This tribute was read by Tipa Galea'i, Wednesday, 20 June 2007, at the Grand Mahalo celebration honoring the Shumways.
June 18, 2007
BYU-Hawaii
55-220 Kulanui St.
Laie, Hawaii 96762
To Whom It May Concern:
On behalf of the La’ie Community Association, we, the leaders of this community, submit this Letter of Commendation for a beloved couple in Eric and Carolyn Shumway.
Their love affair for La’ie can best be described by Eric himself, “Laie is not just any community on this island or on this planet. It is sacred ground, as sacred as Mount Sinai when Moses stood in the presence of God; it is a place of prophecy, and a place of God. It is sacred ….. because prophets of God set it apart as a gathering place for righteous Saints and established in our midst the fullness of the Gospel and the House of the Lord.”
Max Purcell observes that “from a community perspective, Eric Shumway was instrumental in forging ties between La’ie and the community-at-large, whether on the local, national or international scene. He has helped place La’ie strategically in a position where it is accomplishing its prophetic missions.
Having served as an LCA president, during some of the most tumultuous times in this community’s history, he is well-versed with the challenges La’ie faces and has worked tirelessly to help us overcome them. He has done much to build relationships with those who once vehemently opposed us, especially in Ko’olauloa---that many are now close friends and associates.
He, as the President of BYU-Hawaii and an area Authority, is largely responsible for the sense of security and peace that now permeates La’ie. La’ie is a better place because of President and Sister Shumway and for that we owe them much.”
Theresa Bigbie adds, “From the beginning God knew that their labors would be fruitful in La’ie because the Shumways would pursue above all… “that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God.”
With warm regards,
Pane Meatoga, President
La’ie Community Association