Rev Dr William Edward Farndale
24 September 1881 to 4 February 1966
FAR00576
|
Return to the Home
Page of the Farndale Family Website |
The story of one
family’s journey through two thousand years of British History |
The 83 family lines
into which the family is divided. Meet the whole family and how the wider
family is related |
Members of the
historical family ordered by date of birth |
Links to other pages
with historical research and related material |
The story of the
Bakers of Highfields, the Chapmans, and other related families |
President
of the Methodist Conference in 1947 and Moderator of the Free Church Council
from 1949 to 1951
Dates are in red.
Hyperlinks to
other pages are in dark
blue.
Headlines are in brown.
References and
citations are in turquoise.
Context and local
history are in purple.
Geographical
context is in green.
The York Years
1881
William
Edward Farndale, son of William
Farndale, railway goods porter and a town missionary, of
25, Newbiggin Street, York and Mary Jane
Farndale formerly Peacock (FAR00435)
was born on 24 September
1881 at 25 Newbiggin Street, St Maurice, York
(Birth
Certificate). His birth was registered on 3 November 1881 at York by Mary
Jane Farndale, mother (GRO Vol 9d page 43).
Overview
William
Edward Farndale DD was born at York in 1881. He entered the Primitive Methodist
ministry in 1904 after training at Hartley College. He travelled in the
following circuits: Forest Hill (London), Oldham II, Chester-le-Street,
Birkenhead Il and Grimsby II. In 1933 after the coming of Union he was
appointed District Missionary and Chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby District,
a task which occupied the remaining nineteen years of his active ministry. As
President of the Conference in 1947 he sounded the Call of the Countryside and
launched a “Back to the Soil” campaign. The whole Church then saw the secret of
his authoritative leadership in the Lincolnshire area, where his administrative
gifts were matched by pastoral care and a love for country Methodism and the
farming community.
He
always came to grips with contemporary affairs and applied the gospel to them.
His ministry at Birkenhead during the decade following the end of the First
World War illustrated this vividly. His incisive preaching both within the
churches and in the open air was a counter to post-war disillusion and, later,
to the demoralising effects of unemployment, During his Presidency he attended
the Methodist Ecumenical Conference in Springfield, Massachusetts, U.S.A., and
went as a visiting preacher to the United Church of Canada, during which time
he received from Victoria University, Toronto, the honorary degree of Doctor of
Divinity. He was a convinced Free-churchman, as his published writings testify,
and was in his element in 1950-51 as the Moderator of the Free Church Council.
On
his retirement from the active ministry in 1952 he became a tutor at Cliff
College, where his biblical scholarship was placed at the service of many
grateful students. Then came the years of physical infirmity which only served
to throw into greater relief his indomitable spirit. He remained an omnivorous
reader and kept abreast of current affairs, always (to quote his own words)
‘‘seeking recourse to the Head of the
Church through prayer”, and was ever ready with his characteristic friendly
counsel to assist and encourage ministers and laymen alike. His spare figure
and twinkling but penetrating glance will long be remembered by many who found
wisdom and grace in his presence. His mind was clear and active and his spirit
buoyant until the time of his death on 4 February 1966, in the eighty-fourth
year of his age and the sixty-first of his ministry.
(Transcription
of obituary published in the Minutes of Conference)
William
E Farndale. Dr Farndale was born in York and spent the greater part of his
early life in Manchester, where he trained for the legal profession by a firm
of Manchester solicitors. He entered the ministry in 1904 after completing his
theological training in Hartley college, Manchester. During World War One, he
was minister in Chester le Street, but later moved to Birkenhead and Grimsby.
Dr Farndale has a wide knowledge of the social and religious problems of Rural
England, and is especially interested in education.
Primitive
Methodism
The
Primitive Methodists were a major offshoot of the principal stream of Methodism
in the nineteenth century.
Also
known as ‘Ranters’, for their enthusiastic preaching,
‘Primitive’ Methodists were so called because they wanted a return to an
earlier, purer form of Methodism, as founded by John Wesley, based on the early
church. In 1932 Primitive Methodists joined with Wesleyan and United Methodists
to form the Methodist Church.
In
the early decades of the nineteenth century there was a growing body of opinion
among the Wesleyans that their religion was moving in directions which were a
distortion, even a betrayal, of what John Wesley’s teachings.
A
Methodist preacher called Hugh Bourne became the catalyst for a breakaway, to
form the Primitive Methodists. Their badge of 'primitive' was used to stress
their belief that they were the true guardians of the original, or primitive,
form of Methodism.
The nineteenth century working class movement known as Primitive
Methodism, originated in the Potteries, where an open air ‘camp’ meeting was
held at Mow Cop in 1807, igniting a passion for the ‘love of God’ which quickly
spread across the Midlands. By the end of the century there were over 200,000
members.
The
sorts of issues which divided the Primitives and the Wesleyans might be
summarised:
|
Methodists |
Primitive
Methodists |
|
Developed
a high doctrine of the Pastoral Office to justify leadership being in the
hands of the ministers. |
Focused
attention on the role of lay people. |
|
Were
open to cultural enrichment from the Anglican tradition and more ornate
buildings. |
Stressed
simplicity in their chapels and their worship. |
|
Were
involved with more affluent and influential urban classes. |
Concentrated
their mission on the rural poor. |
|
Were
nervous of direct political engagement. |
Stressed
the political implications of their Christian discipleship. |
In the context of the growing democratisation and sense of
dislocation caused by the Industrial Revolution, Primitive Methodism appealed
primarily to miners and mill hands, farm labourers, and workers in developing
factory towns. In rural areas, Primitive Methodists often came into conflict
with the Squire and Anglican clergy, who saw them as a threat to the
established order.
The conviction that God’s love was for all, led to a concern for
social justice, and many Primitive Methodists became involved in politics, as
trade unionist leaders, Chartists, and later as Labour MPs.
George Edwards, who championed the cause of farm labourers in
Norfolk, is typical of the early trade union leaders who developed their
passion and leadership skills through the Primitive Methodist Chapels. He
started his working life at the age of six, he was illiterate until he became
involved in Primitive Methodism and he embarked on a journey of self-education,
as he recounts in From Crow Scaring to Parliament.
By
the end of the 19th century these two streams of Methodism realised they had
more in common than they might have supposed. So conversations began which led
to their being the two principal partners in the union to form the present-day
Methodist Church in 1932.
The Macclesfield Years
1891
1891
Census
William,
a scholar aged 9, son of William Farndale, then town missionary, and Mary Jane,
with siblings Joseph and Ellen, at 59 New Hall Street, Macclesfield.
South of Manchester (Chorlton-cum-Hardy and Disbury)
1901
1901
Census
William
aged 19 living with parents at 18 Cavendish Road, Chorlton, Withington,
Lancashire, a clerk
1904
Manchester
Evening News, 16 July 1904: P M Church, Burton Road, Withington … Farewell
Address by Rev W E Farndale.
Lewisham
Borough News, 1 September 1904: PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHURCH, FOREST HILL. The
harvest festival in connection with the Primitive Methodist Church, Stanstead
Road, Forest Hill, was held on Sunday, when interesting sermons were preached
by the pastor, Rev E J T Bagnall.... The proceedings were continued on Monday
when the chair was taken by... and the following gentleman addressed the
meeting... W E Farndale...
Forest
Hill and Sydenham Examiner, 2 September 1904: THE HARVEST FESTIVAL was held
on Sunday at the Primitive Methodist Church, Forest Hill... On Monday... addresses
were given by... W E Farndale... the total collections amounting to £10.
South
London Chronicle, 9 December 1904: DULWICH PRIMITIVE METHODIST
CHURCH. A BAZAAR TO RAISE £500. In order to further reduce the debt of £2,060
resting on the Building Fund at the Primitive Methodist Church and schools in
the Crystal Palace Road, East Dulwich, a fancy bazaar was held on Tuesday,
Wednesday and Thursday in the Lecture Hall, and attracted a large number of
visitors; It was thoroughly anticipated that at least £500 would be raised by
this effort. The ministers of the church, the Revs E J T Bagnall and W E
Farndale, were upon the scene to help...
South
London Press, 10 December 1904: EAST DULWICH BAZAAR. In the unavoidable absence
of Mrs Matthew Wallace, a bazaar in aid of the fund for reducing the debt on
the Primitive Methodist Church, Crystal Palace Road, was opened on Tuesday in
the schoolroom by Mrs David Williamson... The side shows included living
pictures (managers, Rev W E Farndale...) …
1905
Norwich
Mercury, 14 January 1905: MARRIAGE OF THE REV T H CHAMPION. The Rev Thomas
Henry Champion, the minister of the Scott Memorial Church, Thorpe, Norwich, was
on Tuesday afternoon married to Miss Bertha M W Pinhorn,... the Revs E J T
Bagnall and W E Farndale, circuit ministers, officiated...
Leeds
Mercury 16 June 1905: Primitive Methodists. Further Conference Sittings
at Scarborough. The pledges of the
following probationers having been received by the General Committee were
accepted by the Conference, to date, from the Conference of 1904 … W E
Farndale …
Norwood
News, 18 November 1905: THIRTY YEARS PASTORSHIP. WEST NORWOOD TABERNACLE.
On Sunday and Monday the esteemed pastor, the Rev Walter Hobbs, of West Norwood
Tabernacle, and his flock, held Thanksgiving Services in acknowledgment of the
completion by him of 30 years ministerial work in Norwood ... The Rev W E
Farndale and... added their testimonies, and a vote of thanks to all who
had helped in the celebration of the event...
1906
At
the Primitive Methodist Conference.
Norfolk
News, 23 June 1906: The Probationers’ Examining Board Committee’s
report was satisfactory. Out of a total of 162 probationers 151 presented
themselves for the annual examination last March. Of the 11 who were absent
four were ill, two were in Africa, one had resigned from the ministry, and four
others had offered reasons for absence which the committee could not accept.
Four of the examinees failed to obtain the minimum number of marks. The
following are deserving of special mention, as they secured 90% of the
maximum:... W E Farndale...
Middlesex
Gazette, 14 July 1906: The first anniversary of the Sunday School of
Emmanuel Primitive Methodist Church at Bush Hill Park will be held on Sunday
next, July 15th. Sermons will be preached by the Rev W E Farndale of Forest
Hill; and a Young People’s Service will be held at three o’clock, conducted
by Mr J W Morgan...
Middlesex
Gazette, 21 July 1906: The morning and evening services were
conducted by the Rev W E Farndale, of Forest Hill. The text for the
morning sermon was selected from Genesis xliii, 8, 9. Mr J W Morgan conducted
the children's service in the afternoon, and gave the children a short but
interesting address based on the story of Martha and Mary. He urged the
children to follow all that which is noblest, highest and best. At the
evening service the Rev W E Farndale chose for his text 2 Peter ii, 15 and
Revelations ii, 14 and in the course of his sermon he gave some good advice for
the guidance of Sunday school teachers.
Daily
News (London), 13 October 1906 and many similar service announcements follow:
PRIMITIVE METHODISM. HAMILTON ROAD. West Norwood. Rev W E Farndale, 11; Mr A
Emmett, 6.30.
1907
Bromley
Chronicle, 25 April 1907: FOUNDATION STONE LAYING CEREMONY. THE MAYOR AND
CORPORATION TO ATTEND THE FUNCTION. In delightfully fine, though rather windy
weather, and with befitting ceremonial, the foundation stones were laid on
Saturday of the new Primitive Methodist Chapel and classrooms which are being
erected on a commanding site facing the main road at Bromley Common... His
Worship wearing his robe and chain of office was accompanied by... Rev W E
Farndale (West Norwood) ...
South
London Press, 18 May 1907: PRIMITIVE METHODISTS. BAZAAR AT EAST DULWICH. In
aid of the effort for reducing the debt remaining on the building the Mayor and
Mayoress of Camberwell attended the opening of a bazaar on Wednesday at the
Primitive Methodist Church, Crystal Palace Road... The Mayoress declared the
bazaar open, and a vote of thanks to the civic visitors was moved in cordial
terms by... seconded by the Rev W E Farndale...
1908
Eastern
Daily Press, 25 June 1908: PRIMITIVE METHODIST CONFERENCE. FROM AN EAST ANGLIAN
REPRESENTATIVE. There were this year three vacancies to fill on the deed poll,
two owing to death and one (Rev J B Bellingham), to resignation.... The general
examining committee reported that not one of the probationers who sat for their
annual examination in March last failed to reach the minimum number of marks. The
following passed with honours: first year... third year... W E Farndale,
who secured 92%...
1909
William
Edward Farndale’s father, William Farndale (FAR00435) by then a grocer and
active town missionary, committed suicide:
Hartlepool
Northern Daily Mail, 20 February 1909: Before hanging himself in the
cellar of his grocer’s shop in Didsbury, William Farndale wrote a note in which
he said he was past living. “My mind has gone, and the hope of life has died
out. I have tried and failed. Misfortune has seemed to follow me.”
This
must have had a profound effect on William Edward Farndale, who was then 28
years old, and who appears to have left home very shortly afterwards.
The Oldham Years
1910
Lowestoft
Journal, 2 July 1910: PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHANGES IN EAST ANGLIA. THE
MINISTERIAL EXODUS. Wednesday in next week will witness the changes of
residence of a vast number of Primitive Methodist ministers... On the Norwich
First (Queen’s Road) Circuit the Rev J Wardman Venables severed his connection
with the circuit after four years residential ministry. He has accepted the
invitation of the Oldham Second (Lees Road) Circuit, in succession to the Rev W
E Farndale, who removes elsewhere...
William Edward Farndale
married Florence May Price (1877-1964) in
the spring of 1910 at Sydenham, London (Lewisham District) (MR). They had two
children.
1911
1911
Census: William (aged 29), a Primitive Methodist Minister, lived
with Florence (aged 33) at 19 Woodstock Street, Oldham
1912
Enid
Florence (1912-1973) (FAR00779)
was born in Oldham on 17 February 1912.
Western
Daily Mercury, 6 April 1912: “THE HOLBORN REVIEW”. Although “the Holborn
Review” is cheaper than the above, yet it contains nearly 260 pages of excellent
matter written by some of the most prominent thinkers of the day... There
is a well informed article on “Keswick”, by W E
Farndale, which traces the development of the movement not only in its
outward growth, but also in its inward spirit. “Disestablishment and
Disendowment in Wales” is the result of wide reading and of deep and strong
convictions...
The Chester le Street Years
1913
Chester
le Street Chronicle and District Advertiser, 7 March 1913: PM
ANNUAL MEETING. CHESTER LE STREET CIRCUIT. On Saturday the quarterly meeting of
the Chester le Street Primitive Methodist circuit was held at the central
church, Chester le Street, when the Rev J S Nightingale, Superintendent,
presided... Arrangements were made for the forthcoming demonstrations and
reception of the new second minister, the Rev W A (sic) Farndale, who will
succeed the Rev J G Salsby in July, when he takes
up the position of Superintendent of the Seaton Delavai
circuit.
Heywood
Advertiser, 2 May 1913: CITIZENS AND THE CHURCH. “The obligations of the
citizens to the church” was the topic introduced by the Rev... Addresses on
the same topic were also given by the Rev W E Farndale, Oldham.
Heywood
Advertiser, 9 May 1913: SUNDAY SERVICES. There were special services
throughout the town and district in connection with the Synod meetings on
Sunday …there was also an evangelical service in the schoolroom conducted by
the Rev W J Kirkland, assisted by... W E Farndale, Oldham...
Chester
le Street Chronicle and District Advertiser 12 September 1913: CHAPEL
ANNIVERSARY. The members of the Primitive Methodist Chapel, Pelton Fell, held
their anniversary during the weekend. Proceedings commenced with a public
meeting on Saturday at which... spoke. The meeting was followed by a public
hearing and coffee supper. On Sunday sermons were preached by Rev W E
Farndale in the morning and evening. Collections were taken in aid of the
Trust Fund.
Sunderland
Daily Echo, 11 October 1913: WILLIAMSON TERRACE PM CHAPEL, MONKWEARMOUTH. 74TH
ANNIVERSARY. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 12TH, 1913. Preacher, morning and
evening:... Sunday 19th October, Sermons at 10:30 and 6:00 PM by Rev W E
farndale, Birtley. Collections on behalf of Trust Funds.
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 5 December 1913: PM QUARTERLEY MEETING. The
Quarterly meeting of the Chester le Street Primitive Methodist Church was held
in the Central Church, Chester le Street on Saturday. The Rev J S Nightingale
presided and the Rev W E Farndale acted as secretary...
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 19 December 1913: BROTHERHOOD SOCIAL. On Friday
night an inaugural social in connection with the recently formed Bible
League in connection with the Birtley brotherhood was held in the Wesleyan
schoolroom, Birtley... CENTRE TO CIRCUMFERENCE. The Rev W E Farndale said
they had had the inspiration and he believed that that meeting meant business,
and that there would be an outcome. There was a challenge involved in the
idea of having a meeting at eight o’clock on a Sunday morning. The idea was
that they should take up some definite portion of Scripture, and they meant to
begin with Mark. It was intended to work out from the centre of the
circumference. They would start with a survey of the life of Christ, than which
he believed there was nothing more imperative....
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 19 December 1913: The Birtley Brotherhood
has embarked upon a task that is almost herculean. They have started a Bible
league, and have fixed eight o’clock on Sunday mornings as the time for it to
meet. This is certainly a test of men's loyalty to an ideal, and one
that few people would care to make. The League will be under the care of a
leader who is not only enthusiastic but is very keen Bible student and
brilliant expositor, and if it can be made a success, the Rev W E Farndale
is likely to carry it through.
1914
Chester le Street Chronicle, 3
April 1914: BIRTLEY BIBLE LEAGUE. VISIT OF MR W WARD. Leagues may come
and Leagues may go, but the Birtley Brotherhood Bible league will go on
forever, or so it seems, judging from the animation which greeted the
“Chronicle” representative when he visited that special meeting on Sunday
morning last at the seemingly unearthly hour of 8 o’clock. Perhaps it may be
that one of the reasons of its unique success is the unusual time of the
meeting... The Rev W E Farndale, presiding, introduced Mr Ward as the
founder of the Bible League, for it was his suggestion, on the occasion of the
inaugural gatherings of the second season of the Birtley Brotherhood, last
November, that the Bible League was subsequently formed... Mr Farndale
suggested that as Mr Ward had not quoted the words of Job 24, almost every
member of the congregation would be anxious to turn up that and the other
chapters mentioned by the speaker before the day was over...
Newcastle
Journal, 14 April 1914: SUNDAY SCHOOL FEDERATION. CONFERENCE OF WORKERS
AT GATESHEAD. Under the presidency of Rev James Gilmour BD, a large number of
Sunday school teachers attended the 52nd annual conference of the Sunday School
workers, promoted by the Tyne and Wear Federation of Sunday School Unions,
which was held at Durham Road Baptist Church, Gateshead, yesterday... the
Chairman welcomed the representatives to Gateshead, and remarked that it was
six years since the Conference was held in that Borough. The Rev W E
Farndale of Birtley, gave an address upon “The Teacher’s Devotional Life.”
Florence
Farndale, William’s wife, was president of the North Eastern Federation of
Suffragettes. Birtley is just north of Chester le Street:
Common
Cause, 24 April 1914: NORTH EASTERN FEDERATION. On March 23rd a very
successful social evening was held at the Suffrage Rooms, Birtley. Mrs
Farndale presided. Miss Beaver and Miss Sheard gave two very interesting
speeches on the Suffrage Movement. Miss H Auton and Miss Elliott provided a
splendid musical programme, and the Rev F D Brooks also assisted by giving two
humorous recitations, which were much enjoyed. There was a very large
attendance. A plentiful supply of refreshments, which were provided by the
committee, were served during the evening. 20 new members were enrolled. On
April 16th, a members meeting was held at the suffrage rooms Birtley
at which Mrs C M Gordon spoke.
Common
Cause, 24 April 1914: Birtley. Cooperative Hall. Speakers, Miss G cook,
Miss C M Gordon, Chair, the Rev Farndale.
