by LYNDSAY FREER
After 29 years of uninterrupted service to the Auckland diocese, Myra Crawford decided it was time to retire. A farewell function was hosted by Bishop Patrick Dunn at St Columba’s Centre on Friday evening, April 28, which was attended by many current and former colleagues and staff who gathered to say goodbye and share their memories.
Myra began working for the diocese as a shorthand typist before the diocesan headquarters at Pompallier Centre was built, and joined the diocesan staff of that time at Liston House in St Patrick’s Square.
Along with six staff members, she became a pioneer staffer at the newly constructed Pompallier Centre in 1989 and in the following years her duties grew to include duties at reception and with the accounts department.
In her farewell speech, diocesan communications officer Dame Lyndsay Freer recalled the many changes that have taken place in the intervening 28 years and the pivotal role played by Myra.
“She has been the heart and hub Myra Crawford with Bishop Patrick Dunn.
of our Pompallier family,” Dame Lyndsay said.
“She is very much a ‘people person’ and for 29 years has been a constant help and support to the bishop and staff. She was totally discreet, always helpful, always putting herself out for others. We will all miss her very much.”
Bishop Dunn, who presented Myra with a gold cross and chain, said that people of Myra’s calibre were rare and that he and the diocese were very much in her debt for her years of devoted service.
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