Brother Colin Wilfred of the Society of St Francis has died at the friary of Canterbury, England. Brother Colin was in his early 70s and had been unwell for a time.

In a statement, the archbishops of this church said today: "This is indeed sad news for the church because Brother Colin served amongst us here when the friars were living in Auckland.

"During his time in Aotearoa New Zealand, Brother Colin conducted many retreats, gave many bible studies and talks and contributed widely from his considerable theological and spiritual resources.

"Brother Colin was instrumental in creating the Anglican Religious Life Advisory Group of Aotearoa, New Zealand and Polynesia for the Anglican Church of these islands.

"Although Brother Colin left for England some years ago he will be remembered with much aroha, for his passion for justice and peace as well as his intelligent and creative witness to contemporary Christian spirituality, not forgetting his wonderful wit.

"This record of service by a friar amongst us underscores again the incalculable value of Franciscan witness and Franciscan vocation for us and with us.  
 
"E te pononga o Te Atua, haere, haere, haere, moe mai i roto i te rangimarie o Te Karaiti
 
"Well done thou good and faithful servant."
 
Archbishop Brown Turei
Archbishop David Moxon
Archbishop Winston Halapua