Newcastle
Daily Chronicle, 27 April 1914: WHY WOMEN NEED THE VOTE. A meeting was held in
the Cooperative Hall, Birtley, on Friday night, under the auspices of the
local non militant Women's Suffrage Society. The Rev W E Farndale
presided over a good attendance. Miss Geraldine Cook, London, gave an
address. She pointed out the evils of sweating, which was so prevalent amongst
women. This was largely due to their low status, which would be raised if they
were given the vote. The burden of much present day social reform fell upon the
shoulders of the mothers of the nation, because politicians were content to
tinker with effects rather than causes. Where women had been granted the
parliamentary franchise, the result had been an improvement in the conditions
of the workers, better protection for the young, the emptying of prisons and
workhouses, the raising of the age of consent, and the lessening of the drink
evil.
Newcastle
Journal, 27 June 1914: PRIMITIVE METHODISM, MINSTERS STATIONS FOR 1914-15.
As fixed by the primitive Methodist conference, the following are the stations
for 1914 to 1915 of the preachers in the districts named … Chester le
Street: James S Nightingale, William E Farndale...
Erdington
News, 27 June 1914: BIRTLEY (YORKS) BROTHERHOOD BIBLE LEAGUE. The
Secretary of this League, which was started in December 1913, writes me a most
interesting account of its progress. The members meet at 8 o’clock every Sunday
morning, to the number of 40 to 60, and Mr Farnish
says “it is a grand sight to see so many men interested in the Word of God.” He
attributes their success largely to their leader, Rev W E Farndale, one of the
greatest bible students of the day, who is with them every Sunday, “prepared
with the lesson”. Would that we could get similar Bible Study Leagues formed at
our brotherhoods and PSA's. We certainly need something of this kind to
supplement the afternoon meeting.
Banbury
Advertiser, 9 July 1914: Ratcliffe – Stevenson – July 7 At the primitive
Methodist Church, Lees Road, Oldham, by the Rev T Bullock, assisted by the
Rev W E Farndale...
World
War 1 broke out on 28 July 1914.
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 2 October 1914: FREE CHURCH MINISTERS’
FRATERNAL. On Friday last, the ministers of the Congregational, Wesleyan and
Primitive Methodist churches, in Chester le Street, and district met together
and decided to form a Free Church Ministers Fraternal for the neighbourhood.
It was felt that this would meet a real need and besides providing opportunity
for social intercourse, would secure interchange of views and united action on
any matter of common interest to the Free Churches of the locality. The Rev E
Hall was appointed president for the ensuing year and the Rev W E Farndale,
secretary. Interesting important business was discussed and arrangements
made for the monthly gatherings.
Chester
le Street Advertiser, 6 November 1914: PRIMITIVE METHODIST MISSIONS.
In connection with the Primitive Methodist circuit, the missionary anniversary
was held at the Birtley, Harraton, Fatfield and
Portobello Churches on Sunday last. The special preachers included … Rev W E
Farndale...
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 25 December 1914: CHILDREN NOT FORGOTTEN. On
Thursday evening last a pleasant Christmas service was held in the Birtley PM
church, when a Christmas tree was the centre of interest. The Rev W E
Farndale presided, and the children themselves took the toys to place on
the tree. These toys were of all kinds, just such as they would have enjoyed
themselves, instead of being from the children of the St George’s Hall PM
mission, Old Kent Road, London. Mrs Race, president of the Junior Endeavour
Society, and Mrs Farndale and Mrs Hughes, vice presidents.... the toys
will adorn the London poor children's Christmas tree. The idea originated from
the fact that in the multiplicity of appeals at the present time these children
at home might be overlooked.
Chester
Le Street Chronicle, 25 December 1914: THE COMING OF THE TYNESIDE IRISH
TO BIRTLEY. Considerable preparations for the visit of the section of the
“Tyneside Irish battalion” to their quarters in Birtley are in progress, not
the least being those promoted by the Primitive Methodists. A meeting to
organise and cater for the social needs of the troops during the hours of
leisure was held in their schoolroom, almost a month ago, and committees were
appointed to attend to the several schemes for their entertainment and benefit.
The schoolroom which is in close proximity to the rink, will be opened every
evening from 6 o’clock, to which any of the soldiers were invited, and where
writing material will be provided free. Games, literature, music and light refreshments
at nominal charges are also part of the good things to be dispensed. It is
quite evidenced that the soldiers are in for a good time during the winter
evenings, and will do well to avail themselves of this generous invitation,
notices of which will be published in due course. The president is Rev W E
Farndale, the Avenue, and the secretary...
1915
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 1 January 1915: NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER. The
members of the Chester le Street Non Conformist
Ministers Fraternal have arranged to hold a week of united prayer beginning on
Sunday, January 3rd, which is the day desired by King George to be set apart as
the national day of prayer. Beginning on that day a united intercession service
will be held in the Chester le Street Congregational Church, at 8 pm, at which
the ministers of the various churches will be present.... Birtley has arranged
to have an exchange of pulpits between the Primitive Methodists and Wesleyans,
on January 10th, when the Rev J W Faraday will preach at the Primitive Church
and Mr Farndale at the Wesleyan church.
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 8 January 1915: DULCE ET DECORUM EST PRO
PATRIA MORI. To die for one's country is sweet and befitting. This uttermost
sacrifices our soldiers, sailors and airmen, are gallantly making and winning
lasting renown for arms. All honour to them! But in this grave hour we too need
to heed the summons: PRO PATRIA VIVERE: We must live for our country, live
strenuously, energetically. Many will emulate the patriotic fervour of those in
the homeland who willingly surrendered the loved ones that have heard the
King’s call. And eternly and uncompromisingly to
remove from the soldiers’ path every flaunting temptation to drink, gamble and
vice, to arrange for social entertainment and spiritual administration to the
men in khaki at our doors; to resolve that the disabled and their dependants
shall not, as afterwards in other days, be reduced to beggary. These and
cognate tasks also demand the earnest devices and self
denying labours of all true lovers of their country. May the New Year
prove rich in patriots of this kind who will live for the State's best welfare
and that of its heroic defenders. Rev W E Farndale. Primitive Methodist
Minister, Birtley.
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 15 January 1915: SECT OF COMMUNITY. LIVELY
MEETING AT BIRTLEY. ALL’S WELL THAT ENDS WELL. On Friday night a public meeting
called by the central committee of the Tyneside Irish brigade was held at the
Cooperative Hall, Birtley, for the purpose of endeavouring to make some
arrangements for the welfare and comfort of the men of the 2nd Battalion who
are to be stationed there for some time. Mr N Grattan Doyle, joint committee
chairman of the central committee presided, and he was supported by... Rev W
E Farndale...
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 12 February 1915: HARRATON C E RALLY. On
Saturday, the members of the Christian Endeavour of the Primitive Methodist
Church, Harraton, held their rally. In the afternoon
a most eloquent sermon was preached by... In the evening a meeting was held
when the speakers were the Rev W E Farndale …
North
Star (Darlington), 10 March 1915: CHESTER LE STREET METHODISTS.
The quarterly meeting of the Chester le Street Primitive Methodist Circuit was
held at the Central Church, Chester le Street, when the Rev J S Nightingale
presided, and the Rev W E Farndale acted as secretary. It was decided to report
an increase of 10 members to conference, this being a total of 700 …
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 12 March 1915: OUSTON SISTERHOOD. The sister
hood at the Ouston Primitive Methodist Church was visited on Wednesday week,
by Mrs Farndale, the wife of the Primitive Methodist minister of Birtley. She
gave an interesting address on “The Ministry of Women”. A solo was
rendered in splendid style by Miss Fenwick of Ouston. After a very satisfactory
report had been given by Mrs Cook of the good work that has been done by the
Select Committee, a cup of tea was served round which brought a very pleasant
hour to a close.
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 27 August 1915: OLD PEOPLE’S TEA. The old
people’s tea was held at the cricket field, kindly lent for the occasion and
the weather being happily fine, the dear old folk came up in good numbers,
although ninety teas were sent out for those who were ill and unable to come. However
many are quite able, especially the younger ones who sent for their teas, which
is quite contrary to the principle of the tea. Well they had a good time...
Votes of thanks to the donors after being read out, was given and a very
timely address was given by Rev Farndale. The National Anthem as usual
brought a very enjoyable afternoon to a close...
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 31 December 1915: THE BROTHERHOOD. On Sunday
afternoon last the Chester le Street Brotherhood held their annual
meeting to elect a president, vice presidents, and offices for the year 1916.
After the retiring president, Mr. John Hall, had tendered to the members his
thanks for the loyal way in which they had supported him during his year of
office, he vacated the chair... the following were elected to hold office
during the coming year... vice presidents …Rev Farndale …
1916
William
Arthur James Farndale (1916-2004)(FAR00829) was born on
24 January 1916.
Florence,
William’s wife, continued to be involved in women’s’ suffrage and related
issues.
The
Common Cause, 17 March 1916: THE NATIONAL UNION OF WOMEN’S SUFFRAGE SOCIETIES.
NOTES FROM HEADQUARTERS. OUT MATERNITY UNIT FOR REFUGEES IN RUSSIA. A cable has
just been received announcing that our maternity hospital in Petrograd was
opened on Monday by the grand Duchess Cyril, Sir George and Lady Georgina
Buchanan, and Madame Sazonoff being present at the
ceremony.... 11th list of donations... Mrs Florence Farndale, 2s 6d …
Total £3,108 6s 10d.
The
younger brother of Florence Farndale, William’s wife, was a World War One
pilot, killed in action. See also Lieutenant
Graham Price.
North
Star (Darlington), 22 March 1916:
FALLEN HEROES.
The four sons of Mr and Mrs R Morrison, 31 Cooperative Street,
Chester le Street, Private Robert, 11th DLI, Private John, 12 DLI, Private
Joseph and Seaman James, RND, have all been wounded.
Lieutenant
Graham price, the young airman who has just been killed at the front was the youngest
brother of Mrs Farndale, The Avenue, Birtley, wife of the Rev W E Farndale,
the second minister of the Chester le Street circuit. He went out to Flanders
in September, 1914, as a despatch rider, and did a lot of excellent work. Near
the end of last year he transferred to the Royal Flying Corps, and his
promotion there was very rapid, and he had already reached the rank of pilot. He
held the record of his squadron for the number of air duels he had fought,
15. He was killed in the last fight, when he received a bullet in the
heart. He was at the time engaged in observing for the artillery over the enemy
lines.
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 24 March 1916: Private Joseph Barton, 8th
DLI. The Latter went out to Flanders with the 8th DLI in April last and was
reported missing on April 26th. Official notification has just been received to
the effect that he was killed.… There was a good attendance and the service
was conducted by the Rev W E Farndale. Private Barton was just 18 years of
age.
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 9 June 1916: CHESTER LE STREET. PRIMITIVE
METHODIST CIRCUIT. The quarterly meeting was held on Saturday at Pelton Fell.
The Rev J S Nightingale presided, and the Rev W E Farndale, acted as
secretary....
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 21 July 1916: PRIMITIVE METHODISTS. CHESTER
LE STREET DEMONSTRATION. The Primitive Methodists have just celebrated their
forty first circuit demonstration with very gratifying results. On Saturday
afternoon a patriotic operatic entitled, “Britannia and Her Allies,” was given
by nearly 200 children in the Cooperative Hall. The Rev W E Farndale...
where the leaders, and a very pleasing programme was submitted by the
children to a large gathering... The streets were missioned, and although the
weather prevented these services being held on the Burn Green, large companies
gathered in the Central Church, when addresses were given by … W E Farndale...
Chester
le Streety Chronicle, 28 July 1916: BIRTLEY PARCELS. SUCCESSFUL
CONCERT. A concert was held in the Primitive Methodist Church, Birtley, on
Wednesday night, in aid of the Soldiers Parcels Fund. It was given by
the Chester le Street Choral Union, with one or two items by the male portion. The
proceedings were opened by the Rev W E Farndale, with a few remarks
referring to the object of the concert, and also to the Church’s roll of
honour. In introducing Mr R E Hale, the chairman, Mr Farndale said that he
had great pleasure in welcoming Mr Hale for the first time on the platform
and hoped that it would not be the last. Mr Hale spoke of the good cause that
the concert was in aid of, and urged all present to remember the lads who had
left home to defend their country...
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 11 August 1916: The members of the Pelton
Fell Primitive Methodist, Wesleyan and United Methodist churches are holding
joint open air meetings on Sunday evenings at the Bridge. On Sunday evening
last, the speakers were... W E Farndale. The meetings are having such much
success.
Sunderland
Daily Echo, 23 October 1916: PM CONFERENCE. NEWCASTLE MEETINGS. The annual
conference held under the auspices of the Sunderland and Newcastle District at
the Primitive Methodist Church commenced in the Central PM Church,
Northumberland Road, Newcastle on Saturday. The President, Rev A T Guttery, was
unable to be present owing to a breakdown in health. The Convention delegates
were officially received on Friday in the Grand Assembly Rooms... the
Convention opens today with a devotional meeting, and an address was given
by the Rev W E Farndale of Birtley....
1917
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 26 January 1917: BIRTLEY WOMEN’S GUILD. The
members of the Women's Guild in connection with the Birtley Primitive Church,
held their anniversary services. On Sunday Mrs Burrel of Hebburn was the
special speaker in the morning and evening and the soloists were... In the afternoon
they gave a musical service. Mrs Nightingale of Chester le Street presided and
the programme was sustained by … Mrs W A Farndale played the piano... a
public meeting was held in the evening. Mrs Farndale presided and
addresses were given by...
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 2 March 1917: PROHIBITION FAVOURED. On
Thursday night a public temperance meeting organised by the local British
Women's Temperance Association, Good Templars, Rechabites and members of the
Primitive Methodist and Wesleyan Churches was held at Birtley, in favour of
prohibition during the war and for six months afterwards. This is the first
united gathering of all the local temperance organisations that has taken place
in Birtley, certainly during recent years. The Rev W E Farndale presided
and said in these days it was imperative that what at best was a only a luxury,
and at worse a curse should absolutely cease to be produced, and that no
intoxicating liquor should be sold during the war. We could not afford it.
The waste of corn and sugar involved in its manufacture was criminal, and the
use of shipping for its importation was a sin against humanity.
Governments are supposed to lead but they cannot move very far in advance of
public opinion and it was the bounden duty of such organisations as those
represented to create that volume of conviction of strong commanding appeal
which would give a backing and they pushed to those in authority....
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 9 March 1917: REV W E FARNDALE LEAVING. The members of
the Chester le Street Primitive Methodist Church regret to learn that the Rev
W E Farndale will leave the circuit in 1918, to become Superintendent of
the Birkenhead Second Circuit. In the meantime Mr Farndale has been
released from the whole of his week day duties to undertake national service,
either for the duration of the war, or until he leaves the circuit.
The
Common Cause, 9 March 1917: NOTES FROM HEADQUARTERS. THE NATIONAL UNION OF
WOMEN’S SUFFRAGE SOCIETIES. THE 1917 FRANCHISE FUND. … Mrs Farndale 2s ..
North
Star (Darlington), 12 March 1917: RELEASED FOR SERVICE. At the
quarterly meeting of the Chester le Street Primitive Methodist circuit, it was
reported that the second minister, the Rev W E Farndale, of Birtley, had
accepted an invitation to succeed the Rev J Harriman Taylor, MA, as Superintendent
of the Birkenhead Second Circuit, in 1918. Mr Farndale was given permission
to take up national service for the remainder of the war, all while he
remains in circuit, and was released from all week day duties. He will preach
on Sundays as usual.
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 30 March 1917: CHESTER LE STREET
BROTHERHOOD. On Sunday, April 1st, in the Congregational Church at 3:00, Speaker:
Rev W E Farndale, Birtley....
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 20 July 1917: THREE SONS KILLED, BIRTLEY
FAMILY’S GREAT SACRIFICE. On the Sunday morning last a memorial service in
connection with the late Private Grimshaw, 13th DLI, was held in the
Primitive Methodist Church, Birtley. A good number assembled to show their
sympathy with the family and their affliction, and a detachment of the
Anti-aircraft company were also present. In the course of the special sermon
based on 2 Sam 23, 17, “These things did the three mighty men”, the Rev W E
Farndale said: “Strangely parallel with the narrative of our text is the
cause which has led to the special service this morning. They for who David
made the great hazard were three in number. Today Mr and Mrs Grimshaw
mourned the loss of the third of their sons in the Great War. The first to
die was Private Peter Grimshaw, of the 6th Yorks, who succumbed to his wounds
on 17th September 1916. His brother, Private Fred Grimshaw, of the 11th DLI was
killed on the 13th December 1916. And now private Robert Grimshaw, of the 13th
DLI, is officially reported killed in action on 3rd June 1917. So far as I'm
aware this is the only family in Birtley which has paid such a toll in life and
our hearts’ sympathy goes out to each mourning relative. Concerning R E
Grimshaw, the Chaplain wrote on June 5th, saying, “He was killed in action by a
shell in the trenches here, shortly before the recent advance. He did his duty.
Let us commend him to God's mercy and pray that he will accept the service of
his life laid down for his country, a service rendered to him and may he give
to you who mourn for him the same courage to bear your sorrow as he has given
to our brave boys who are doing such splendid work out here....
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 19 October 1917: SPLENDID WEEKEND EFFORT. The
anniversary services in connection with the Birtley Primitive Methodist Church were held during
last weekend. On Sunday, the Rev J Jopling, Gateshead, preached in the morning
and evening.... on Monday evening, the annual church meeting was held. Mr T
Telford, Chester le Street presided and the speakers were the Rev W E
Farndale, Birtley, and...
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 2 November 1917: SUDDEN DEATH OF PELTON LADY.
The funeral took place at Birtley on Saturday afternoon, of Mrs Mary Young, who
died on the previous Tuesday under tragic circumstances, at the age of 77
years. … on Tuesday week she attended a missionary meeting which was being
conducted by the Rev W E Farndale...
Blyth
News, 27 December 1917: On New Year’s Day, Special Visit of REV W E
FARNDALE, of Birtley. Afternoon at 2.30. Evening, 6 o’clock.
1918
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 1 February 1918: BIRTLEY FELLOWSHIP. ADDRESS
ON DIVORCE BILL. A meeting under the auspices of the Birtley fellowship was
held at the Cooperative Hall, on Monday night. This is an organisation composed
of members of the Anglican, Roman Catholic, Primitive Methodist and Wesleyan
formed to discuss social problems.... Mrs Hazelwood, wife of the vicar of
Pelton, gave an interesting address on “The new Divorce Bill”. She said she was
glad to see such a large audience. That was the first time she had ever
addressed a meeting which numbered men in the audience, so that if she leaned
more on the side of women they would have to excuse her, as this question
affected them so closely... The church in certain exceptional causes might
annul marriage and it allowed separation, but it refused to countenance either
party to a marriage re marrying while a partner was alive, it was not true that
divorce resulted in an increased birth rate. A resolution pledging those
present to oppose the Bill was unanimously carried by the motion of Father
Hall, seconded by the Rev W E Farndale, the latter stating that whatever
might be their views on divorce in general the proposed bill was inopportune
and without the backing of a general mandate....
Newcastle
Journal, 11 March 1918: PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHURCH. Special services were
held in the Prince Concert Road Primitive Methodist Church, in connection with
the debt extinction celebration. The pulpit was occupied by the Rev W E
Farndale morning and evening...
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 3 May 1918: No odds could best you; no words can thank you. Your
sacrificial stand and that if your lost comrades, whom we deeply mourn, have
stirred renewed confidence in ultimate triumph. God defend you and vindicate
the right. Rev W E Farndale, the Avenue, Birtley.
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 17 May 1918: AN APPEAL. TO THE EDITOR OF THE CHESTER
LE STREET CHRONICLE. Dear Sir. Permit us, through the Chronicle, to appeal to
the members of the Free Evangelical Churches of Chester le Street and all who
are seriously interested in the men and our various fighting forces. From the
advertisement in your columns, it will be seen that a united service is to be
held at the Wesleyan Church under the regular services on Sunday night, at 7:45
PM. We must earnestly and affectionately plead with the members of our churches
to come and unite in prayer for those who are fighting for us in this World War
and for our country.... William E Farndale...
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 14 June 1918:
SUCCESSFUL
MINISTER. REV W E FARNDALE.
After
a ministry of five years at the Primitive Methodist Church in Birtley, the Rev
W E Farndale is leaving shortly for Birkenhead. He has had charge of the
church, with Rev J S Nightingale of Chester le Street as Superintendent and
colleagues. During this time, both in the town and in the circuit, he has
laboured successfully.
Before
war broke out he instituted the Bible League for men, who met on Sundays at 8
am, and which was attended by some who came a distance of three or four miles
and often there were between 40 and 50 present throughout the winter months.
