John took me on as a young curate back in 1977 and was an inspiration to me for ministry that was open, welcoming, fun, hospitable, outward looking, faithful, Spirit led, Jesus centred. I had much to learn as a naïve fresh faced young man. He was an inspiration to a number of curates over the years.

I was attracted to St Lukes because of his His aims and style of ministry. He gave me the pamphlet' Divide and Conquer' as his hopes and aims for how he could see growth in the church. This inspired me.

He and Thelma were wonderfully hospitable to me, and I had many meals with them. Breakfast after morning prayers. Lunches with Fresh Veg from the garden, he would proudly say, 'Had the dew on them this morning'

He set a great example of leadership that I have sought to follow in the years since. He was not afraid to tell me off for being late to a meeting and encouraged me in developing different projects and activities such as with the youth and pancake parties.

We shared the same love of tennis, partnered and opposed. He introduced me to Barry Jones and tournaments in the covered courts in Aldershot. We partnered in a West Norwood Club tournament- He never forgot my pushing a simple volley into the net for the winning point in a championship match against the favourites; we then went on to lose!

His passion for mission. He said to me how important it was to have an interest outside the local parish. For John this had been being involved with SAMS for many years. Then through his friendship with George Middleton this became Emmanuel International which he set up. Joy being the first to out with EI from St Lukes, with others inspired to go later.  I took this passion to my next church. My wife to be, Sarah Bendell, was the first to go out with Emmanuel International from Emmanuel Tolworth, with many others following after. This changes their lives, as much as it may help others.  John married us in Surbiton in 1986.

Holding his hand just before his final day brought me great thankfulness amidst the sadness of this the last time with him. As John prayed his thanks he committed his life to His Lord with whom he is now with. Hope for us all in our loss of a very lovely mentor and friend.

Thank you John! RIP. Stewart


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