, a life-long passionate Methodist, was married to the late Rev Selwyn Dawson for 52 years. They adopted four children and have taken an active part in their lives, being proud of the contributions they make to the wider society. The children in turn hold her in high regard and great affection for all that she has done for them.

Enid has touched the lives of many people, both within the parishes where Selwyn served in ministry as well as others in the community. Her pastoral and empathetic heart has benefitted many people. Enid is happy to reminisce about the past, however her active mind ensures she is vitally aware of the issues of the present, both local and overseas, and is keen to discuss current social and political concerns, and the state of the church.

She learned to play the organ at Trinity College and her passion for music is an ongoing blessing as she plays her favourite hymns on her piano regularly. She was a major in the Girls’ Life Brigade, worked for Anglican Social Services and her “time to shine” came when she was Field Officer for the Epilepsy Association and represented that organisation at a conference in Australia.

One of the hardest yet enriching times in her life was when the church sent Selwyn overseas for experience. Enid had to accompany him as their parsonage was required for the supply minister.