One of the most recent institutions is the Boys Life Brigade, of which Mr
Farndale is the honorary chaplain. He is also leader of the British Women's
Guild, and Mrs Farndale occupies the position of President. Mr Farndale has
taken interest in the work amongst young people in connection with the senior
and junior Christian Endeavour societies, and on two occasions he has conducted
special mission services himself in Birtley church. As a result accessions to
membership were made and very impressive were the two sacramental services on
the Sunday morning succeeding when the right hand of fellowship was held out to
the young members.
Mr
Farndale is secretary of the Birtley Fellowship, which is composed of
representatives of the four places of worship in the town, and seeks to unite
men and women of the churches in dealing with social problems of the locality
from the religious and ethical standpoint. In connection with this fellowship.
Meetings have already been held dealing with the “Great Scourge”. Arrangements
are also in hand for infant welfare work, and it is proposed to hold a town
meeting to consider the establishing of a British Nursing Association.
During
his stay in the circuit, Mr Farndale has founded a Sisterhood at Ouston, which
has been responsible for a large amount of good, lending its aid, and sending
many comforts to philanthropic causes. A few months ago he also founded a
Sisterhood at Fatfield, which is rendering very beneficial services to the
women in that district.
Mr
Farndale is also president of the British Women's Temperance Association, and
has from time to time arranged united meetings and also public gatherings on
the temperance question. He is due in July to superintend the Birkenhead Second
Circuit, of which the Rev J Harryman Taylor, MA, is the present minister.
It is
interesting to note, that for some three years, a special children's cantata
has been given on the Saturday of the annual demonstration, when a choir of 150
juvenile voices gathered from the Sunday schools at the 12 places in the
circuit at the Chester le Street Cooperative Hall. Mr Farndale was the
organiser of the scheme and carried it through most successfully.
We
cannot leave this brief sketch of the Rev Farndale without referring to his
literary work. From his pen have come contributions to “the Holborn Quarterly
Review,” “the Aldersgate Magazine”, “the Primitive Methodist Leader”, and he is
now writing for “The Preachers Magazine and Bible Society” and also for “the
Christian Messenger” on the subject of “Modern Problems for Christian
Citizens.” and the latter magazine an appreciative sketch appears in the
current issue from the connexional editor, Rev JG Boreham, better known by his
pen name, “Ramsay Guthrie.”
Mrs
Farndale takes an active part in her husband's ministerial labours, and being
an effective speaker, has rendered most valuable service among amongst the
women throughout the circuit. As an ardent missionary enthusiastic, she was a
member of the first Women's Missionary Auxiliary of the Connexion, which was
held in London, and it has been her privilege to see a branch commenced at
Birtley. In connection with the Birtley fellowship, she has taken a very active
part.
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 5 July 1918: BIRTLEY FELLOWSHIP. On Friday
a meeting of the Birtley Fellowship was held, when the financial statement was
presented by the retiring honorary secretary, Rev W E Farndale, who was thanked
for past services. The vicar, Rev L L Barclay, … representatives
at the several churches, comprising the fellowship, made feeling allusion to
the excellent work done by Mr Farndale, and their regret at his departure...
Chester
le Street Chronicle, 5 July 1918: MINISTER’S FAREWELL.
PRESENTATION AT CHETSER LE STREET. On Saturday evening a large representative
circuit gathering was held in the central Primitive Methodist Church, Chester
le Street, to bid farewell to Rev and Mrs J S Nightingale and to Rev
and Mrs W E Farndale of Birtley. The meeting was also called to enable the
circuit to give some tangible expression to their high appreciation of the
long and faithful services rendered during periods of nine and five
years respectively. These took the form of presentations of a handsome gold
watch to Rev J S Nightingale, and volumes of books to Rev W E Farndale,
while each of the ladies received gold wristlet watches and other
presents... Mr. J Hall, Ouston, said they had experienced a happy time with the
ministry of the Rev Nightingale and Rev Farndale throughout the circuit, and it
was with great reluctance that they had met that evening to bid farewell to
both of them...
Representation
of the People Act 1918
In
1918 the Representation of the People Act was passed which allowed women over
the age of 30 who met a property qualification to vote. Although 8.5 million
women met this criteria, it was only about two-thirds of the total population
of women in the UK.
The
same Act abolished property and other restrictions for men, and extended the
vote to virtually all men over the age of 21. Additionally, men in the armed
forces could vote from the age of 19. The electorate increased from eight to 21
million, but there was still huge inequality between women and men.
The Birkenhead Years
And
so the family moved to Birkenhead, across the River Mersey from Liverpool.
Birkenhead
News, 10 August 1918: MOUNT TABOR PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHURCH. HOLT
ROAD, HIGHER TRANMERE. Tomorrow, Sunday. 10:45 and 6:30. Rev W E Farndale.
Wigan
Observer and District Advertiser, 27 August 1918: Rev W E Farndale
(Birkenhead), in a vigorous speech, said when he received the invitation to
come to that meeting he found that 27,275 soldiers were discharged disabled
during 1916 and to this had to be added the disabled sailors. There also had to
be added the number of casualties since 1916, and those who may have come back
with disease not apparent to the eye. The object of this association was to
make those matters fully known to the public and to see that the discharged
men, whether from wounds or disease, got their full rights, and that other
noble lads or their dependants did not suffer. He strongly objected to women
with children in their arms having to go before a committee to get to know what
they could have. He said they would have nothing less as an association than
that the government should fix up in plain language what they were entitled to.
The women had now the vote, and they could apply the screw, and make them do
what they wanted, or send them about their business. He strongly commended the
association which strove to help the men and women to get their full rights for
the noble work they had done for us. Applause.
Liverpool
Echo, 27 September 1918: MARRIAGES. DEAN-RANDALL. September 26, at Mount
Tabor, Higher Tranmere, by the Rev W E Farndale...
Liverpool
Daily Post, 5 October 1918: PRIMITIVE METHODIST. The Rev W E Farndale has
been invited to superintend Birkenhead Second until 1923...
Birkenhead
News, 30 November 1918: THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5TH, GRAND CONCERT.
Consisting of CANTATA, “The Galilean” and a MISCELLANEOUS PROGRAMME. ... Readers:
Rev W E Farndale...
1919
Birkenhead
News, 8 February 1919: MOUNT TABOR PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHURCH. HOLT
ROAD, HIGHER TRANMERE. TOMORROW (SUNDAY). REV W E FARNDALE. 10.43 … Basal
Beliefs I God… 6.30 .. II Sin …
Birkenhead
News, 26 February 1919: THE NEW AMERICA. DR GUTTERY’S VIVID IMPRESSIONS.
Mount Tabor Primitive Methodist Church, always enterprising, secured the first
public appearance of the Rev A T Guttery DD, on this side of the Mersey since
his return from his war visit to America... the Rev W E Farndale, minister,
voiced the thanks of the meeting to the chairman and the lecturer.
Birkenhead
News, 30 April 1919: THANKS TO MOUNT TABOR. Various notes of thanks
accorded at the close included one to the Rev W E Farndale, and officers of the
Mount Tabor Chapel for the excellence and heartiness of the arrangements made
for the Senate, and Mr Farndale, in response, assured the Senate at the
enthusiastic interest with which the church entered the work.
Birkenhead
News, 23 August 1919: MOUNT TABOR PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHURCH. HOLT
ROAD, HIGHER TRANMERE. TOMORROW (SUNDAY). MINISTER’S ANNVERSARY. SPECIAL
SERVICES WILL BE HELD AS FOLLOWS. … 10:45 AM. Divine Worship. Preacher: Rev
W E Farndale. Topic: the Benediction as Bestowal.
Birkenhead
News, 17 September 1919: EMOTION OF A MULTITUDE. The great multitude
brought to the theatre, with its lights and decorations and red plush, that
sense of solemnity and devotion induced by the dimness and grey atone of old
churches.... Mr Farndale allotted a short prayer of thanks for the courage
and devotion and splendid self sacrifice of the dead,
and of appeal to make the living worthy of that sacrifice …
Birkenhead
News, 4 October 1919: MOUNT TABOR. Harvest Thanksgiving Services were
held at Mount Tabor PM church on Sunday... Kind words were spoken by Rev W E
Farndale... for the Sunday school...
1920
Birkenhead
News, 10 January 1920: WE GIVE YOU A CORDIAL INVITATION. BIRKENHEAD
BROTHERHOOD OF EX SERVICEMEN IN GRANGE ROAD PRIMITIVE METHODUIST CHURCH.
TOMORROW (SUNDAY) 3 TO 4 pm. Speaker: Rev W E Farndale. Subject code on
“The courage of Christ.”...
Birkenhead
News, 31 January 1920: BIRKENHEAD FREE CHURCH COUNCIL. President: REV W E
FARNDALE.
Blackburn
Times, 13 March 1920: CHURCH SERVICES & MEETINGS. PRIMITIVE
METHODIST CHURCH. MONTAGUE ST, BLACKBURN. CHAPEL ANNIVERSARY SERVICES will be
preached by Rev W E Farndale of Birkenhead. Morning 10.30. Evening 6.30.
Special music at each service.... today, Saturday, at 7:00, the Rev W E
Farndale will deliver his popular lecture entitled “The Future life in
Modern Thought.” …
Blackburn
Times, 20 March 1920: MONTAGUE STREET PRIMITIVE METHODIST ANNIVERSARY.
Anniversary services in connection with the Primitive Methodist Church,
Montague Street, held on Sunday, were of a successful character. The preacher
was the Rev W E Farndale of Birkenhead, and there were large congregations at
each service … on Saturday evening Mr Farndale gave a lecture entitled “The
future life in Modern Thought”...
Birkenhead
News, 24 April 1920: MOUNT TABOR PRIMITIVE METHODIST SUNDAY SCHOOL,
Anniversary services on … Monday April 26, A musical “at home” arranged by the
Adult’s Bible Class in the schoolroom. Host and hostess: Rev W E and Mrs
Farndale....
Liverpool
Daily Post, 26 June 1920: PRIMITIVE METHODIST STATIONS. The following
ministerial appointments have been sanctioned by the primitive Methodist
conference... Birkenhead... Mount Tabor: William E Farndale. …
Birkenhead
News, 14 August 1920: MOUNT TABOR PRIMITIVE
METHODIST CHURCH, HOLT ROAD, HIGHER TRANMERE. TOMORROW (SUNDAY). 10:45
AM. Rev W E Farndale. Subject: “The Scars of the Saviour.”...
Birkenhead
News, 21 August 1920: MOUNT TABOR PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHURCH, HOLT
ROAD, HIGHER TRANMERE. TOMORROW (SUNDAY). Rev W E Farndale. 10.45 “The
Inward Intercessor.” 6.30. “Christian Conversation”....
Birkenhead
News, 24 July 1920: UNDER THE AUSPICES OF BIRKENHEAD FREE CHURCH
COUNCIL. President: Rev W E Farndale. A garden party and musical
festival by the Birkenhead Philharmonic choir....
Birkenhead
News, 4 September 1920: MOUNT TABOR PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHURCH, HOLT
ROAD, HIGHER TRANMERE. “MAYFLOWER” TERCENTENARY”. REV W E FARNDALE will
preach two special sermons:. 10.45: “The Faith of the Pilgrim Fathers.”
6.30. The Venture of the “Mayflower” …
1921
Lancashire
Evening Post, 30 April 1921: PRIMITIVE METHODISTS. LIVERPOOL DISTRICT SYNOD AT
PRESTON. In connection with the Liverpool District Primitive Methodist Synod,
at Preston, a reception was held, last evening by the Mayoress … at the Town
Hall ... The Rev W E Farndale, in reply, said that we were living in days
fraught with great moral and spiritual issues, and it was the duty of the
churches to seize the opportunity for a great forward movement for the
extension of the Kingdom of Christ. Applause.
1921 Census – Birkenhead, Cheshire
William
Edward Farndale, 39, Primitive Methodist Minister
Florence
May Farndale, 41
Enid
Florence Farndale, 9, born Oldham Lancashire, in full time education
William
Arthur James Farndale, 5, born Britlay, Durham
Chester
Chronicle, 21 May 1921: WHITBY. ANNIVERARY SERVICES. On Sunday the
Primitive Methodist Church held their anniversary services, when the preacher
was the Rev W E Farndale, Birkenhead, whose eloquent and inspiring sermons were
enjoyed by large congregations....
1922
Newcastle
Evening Chronicle, 12 June 1922: PRIMITIVE METHODISM. 103RD ANNUAL
CONFERENCE IN LEEDS. The 103rd annual conference of the Primitive Methodist
Church will be opened at Woodhouse Lane United Methodist Church, Leeds, on
Wednesday. The delegates number 200, in the proportion of two laymen to each
minister... At the conference the Rev German Hunt will complete his five years
term as General Sunday School Secretary, and he will be succeeded... For the
position of vice secretary the following ministers have been nominated... William
E Farndale...
1924
In
1924, Rev William Edward Farndale was preaching at Preston. Lancashire
Evening Post, 4 July 1924: PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHURCH, FLYDE ROAD, PRESTON.
SUNDAY SCHOOL ANNIVERSARY. SUNDAY NEXT, 6TH JULY, 1924, when the Rev
W E FARNDALE, of Birkenhead, will preach at 10.30 and 6.30 …
1925
Runcorn
Weekly News, 15 May 1925: TRINITY PRIMITIVE METHODIST SUNDAY SCHOOL,
WATERLOO ROAD, WIDNES. The anniversary services of the above school will be
held on Sunday and Monday next. May 17th and 18th. On Sunday, at 10:30 and
6:00, services will be conducted by the Rev W E Farndale of Birkenhead...
1927
Chester
Chronicle, 6 August 1927: MATTHEWS-BOSWORTH. July 30, at Mount Tabor
church, Birkenhead, by the Revs W E Farndale and J H W Haswell BA...
1928
Ellesmere
Port Pioneer, 13 January 1928: WHITBY PM CHURCH. Speaker: Mrs Farndale,
Birkenhead.
The Grimsby Years
Grimsby
News, 27 April 1928: The Rev W E Farndale, at present minister of
Mount Tabor Primitive Methodist Church, Higher Tranmere, Birkenhead, is coming
to take up ministerial duties at the Ebenezer church in Grimsby, in July.
Mr Farndale has been at his present church since 1918 and comes here with a
high reputation.
Grimsby
News, 11 May 1928: The Rev W E Farndale, who is coming to
Ebenezer Church must have very special qualities, for he has just
completed a ten years pastorate at Birkenhead. Educated at Hartley college, he
had seen service in London, Oldham and Birkenhead.
Gloucester
Citizen, 9 June 1928: REVISED PRYER BOOK. FREE CHURCH OPPOISITION.
Southport, Saturday. A resolution declaring that parliament on its second
consideration of the Revised Prayer Book should, as on the first
occasion, refuse its approval, was proposed by Professor A L
Humphries at the Primitive Methodist Conference at Southport today. The Rev
W E Farndale, of Liverpool, second seconded the resolution, which was
carried unanimously.
Manchester
Evening News, 14 June 1928: MONSTER CRUSADE. PRIMITIVE METHODISTS ON
MILITANCY OF ROME. FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT. A resolution was passed at the
Primitive Methodist Conference at Southport today urging the need of systematic
introduction of all members of congregations and of scholars in underscoring
the principles of Protestantism in view “of the recrudence
of Romanish teaching and practise in our land.”
The Rev W E Farndale, Liverpool district, moving the resolution, said
the time had come for them to assert fearlessly their Protestant testimony.
For some generations the public had been lulled into a false sense of
security. During an era of religious tolerance and political
emancipation, Roman Catholics in the country had carried out an intensive
campaign to such an extent and with such success that the handbook to the Whit
Friday procession declared: “We are no longer orphans in a strange land. We are
soldiers and conquerors looking forward to greater victory.” Against such
militancy they must launch a counter crusade. The Papal Encyclical of 1891
bordered on the blasphemous and dethroned Christ from that primacy which was
his due....
The Scotsman,
15 June 1928: ROMAN CATHOLIC SUNDAY. PRIMITIVE METHODIST CRITICISM. “The
Roman Catholic conception of the Sabbath is one against which we must
resolutely set our face,” said the Rev W E Farndale, Liverpool, at the
Primitive Methodist Conference in Southport yesterday, in an outspoken
criticism of the Church of Rome. “It is considered that attendance at early
morning mass can give the right to spend the rest of the day in pleasure in
sport. Such a facile bargain making spirit must be emphatically condemned.
Sunday must be restored to its joyful privilege as a date totally and entirely
dedicated to the worship and service of God in our efforts to win the nation
back to complete religious observance of the day.”
Chester
Chronicle, 16 June 1928: METHODISTS AND ROMAN CATHOLIC TEACHING. The
Primitive Methodist conference, which ended at Southport on Thursday, adopted
the following resolution: “In view of the recrudence
of Roman Catholic teaching and practise in our land, we reaffirm our deep sense
of the imperishable importance of the great spiritual value of the Protestant
Reformation, and earnestly urge the serious need, especially at the present
juncture, of the systematic instruction of all members of congregations and
scholars in our Sunday schools in the abiding principles of Protestantism.” The
Rev W E Farndale, Liverpool, the mover, said they must launch a counter crusade.
Nottingham
and Midland Catholic News, 23 June 1928: “MARIOLATRY”. The little sect
of “primitive Methodists”, one of the multitudinous petty factions into which
the non conformities split up, have had a conference
recently, and at the final sitting, we're told, “very plain speaking about the
Roman Catholic Church was indulged in.” The Rev W E Farndale, Liverpool, set
his lance in rest to tilt at the Catholic Church. He was as eloquent on the
subject and as ignorant as any Hyde Park tub orator. “The time has come
to fearlessly assert Protestant testimony” he said....... And what
qualifications, mental or moral, has Mr Farndale, Liverpool, to judge them?...
John
Bull, 30 June 1928: Speaking at the Primitive Methodist Conference at
Southport, the Rev W E Farndale condemned the Roman Catholic conception of the
Sabbath - early mass, sport and pleasure - as “bargain making”. What an
impudent statement in a free country where everyone is permitted to hold
and voices own opinions!
Grimsby
News, 7 September 1928: FROM LINCOLN. EBENEZER PRIMITIVE METHODIST
CHURCH, CLEETHORPE ROAD. Harvest
Festival. Sunday, September 9th, 1928. Preacher, 10.45 and 6.0: The
Rev W E Farndale (the Newly Appointed Minister) …
Grimsby
News, 14 September 1928: HARVEST FESTIVALS. EBENEZER PM CHURCH. The
harvest festival was celebrated with an excellent display of seasonable produce
at Ebenezer PM Church last weekend.... Sunday saw Ebenezer's newly appointed
minister in the pulpit. The Rev W E farndale has come to this charge from
Birkenhead, where he has been ministering for 10 years....
Grimsby
News, 12 October 1928: WOMEN’S MEETING ANNIVERSARY. The twenty second
anniversary of the Women's Meeting in connection with the Ebenezer Primitive
Methodist Church was celebrated by a special effort last weekend. … in the
afternoon an address was given to a good gathering by the new minister of the
church, the Rev W E Farndale, Mrs H L Taylor presiding. …
Grimsby
News, 16 November 1928: CHRISTIAN ENDEAVOUR RALLY. INTRODUCTION OF NEW
MINISTER. The annual convention of the Grimsby and North Lincolnshire Christian
Endeavour Union was held on Tuesday in Flottergate
Primitive Methodist Church. … the retiring president, Miss D Huntsman took the
chair and Rev W E Farndale participated in the meeting....
Grimsby
Daily Telegraph, 4 December 1928: THE LATE COUNCILLOR J W
HOUGHTON. CLEETHORPES FUNERAL SERVICE TRIBUTE. A sparkling tribute to the
sterling character of the late councillor J W Houghton, who, he said, was “The
friend of all and the enemy of none”, was paid by the Rev W Farndale, when
he spoke yesterday afternoon at the funeral service in Ebenezer church
which preceded to the internment at the Cleethorpes cemetery.... The service
which was of a simple but very impressive nature, was conducted by the Rev W E
Farndale who had the assistance of the Rev H Davidson.... In the course of a
fine address, the Rev Farndale touched on the various aspects of the deceased's
life. They all thought that day, he said, of the catholicity of his interests.
