Obituary: Former WVI Board Member John Rymer

The Very Rev. John O. Rymer, a former member of the Boards of World Vision International and World Vision New Zealand, passed away on Monday at his home in Auckland. He was 78.

As a Board member and a very dedicated supporter of the ministry, John made an invaluable contribution to World Vision. He became committed to World Vision’s work after visiting a project in Cambodia in 1973. He joined the WV New Zealand Board in 1974 and served as chairman from 1980 to 1994. John was one of the signers of the 1978 Declaration of Internationalisation, which established World Vision International, an international board and a governing triennial council.

A member of the WVI Board from 1983 to 1996, John chaired the Board’s Justice Committee and greatly assisted World Vision’s ecumenical relations with the Vatican and the World Council of Churches. During his tenure, World Vision fully embraced holistic ministry, a community development approach, and collaboration with other agencies.

John was a tireless promoter of the Gospel call to seek justice. He was instrumental in shaping the Partnership policy on “Promotion of Justice,” taking justice as a biblical imperative and making empowerment of the poor a World Vision priority. He insisted that World Vision’s work for the poor and the suffering must address what causes poverty and suffering.

John will be remembered for his passion, his eloquence and his deep spirituality. He was a delightful and encouraging colleague, forever hopeful, optimistic and Christ-centred.

Born in Australia in 1924, John studied for priesthood in the Anglican Church and was ordained in 1948. He earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees at the University of Queensland and an additional master’s degree at London University in 1962.

He began his pastoral ministry in Brisbane, serving as a chaplain’s assistant at a church grammar school. He later served as a curate at various churches in Australia and also had a three-year assignment in London.

In 1965, John moved to New Zealand where he was appointed principal of Christchurch College and later became canon of Christchurch Cathedral. In 1970, he was named dean of Auckland, a position he held until his retirement in 1991. Upon retirement, he was made dean emeritus.

John is survived by his wife, Joyce, daughters, Judy and Janice, and sons-in-law, Roger and David.