Rev Dr William Edward Farndale DD

24 September 1881 to 4 February 1966

The influential Primitive Methodist who became President of the Methodist Church and Moderator of the Free Church Council shortly after the Second World War

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Rev Dr 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 Forest Hill (London), Oldham II, Chester-le-Street, Birkenhead Il and Grimsby II Circuits. In 1933 after the union of the Methodist Church with the Primitive Methodists, he was appointed District Missionary and Chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby District, and remained in that role for nineteen years. As President of the Conference in 1947 he sounded the Call of the Countryside and launched a Back to the Soil campaign. His authoritative leadership and administrative gifts were matched by pastoral care and a love for country Methodism and the farming community.

York

William Edward Farndale, son of William and Mary Jane (nee Peacock) Farndale, of 25, Newbiggin Street, York was born on 24 September 1881. His father was a railway goods porter and a town missionary

Macclesfield

By 1891, William was at school, aged 9, living with his town missionary father, William, his mother Mary Jane, and siblings Joseph and Ellen, at 59 New Hall Street, Macclesfield, south of Manchester.

By 1901, aged 19, William was living with his parents at 18 Cavendish Road, Chorlton, Withington, Lancashire, where he had started working as a clerk. His early life was spent 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.

Hartley College, Manchester in about 1894

South London

In September 1904 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. The following gentleman addressed the meeting, W E Farndale. In December 1904, 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. In November 1905 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 added their testimonies, and a vote of thanks to all who had helped in the celebration of the event.

At the Primitive Methodist Conference in 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.

In 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 and 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.

In April 1907 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).

In June 1908 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, third year, W E Farndale, who secured 92%.

Tragically in 1909, William Edward Farndale’s father, William, by then a grocer and active town missionary, committed suicide. 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. He may have moved back to Oldham to be closer to his mother whop continued to live south of Manchester with Ellen and Joseph.

Oldham

William Edward Farndale married Florence May Price (1877-1964) in the spring of 1910 at Sydenham, London (Lewisham District) (MR). They had two children.

In July 1910 there were 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.

In 1911 William, aged 29, was a Primitive Methodist Minister, who lived with Florence, aged 33, at 19 Woodstock Street, Oldham.

Enid Florence Farndale (1912-1973) was born in Oldham on 17 February 1912.

In April 1912, 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.

Chester le Street

In March 1913 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.

In May 1913 “The obligations of the citizens to the church” was the topic introduced and addresses on the same topic were also given by the Rev W E Farndale, Oldham. In September 1913 the members of the Primitive Methodist Chapel, Pelton Fell, held their anniversary during the weekend. Proceedings commenced with a public meeting on Saturday. 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.

In December 1913 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. 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. 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. In April 1914, 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. Birtley is just north of Chester le Street.

In April 1914 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.”

By 1914 Florence Farndale, William’s wife, was president of the North Eastern Federation of Suffragettes. On 23 March 1914 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.

In April 1914, in asking 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.

In June 1914 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.

In the same month, the Secretary of the Birtley Brotherhood Bible 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.

Wartime

World War 1 broke out on 28 July 1914.

In October 1914 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.

At Christmas 1914 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.

Also at Christmas 1914, 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.

At New Year 1915 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.

On 8 January 1915, it was declared 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 eternally 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.

In January 1915 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.

In March 1915 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.

In August 1915 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.

William and Florence’s son, William Arthur James Farndale (1916-2004)was born on 24 January 1916.

Florence, William’s wife, continued to be involved in women’s’ suffrage and related issues.

In March 1916 the National Union of Women’s Suffrage Societies received a cable 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. The donors included Mrs Florence Farndale, 2s 6d. The total collected was £3,108 6s 10d.

The younger brother of Florence Farndale, William’s wife, Lieutenant Graham Price, was a World War One pilot of the Royal Army Flying Corps, killed in action, in a duel with a German aeroplane at 8,000 feet. He had written a letter to his parents shortly before he died, If anything happens to me do not grieve, but feel thankful that you had a son to give to the country. In another letter he had written I would not have been without my experiences for anything in the world, Au Revoir. His commanding officer wrote This letter is in confirmation of the telegram of yesterday’s date notifying you of your son’s death. It happened in a flight in which he was observing for one of our batteries over enemy lines. His machine was attacked by a German aeroplane and after fighting for fifteen minutes at a height of 8,000 feet, your son received a direct hit in the heart and was killed immediately. It was a wonderfully plucky fight against heavy odds, and although the result was fatal for him, I know that this was the end that he would have chosen for himself, to die fighting, hot headed, in a great fight in the greatest of all causes. He was a very fearless and gallant officer, so dead keen on his work and so thoroughly efficient. I feel that his loss is irreplaceable. The Chaplain had written Your son put up a most glorious fight, and has sacrificed himself for his country and friends. Greater love hath no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.