There was nothing narrow in his outlook. He was the true public spirit, and he
ever showed supreme thoughtfulness for others. “He had a true catholicity of
spirit”, concluded the Rev Farndale. “He was a friend of all, and the enemy of
none, of sound convictions, who knew his own mind, yet could see the points of
others who differed with him on any subject. All this activity was the footage
of a vital religion.” There was a large congregation at the ceremony. The Rev
Farndale will conduct a memorial service at the Ebenezer church next Sunday
evening.
Grimsby
News, 14 December 1928: MEMORIAL SERVICE. There was a large congregation
at the memorial service for the late councillor J W Houghton at Ebenezer
Primitive Methodist Church on Sunday evening, which was conducted by the Rev W
E Farndale …
Grimsby
News, 7 December 1928: GRIMSBY SECOND CIRCUIT. The quarterly meeting of
the Grimsby second Primitive Methodist Circuit (Ebenezer) was held in the
Wellington Street Church at the weekend. The Rev W E Farndale occupied the
chair, and the Rev H A Davidson acted as secretary. ... The Rev W E
Farndale, minister of the church, had a most satisfactory financial statement
to give. He said that during the past 12 months they had raised the
handsome sum of more than £165 for missionary work. Of this the Women's
Auxiliary were responsible for the splendid contribution of £100. The Sunday
School contributed £26 and the remainder came from the boxes. This result was
an increase of £10 on the amount reported 12 months ago. The Rev Mr Farndale
said this was a remarkably fine result and an expression of real generosity...
Grimsby
News, 7 December 1928: PRAYERS FOR THE KING. In view of the widespread
anxiety in connection with the King's illness, the National Anthem was sung and
intercessionary prayers were offered for the his
recovery by the Rev W E Farndale at Garibaldi Street Primitive Methodist Church
on Sunday. Prayers for the King were also offered by the Ebenezer Primitive
Methodist Church by the Rev C Crabtree, a missionary deputation. References
have been made in nearly all the places of worship.
Grimsby
News, 14 December 1928: WASTE ON ALCOHOL. An enthusiastic temperance
demonstration was held on Monday afternoon at the Ebenezer church, under the
auspices of … A striking address on “Is alcohol waste?” was given by the Rev
W E Farndale, minister of the Ebenezer Church. The speaker contended that
the expenditure of £1,000,000 per working day in this country on alcoholic
beverages was wasteful. This expenditure, he continued, was equal to one
twelfth of the national income, and during the last seven years we had spent on
strong drink enough money to build 3 million houses at £600 each. Of this
expenditure two thirds was contributed by the working classes and they could
ill afford it. If the money were floated into a national fund it would provide
a pension for everyone at the age of 65 of 30s a week. Since 1914 the profits
of the Brewers had increased by 150% and now it was actually proposed to
relieve these needy people of their rates to the amount of £400,000 annually.
Grimsby
News, 21 December 1928: DISCIPLESHIP CAMPAIGN. At the Ebenezer PM church
on Monday the Rev W E Farndale outlined to a meeting of workers a very
interesting plan for a mission campaign on novel lines to be conducted by
himself and the church members at the end of January next, January 27th to
Sunday 3rd February inclusive. Full details will be forthcoming in due course.
1929
Grimsby
News, 4 January 1929: The coming
of age of this church was celebrated on New Year's Day by a special gathering.
A well attended service of commemoration was held in
the church at which Mr. J Carr presided. After prayer by the Rev W H
Farndale, the following took part, representing the various departments of
activity …
Grimsby
News, 25 January 1929: LADIES MISSIONARY AUXILIARY. “Forward be our
watchword” was the clarion call with which Mrs Farndale concluded her address
at the meeting held on Wednesday afternoon in the Primitive Methodist Church.
The address throughout was very interesting and greatly enjoyed. Mrs Abbott
presided over the meeting...
Grimsby
News, 22 February 1929: On Monday evening a most interesting lantern
lecture was given by the Rev F A Speight on “Beauties of Switzerland”. Having
an intimate acquaintance with this subject, Mr Speight showed his selection of
beautiful slides in connection with the various tours around Lucerne,
Grindelwald and Interlaken. The chair was taken by Mr Albert Cox whose happy
introduction was a delight to the audience. The Rev W E Farndale voiced
the thanks of the gathering to the lanternist, Mr
Dobson, the lecturer, and the chairman.
Grimsby
News, 24 May 1929: GRIMSBY BWTA. The May monthly meeting of the
Grimsby Branch of the British Women’s Total Abstinence Union was held at the
Heneage Road Wesleyan Church. Mrs Thompson presided and the Rev W E Farndale
spoke on “Democracy and drink.” …
Grimsby
News, 14 June 1929: “THE MADDEST MODERN CRAZE”. The Rev W E
Farndale will be preaching at the Ebenezer PM Church on Sunday evening next on
the subject of “The maddest modern craze.” The reference of the title is to
gambling, which has attained such enormous dimensions and is the cause of
such widespread deterioration of character. Before a Select Committee of the
House of Commons evidence was given which does but corroborate what every keen
observer must have noticed. Police authorities testified that betting and
gambling gave rise to more crime than anything else. The custom has now assumed
such tremendous proportions that it is incumbent upon all who are concerned
with the moral and religious condition of the land to consider the matter very
seriously. On Sunday evening Mr Farndale will give illustrations of the
widespread ramifications of the habit.
Grimsby
News, 18 October 1929: EBENEZER’S WOMEN’S AUXILIARY. Large and
appreciative congregations assembled on Sunday at the Ebenezer Primitive
Methodist Church where divine worship was conducted by... Mrs Wilkinson, who
was unable to preside, had sent a kindly letter of greeting to the women's
meeting of which she had been the founder. Mrs Farndale presided, and a
varied and interesting programme of instrumental and vocal music was given to
the great enjoyment of all who had met together... The Laceby PM harvest
festival has again proved most successful... The Rev W E Farndale addressed
the meeting on “The harvest of beauty”...
Grimsby
News, 8 November 1929: SUNDAY CLOSING. The British Women's Total
Abstinence Union are making a special effort to secure the signatures of a
million women to a petition addressed to the Prime Minister asking for national
Sunday closing for England. A Bill to secure Sunday closing has already been
drafted at the request of a very large and representative conference. Every
denomination in the land is concerned in this important temperance measure. On
Sunday evening at the Ebenezer church, the Rev W E Farndale will make special
reference to this movement in the sermon on the relation between the Christian
Sabbath and Sunday closing.
Grimsby
News, 8 November 1929: PEACE COMMEMORATION. On Sunday morning, at the
Ebenezer church, a peace commemoration service will be conducted by the Rev W E
Farndale. Stress will be laid not so much on the horror of the past war or the
devastating havoc of any future war, as on the fostering of a spirit in
national and international affairs which alone can secure fraternity and
prosperity. A cordial invitation is given to the public to attend this
gathering of worshipful dedication to the cause of worldwide peace.
Grimsby
News, 6 December 1929: CHURCH NEWS AND NOTES. The preacher at Welholme Congregational Church on Sunday next is the Rev Dr
Sidney Berry, who is one of the most distinguished preachers of the
denomination... last Sunday was observed as a day of prayer for missions. At
the Ebenezer Church the Women's Auxiliary arranged for a special
intercession service on Sunday evening. This was conducted by Mrs Farndale.
A large number gathered for this purpose and ardent petitions were offered for
the progress of the evangel abroad... The Primitive Methodist Church at Irby on
Sunday and Monday held its annual missionary meetings... The Rev W E
Farndale gave the financial statement which showed the amount raised...
Sydenham,
Forest Hill & Penge Gazette, 6 December 1929: CENTRAL CHURCH,
FOREST HILL. VISIT OF THE REV W E FARNDALE, OF GRIMSBY. Much interest is being
displayed by members of the church and friends alike in anticipation of the
opportunity which this weekend will offer for renewal of old friendships with a
former minister of the church. Twenty five years ago Rev W E Farndale
commenced a successful term as one of the ministers of the Forest Hill Circuit.
An “At home” is to be held in the church hall tomorrow, Saturday, at 7:30 PM,
when Mr W B Wood will take the chair... Many friends of the church living in
the neighbourhood will have happy recollections of Rev W E Farndale’s stay in
Forest Hill and will no doubt take the opportunity of meeting him once again...
Grimsby
News 28 December 1929: CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICE. On Sunday at the
Ebenezer Church the Rev W E Farndale conducted A Christmas Carol service...
at the close of the service the Rev W E Farndale announced that...
1930
Grimsby
News, 10 January 1930: GIFT OF A CHURCH. The Rev W E Farndale on
Sunday morning last told a remarkable story from the pulpit of the
Garibaldi street church. He stated that 70 years ago there was born in a
Derbyshire village a child who, as a youth, came into touch with Primitive
Methodism. He had to begin work in a coal mine at 11, and when he was 22 he
emigrated to America. There he had a remarkable career and became a wealthy
man. Desiring to show gratitude for helpful influences in his early days, he
bought the land on which his old home had stood, together with the ground
adjacent, and, at great cost, erected a very handsome church. This church has a
tower with a peal of twelve bells of the latest mechanism. An organ is also
installed and a manse erected and furnished nearby. A park was made and laid
out opposite the church. Altogether the cost must have amounted to about
£40,000. The church and manse were then presented to the Primitive Methodist
denomination. Mr Robert Watehorn is still alive, hale
and hearty, and at the opening service expressed his devout gratitude for a
godly mother and for the religious influence of his early life.
Hull
Daily Mail, 27 June 1930: APPOINTMENTS TO HULL AND NORTH LINCS DISTRICTS.
The following stations were allotted at the Primitive Methodist conference in
Bradford, on Thursday, to the ministers and lay agents … Grimsby and Lincoln
district … Ebenezer – W E Farndale...
Grimsby
News, 17 October 1930: GRIMSBY WOMEN LIBERALS. A very successful meeting
was held at the Grimsby Liberal Club yesterday, when the Women's Liberal
Association opens there when winter session... Mrs Farndale also spoke,
and the new secretary, Mrs Sharp, was welcomed by the members...
1931
Grimsby
Daily Telegraph, 19 January 1931: FORWARD MOVEMENT INITIATED. A
widespread and earnest desire has been expressed for the establishment of a
vigorous Free Church Council for Grimsby, Cleethorpes, and the district.
Steps have therefore been taken for the energetic organisation of a body that
will would worthily represent all the non conformist
places of worship in the locality. The Rev F Y Leggat MA, has been appointed
president, with the Rev W E Farndale... as secretaries...
BRIGHOWGATE
HOMES. CHILDREN ENTERTAINED AS GUESTS. At the recently formed Ebenezer Men's
League, the happy idea was suggested of inviting children of the Brighowgate Homes to spend a Sunday as guests sharing the
hospitality of various families for dinner and tea and round the fireside... The
Rev W E Farndale in the service at night expressed his pleasure that all
had felt in having the privilege of entertaining children that were such a
credit to the homes, and how delighted too they had been to hear their voices
so sweetly blending in the worship song of the sanctuary....
Grimsby
Daily Telegraph, 6 February 1931: A CALL TO YOUTH. By the REV W E
FARNDALE. (Minister of Ebenezer Primitive Methodist Church), Honorary Secretary
of the Grimsby Free Church Council. This is an appeal to young men and women.
Have you considered what a golden age this is for youth? What enormous strides
have been made for the equipment of the present generation! Physical fitness is
a widespread boom. School drill, gymnastic exercise and provision for sport,
child welfare and clinics, such organisations as Boys’ and Girls’ Brigades,
scouts, guides, rambling clubs and summer camps: all these and the like have
developed healthy physique in a most marked degree. The youth of today is also
better educated than at any time in our history. The passing of the Education
Act of 1870 and the granting of the “eighties” of free education began a new
epoch and now, with the growth of secondary education and increased facilities
for university education, the standard of learning has been still further
raised. And was ever youth better cared for religiously than today?...
Sheffield
Independent, 4 May 1931: LINCOLNSHIRE SYNOD. GREAT HOPES FROM METHODIST
UNION. Nearly 8,000 Primitive Methodists throughout Lincolnshire are
represented at the district synod which opened at Skegness during the
weekend... Ministerial delegates to the conference at Derby in 1932 are ...
additional delegates include... W Farndale, Cleethorpes...
Hull
Daily Mail 26 June 1931: New Ministers. Primitive Methodist Appointments.
Northern List. Grimsby and Lincoln. Grimsby (Victoria Street) … WE Farndale …
Grimsby
Daily Telegraph, 12 November 1931: CHALLENGE OF THE WORLD
CRISIS. CONFERENCE OF THE C E UNION AT GRIMSBY. Grimsby and North Lincolnshire
Christian Endeavour Union held its annual conference in the Hainton
Avenue PM Church yesterday... At night a rally of societies was addressed by...
H Wilkinson, the retiring president, introduced his successor, the Rev W E
farndale, who said that the present world crisis was a challenge to Christians
and an opportunity for all Endeavours...
1932
Lincolnshire
Echo 22 August 1932: LINCOLN HONOUR. The doors will be unlocked by
Miss Lena Wallis and honour will thus be paid to one of the most the foremost
women in British Methodism... A public meeting at night will be presided over
by Alderman CT Parker, one of the leading layman of Primitive Methodism in this
country. The speakers will be the Rev S W Hughes and Rev W E
Farndale, who has been appointed chairman of the new Lincoln and Grimsby
Methodist district, which embraces the area from the Humber to the Wash.
Lincolnshire
Echo, 28 September 1932: BISHOP GREETS METHODISTS. FIRST LINCOLN SYNOD
SINCE UNION. COMPLIMENTS. Methodists from all parts of the county met in
Lincoln today for the September Synod of the Lincoln and Grimsby district,
which was held at the Wesley Chapel, Clasketgate …
the Rev W E Farndale, chairman of the district, who presided and welcome the
guests, asked the Bishop of Grantham to convey their fraternal greetings to
the Bishop of Lincoln.
Nottingham
Evening Post, 19 October 1932: BOSTON METHODIST RALLY. “A MIGHTY CONFLICT IS
WAITING TO BE WAGED.” “The great purpose for which Methodists have been made
one is that we may put up a more resolute fight than for generations. A
mighty conflict is waiting to be waged.” These were the words of the Rev
W E Farndale, the newly appointed chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby
district of the Methodist Church at the great Methodists Union Rally at the
Centenary Church, Boston, when Mr Raymond W Hastings of Spalding took the
chair. Mr Farndale continuing his address from which the opening quotation was
taken said, “The first emergence of Methodism inaugurated a wondrous crusade,
and the rebirth of methodism is to witness Methodism armed and in battle
array against a world of evil. The church of God is being gathered for a
greater struggle than it has ever yet faced.”
Lincolnshire
Standard and Boston Guardian 22 October 1932: DISTRICT CHAIRMAN’S ADDRESS. The
Rev W E Farndale, the recently appointed chairman of the Lincoln and
Grimsby district of the Methodist Church, said “It was for all of us a very
great moment when we were privileged to break bread and drink wine as a sign of
the Divine Mercy in our newly found unity. Please God that spirit may ever be
here.... A lengthy address is reproduced in this article.
1933
Grimsby
Daily Telegraph, 7 January 1933: The annual New Year Gathering of the members of
the Ebenezer women's meeting was held on Monday last in the schoolroom. About
100 people sat down to an excellent tea and a social evening followed. Mrs
farndale presided and gave a few words of New Year's greetings …
Grimsby
Daily Telegraph, 28 January 1933: The members of Clee branch of
the British Women’s Temperance Association held their monthly meeting in
the school room of the Ebenezer Church on Monday. Afterwards the Rev W E
Farndale gave an address on tote clubs... Speaking of the amazing rise and
spread of this movement, he pointed out how matters had now come to a head
through the recent legal actions culminating in the ruling of Lord Hewitt and
his fellow judges....
Grimsby
Daily Telegraph, 1 April 1933: In connection with the Women's Missionary
Auxiliary of the Grimsby Ebenezer circuit, American tea was held in the
Ebenezer schoolroom on Thursday afternoon. Mrs Farndale presided, and
solos were given by... the Rev W E Farndale in a short address pointed
out that this was the last effort before the funds of the Primitive Methodist
Missionary Society was wound up. A very enjoying enjoyable afternoon was
spent.... a very interesting address on “Understanding” was given by the Rev A
I Young... Under the presidency of the Rev W E Farndale...
Lincolnshire
Echo, 25 April 1933: WOMEN’S DAY. The second annual women's day was
held at in the Union Street Methodist Chapel, Market Rasen, when Mrs
Farndale, of Grimsby, was the special preacher...
Grimsby
Daily Telegraph, 11 May 1933: PROPOSED DISTRICT MISSIONARY. HARRASSED,
OVERWORKED MINISTERS. ... a further recommendation was that the Rev W E
Farndale be appointed to the position for at least three years.... Urging
the candidature of the Rev W E Farndale he said that they had learned to love
and admire him...
Lincolnshire
Standard and Boston Guardian, 13 May 1933: DISTRICT MISSIONARY
APPOINTED. On the motion of Mr RW Hastings, of Spalding, seconded by the Rev FB
Hudson, Grimsby, the Synod appointed the chairman of the district, the Rev W
E Farndale, of Grimsby, to a new post, that of district missionary,
as recommended by a subcommittee, who reported that the duties of the dual
appointment of circuit superintendents and chairman of the district were too
onerous. Mr Farndale’s new appointment is for three years, and he will,
presumably, shortly, relinquish the duties of circuit Superintendent at
Grimsby, continuing as district chairman.
1934
Grimsby
Daily Telegraph, 14 April 1934: On Wednesday a meeting was held at the ex Wesleyan Church at Sleaford when Mr Butler presided and addresses
were given by the Rev W E Farndale …
The Lincoln Years
Grimsby
Daily Telegraph, 4 August 1934: A LOSS TO GRIMSBY. The Rev W E Farndale,
chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby district of the Methodist Church, have now
left Grimsby and taken up residence in Lincoln. This change of residence
has been imminent ever since his appointment as chairman of the district when
the three Methodist churches amalgamated. For some time past he has been
without pastoral duties to enable him to devote his time to this high office.
Both he and Mrs Farndale had made many friends during their stay in Grimsby,
and their departure to Lincoln will be deeply regretted. In recent months
the Rev W E Farndale have had to spend a very large proportion of his time
travelling in order to fulfil engagements in his very large district.
Lincoln is more centrally located for his duties, and it is for this reason
that Mr and Mrs Farndale have finally decided to leave Grimsby.
Boston
Guardian, 22 September 1934: MISSIONARY WORK. LINCOLN AND GRIMNSBY DISTRICT
MEETINGS. There were large attendances at the West Street Methodist Church,
Boston, yesterday... A business session followed at which the chairman was Mrs
W E Farndale (president of the district.) Among the places from which
delegates were present were Lincoln, Grimsby, Cleethorpes, Bartley, Louth,
Alford, Skegness, and the three Methodist circuits of Boston.
Lincolnshire
Standard and Boston Guardian, 27 October 1934: NEW BOSTON CHURCH
OPENED. An exclusive “standard”
photograph of the scene at the opening of the new Zion Methodist Church
Brothertoft Road, Boston, last week. Left to right: the Rev A Fenton
(Superintendent Minister of the Centenary Methodist Circuit); Mrs Fenton (the
Opener); Mr G W Whitton (the well known Methodist
layman of Lincoln who presided); The Rev W E Farndale (Chairman of the Lincoln
and Grimsby Methodist District; and the Rev J Oliver Hornibrook (Secretary of
the Methodist Chapel Committee).
Lincolnshire
Echo, 18 December 1934: LINCOLN CHURCHES. CATHEDRAL SERVICES. ... A
branch of the women's department of the Methodist Overseas Mission has
been started at Bailgate Methodist Church, with Mrs W E Farndale as
president and Mrs Gill as secretary. Mrs Farndale is the wife of Rev W E
Farndale, chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby district, who has recently come
to live in Lincoln and has become a member of Bailgate Church.
1935
Western
Daily Press, 27 July 1935: Methodist Conference. Methodists’ Ministerial
Session. The Rev William E Farndale chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby
District, whose subject was “Is this experience for all?” … The Rev W E
Farndale said that while some churches appealed constantly to the Fathers of
the early church, they must go still further back. It was the New Testament
teaching that was nominative.
1936
Spalding
Guardian, 14 March 1936: PROBLEMS
IN EDUCATION. Mr Taylor, in answer to another question, stated that there were
also grants available for children’s libraries, about 20 per cent he thought.
