John Stewart Murray

By Roger Childs

There’s a name to conjure with!

John  Murray (JSM) passed away early last year, and the Kapiti Community, our Nation and the world lost a solid citizen and distinguished cleric who made a huge contribution to the betterment of his fellow human beings.

‘He/she leave the world a better place’ can sometimes slip off the tongue too easily. However, in John’s case the ways are many.

I would need a series of articles to list them. Suffice to say he was respected internationally, played a lead role in a wide range of organisations and causes within New Zealand from Amnesty to the white poppy of peace, and participated in many campaigns on the Kapiti Coast.

Having a lasting tribute

A hard working and determined group led by Alida Van Der Velde is battling to get JSM remembered in Kapiti. Shouldn’t be too difficult ….  but it is.

Once the family is happy with a proposal, the following have to give the big tick:

• The Paraparaumu – Raumati Community Board
• Local iwi leaders
• Kapiti Coast District Council

Some people don’t know what he did, so website has been set up.

I commend it to you https://rememberingjm.wordpress.com/