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.

In March 1916 Private Joseph Barton, 8th DLI who went out to Flanders with the 8th DLI in April last 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.

In July 1916 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 were 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 and others.

In the same month 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.

In January 1917 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. Mrs W A Farndale played the piano A public meeting was held in the evening. Mrs Farndale presided.

In March 1917 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.

In March 1917 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.

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.

In July 1917 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.

In February 1918 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.

In May 1918 there was an appeal. 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.

In June 1918 there was a report on Rev W E Farndale’s Successful Ministry.

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.

In July 1918 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. 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.

The Birkenhead Years

And so the family moved to Birkenhead, across the River Mersey from Liverpool.

William’s ministry at Birkenhead during the decade following the end of the First World War was a period of incisive preaching both within the churches and in the open air, as a counter to post-war disillusion and, later, to the demoralising effects of unemployment.

In 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.

In 1919 he preached on Basal Beliefs and the Benediction as Bestowal. At a 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.

In 1920 he spoke on the courage of Christ, the Future life in Modern Thought, the Scars of the Saviour, the Faith of the Pilgrim Fathers and the Venture of the “Mayflower”.

In 1921 he 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.

In 1921, William Edward Farndale, 39, a Primitive Methodist Minister was living with Florence May Farndale, 41; Enid Florence Farndale, 9, born Oldham Lancashire, in full time education; and William Arthur James Farndale, 5.

In May 1921 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.

He preached regularly between 1921 and 1928 at Birkenhead.

The Grimsby Years

Then in 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. 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.

In June 1928 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.

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 recrudesce 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 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.”

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.

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?

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!

Meantime his ministerial work went on and in September 1928 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.

In December 1928 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.

In the same month 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.

Also in December 1928, 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.

In the same month there was an enthusiastic temperance demonstration was held on Monday afternoon at the Ebenezer church. 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.

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.

The coming of age of this church was celebrated on New Year's Day 1929 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.

At the Ladies Missionary Auxiliary in January 1929 “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.

In February 1929, one 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.

In 1929 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.”

In June 1929 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.

In October 1929 large and appreciative congregations assembled on Sunday at the Ebenezer Primitive Methodist Church where divine worship was conducted. 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”.

In November 1929 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.

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.

In December 1929 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.

At Christmas December 1929 at the Ebenezer Church the Rev W E Farndale conducted a Christmas Carol service.

In January 1930 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.

In October 1930 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.

In January 1931 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 and others as secretaries.

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.

In a call to youth in February 1931 the Rev W E Farndale, Minister of Ebenezer Primitive Methodist Church, Honorary Secretary of the Grimsby Free Church Council, appealed 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?

In August 1932 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.

In October 1932, “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.”

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.”

The annual New Year Gathering in January 1933 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.

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.

In 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. 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.

In May 1933 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.

The Lincoln Years

In August 1934, the Rev W E Farndale, chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby district of the Methodist Church, had 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.

An exclusive “standard” photograph in October 1934 of the scene at the opening of the new Zion Methodist Church Brothertoft Road, Boston. 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)

In December 1934 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.

In July 1935 at the Methodist Conference 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.

In March 1936 in a debate about the 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.

In July 1936 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.”

In January 1937 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 conscientious the preacher, the more he might feel the difficulty.

In July 1937 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.

In December 1937 there was a very lengthy article on religious teaching in senior schools when the Rev W E Farndale headed a delegation on the subject.

In February 1939 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.

In February 1939 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.

Chief officers at the Lincoln and Grimsby District Methodist Synod, in September 1939, 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.

Wartime returns

War problems were discussed at the September 1939 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.

In October 1939 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.”

In 1939 William, a Methodist minister and chairman of district, was living with Florence at 10 Mainwaring Road, Lincoln.

In November 1939, 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.

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.

In December 1939 the 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.

In March 1940 Mrs W E Farndale, of Lincoln, was 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.

In August 1940, 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.

In November 1940 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.

In February 1941 another point put forward by Mr Farndale was that wine selling was a luxury trade and it should not be encouraged in wartime.

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.

In connection with the Lincoln branch of the National British Women's Total Abstinence Union in June 1941, a successful garden meeting was held on Wednesday afternoon at the home of the Rev and Mrs W Farndale.

A Remembrance Day service was conducted on Sunday morning in November 1941 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.

In January 1944 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.

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.

In August 1944 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.

“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 in January 1945 at West parade Methodist Church.