The Rev W E Farndale (Chairman of the District) observed, with regard to
children's libraries in these days, it is so necessary there should be
guided reading. Mr Farndale urged that pressure be brought to bear on the
local authority concerned, in order to secure a proper library facilities
for the district as early as possible. ... Mr Farndale, at the beginning of
the conference, welcomed to the representatives of the various Sunday Schools.
He spoke of the application of theory in education, and declared that one of
the problems they had to face was to know how to develop education now being
given, not only in their Sunday school work, but also in the elementary and
secondary schools. It was and indeed a growing problem...
Spalding
Guardian, 31 July 1936: SPECIAL PREACHER. The special preacher at
the St Thomas Road Methodist Church on Sunday was the Rev W E Farndale,
who preached both morning and evening. There were large congregations all day,
and in the evening and musical service was held. Members of the choir rendered
anthems, solos and choruses. Mr Farndale occupied the chair, and spoke on
“Singing is not an act but an influence.”
1937
Boston
Guardian, 15 January 1937: LOCAL PREACHER’S CONFERENCE, WHAT IS
CHRISTIANITY? ADDRESS BY LONDON MINISTER. ... Mr Farndale remarked that
there were many problems confronting the preachers, one of the most difficult
of which was the number of empty pews, and the more can't conscientious
the preacher, the more he might feel the difficulty...
Boston
Guardian, 9 July 1937: YESTERDAY’S GARDEN PARTY. EFFORT FOR FOREIGN
MISSIONS. There was a large attendance at the annual Centenary Circuit
Missionary Garden party, held in the grounds of Standish house … Mrs R W Page
presided... she expressed her sorry that Mrs Farndale was unable to be
present, owing to illness. An address was given by the Rev W E Farndale,
who urged them to continue with their missionary work....
Stamford
Mercury, 1 October 1937: PAGAN POPULATION. There was no difference in the
duty of the active layman and the minister.... the Rev W E Farndale
commented that that day they thought for most of the children for whom the
new schoolroom was built. Children used to be sent to Sunday school, but now
they had to be fetched, and there is a great work waiting to be done. He
was sorry to say that only last year the Methodists lost 65,000 scholars in
this country. There was a grave danger of the of a pagan population growing
up and it was their duty to bring the children into the church...
Spalding
Guardian, 3 December 1937: RELIGIOUS TEACHING IN COUNTY SENIOR SCHOOLS.
HOLLAND EDUCATION COMMITTEE HEAR FRE CHURCH VIEWS. ARE BUTTERWICK, MOULTON AND
DINIGNTON SCHOOLS ANGLICAN? OBJECTION TO DIOCESAN SYLABUS FOR RELIGIOUS
INSTRUCTION. THE REV W E FARNDALE HEADS REPRESENTATIVE DEPUTATION. A very
lengthy article on religious teaching in senior schools.
1938
Louth
Standard, 14 May 1938: NORTH SOMERCOTES. METHODISM. In connection with
the Bright Hour and Fellowship classes, services were held at the Trinity
Methodist Church on Sunday and Monday. The Rev Farndale, chairman of the
district, gave addresses...
Lincolnshire
Standard and Boston Guardian, 14 May 1938: CHAIRMAN RE-ELECTED. The
secretary announced that the Synod had unanimously nominated the Rev W E
Farndale chairman of the district, the announcement being greeted with applause….
Spalding
Guardian, 14 October 1938: “This surely is the time, above all others, when
sectarian barriers should go down”, concluded Mr Farndale.
Boston
Guardian, 9 November 1938: ALFORD REMEMBERS. IMPRESSIVE ARMISTICE TIDE
OBSERVANCES. ... ex servicemen, counsellors and
others were also among the large congregation present in the evening at a peace
service in the West Street Methodist Chapel, at which the preacher was the
Rev W E Farndale, chairman of the district...
1939
Spalding
Guardian, 6 January 1939: APPROVAL. Mr J R McKnight, Director of Education,
on behalf of the Education Committee, supported the proposal saying that the
authority could not overlook the long educational history of the school nor
could the tradition of the foundation, extending back for over 400 years, be
ruthlessly cast aside.... the Rev W E Farndale, chairman of the Lincoln
and Grimsby Methodist district, led the contrary argument, and at the
inquiry the Free Churches were represented by Mr WL Kitching.
Grimsby
Daily Telegraph, 3 February 1939: GROWTH OF METHODISM. The Rev
W E Farndale said that it was heartening in these times that in British
Methodists there were more than a million children attending Sunday school....
Grimsby
Daily Telegraph, 3 February 1939: SCARTHOE CEREMONY. Foundation
stones were laid yesterday of the Methodist new Sunday school at Scarthoe. Among those taking part in the ceremony were,
left to right, Rev W E Farndale, Rev A J Shields, Rev C E ward, Councillor E S
Rudkin, and Mr G Turner, the architect.
Lincolnshire
Free Press, 20 February 1939: VISIT OF REV W E FARNDALE. The Rev W E
Farndale, chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby District of the Methodist
Church, was the preacher at the Crescent Methodist Church on Sunday,
when the offertories were for Home Missions. There were good congregations in
the and at the evening service Mr Farndale took as his subject, “Prepare for
the King”... In an excellent service sermon, Mr Farndale said that if they
were to prepare the way for Christ, their King, the valleys must be exalted,
there must be rejoicing and no drooping spirits...
Lincolnshire
Echo, 15 June 1939: MOVEMENTS THAT AROSE OUT OF WARS. ... Yesterday
the Rev W E Farndale, chairman of the Lincoln district gave an address...
Louth
Standard, 2 September 1939: METHODISTS’ WORK FOR RISING GENERATION. ANOTHER
£50 RAISED FOR NEW SUNDAY SCHOOL. … the congregation then adjourned to the
Chapel, where a service was conducted by the Rev W E Farndale, chairman
of the Lincoln and Grimsby district...
Lincolnshire
Echo, 13 September 1939: METHODIST SYNOD AT LINCOLN. Chief officers at the
Lincoln and Grimsby District Methodist Synod, which was held at Wesley Chapel, Clasketgate, Lincoln today. Left right: Rev W A Underwood,
secretary, Rev W E Farndale, chairman, and Rev J T Hughes, assistant
secretary.
Boston
Guardian, 20 September 1939: METHODISM AND THE WAR. PROBLEMS TO BE FACED. SYNOD
MEETS AT LINCOLN. . War problems were discussed at the September Senate
of the Lincoln and Grimsby District of the Methodist Church at Lincoln, on
Wednesday. The Senate was to have been held at Holbeach, but owing to the
outbreak of war, was transferred to Lincoln... the Rev W E Farndale,
chairman of the district, presided and there was an attendance of ministers
and laymen representing 600 congregations in the county....
Grantham
Journal, 30 September 1939: OSBOURNBY METHODIST CHAPEL, REOPENED AFTER
RENOVATIONS COSTING £100. ... Following a tea which was served by... Mr
Farndale addressed the gathering...
Boston
Guardian, 11 October 1939: CELEBRATIONS CONTINUED. On Monday afternoon the
Rev W E Farndale, chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby district, gave an
address, there were good congregations at all services...
Lincolnshire
Standard and Boston Guardian, 14 October 1939: “MEIN KAMPF AND THE
BIBLE”. MR BUTCHER’S MESSAGE TO METHODISTS. THANKSGIVING SERVICE AT CENTENARY.
The centenary celebrations of Boston centenary Methodist Church were continued
on Monday with a meeting in the afternoon and a Thanksgiving service in the evening....
The Rev W E Farndale opened his address by congratulating those
Methodists who had succeeded in raising such a fine church and such a sincere
faith... At the afternoon service, the Rev W E Farndale gave an address on
“The moral value of church worship.”
1939
Register: William, a Methodist minister (chairman of district) living
with Florence at 10 Mainwaring Road, Lincoln
Lincolnshire
Echo, 8 November 1939: CLERGY’S WORK IN AIR RAIDS. ORGANISATION IN THE
LINCOLN DISTRICT. SPECIAL ARMLETS. In the event of air raids, Church of
England clergy in the Lincoln diocese and Free Church ministers in the
Lincoln and Grimsby Methodist Church, will take their part in helping any
homeless or injured or any members of the public in need of assistance. As
in other parts of the country, clergymen here have been issued with an
armlet of Air Force blue, bearing the letters ARP, in red, above a white cross....
the Rev W E Farndale, chairman of the Lincoln Methodist district said
that the Methodist churches had kept its close contact with their London
headquarters in the matter, and headquarters had been in touch with the
ministry of home defence. In the Lincoln district, which is equivalent to the
whole of Lincolnshire, said Mr Farndale, the ministers would wear armlets and
be otherwise equipped in the case of an air raid. ..
Scunthorpe
Evening Telegraph, 18 November 1939: TOYNTON SUNDAY SCHOOL. the Rev
W E Farndale, chairman of the Grimsby and Lincoln Methodist district,
addressed a large meeting... in time of war, he said, there was need for
Sunday school work to increase. The effects of their labours in the Sunday
schools were reaped through the years and had a profound influence on the
nation...
Lincolnshire
Echo, 6 December 1939: TOTAL ABSTINENCE UNION MEETING AT LINCOLN.
Lincoln branch of the National British Women's Total Abstinence Union held
their December meeting yesterday at Clasketgate
schoolroom. Mrs W Sindell presided and Mrs F W
Farndale gave a talk on Finland and its prohibition laws....
1940
Lincolnshire
Echo, 9 January 1940: COVENANT SERVICE. … the service was presided over
by the chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby Methodist District, Rev W E
Farndale, and the superintended ministers of the full circuits took part...
Lincolnshire
Echo, 7 March 1940: COUNTY NBWTA UNION. MRS W E FARNDALE AGAIN
ELECTED PRESIDENT. Mrs W E Farndale, of Lincoln, was today re elected president of the Lincolnshire
County Union of the national British Women's Total Abstinence Union, at the
annual meeting of the Union at Westgate Parade Methodist Church, Lincoln.
Lincolnshire
Echo, 10 May 1940: METHODIST MEMBERSHIP DOWN. The Chairman of the
district, the Rev W E Farndale, said the Skegness and Wainfleet Circuit
was one of the few in the country to show an increased membership since
Methodist union...
Sleaford
Gazette, 31 May 1940: ANNIVERSARY. ... in the evening the Rev W E
Farndale gave a lecture entitled “The Church of Good Hope”...
Skegness
Standard, 28 August 1940: METHODIST SYMPATHY. The pulpit of at the Algitha Road Methodist Church was on Sunday twice
occupied by the Rev W E Farndale, chairman of the district. In the course
of his morning sermon the preacher said that Methodists throughout the
connexional district were fully cognizant of the handicaps and anxieties of
Skegness as a coastal town in these trying days, and their sincere sympathy was
extended to Methodists and others in their experience.
Lincolnshire
Echo, 21 November 1940: LINCOLN NBWTAU. A well
attended meeting of the National British Women's Total Abstinence Union,
Lincoln branch, was held by invitation of councillor and Mrs J W Lawson, at Greylands Place, Lee Road, Lincoln. Mrs W Sindell (president) presided and an address was given by
the Rev W E Farndale on temperance work from the time of the Napoleonic works
wars to the present. Mrs Farndale, County Union President, told of
the county branches efforts to raise funds for a mobile canteen for
Lincolnshire...
1941
Lincolnshire
Echo, 11 January 1941: The Rev W E Farndale, in a short speech
said that religion must be regarded never as a dope but ever as a dynamic...
Boston
Guardian, 22 January 1941: ZION. The Methodist Guild anniversary was held on
Saturday and Sunday. The preacher for the week end was the Rev W E Farndale,
chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby district....
Lincolnshire
Echo, 14 February 1941: NO WINE LICENCE FOR COOP SHOPS. LINCOLN BENCH
DIVISION. Another point put forward by Mr Farndale was that wine selling
was a luxury trade and it should not be encouraged in wartime...
Lincolnshire
Echo, 15 February 1941: The Rev W E Farndale, chairman of the
Lincoln and Grimsby Methodist District, said yesterday “Methodists are fully
alive to the importance of constant and careful fire watching in respect of
their churches and school premises...
Lincolnshire
Standard and Boston Guardian, 21 June 1941: THE QUARTERLY MEETING of the
Square Methodist Circuit was held at East Heckington
on Thursday. The chairman of the district, the Rev W E Farndale, presided...
The Rev W E Farndale gave a striking address. The circuit minister
voiced thanks to the Rev W E Farndale for his visit.
Lincolnshire
Echo, 28 June 1941: GARDEN MEETING. In connection with the Lincoln
branch of the National British Women's Total Abstinence Union, a successful
garden meeting was held on Wednesday afternoon at the home of the Rev
and Mrs W Farndale...
Lincolnshire
Echo, 11 November 1941: REMEMBRANCE DAY. A Remembrance Day service was
conducted on Sunday morning at the Wesley Church, Clasketgate,
by the Rev W E Farndale, who spoke on the subject of vindicating
their faith. The outbreak of the last war, he said, was marked by
intense confidence in the righteousness of the cause of freeing Belgium from
the invader. Signing of the Armistice brought a resurgence of that idealism
and hopes for a better world. The faith of those men who won the last war
needed to be vindicated in these days by a still deeper faith, faith which
allied itself to God as the supreme right ruler of the nations....
1942
Lincolnshire
Echo, 31 January 1942: PREACHERS FOR SUNDAY. Holgate Methodist Church.
1030. Mrs F Farndale...
1943
Torbay
Express and South Devon Echo, 15 July 1943: SINGLE SCHOOLS STRANGLEHOLD.
Suggestions that Free Churches had “sold the past” with regard to Free
Church education was vigorously denied at the Methodist Church conference
which was resumed in Birmingham today. Rev W E Farndale, of Lincoln
District, maintained that it was very important that every child should have
the fullest possible opportunity of the modern educational facilities...
Newcastle
Journal, 16 July 1943: “SOLD THE PASS”. The Rev W E Farndale at
the Lincoln district of the Lincoln district, said that if the churches did not
raise their voices about the stranglehold caused by the effects of the
denominational “single school” system, then other voices would be raised...
1944
Lincolnshire
Echo, 4 January 1944: COMMANDOS PREPARE. Arrangements are now fast
approaching completion for the Christian Commando Campaign in Lincoln. The
proceedings will be opened by a Mayorial reception at
Portland Place Church on Monday January 24 at 6:15 pm ... this will precede the
inaugural public meeting in the same church at 7:15 PM, when the Rev W E
Farndale, chairman of the district, will preside and short
testimonies will be given by members of the commando team, led by the Rev Colin
Roberts, of London...
Lincolnshire
Echo, 31 January 1944: POST WAR YEARS. Councillor E S Everett was
elected a manager of the bank and Mr F B Clark, a member of the Finance
Committee. Proposing these appointments, the Rev W E Farndale hoped
that this year would see an even more decisive defeat of a dictator in
Europe than befell Napoleon in it in 1815, the year of the foundation of
the Lincoln Trustee Savings Bank...
Grimsby
Daily Telegraph, 22 May 1944: METHODIST SYNOD. At the Lincoln and Grimsby
Methodist District Synod in Lincoln on Friday, the Rev W E Farndale,
formerly of Grimsby, was re-elected chairman of the district...
Boston Guardian, 9 August 1944: MORE THAN
LIKKELY. Methodists of Boston District will have noted with interest that within
a few years the chairman of the Lincoln district, the Rev W E Farndale, is more
than likely to become president of the Methodist conference, the highest honour
which can be accorded him by his church. He secured over 40 votes in this
year's election, which is a high figure at “the first time of asking”. Mr
Farndale has very many friends in and around Boston. His charming
personality and his forcefulness as a preacher have won him many friends.
Should he be elected at some future date, it will be a high honour confirmed
upon Lincolnshire Methodism.
Skegness Standard, 9 August 1944:
The Rev W E Farndale, Chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby District, a
frequent visitor to Spalding, is second on the list to the Rev Dr a W
Harrison MC BA BSc, the President Designate of the Methodist Conference for
1945.
1945
Liverpool
Echo 1 January 1945: Rev W E Farndale officiated at the
silver wedding of McDonald – Price.
Lincolnshire Echo, 23 January 1945:
NBWTAU. “The need for Christian teaching in the home” was the subject of
an address by Mrs W E Farndale at the local branch of the national British
Women's Total Abstinence Union at West parade Methodist Church last week....
Lincolnshire
Standard and Boston Guardian, 24 February 1945: Rev W
E Farndale, Chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby District,
has been inducted to the presidency of Lincoln Free Church Federal Council,
in succession to...
Lincolnshire Echo, 19 July 1945: NOMINATED FOR
THE METHODIST PRESIDENCY. The Rev W E Farndale, chairman of the Lincoln
and Grimsby Methodist district, was nominated for the Presidency of the
Methodist Conference during yesterday's session of the conference at
Nottingham. Three rounds of voting were necessary before the conference elected
Dr Newton Flew, president of the National Federal Free Church Council, as President
of the Conference for 1946, with Mr Farndale second in a heavy poll.
There were several nominations, but the number was reduced to four for the
second voting, and this was further reduced to two for the final vote. A
friend of Mr Farndale, who was present at the conference, told the Echo: “A
number of us felt we would like to put our chairman's name forward for the
presidency next year, and it was very gratifying to us to find the
voting and supported Mr Farndale increasing each time. We are naturally
sorry that he was not successful, but the close voting encourages us to hope
that next year we may have the satisfaction of seeing him elected president for
1947.”
Lincolnshire
Echo, 8 December 1945: TEMPERANCE MEETING. The monthly meeting of the
National British Women's Temperance Association was held in the Wesley Chapel, Clasketgate on Wednesday, in conjunction with Well Lane and
Baggeholme Sisterhood. Mrs Boucher presided and Mrs
Walter Edwards gave an interesting address. Thanks to all who had taken part
in the meeting were expressed by Mrs W E Farndale.
1946
Lincolnshire
Echo, 1 January 1946: NEW YEAR messages for 1946 have been received
from church leaders in the city. The Rev W E Farndale, chairman of the
Lincoln and Grimsby Methodist District: What is the master problem of 1946?
In this, the crucial year, for our reconstruction at home and peace keeping for
the world, there will be many difficulties to overcome, political , social and
economic. But the master problem, the root trouble, lies far deeper, it is to
be found in human nature. When man is equal to his task, he the will to find a
way to his goal, despite every obstacle. This year, however, to a supreme
degree, are needed high qualities of goodwill, patience, adaptability and
generous outlook. Christian citizenship will be at a premium. The mind must
therefore be cleansed of prejudice, and the heart purified from selfish faints.
The driving force in all our planning must be not mere expediency, but high
toned moral energy. So to change, human nature has to be capable of this high
work, possible only through supernatural force, and nothing short of this will
suffice for the months ahead. The New Year’s call, therefore, to every believer
is to unite to intercession for spiritual rebirth throughout the land, the
conversion of England for the salvation of the world.
Louth
Standard 20 July 1946: METHODISTS NEXT PRESIDENT. Rev W E Farndale,
chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby district, has been nominated as President-Elect
at the Methodist Conference. He will take up his presidential duties in
July next year. Mr Farndale is now stationed in the Lincoln Circuit, and prior
to going to the capital city was in charge of one of the circuit in Grimsby. A keen
educationalist, Mr Farndale has rendered valuable service on the Lindsay
Education Committee. It will be recalled that Mr Farndale came out second in
the voting for the president last year, after a second vote. It was not a
surprise, therefore, that the Methodist Church have decided to confer on him
its highest honour.
Stamford
Mercury, 20 September 1946: METHODISTS AND WAR DAMAGE. LINCOLN CIRCUIT RAISES
£20,541. Two hundred ministers and laymen of the Lincoln and Grimsby District
Synod attended the September synod at Gainsborough on Thursday, under the
chairmanship of Rev W E Farndale, President-Elect of the Methodist Conference
for 1947 to 1948…. The final report of the joint re-building war damage
appeal presented by the district treasurer, Mr Darby, showed that 17 grants had
exceeded their targets by £2,903, whilst nine had been unable to do so. The
district total was £20,541 4s 11d against the target of £20,000, the first
district in Methodism to reach its target.. An open air meeting was held in the
marketplace, after which the Synod preceded to the assembly rooms, where lunch
was provided by the Gainsborough circuit stewards, Messrs Whitton and Revell, to
whom Mr Farndale rendered thanks...
