I was lucky enough to get to know John at BDTS 2004. He was in his early 20’s. What an incredible man he was at that young age. He shared so much wisdom with me and the way he lived his life was an absolute testament to his Faith. Seeing the way he went through the loss of his daughter was one of the most influential experiences for my faith. Praying for Bethany and all his children.
So sorry for your loss, I'm sure many have stated this already but John made a big impact on my life. I was never the same after DTS and the world is a better place because of the love that he shared with me and so many others. Truly loved and respected the man more than so many others I have met before and after him. I certainly am praying for you all in such a tough time. I have many great memories of him during the little time I spent with him. But what I experienced from was such a genuine love for me and my classmates. He knew I needed to be there and fought for me to come because he was in tune with the spirit. Because of him I am a better man and now better husband and father. Even though I did not stay in touch with him, I will surely miss him, but I look forward to seeing him again on the great day!
I am SO grateful for the time I got to share serving with John in my early 20's. He had a huge impact on my life, on my character, and on my view of myself as a son of God. I'm so sad not to be able to be there in person. Love and peace to Bethany and the kids and all his many friends.
Although the time I spent at Y Denver was limited (as well as my direct interaction with John, Bethany, and his sweet growing family), I continually encountered the ripple effect of his life as waves of Boarders DTS teams sowed into Bosnia. John's investment and countless personal interactions changed destinies, sowing into nations and transforming generations. Bethany, your grace and ruthless trust through it all continues to inspire me. I can't help but see him cheering us all on. No doubt he's the one at the front of the great cloud of witnesses bellowing, "Keep running! Don't give up. It's worth it. HE's worth it!" Sending much love and prayers.
Sitting at San luis obispo, CA. airport getting ready to fly out for John'sMemorial tomarrow. Sometimes one just has to show up for those that testify by their life what walking through life with Jesus really looks like. What an honor to celebrate a life well lived. John is a good witness to all of us what life as a Christian should look like.
I was so sorry to hear about John's passing. He was such a [ Blessing ] and Compassinate person.
In 2007 came to ywam Denver to serve the base in the mountains. At that time did get to meet him and came down from the mountain and washed some cloths at his house.. Before 2007 was missionary in India two years sharing the Love of Jesus to a group of people. At that time was painting at the ywam base in the mountains and was blessed to get to know John and his wife.
Sitting in the Toronto airport right now on my way to Denver to say goodbye to John. What privilege to have watched John Murphy in worship pouring his heart out to Jesus hundreds of times. He lived and loved soooo hard. Tomorrow will be difficult. Just glad I get to be with so many of your passionate friends and your beautiful family John. Miss you bud.
— with
Taddy Schmitt,
John Connor
and John Murphy
We were blessed to have John work on our house for the end of the year last year and it was always a pleasure to see his smiley face come in, say good morning and give advice as the project went along. I loved hearing stories about how proud he was of all the kids and was excited to meet two of his sons when we met him at the Rockies game late last summer. When my aunt broke her ankle and was mostly confined to the basement, John would make a point to go check on her and say hello. He was an amazing man, caring and proud family man and will be so missed. I feel grateful that I got to know him just a bit and send much love and strength to his family.
By the time I had been able to participate in a Boarders DTS the Murphy’s had moved on from their roles with YWAM Denver. But I remember so clearly the “subtle flex” I would feel at the fact that I knew THE John Murphy😂
I always hoped one day I’d be able to share about all the adventures and personal experiences from my DTS with him. Being that he was a big part of what inspired me to participate in one.
1998, Youth With A Mission Denver, West 63rd Avenue, Arvada, CO, USA
Well, I didn’t know John as deeply as some of the other YWAM staff, but I had the privilege of being Bethany’s roommate way back when God started stirring her heart toward this boy. I nailed who she was interested in with one guess! Then I had the privilege of being on staff with the Murphys. John always had a kind smile and was easy to relate to. John and Bethany’s faith in the midst of losing a child was astounding and still impacts me today. Love you from afar, Murphy fam.
Bethany - I don't know where to begin or how to express how deeply sorry I am for your loss. I've thought about you and your babies every day since I heard the news of John's passing. Sending big hugs and prayers your way, beautiful. All my love, Hannah.