By RICHARD RANDERSON Dean of Holy Trinity Cathedral
Two Anglican deans built Holy Trinity Cathedral in Parnell.
One was Rae Monteith, dean from 1949-71, now 99. The other was John Rymer. Each was dean for 21 years.
Broadly speaking, Dean Monteith saw the building of the chancel with its soaring columns.Dean Rymer oversaw the construction of the nave in contemporary style.
The new cathedral in itself is a legacy to John Rymer's work, but his legacy in life and faith goes far deeper.
He was a giant in both church and community, speaking and writing forthrightly on issues of personal and societal ethics, race relations and Christian theology.
His network of friends and contacts across greater Auckland is legendary. So many people wanted John Rymer to conduct their wedding, or a baptism or funeral, because of the pastoral links he had built with them over the years.
Together we conducted a large funeral in old St Mary's Cathedral only last week. I watched and listened as he preached.
His voice was strong, his thinking clear, his expression succinct. Through his words he conveyed understanding and hope. I thought: "This man will go on for ever." It was not to be.
His sudden death in full flight expresses the man John Rymer was. The blessing John has been to many is matched by the loss that will be felt.