Newark
Advertiser, 25 September 1946: LEADERSHIP. Speaking regarding religious
leadership, the Rev W E Farndale, President Elect of the Methodist
Conference, said it seemed to him that in approaching youth they needed to
stress leadership. In recent years there have been those who had disgraced and
degraded to the term “leader”, Mussolini and Hitler for example...
Louth
Standard 21 December 1946: GIFT OF PEACE. The Rev W E Farndale, of
Lincoln, President-Elect of the Methodist conference, writes “It is a pleasure
to respond to the suggestion of sending a message to all readers of the
Standard, and especially to fellow Methodists in the widespread area of the
Louth circuit. For Christmas tide may I send best wishes for all the joys of
peace in each homestead and in every heart. We are learning how difficult it
is to lay agreed foundations for international security. Peace among
nations is no pale, anaemic negative, but full blood, robust, positive and like
Jacob’s blessing, only to be won after much wrestling. But whilst the great
Powers have still to bend their energy to this mighty task, we may well seek
encouragement from this sacred season to find anew the secret of personal
tranquilly. John Masefield relates that as a youth he experimented in this
search. Each night, before turning into his hammock on the training ship
Conway, he would empty his mind of worry. Every morning, before leaving to face
the problems of the day, he would attain quietude within. The method he adopted
was to read a page of thoughtful prose, followed by the repetition of one or
more memorised poems, and the silent singing of two or three songs. In this way
he won through to mastery of his circumstances, and could then calmly sort out
the events of the day. The hint is salutary. It is a pointer on the right road.
The battles of life are won within, in the heart of man. And the anthem of the
angels over Bethlehem’s plains that comes ringing down the grooves of time to
us is still one of individual peace gained through the Christ, who is the only
sure peacekeeper for mankind. He it is who grants to the believing soul the
peace of God that passes all understanding.
1947
Louth
Standard, 4 January 1947: COMPULSION. The Rev W E Farndale,
President-Elect of the Methodist Conference, urged that they had to
consider the question of educational efficiency, and in his view there was
a good deal to be said for the establishment of schools in the larger rural
areas...
Stamford Mercury, 17 January 1947: LADY SOCIAL WORKER wanted, total abstainer, for
organising work in Lincolnshire and Leicestershire. Apply in first place to
Mrs Farndale, 10, Mainwaring Road, Lincoln.
President
of the Methodist Church
Lincolnshire
Echo, 12 July 1947: INSTALLATION of the Rev W E Farndale, first
Lincoln minister to be president of the Methodist Church when
resident in the city, will take place at Newcastle City Hall on Tuesday
afternoon. In accordance with tradition, the Rev Farndale will be robed in a
special presidential gown and will then be presented with a Bible which
formerly belonged to John Wesley. Following his address, the vice
president, Professor Victor Murray, will speak, and afterwards there will be a
civic reception given by the Lord Mayor. A week on Sunday Mr Farndale will
broadcast at 10 am in the Empire service, later delivering his official
conference sermon.
Staffordshire
Sentinel, 15 July 1947: METHODISTS START NEW MOVEMENT. IN THE
COUNTRYSIDE. A new “forward” movement in the Methodist Church “to Evangelise
and Christianise Rural England” was launched today by the Church’s
president, the Rev William Farndale, who told the conference at Newcastle
on Tyne that the last great forward movement was on behalf of the great cities
and led to the establishment of mission centres amid crowded populations. This
time it was to be in the countryside, with the slogan: “On to victory, victory
in the villages.” “There is an acute feeling,” said the president, “that
the state and the churches have been out of close touch with the realities and
intimacies of village life. Policies and programmes which may have first class
relevancy to conditions in towns, have been superimposed on the countryside,
where circumstances have been of a quite different order. The President said it
would be the height of folly to ignore the new developments under the recent
Acts, which were providing a far higher standard of education in the villages.
The many activities of the service of youth have had effects that will prove
cumulative, he said, and must be reckoned with any church anxious now to fulfil
its mission in the villages. Here is a new mission field, needy, urgent, but
promising, opening out before us....
Halifax
Evening Courier, 15 July 1947: “VICTORY IN VILLAGES” CALL TO METHODISTS. A new
“forward” movement in Methodist Church, “to evangelise and Christianise Rural
England” was launched today by the Church’s President, the Rev William
Farndale. He told the conference at Newcastle on Tyne that the last great
forward movement was on behalf of the great cities...
West
Briton and Cornwall Advertiser, 17 July 1947: METHODISM IN VILLAGES. NEW
MOVEMENT LAUNCHED AT CONFERENCE. A new forward movement in the Methodist
Church, “to evangelise and Christianise Rural England” was launched at the
Methodist Conference at Newcastle on Tyne on Tuesday by the president, the Rev
William Farndale...
Wishaw
Press, 25 July 1947: The Methodist Conference Assembled at the City
Hall, Newcastle upon Tyne, on Tuesday, 15th July, when the Rev William E
Farndale was installed as president and Professor A Victor Murray MA, B
Litt BD, Chestnut College, Cambridge, as vice president.
William
E Farndale travelled from Southampton to New York in 1947, aged 70.
New
York Times 22 September 1947: CHRISTIANS URGED TO TAKE OFFENSIVE; ' Thinking
Man Is Greatest Foe of Satan,' English Methodist Leader Declares Here. The
"high explosive" for the Christian is to avoid the defensive and take
the offensive, the Rev. Dr. William E. Farndale,
president of the Conference of the Methodist Church in England, declared
yesterday morning in a sermon at Christ Church, Methodist, 520 Park Avenue
Associated
Press story during his visit to USA: FARNDALE, Rev Dr William E. Pres
of Methodist Church in England says religious situation in Soviet influenced
eastern Europe good. RELIGION, MISCL. Sep 17.47.
Rev W
E Farndale became an honorary doctor at the University of Toronto in 1947.
Staffordshire
Sentinel, 17 October 1947: POTTERIES REUNIONS IN CANADA. BY THE REV W
RUSSELL SHEARER. After the Ecumenical Conference in Springfield, a few of us
have come for a brief visit to Canada. In this connection the University
of Toronto confirmed honorary degrees upon four leading Methodists
.. the British recipient was the President of our Conference, the Rev
W E Farndale, who was also chosen to give the address of the evening.
Dr Farndale did full justice to the occasion. North Staffordshire Methodists
will eagerly anticipate his visit to Mow Cop next May, when he will unveil a
carved stone tablet marking the site of the earliest camp meeting....
Dover
Express, 28 November 1947: DOVER METHODIST CIRCUIT, VISIT OF THE PRESIDENT
OF THE CONFERENCE (DR W E FARNDALE). THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4TH.
1948
DR
FARNDALE AT HARBORO’ When the Rev Dr W E Farndale was elected President
of the Methodist conference, head of the largest Protestant church in the
world, he said that he would fulfil the heavy round of preaching engagements, provided
that one in every four such appointments was to a country circuit. Since
then Dr Farndale has travelled throughout England and America, speaking in
the large towns and cities, but never forgetting the villages. Market
Harborough Circuit was chosen as representative country circuit in the
Leicester and Northampton district and on Thursday last Dr Farndale, as we
briefly reported last week, conducted services in the Market Harborough
Methodist Church which were attended by members of the from the village
churches of the circuit...
PRESIDENT
WELCOMED. This picture was taken when the president of the Methodist conference
visited harbour.
Louth
Standard, 24 January 1948: METHODISTS AGGREGATE MEETINGS. Methodist Circuit
Aggregate meetings were held in the Centenary Church, Eastgate, at the weekend,
the preacher being Rev W E Farndale of Lincoln, this year’s President,
who is accompanied by Dr D O Soper... Mr Farndale in the course of his
sermon on Sunday said that during his many wanderings as President he had
been able to tell in many places the loyalty which Lincolnshire people had for
Methodism... In the evening a public meeting was addressed by Rev W E
Farndale... Mr Farndale had advocated village evangelism and said
that it must have a scriptural background...
North
Devon Journal, 29 January 1948: METHODIST PRESIDENT’S VISIT. “You do not need
to visit Blackpool, with all its gaity, ease, fun
and amusements, to recover from the tolls and turmoils
of life”, said Dr W E Farndale, President of the Methodist Conference, at
Torrington on Monday. Saying that more people were taking interest in the
countryside of England now than for many years, Dr Farndale added that some
were interesting themselves in it from the standpoint of would be legislators...
Banbury
Advertiser, 11 February 1948: METHODIST PRESIDENTS MESSAGE TO BANBURY RALLY.
The President of the Methodist conference, the Rev Dr W E Farndale,
addressing Methodists of Banbury and other adjoining circuits at
Marlborough Church on Thursday, recalled “the spiritual favour and self sacrificing labours of those who laid the foundations
of the monument.” A “Methodist” said Dr Farndale, “is one who loves the Lord
his God with all his heart...
Sunderland
Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette, 13 February 1948: METHODIST PRESIDENT’S
VISIT. Sunderland's 5000 Methodists are eagerly looking forward to next week's
visit to Sunderland of the President of the Methodist conference, Dr William E
Farndale. Dr Farndale was born in York and spent the greater part of his
early life in Manchester, where he was trained for the legal profession by a
firm of Manchester solicitors. He entered the ministry in 1904 after
completing his theological training and Hartley College, Manchester.
During World War I, he was minister in Chester le Street, but later moved to
Birkenhead and Grimsby. Dr Farndale has a wide knowledge of the social and
religious problems of rural England and is especially interested in
education.
West
Briton and Cornwall Advertiser, 11 March 1948: COUNTY NOTES. Nowhere
in his itinerary among “the people called Methodists” is the President of the
Conference accorded a warmer welcome than when he comes to Cornwall. Dr
Farndale has doubtless felt this as he has moved about the county this week
among his fellow Methodists …
Nottingham
Journal, 14 April 1948: DAY TO DAY. CALL FOR REVIVAL OF RURAL METHODISM.
When Dr W E Farndale, the President of the Methodist Conference, told
Methodists in Bingham and District last night that he thought the time had come
for another great forward movement in that church, with special emphasis upon
the rural areas, he was giving his fellow Methodists as strong and valuable
hint...
Staffordshire
Sentinel 17 May 1948. Unveiling of Mow Cop Memorial by Methodist
President. Between 2,000 and 3,000 people gathered on the Cheshire side of
Mow Cop Castle on Saturday afternoon to witness the unveiling of a stone
obelisk bearing an inscription recoding that it marks the site of the first
Camp Meeting in 1807 from which arose the religious revival linked with the
founding of Primitive Methodism. The commemorative block of Kerridge stone,
erected by public subscription, was unveiled by the President of the
Methodist Conference (the Rev W E Farndale DD). … After performing the
unveiling ceremony, the Rev WE Farndale gave an address on “The power of
prayer” which he said, was the source whence the early pioneers obtained
their inspiration and strength.
Western
Morning News 21 May 1948: PRESIDENT’S APPEAL TO METHODISM. Dr W E Farndale,
President of the Methodist Conference, has issued a request to all who
preaching the Methodist Churches of Britain next Sunday, to read their
congregations the “Message of the Ecumenical Methodist Conference to World
Methodism.” The message states “We invite you to enter with us into a new
covenant with God, that in this day of unparalleled need and unprecedented
opportunity we shall gird our loins and determine to take our religion and our
church membership far more seriously than we have ever done in the past.”
Belfast
Telegraph 9 June 1948: The Methodist Conference. The Tipperary College.
… “On behalf of the British Methodists I would like to say that we have been
set a wonderful example by our Irish brethren..” said Rev Dr WE Farndale
at the opening of the conference. Dr Farndale said that the opening of the
Agricultural Training College in County Tipperary by the Irish Methodist
Church was pioneer work and it would have been work at the heart of John Wesley.
Western
Daily Press, 7 July 1948: NO MORE TICKETS. Already all tickets for the
public have been exhausted for the inaugural conference session on Tuesday
afternoon when Dr W E Farndale will hand over John Wesley's Bible, symbol
of the Presidency, to Rev E Benson Perkins....
Western
Daily Press 07 July 1948: METHODIST CONFERENCE IN BRISTOL. The method is
dancer to the challenge of our times. Make a note of these public meetings.... Dr
W E Farndale, retiring President...
Western
Daily Press, 14 July 1948: ROBE FOR THE PRESIDENT. After his formal
induction as President of the Methodist conference in the central hall
yesterday, the Rev Ian Benson Perkins was presented with a robe of office... so
last year, Newcastle gave Dr Farndale a new robe...
Lincolnshire
Standard and Boston Guardian, 17 July 1948: Having served the Methodist
Church in the Boston area for the past 20 months, Pastor William John Maslen
will leave the town at the end of August to work in the Sleaford Westgate
Circuit, under the superintendency of the Rev W E Farndale DD....
Louth
Standard, 9 October 1948: REFORM STREET Methodist harvest festival was held
on Saturday and Sunday, the Rev W E Farndale paying a return visit … Dr
Farndale spoke of his experiences while in America. He was also the
preacher on Sunday morning and evening...
Skegness
News, 8 December 1948: METHODISTS FIGHT COMMUNISM. NEED FOR MORE
WORKERS. EAST LINCS RALLY. At East Lincolnshire Youth Rally held at Spilsby on
Wednesday, the urgent need for more Methodist workers, both clergy and laity
was stressed. Dr W E Farndale, of Lincoln, former President of the
Methodist Conference, presided... Dr Farndale pointed out that compared with
1938 there were 200 fewer representatives of the church working overseas.
They could not sit down tamely to that at a time when China, India and
Africa were being invaded by the emissaries of communism... They must not
allow such shrinkage in overseas work when more than at any time they needed to
combat the foes of Christianity …
1949
Stamford
Mercury, 21 January 1949: CHURCH’S UNITY IS GROWING SAYS PRESIDENT OF THE
CONFERENCE. DEPENDENT ON THE ORDINARY FOLK. Despite times when the divisions of
the world were acute, the unity of the church was growing … the proceedings
opened with a luncheon in the Corn Exchange at which... Supported by... Rev W E
Farndale...
Lincolnshire
Echo, 19 January 1949: At the civic reception for the United Methodist
Rally, the mayor and mayoress of Lincoln all seen chatting with Rev E Benson
Perkins, President, Methodist conference, and, right, Rev W E Farndale, ex president, at the Wesley Chapel yesterday.
Spalding
Guardian, 28 January 1949: METHODIST RALLY. Dr W E Farndale, ex president of the conference and chairman of the
district, gave inspiring addresses at a circuit rally in the Wesley
Methodist Church on Saturday...
Bristol
Evening Post, 11 February 1949: MODERATOR COMING. On May 12, a month after
taking office as Moderator of the Free Church Council, the Rev W E Farndale, in
his 60s, will attend a meeting of Bristol Free Church Council at Eastville
Methodist Church, Lower Stapleton Road. Dr Farndale has been a keen student
of theology all his life, and his gained admiration in his work all over
the world. As President of the Methodist conference he visited America last
year, and created an excellent impression by his cultured speeches and
clear, logical thinking. He is also interested in general education
and has for many years advocated the present schooling system.
Nottingham
Evening Post, 16 March 1949: “SHACKLED” RELIGION. CONDITIONS IN CENTRAL
EUROPE. Dr W E Farndale, of Lincoln, ex president
of the Methodist conference, and now Moderator of the Free Church Federal
Council, today called for a stand against the “shackling of religious freedom
in central Europe.” He was speaking at the resumed Congress of the Council
of London. “The state must allow liberty of worship and freedom to tell the
gospel. This is not some measure founded on political theory, but results
from the urge of the spirit within us.
Western
Mail, 16 March 1949. THE CHURCHES. Principal the Rev Joseph Jones of
Brecon was elected Vice Moderator of the Free Church Federal Council at
yesterday's meeting of the council held at Bloomsbury central Baptist Church. He
will succeed the Rev E Farndale as Moderator next year...
Lincolnshire
Echo, 17 March 1949: LINCS GIRL OF 12 LAUNCHED BOOST FOR CHAPEL GOING.
Story of a girl whose efforts increased a congregation from 10 to 72 was told
in London today by the new Moderator of the Congress of the Free Church Federal
Council, the Rev W E Farndale, of Lincoln...
Hartlepool
Northern Daily Mail, 17 March 1949: CHURCH & IN THE STREET. The
story of a girl whose efforts increased a congregation from 10 to 72 was told
by the moderator, Rev W E Farndale. In a Lincolnshire village, he said,
there was little girl of 12 who had become concerned that the people in the
village did not attend chapel. She wrote out “Please come to our Chapel? Our
minister is preaching”, and then handed them to people at every cottage asking
“You will come, won't you?” She went into public houses. In one, she gave the
man behind the bar the notice, it was probably the first time he had ever been
asked to attend a service. In the other there was a woman behind the bar. The
girl said “You will come won't you?” “The woman smiled back and said “Yes dearie
I will”. She said the publicans both came....
Grimsby
Daily Telegraph, 17 March 1949: NEW HONOUR FOR DR W E FARNDALE. Dr W E Farndale
of Lincoln has been made Moderator of the Free Church Federation Council of
England and Wales. He was inducted this week at Bloomsbury Baptist Church,
London. Dr Farndale is chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby Methodist district.
Taunton
Courier and Western Advertiser, 19 March 1949: PASTORS’ PERSECUTION.
CALL FOR TAUNTON PROTEST MEETING. TO THE EDITOR OF THE SOMERSET COUNTY HERALD.
Sir, I see that the Free Church Federal Council, meeting in London this week,
has joined in the protests against the persecution of Protestant pastors in
Bulgaria, and that its newly elected moderator, Dr Farndale, declared
they took a decisive stand with their suffering Free Church brethren in
Bulgaria …
Louth
Standard, 26 March 1949: NBWTA.... the 43rd annual meeting at Eastgate
methodist church... Secretary, Mrs W E Farndale, Lincoln...
Lincolnshire
Echo, 2 April 1949: QUIET DAY. First quiet day organised by the
Wesley Circuit Women's Fellowship was held at Wesley Chapel … communion service
in the morning was conducted by ... in the afternoon a rally was presided
over by Mrs W E Farndale, wife of the President of the Lincoln and Grimsby
Methodist District...
Lincolnshire
Echo, 5 April 1949: NEW PRESIDENT. When the Lincoln Free Church
Federal Council celebrates its anniversary next week at Newland Congregational
Church, the Mayor of Lincoln, Councillor J W Lawson, a Methodist, will be
inducted as President by the Rev Dr W E Farndale, moderator for 1949 to
1950...
Western
Daily Press, 28 April 1949: MODERATOR AT FREE CHURCH RALLY. CIVIC WELCOME:
INDUCTION OF PRESIDENT. In connection with Bristol Free Church Council, on May
12, the Moderator of the Free Church Federal Council, Dr W E Farndale,
will attend a meeting concerned with the annual rally at Eastville Methodist
Church...
Grimsby
Daily Telegraph, 6 May 1949: DINNER DRINKING AMAZES LINCS MAYOR. The Mayor of
Lincoln, Councillor J W Lawson, speaking at the Lincoln and Grimsby Methodist
Synod... the Rev W E Farndale who presided, said that a man did not have to
ignore his convictions when he was elected mayor...
Hartlepool
Northern Daily Mail, 19 May 1949: THREE FUNDAMENTALS OF
CELEBRATING. HART ROAD CHUCRH ADDRESS. Addressing a large congregation in Hart
Road Methodist Church, W Hartlepool, yesterday afternoon, the Rev W E Farndale
said there were three fundamentals in celebrating a jubilee. The first was to
remember everything which God had done for us. The second was to make most of
the talents which God had given us, in the service of God. Finally we should be
joyful when we remember that not only would He watch over us and help us for 50
years, but forever, even after death...
Sydenham,
Forest Hill & Penge Gazette, 3 June 1949: NO MONOPOLY. It was by no
means a modern contention. Even Paul had to defend this title against those
detractors who questioned the validity of his orders. Dr Farndale related a
homely incident illustrative of the groundless patron claim to the monopoly of
the “keys”...
Huddersfield
Daily Examiner, 29 September 1949: TORIES TO DEBATE LIVING STANDARDS
AND EMPLOYMENT. More than 100 resolutions are on the agenda at the three day
Conservative Party Conference, opening at Earls Court, London, on October
12 … the conference will open with a religious service conducted by the
Bishop of London, Dr J C Wand, and the Moderator of the Free Church Federal
Council (Dr W E Farndale) …..
Western
Morning News, 29 November 1949: “RECALL TO INSPIRED EMOTION”. VIEW EXPRESSED IN
PLYMOUTH. Dr W Farndale, the Moderator of the Free Church National
Federal Council, speaking in at a district rally of Free Churches in Plymouth
last night, said that people, who would be surprised if at a football match the
crowd was frigid and unemotional, were desperately afraid of emotionalism, in
the sphere of religion...
1950
Lincolnshire
Echo, 21 January 1950: Dr W E Farndale spoke on the plan
for class leaders and the meeting then split into twelve groups for discussing
given questions and then reporting to them...
Lincolnshire
Echo, 25 April 1950: PRESIDENT REELECTED. Mrs W Sindell
was re elected President of the annual meeting of the
Lincoln branch of the British Women's Total Abstinence Union... Mrs Farndale
was elected delegate to the world convention to be held at Hastings in
June...
Lincolnshire
Echo, 12 June 1950: After a journey from Pietermaritzburg to England,
back to South Africa, and then back to this country again, a package addressed
to “Secretary, NBWTAU, Lincoln, England “” is now in the hands of an officer of
that organisation. Posted at Christmas, it was returned to the sender marked
“unknown”, but has been brought back to England by a Pietermaritzburg delegate
to the convention of the world's women's Christian Temperance Union of at
Hastings, and handed to Mrs F M Farndale, who is representing the
Lincoln branch of the National British Women's Total Abstinence Union, of which
she is the treasurer.
Lincolnshire
Echo, 30 June 1950: CONFERENCE LECTURER. Chairman of Lincoln and
Grimsby Methodist District, Dr W E Farndale, is to give the Wesley
historical lecture at the Bradford conference of the Methodist Church next
month. The subject, “Secret of Mow Cop” deals with the beginning of the
Primitive Methodist Church with which he was associated before Methodist
union...
The
Yorkshire Observer, 20 July 1950: METHODIST URGES THE VALUE OF
PRAYER. The tremendous value of prayer in the life and work of the church with
emphasised by Dr William E Farndale …
Louth
Standard, 8 July 1950: METHODISTS’ NEW STATIONS. The new stations of the Methodist
ministers include the following changes..... Lincoln and Grimsby district.
Chairman of the District: W E Farndale. Secretary of the District Synod: F
O Le Sueur. District Missionary: W E Farndale...
Lincolnshire
Echo, 4 September 1950: “IT’S MURDER” LINCOLN CLERIC TO DR BARNES. Dr W E
Farndale Chairman of the Lincoln Methodist District comments: “Dr Barnes brings
in eugenics as an answer to the possible rearing of a polluted race....” VIEWS ON POPULATION CONTROL. Would it not be
wrong to put someone to death because they have an incurable disease, and then
find that shortly after a new drug or treatment was discovered which would have
brought a complete cure? It is a positive approach we want, added Dr Farndale...
Louth
Standard, 23 September 1950: SYNOD DISCUSSION ON COMMUNISM. ... Dr Farndale
said that in the Russian zone of Berlin more new testaments were being
printed them for some years, and the country that produced Tolstoy might yet
produce the great evangelists.
The Belfast
News-Letter, 9 October 1950: US TROOPS CROSS THE 38TH PARALLEL. EMPIRE
FORCES GROUP FOR ADVANCE. SOUTH KOREANS ENTER WONSAN. United States troops
have crossed the 38th parallel into North Korea and are advancing along the
main highway to Pyongyang, the communist capital.... CALL TO PRAYER. CHURCH
CHIEFS JOIN IN PLEA FOR PEACE. Dr William E Farndale, Moderator of the Free
Church Federal Council, has commended the proposal for a day of prayer for
peace on Sunday, October 29. In a message to the United Nations Association, Dr
Farndale says: “There have been coming expressions from many Free Churchmen of
a desire for such a call....
Courier
and Advertiser, 9 October 1950: DAY OF PRAYER FOR UNO. An appeal for a day of
prayer was also made by … William E Farndale, Moderator of the Free Church
Federal Council...
The Scotsman,
9 October 1950: PRAYER FOR UNITED NATIONS. THE CHURCHES’ APPEAL.... Dr
William E Farndale, Moderator of the Free Church Federal Council, has commended
the proposal for a day of prayer. “The task of the Christian Church,” he
says, “must increasingly be to seek from on high that power which multiplies in
all nations citizens who exemplify and demand justice, fidelity and concorde.”
Nottingham
Guardian, 9 October 1950: ARCHBISHOPS CALL FOR DAY OF PRAYER. Dr William
E Farndale, Moderator of the Free Church Federal Council, has commended the
Archbishop's proposal...
The Halifax
Daily Courier & Guardian, 1 November 1950: THE POPE PROCLAIMS NEW
DOGMA. People from all over the world packed into the great square of St
Peters, Vatican City, today, welcomed Pope Pius XII as he was carried shoulder
high to an open air throne to proclaim the new dogma of “the bodily
assumption of the blessed Virgin Mary into heaven”.... FREE CHURTCHMEN
“GRAVELY DISTURBED”. Commenting at Lincoln today, on the Pope's proclamation, Dr
William E Farndale, Moderator of the Free Church Federal Council said,
“Fundamentally, we are gravely disturbed, not because this action
erects, as it does, a formidable barrier to any future church reunion, but
because it may have a lamentable deterrent effect now upon any seeker after the
way of salvation.”
Lincolnshire
Echo, 6 November 1950: DOGMNA OF ASSUMPTION. Sir, one wonders how
many people care whether or not the Rev Dr W E Farndale’s congregation are
gravely disturbed because His Holiness the Pope has proclaimed as an
article of faith what has been the unwavering belief of the Christian world
down our ages... That on her death Our Blessed Lady’s body was assumed into
heaven …
Lincolnshire
Echo, 4 November 1950: SATURDAY PULPIT. LOOKING AT LIFE THROUGH A
CHRISTIAN’S EYES. From the early days of the Christian faith until now, claims
have been made and evidence is submitted and supported both the reality and
efficacy of prayer. Some of them, like those which appear in the Act of the
Apostles, appear impossible. Others like those in periods of the Church’s
history, appear unthinkable. Yet they are there for all to read and ponder.
What to make of them and how to interpret them is the responsibility of the
modern mind. At least this must be said, that, based on the information we
have, prayer is a power to be reckoned with. Prayer is not just a standing
still and bearing at the head when they prayer bell is heard, or the brief
interval when, in the midst of daily work, we acknowledge God and our
dependence on Him. Prayer does something which with the universe and affects
the stuff of life. Recently, Dr W E Farndale, well known throughout
Lincolnshire as the ex President of the Methodist
Conference and ex Moderator of the Free Church Federal Council, delivered a
lecture which had a great deal to do with the subject of prayer. The
lecture was about Mow Cop, the place in Staffordshire where Primitive
Methodism, the branch of methodism to which Dr Farndale belonged before
becoming of the Methodist Union, had its beginning. Here the claim is made
not only that the Church came into being through prayer, but also that it owed
its power and success to it...
Louth
Standard, 18 November 1950: 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF NORTHGATE CHURCH.
GROWTH OF PRIMITIVE METHODIST FOUNDATION RECALLED. ... Tributes to the
pioneers of Primitive Methodism in the Midlands were paid by Dr W E Farndale
of Lincoln, when he addressed the meeting held in the Northgate church on
Monday. Dr Farndale traced in an entrancing manner the history of the Church
from the time of the camp meetings in the early years of the 19th century.
Dr Farndale wondered if the members of the Church had lost that mobility which
was possessed by the pioneers liked like Sarah Kirkland and Thomas King...
1951
Lincolnshire
Free Press, Boston and Spalding, South Holland and Eastern Counties Advertiser,
30 January 1951: DR SANGSTER AT SPALDING. HIS CHALLENGE TO CHRISTIAN SERVICE.
Dr W E Sangster, President of the Methodist Conference, addressed Spalding
Methodist Circuit Rally on Wednesday as the guest of Counsellor W A Stuart JP.
For the inspiring evening meeting... and Dr W E Farndale of Lincoln, and ex President, brought greetings from the district...
Lincolnshire
Echo, 12 February 1951: Lincoln Sunday School decided to hold a music
festival... details of a day of prayer next Sunday for students are given in a
letter circulated among churches and local preachers in Lincolnshire under the
signatures of Dr W E Farndale, acting Moderator of the Free Federal Council...
Grimsby
Daily Telegraph, 10 March 1951: NEW HONOUR FOR RESORT’S UNION. Cleethorpes branch
members of the British Women’s Total Abstinence Union … Mrs F Graves, of
Grimsby, was re elected county president and... Secretary elected was Mrs W E Farndale.
Lincolnshire
Echo, 21 May 1951: RADIO SERVICE. For Dr W E Farndale,
Chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby Methodist District, who was on air
yesterday from Trinity Methodist Church, Cleethorpes, broadcasting is no new
experience. In the early days of religious broadcasting, Dr Farndale
took part in a radio service from Merseyside, and during his year as president
the Methodist Conference he broadcast from Newcastle upon Tyne and from city
road London. Dr Farndale tells me that as far as he knows, yesterday was the
first broadcast of her communion service from Lincolnshire. Taking part
with Dr Farndale was the minister of the church, Rev Frank Baker, who is
secretary of the Wesley Historical Society.
Lincolnshire
Echo, 3 July 1951: VISITING SCHEME FOR LINCOLN’S OLD FOLK. Lincoln
Standing Conference of Women's Organisations are preparing a list of an
estimated number of 900 old folk in Lincoln who will receive an initial visit
from members of local women's organisations under a voluntary visiting
scheme... New committee members selected were... Mrs W E Farndale,
representing the Methodist Women's Fellowship...
Dr
W E Farndale, 70 years old, new leader of the Christian Commando Campaign in
Northampton.
Mercury &
Herald, 14 September 1951: News of a change in the leadership of the
Northampton Christian Commando Campaign was announced on Wednesday. Dr
William Edward Farndale, of Lincoln, President of the Methodist Conference
in 1947 and Moderator of the Free Church Council from 1949 to 1951 is to
succeed the Rev G Arnold West of Hastings.
The
Commando Campaigns:
Colin
A. Roberts, Secretary of the Home Mission Department in 1939, was concerned
about the shape post-war society would assume. In 1940 Conference adopted a
Forward Movement Report recommending plans for evangelistic work over a period,
in co-operation with other Free Churches and the CofE where possible. Out of
this grew the Commando Campaigns, which adopted the military idea of trained
people making forays into places where the gospel was not normally heard -
works canteens, cinemas, clubs, pubs, schools, colleges etc. Their theme was
'New Men for a New World'. Roberts provided the Team Leaders and Team Members,
but arrangements for campaigns in the larger urban areas were made locally.
They reached a climax in Greater London in 1947, with an inaugural rally in the
Royal Albert Hall on 14 April. Those who participated in the Campaigns found
that it profoundly changed the nature of their ministry.
Lincolnshire Echo,
28 September 1951: PRE ELECTION ‘SCARE’ TIME. Leaders and officials
who attended the Methodist Women's One Day school at Clasketgate
Chapel, Lincoln.
1952
Saffron Walden Weekly News, 25 January 1952: KEEN DEVOTION. Dr W E Farndale, President of the
Methodist conference, 1947 to 1948, has signified his intention to give up the
chairmanship of the Lincoln and Grimsby district, which he has held since 1933.
This is a long tenure of an individual chairmanship, and Dr Farndale has won a
great place for himself in the affections of the Lincolnshire people, not least
because of his keen devotion to the interests of rural Methodism. He was
Moderator of the Free Church Federal Council from 1949 to 1951. In 1947 he was
a delegate to the Methodist Occumenical Conference in
the United States, and Visiting Preacher to the United Church of Canada in
Toronto. Dr Farndale has not yet indicated what his future course will be,
beyond letting it be known that he means to be active.
On the King’s
Death:
Lincolnshire Echo, 11 February 1952: UNITED SERVICE. As announced on Saturday a memorial service
will be held in Lincoln Cathedral at 3:30 pm on Friday. After wards there will
be a muffled peal on the Cathedral bells. Dr W E Farndale, chairman of
the Lincoln and Grimsby Methodist District, will give an address at a
United Free Church memorial service to be held at Newland Congregational Church
on Friday at 2:30 pm.
Lincolnshire Echo, 16 February 1952: Free Churches in Lincoln united in a service of memorial
to King George VI yesterday when sombre clad men and women and young folk
filled the floor of Newland Congregational Church, overflowing into the
balcony. Many were in the church for two minutes silence, praying for the late
King. Before the service began, Mr H W Hillman gave an organ recital of solemn
music.... Dr W E Farndale, chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby Methodist
District, who gave the address, said of the King, “he was a leader in that
he gave by his character and home life a worthy standard for every citizen in
these realms.”...
The Lincoln, Rutland and
Stamford Mercury, 21 March 1952: The Rev W E
Farndale, of 10 Mainwaring Road, Lincoln, has intimated that he will
be relinquishing the chair of the Lincoln and Grimsby Methodist District at the
end of the summer. Dr Farndale has been in the district since 1928 and
chairman for 20 years. He was President of Methodist Conference in 1947 and
Moderator of the Free Church Federal Council in 1949 to 1950.
The Louth and North
Lincolnshire Advertiser, 22 March 1952: LEAVING THE
COUNTRY. The Rev Dr W E Farndale, of 10 Mainwaring Road, Lincoln, has
intimated that he will be relinquishing the chair of the Lincoln and Grimsby
Methodist District at the end of the summer. Dr Farndale has been in the
district since 1928 and chairman for 20 years. He was President of Methodist
Conference in 1947 and Moderator of the Free Church Federal Council in 1949 to
1950.
Grimsby Daily Telegraph, 29 March 1952: Mrs Bertram Woods, of London, is to be the speaker at the
annual rally of the Grimsby, Cleethorpes and District methodist Women's
Fellowship to be held at the Mill Road Methodist Church, Cleethorpes, next
Thursday. Mrs W E Farndale, of Lincoln, will preside, and will be
supported by...
Lincolnshire Echo, 31 March 1952: WOMEN AT LINCS T T MEETING.
Lincolnshire County Union of National Women's Total Abstinence Union concluded
their 46th annual conference in Skegness this weekend. The secretary, Mrs F
E Farndale, stated that senior members of the 16 branches now numbered
1,111, with 198 in the junior section. This was an increase....
Louth Standard, 29 March 1952: BADLY BURNED. Mrs Farndale, wife of the Rev W E Farndale,
Chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby District of the Methodist Church, is
recovering from shock received when her nightgown caught fire, and she was
badly burned on Saturday. Mrs Farndale, who was ill, was awaiting the
arrival of the doctor at the time.
Lincolnshire Free Press, Boston and Spalding, South
Holland and Eastern Counties Advertiser, 1 April 1952: MINISTER’S WIFE BRUNED. Mrs Farndale, wife of
the Rev W E Farndale, Chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby Methodist District,
is recovering from shock received when her nightgown caught fire and she was
badly burnt. At the time, Mrs Farndale, who was ill, was awaiting the
arrival of the doctor.
Grimsby Daily Telegraph, 5 April 1952: Mrs E Collinson, of Beckham Thorpe Methodist Church, presided
in place of Mrs W E Farndale, who is ill.
Lincolnshire Echo, 9 May 1952: PRESENTATION. During the Synod a wireless set and a
cheque was presented to the Chairman, the Rev Dr W E farndale, of Lincoln. He
retires in August after 20 years as chairman and district missionary in
Lincolnshire. His retirement ends 48 years activity in the ministry. Dr
Farndale is succeeded by the Rev F O Le Sueuer...
The Louth and North
Lincolnshire Advertiser, 17 May 1952: PRESENTATION.
During the Synod a wireless set and a cheque was presented to the chairman, the
Rev Dr W E Farndale. He retires in August after 20 years as Chairman and
District Missionary in Lincolnshire. Prior to his appointment in 1932 he served
as circuit minister in Grimsby. His retirement ends 48 years activity in the
ministry.
The Louth
and North Lincolnshire Advertiser, 17 May 1952: 650 AFFECTED. Dr
Farndale said that according to an official circular published by
headquarters there are 650 senior retired ministers whose pension from the
church for a lifetime of service is about £2 a week. In order to
supplement that amount the Methodist Church had set up an auxiliary fund...
Grimsby
Daily Telegraph, 17 June 1952: METHODISTS’ CHANGE. Chairman of the Grimsby and
Lincoln District of the Methodist Church for the past 20 years, the Rev W E
Farndale is leaving Lincolnshire for Derbyshire in August. In a farewell
visit to Market Rasen Methodists, he thanked them for their fine work in the
area.
The Lincoln,
Rutland and Stamford Mercury and Boston Guardian, 18 June 1952: DR
FARNDALE RETIRING. 20 YEARS’ WORK FOR METHODISM. Dr W E Farndale attended
for the last time the Sleaford Methodist Circuit meeting, which was held at
the Littlehale Chapel, the second oldest chapel in the circuit, on Wednesday. A
circuit steward, Councillor a Buttler, intimated that this would be the last
quarterly meeting Dr Farndale would be attending, as he was becoming a superannuary minister after serving the district as chairman
for 20 years. He had served them admirably and they had had happy
fellowship, Mr Buttler said. Another steward, Mr R Cooling, also paid tribute
to Dr Farndale who thanked the two circuit stewards for their kind words.
Lincolnshire
Echo, 19 June 1952: RURAL METHODISM. District missionary and Chairman
of the Lincoln and Grimsby District of the Methodist Church for the past 20
years, Dr W E Farndale spoke of the happy memories which he will
always retain of Lincolnshire when he paid a farewell visit to the
centenary church at Market Rasen. Dr Farndale, who is to leave Lincoln for
Cliff College, Derbyshire, in August, is planning to visit a number of
circuits during the next few months...
Lincolnshire
Echo, 16 August 1952: WESLEY CHAPEL, Sunday August 17th … .6 PM: Rev Dr
W E Farndale. Farewell service before leaving Lincoln.
The Cliff College (near Sheffield) Years
Lincolnshire
Echo, 21 August 1952:
ENDS
20 YEARS AS CHAIRMAN OF LINCS METHODISTS.
The Rev
Dr W E Farndale, of 10, Mainwaring Rd, Lincoln, chairman of the Lincoln and
Grimsby District of the Methodist Church for the past 20 years, is leaving
Lincoln on Monday to live in Derbyshire.
Dr
Farndale is a former president of the Methodist Conference and, for two
consecutive years, in 1948 and 1949, was elected Moderator of the National Free
Church Federal Council.
When,
in 1947, he was elected president of the Methodist Conference, Dr Farndale
attended a World Methodist conference at Springfield, Massachusetts, and
during that visit he preached in New York and elsewhere in the states.
Afterwards,
under the auspices of the United Church of Canada, he preached in Toronto, and the
honorary degree of Doctor of Divinity was conferred on him at Victoria
university, Toronto.
Freed
from district responsibilities, Dr Farndale will be engaged in other
activities, including lecturing at Cliff College and preaching.
He
continues his membership of several denominational committees including the
Connexional education committee.
The
conference recently held at Preston appointed him on the newly formed committee
on evangelism which is to direct a nationwide campaign during the coming year.
Dr
Farndale came to Lincolnshire in 1928 following a 10 year
ministry in Birkenhead. He was appointed chairman of the district in 1932, and
is the only district chairman to have continued in such a position
continuously from Methodist Union until the present day.
Since
1934 he has been a member of the Lindsey Education Committee, and
before that took a prominent part in preparing the first agreed religious
syllabus for the country.
Mrs
Farndale has taken an active part in the work of the Methodist Women's
Fellowship, the county and local branch of the British Women's Temperance
Association, and the District Women's Missionary work.
The Lincoln,
Rutland and Stamford Mercury, 29 August 1952: DR FARNDALE LEAVES LINCOLN. A
former President of the Methodist Conference, the Rev Dr W E Farndale, of
Mainwaring Road, Lincoln, who for the past 20 years has been the Chairman of
the Lincoln and Grimsby District of the Methodist Church, left Lincoln on
Monday to live in Derbyshire... Dr Farndale is to lecture at Cliff College.
Grantham
journal, 29 August 1952: DR FARNDALE LEAVES LINCS. One of the best
known figures in Methodism in Lincoln, the Rev Dr W E Farndale, chairman of
the Lincoln and Grimsby District for the past 20 years, left on Monday to
live in Derbyshire ... Freed from district responsibilities, Dr Farndale
will be engaged in other activities, including lecturing at Cliff College and
preaching.
The Louth
and North Lincolnshire Advertiser, 30 August 1952: LINCOLN MINISTER
LEAVES. A former president of the Methodist Conference, the Rev Dr W E
Farndale, of Mainwaring Road, Liincoln, well known in
Louth and district, who for the past 20 years has been the Chairman of the
Lincoln and Grimsby District of the Methodist Church, has left Lincoln to
live in Derbyshire...
Lincolnshire
Echo, 6 October 1952: Paying a return visit to Lincoln this weekend the
Rev Dr W E Farndale... When in the USA, for the World Methodist Conference he
conferred with bishops, ministers and leading layman of the Methodist Church in
Washington, Baltimore, Philadelphia and Chicago, where he had opportunities at
first hand contacts with Bishop McGee who organises the Crusade for Christ
which added a million members to the American Methodist Church...
Staffordshire
Sentinel, 17 October 1952: GREAT PILGIMAGE TO MOW COP. HUGH BOURNE
CENTENARY. Before the weathered commemorative stone on Mow Cop, with the castle
ruins dominating the scene, Methodists from many parts of Staffordshire and
Cheshire twice gathered at the weekend to provide the most impressive scenes in
the programme marking the centenary of the death of Hugh Bourne, chief
founder of the primitive Methodist Church.... Another speaker was Dr W E
Farndale, a former President of the Conference who unveiled to the Mow Cop
commemorative stone in 1948. He said that Hugh Bourne's camp meetings were
a reaffirmation of the right of the individual to worship, according to his
conscience. The camp meetings were also a vindication of the need for a
progressive church.
1953
Hull
Daily Mail, 3 March 1953: LAST TRIBUTES TO LOUTH DOYEN OF METHODISM.
Methodists from many parts of North Lincolnshire attended the funeral at Louth
Centenary Methodist Church of Mr William Edward Emery Pridmore... Dr W E Farndale, former president of
the Lincoln and Grimsby district...
The
Crewe chronicle, 21 March 1953: TRINITY METHODIST CHURCH TEA. Ministers and
congregation at the Trinity Methodist Church tea, held as part of the trust
anniversary celebrations last weekend. Afterwards a service was held presided
over by Mr R Brandon, of Buerton, at which the address was given by
Dr W E Farndale, of Cliff College.
Despite
the ‘Miss’, this must have been a reference to Florence (it could not have been
their daughter Enid as she was Mrs Cartwright by then). Derby
Daily Telegraph, 24 March 1953: NBWTA. By invitation of the Derby branch the
annual council and election meetings of the Derbyshire County Union were held
in the Temperance House, when 60 delegates from all over the county were
welcomed by... and Miss Farndale, Cliff College, Acting Vice President
…
Rugby
Advertiser, 24 April 1953: INSIDUOUS SPIRIT OF THE AGE. AN EVIL THE CHURCH
HAS TO FACE. METHODIST RALLY AT RUGBY.... The rally, which was held in the
afternoon and evening it the Marketplace Methodist Church, started with a service
conducted by Dr Farndale...
Birmingham
Daily Post, 13 July 1953: SOUTHLANDS COLLEGE FUND. A report on the progress
of a fund for the extension of Southlands College for women teachers was
given by the Rev W E Farndale, organising secretary of the fund.
The accommodation at this College in Wimbledon was originally for 150 students,
he said. There are now 250 students on the two year course. The college was so
popular that they were having to turn away as many students as they accepted.
Mr Farndale told the Birmingham post: “Since I came to this conference there
has been received from one layman a cheque for £500.
Lincolnshire
Echo, 13 August 1953: CROWDED MEETING. The daughters of the late Mr G W
Taylor, who bequeathed the site for the new premises, each laid a stone... the Rev
W E Farndale, former chairman of the district, now of Cliff College, was the
preacher...
The Northern
Daily Mail and South Durham Herald, 12 September 1953: THE
HARTLEPOOLS FREE CHURCH FEDERAL COUNCIL. Special visit of Rev Dr W E Farndale,
a former president of the Methodist Conference and Moderator of the National
Free Church Federal Council....
1954
The
reference to Mrs “J” is an error: Derby Daily Telegraph, 29 March
1954: DERBYSHIRE PROTEST AT TV DRINKS. Concern about the use of
intoxicating drinks in plays and features on television was expressed at
the annual council meeting of the Derbyshire County Union of the National
British Women's Total Abstinence Union, in the Baptist school, Charnwood
Street, Derby. Members were urged to write individually to the BBC protesting
about the matter. The new President, Mrs. J Farndale, Calver, who has
made 36 new members during the year, presented flowers to the retiring
president...
Derby
Daily Telegraph, 7 July 1954: WORLD OF WOMEN. National British Women's Total
Abstinence Union. Members from Derby and Little Eaton went to Buxton by bus for
the summer rally of the Derbyshire County Union. Mrs W Farndale, of Calver,
presided in the morning...
1955
The Ashbourne
Telegraph, 8 April 1955: BEULAN CHURCH CELEBRATES ITRS DIAMOND JUBILEE.
... At the civic service on Wednesday afternoon the vice chairman…. welcomed
the Rev W E Farndale...
Peterborough
Standard, 2 December 1955: COBDEN STREET ANNIVERSARY. Members of Cobden
Street Methodist Church celebrated their church anniversary at the weekend when
the special preacher was Dr W E Farndale, a past president of the Methodist
conference, who is now chairman of the Lincolnshire District of the Methodist
churches. The majority of Dr Farndale’s work has been confined to country
methodism and at a public meeting on Saturday at which the chairman was Mr P J
Sanders, Dr Farndale took as his
subject, “Churches in the villages”...
1956
Staffordshire
Sentinel, 8 March 1956: FORMER METHODIST PRESIDENT. The Rev W E
Farndale of Sheffield, a former president of the Methodist Conference, will
visit the Bourne Methodist Church, Longton, this weekend. He will speak at a
meeting on Saturday evening, and preach at the morning and evening services on
Sunday.
Lincolnshire
Echo, 10 September 1956: GOOD TEMPLARS AT RALLY. Delegates from
Nottingham, Lincoln, Bedford and local friends, gathered at Rippingale
on Saturday to celebrate the 8th anniversary of the local lodge, international
order of good templars. The proceedings opened with 80 in the village hall
followed by a Tea-table conference, at which the company was addressed by
the Rev W E Farndale, ex President of the
Methodist Conference, formerly of Lincoln.... The Rev Dr Farndale also preached
to a large congregation at Bourne Methodist Church and Rippingale
Chapel on Sunday.
1957
Derby
Daily Telegraph, 18 February 1957: Among 160 guests attending a
tea reception at the House of Commons for the National British Women's
Total Abstinence Union were three from Derbyshire... and Mrs W Farndale,
Calver...
Stapleford
& Sandiacre News, 23 February 1957: ONE
HUNDRED AND SEVENTY FIFTH ANNIVERSARY. NEW HEATING INSTALLED AT WESLEY CHAPEL.
The Rev Dr W E Farndale, of Cliff College, was welcomed to Wesley Place,
Stapleford, by the local Methodist minister …
Nottingham
Guardian, 13 July 1957: KEEP CHURCHES OPEN. ... A past president of the
Conference, Dr W A Farndale, of Sheffield, asked the conference to
approve a resolution “registering its concerned lest chapels in rural
areas be too readily declared redundant and asking the Commission on rural
methodism to investigate the problem and bring before next year's conference
practical advice on ways of preventing unnecessary condemnation of country
chapels.” Dr Farndale said that the problem of the closure of country
chapels was one illustration of the fact that a re
examination of ministerial staffing in rural circuits was long
overdue... Dr Farndale’s resolution was carried by an overwhelming majority...
Staffordshire
Sentinel, 21 November 1957: THE LESSON OF THE MOW COP MEETING. The history
and lesson of the famous Mow Cop camp meeting of 1807 are vividly put
forward by Dr E W farndale in “Mow Cop: after 150 years,” a handbook
published by the Epworth Press. Dr Farndale deals with Mow Cop itself, Hugh
Bourne, founder of the movement who held the camp meeting, the opposition to
the movement, and finally the spiritual significance of the meeting. He writes
“The prayers of the pioneers of the Mow Cop movement were strenuous in longing
and vehement in appropriating faith.” Dr Farndale asks “Do we not need to put
more than ever into active operation the force of concentrated, united and
believing prayer, accounting it in rank as of even higher supernatural, dynamic
efficacy than preaching vital as that is? Do not certain modern movements
underline this for us?” The handbook costs 9d.
1959
The Birmingham
Post & Birmingham Gazette, 1 October 1959: FRICTION ON EDUCATION
GRANTS EXPECTED. ... In a debate on educational policy, Dr W E Farndale of
Trowbridge, Wiltshire, former President of the Methodist Church, said that
of the recent government increase in building grants from 50 to 75%, “This
action seems likely to lead sooner or later to friction between the Government,
Anglicans, Roman Catholics and Free Churchman...
1960
Somerset
Guardian and Radstock Observer, 9 September 1960: METHODIST RALLY. …
1964
Florence
May Price, who died at Trowbridge age 86 (ie born in
or about 1878) in the third quarter of 1964.
1966
William
E Farndale, died age 84. Died at Trowbridge District 4 February 1966 (DR).
Willian died on 4 February 1966 at Waterhouse, Limpley
Stoke, Wiltshire.
Circuits
Hartley
1904
Forest Hill
1909
Oldham II
1913
Chester le Street
1918
Birkenhead II
1928
Grimsby II
1933
Lincoln District Missionary
1952
Cliff College (S)
William
Farndale DD, (1866-1966) was born at York and became a student at Hartley in
1902. He was a very able student who gained top marks in examinations. He
served in the following circuits: Forest Hill, Oldham II, Chester le St,
Birkenhead II, Grimsby II, and then from 1933 he was Lincoln District
Missionary and Chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby District. He was president
of Conference in 1947 and initiated the call of the countryside and a “back to
the soil” campaign. His administrative gifts were matched by his love for rural
methodism and the farming community. During his presidency he attended to the
Methodist Ecumenical Conference in Massachusetts and went as visiting preacher
to the United Church of Canada. In 1950 to 1951 he was Moderator of the Free
Church Council. On his retirement he became a tutor at Cliff College, where his
biblical scholarship assisted many students. Minutes of conference 1966, Leary,
primitive Methodist ministers.
Lincolnshire
Echo, 10 February 1966:
TRIBUTE
TO AN EXPERT IN RURAL METHODISM.
Memories
of the first Methodist District chairman to come to Lincoln following the
Methodist Union of 1932 have been stirred with the news of the death at the age
of 85 of doctor William Edward Farndale.
He
was chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby District from 1933 to 1952 and lived in
the same house, 10 Mainwaring Road, Lincoln, as the present chairman of the
Lincoln Methodist District, Rev G Thackray Eddie. The change in title followed
to the changing boundaries a few years ago.
Dr
Farndale was president of the Methodist Conference in 1947, and was a one time Moderator of the Free Church Federal Council. A
native of York, he entered the former Primitive Methodist ministry in 1904
and Lincolnshire Methodists remembered him well for his particular interest in
rural areas.
Even
on his retirement in 1952 he did not give up work, but joined the staff of
Cliff College, Sheffield.
This
is what a former vice president of the Methodist Conference, Mr Philip Race, of
Lincoln, had to say about him: “When Dr Farndale was appointed Chairman of the
Lincoln and Grimsby district in 1933, he was the district's first “separated”
chairman, that is a full time chairman without a pastoral charge in a circuit.
It was a controversial appointment for this reason, but during the following 19
years he abundantly justified the decision which had been made. His gift of
warm, personal friendliness was matched by a fine mind and very
high administrative ability. These gifts were employed with selfless
devotion in the development of methodism in Lincolnshire and the strong
district sense which grew during his ministry as chairman was largely his
personal achievement. He made himself expert in rural methodism and it
was the recognition of this in Methodism throughout the country which was
largely the reason for his election as President of the Methodist Conference in
1947. We Methodists in Lincolnshire are proud that he was made President, but
we remember him as a pastor and friend, and as chairman of the half yearly
synod he always made these proceedings alive and worthwhile.”
Another
tribute came from Rev Gilbert Wallace, now of Barton on Humber, who was in
Lincoln at West Parade Methodist Church under Dr Farndale’s chairmanship, “He
was chairman when I came to the district. I was immediately most impressed
with his personal interest in the ministers and the people of the district.
He continued his interest in the district and when I met him six or seven
years after he had left here he still asked after families by name. He was
an excellent organiser and administrator.”
Another
prominent layman in the district in Mr Farndale's time was Mr RW Hastings, now
living in Spalding. He told the Echo on hearing of the doctor's death, “His
appointment gave him full opportunity to display his gifts of leadership and
administration and the chance to tackle the difficult problems which arose
after union, the amalgamation of circuits and the reorganisation of Methodists
throughout the district. He was most interested in rural methodism and
did everything in his power both as Chairman of the District and later as
President of the Methodist Conference to further these interests. I think I
would like to add that he was a delightful man and it was always a
pleasure to be associated with him.”
Yet
another tribute came from Mr. James Fowler, a former president of the local
Preachers’ Mutual Aid Association and the President of its Lincoln district,
“He became district chairman in a district where the three former sections had
their strongholds. He brought them together in a true Christian fellowship.
He and I travelled together on many journeys up and down the country. He was
never known to say no to the smallest churches in the district and the way
he spent himself for rural methodism was recognised by the church at large when
he became President of the Methodist Conference. But the work in which I came
to know him best was in the service he gave to the local preachers of the
district. He made the first approach to the late Dean Mitchell over the local
preacher's first service in Lincoln Cathedral when the pulpit at the Cathedral
was open for the first time to a Methodist local preacher. Also, we remember
with gratitude the great interest he took year by year in the preachers weekend
fellowship at Skegness which, under his guidance, was a source of inspiration
to local preachers from all over the Lincoln and Grimsby district. He honoured
the LPMA when he became President of the Methodist Conference by becoming an
honorary member of the association.”
Lincolnshire
Echo, 4 February 1966: EX LINCS MINISTER DIES, 85. Dr W E Farndale,
former chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby District of the Methodist Church
from 1932 to 1952, died today at his home in Bath, Somerset. He was 85. A
former President of the Methodist Conference and a one time
Moderator of the Free Church Council, he entered the ministry in 1904. Dr
Farndale took a particular interest in Methodist work in rural areas. He
retired from active work in 1952, but for a time served on the tutorial staff
at Cliff College, Sheffield.
Evening
Post and News, 4 February 1966: METHODIST VETERAN. Dr William Edward Farndale,
85, a former President of the Methodist Conference, and one time Moderator of
the of the Free Church Federal Council, died at his home in Bath today.
A native of York, he entered the former Primitive Methodist ministry in 1904.
For many years he was Chairman at the Lincoln and Grimsby Circuit and took a
particular interest in Methodist work in rural areas. He retired from active
work in 1952, but for a time served on the tutorial staff of Cliff College,
Sheffield.
From
the Brandon Sun (Brandon, Manitoba, Canada) – the same obituary
appeared in the Anniston Star (Alabama) under
the heading “Church Leader Dies” and in
the Cumberland News (Cumberland, Maryland) and in the
Derrick (Oil City, Pennsylvania) and in the Express News (San
Antonio, Texas) and a large number of other newspapers:
Dr William E Farndale. Bath,
England (AP). Doctor William E Farndale, 85, former president of the Methodist
Council and Moderator of the Protestant Free Church Council, died Friday.
DR FARNDALE DIES; METHODIST CHURCHMAN. Both, England.
Doctor William E fondle, former president of the Methodist council and one time
moderator of the Protestant free church council, died Friday. He was 85.
Probate:
FARNDALE William Edward of 11 Springfield Park Trowbridge Wiltshire died 4
February 1966 at Waterhouse Limpley Stoke Wiltshire
Probate Winchester 7 March to William Arthur James Farndale lecturer. £7436.
Publications
FARNDALE,
William E., The Secret of Mow Cop: A New Appraisal of the Origins of
Primitive Methodism,-WHS Lecture No. 16 (1950)
Mow
Cop After One Hundred and Fifty Years (1957)
The
Secret of Mow Cop: A New Appraisal of the Origins of Primitive Methodism is a
book written by three authors: Ernest Benson Perkins, Griffith T. Roberts, and
William Edward Farndale. The book was published in 1950 by the Epworth Press
and is based on the Wesley Historical Society lecture delivered by Farndale in
1949. The book explores the historical and theological background of the
Primitive Methodist movement, which emerged from a camp meeting held at Mow
Cop, a hill in Staffordshire, England, on 31 May 1807. The book also examines
the role of Hugh Bourne and William Clowes, the two founders of Primitive
Methodism, and their relationship with John Wesley, the founder of Methodism.
The book is considered a valuable contribution to the study of Methodism and
its origins.
Bibliographic
information
The
Secret of Mow Cop. A new appraisal of the origins of Primitive Methodism
(Wesley Historical Society Lectures. no. 16.)
|
Title |
The Secret of Mow Cop: A New
Appraisal of the Origins of Primitive Methodism, Issues 16-18 |
|
Authors |
Ernest Benson
Perkins, Griffith T.
Roberts, William Edward
Farndale |
|
Publisher |
Epworth Press, 1950 |
|
Length |
87 pages
|
Author:
W E Farndale (William Edward), 1881-
Print
Book [1956]
London,
Epworth Press [1956]
An
anthology of religious poetry -- A book of sacred song -- A book of prayers --
A pagan pattern purified -- Characteristics of the Psalms: Migration and
festival -- Jubilation -- National lamentation -- Imprecatory Psalms -- How
magic incantations were met -- Yearning for eternal life -- Coronation --
Psalms in relation to Jesus and his followers: Jesus used the Psalms -- He held
the Psalter to be inspired -- Some Psalms he superseded -- He saw in the Psalms
revelations that must be fulfulled -- He substituted
for symbols of coronation his tokens of dominion -- He hallowed the Psalter by
his deepest redeeming sorrow and his highest filial trust -- He turned sighs
for heaven into assurances of life everlasting -- This book of Psalms has
inspired Christ's followers to noblest worship, testimony, and song -- Further
reading -- Index to Psalms referred to.
Sun-lit
years : a series of devotional studies and a treasury of moral and spiritual
encouragement for the elderly by the Reverend William Edward
Farndale and contributors ; edited by his son and daughter [James Farndale and
Enid Cartwright].
Author:
William Edward Farndale
Print
Book 1968
Beckenham
: White's, 1968.
Mow
Cop after 150 years : its spiritual significance
Author:
W E Farndale (William Edward), 1881-
Print
Book 1957
London
: Epworth Press, 1957.
References:
Primitive Methodist Magazine 1932/394 - Methodist Minutes 1966/205 - R Newman
Wycherley, The Pageantry of Methodist Union, 1932, p341 - W Leary, Directory of
Primitive Methodist Ministers and their Circuits, 1990 - Census Returns and Births, Marriages &
Deaths Registers
Part
Author of above: Geoff Dickinson, 28/11/2019
Spalding
Guardian, 18 October 1968: BOOK BY A METHODIST. Many Methodists in this area
will recall the late Rev Dr William Edward Farndale, president of the Methodist
conference in 1947 and a Moderator of the National Free Church Federal Council.
Now Whites, publishers, of 203 Croydon Road, Beckenham, Kent, have produced a
book mainly written by and also about Dr Farndale. Some of his final
manuscripts have been edited by his son and daughter. Called “Sunlit
years” it is available direct from the publishers, price 10s 6d.
Lincolnshire
Echo, 24 October 1968: BOOK TO INTEREST THOSE WHO KNEW LINCS
METHODIST. Chairman of Lincoln Methodist
district for more than 20 years, the Rev Dr William Edward Farndale was well
known in the county and those who knew him will be interested in a recently
published book, “Sunlit years”. The book is written by and about the
late Dr Farndale, who died in 1966. It consists of some of his final
manuscripts, edited by his son and daughter, but also includes an
interesting religious broadcast talk, given by a country doctor on a very
similar theme, the elderly. At the time of writing his contribution to the
book, Dr Farndale was over 80 years old. The book should prove a challenge
to many other octogenarians. He explains how he dealt with the tremendous
problem of advancing years and failing health, with the help of the Bible. Dr
Farndale became chairman of the Lincoln district in 1933. In those earlier
years, following Methodist Union, the few chairmen who were separated from the
circuit work were known as district missionaries.