In July 1945 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.”

Post War

New Year messages for 1946 have been received from church leaders in Lincoln. The Rev W E Farndale, chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby Methodist District asked 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.

In July 1946 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.

In September 1946 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.

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.

In December 1946 the Rev W E Farndale, of Lincoln, President-Elect of the Methodist conference, wrote 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

In January 1947 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.

On 17 January 1947 Mrs Farndale, 10, Mainwaring Road, Lincoln advertised for a lady social worker, total abstainer, for organising work in Lincolnshire and Leicestershire.

President of the Methodist Church

In July 1947 the 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.

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.

A new forward movement in Methodist Church, to evangelise and Christianise Rural England was launched by the Church’s President, the Rev William Farndale at the Methodist Conference at Newcastle on Tyne.

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.

William E Farndale travelled from Southampton to New York in 1947, aged 70.

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.

In September 1947, ' 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.

On his visit to the United States, Rev Dr William E. Pres of Methodist Church in England says religious situation in Soviet influenced eastern Europe good.

Rev W E Farndale became an honorary doctor at the University of Toronto in 1947. In October 1947 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.

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.

This picture was taken when the president of the Methodist conference visited

In January 1948 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.

“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 in January 1948. 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.

The President of the Methodist conference, the Rev Dr W E Farndale, addressing Methodists of Banbury and other adjoining circuits at Marlborough Church in February 1948, 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'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.

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 in March 1948 among his fellow Methodists.

When Dr W E Farndale, the President of the Methodist Conference, told Methodists in Bingham and District in April 1948 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.

In May 1948 there was a ceremony for the unveiling of Mow Cop Memorial by the 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.

Dr W E Farndale, President of the Methodist Conference, has issued a request to all who preaching the Methodist Churches of Britain in May 1948, 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.”

In June 1948 William addressed the Methodist Conference at 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.

Already all tickets for the public have been exhausted for the inaugural conference session in July 1948 when Dr W E Farndale will hand over John Wesley's Bible, symbol of the Presidency, to Rev E Benson Perkins.

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.

Moderator of the Free Church Council

Methodist harvest festival was held in October 1948, 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.

At Skegness in December 1948 in an address relating to the spread of communist ideas, 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.

In January 1949, 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 were supported by Rev W E Farndale.

At the civic reception for the United Methodist Rally in January 1949, 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

In March 1949, 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.

On 12 May 1949, 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.

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.

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.

The 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. 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.

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.

In May 1949 the Mayor of Lincoln, Councillor J W Lawson was 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.

Addressing a large congregation in Hart Road Methodist Church, West 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.

In September 1949 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.

Dr W Farndale, the Moderator of the Free Church National Federal Council, speaking in at a district rally of Free Churches in Plymouth in November 1949, 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.

In 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.

The Secret of Mow Cop: A New Appraisal of the Origins of Primitive Methodism was a 1950 lecture by W. E. Farndale that summarised his appraisal of the origins of Primitive Methodism. The lecture was given at the Wesley Historical Society and published by Epworth Press in London. In the lecture, William Farndale concluded that the secret of Mow Cop and the success of the Primitive Methodist movement was corporate prayer. He believed that prayer in faith to a God who intervenes on behalf of his people was an essential element of the movement's ethos. Mow Cop is a special place for Primitive Methodists because Hugh Bourne, the founder of the movement, organized a Camp Meeting there in 1807. The Camp Meeting was a day-long event where people could pray, sing, and hear preachers. The event was so successful that a four-day event was organized a few months later.

Later Years

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 in July 1950. The subject, “Secret of Mow Cop” deals with the beginning of the Primitive Methodist Church with which he was associated before Methodist union.

In July 1950 the tremendous value of prayer in the life and work of the church was emphasised by Dr William E Farndale.

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.

In September 1950 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.” 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.

At a synod discussion on Communism in September 1950, Dr Farndale said that in the Russian zone of Berlin more new testaments were being printed than for some years, and the country that produced Tolstoy might yet produce the great evangelists.

At the start of the Korean War in 1950, United States troops have crossed the 38th parallel into North Korea and are advancing along the main highway to Pyongyang, the communist capital. 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.”

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.”

There was more controversy over Catholic plans in November 1950. 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”. 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.”

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.

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.

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 in November 1950. 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.

Dr W E Farndale, 70 years old, new leader of the Christian Commando Campaign in Northampton.

For Dr W E Farndale, Chairman of the Lincoln and Grimsby Methodist District, who was on air in May 1951 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.

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 in July 1951. New committee members selected included Mrs W E Farndale, representing the Methodist Women's Fellowship.

News of a change in the leadership of the Northampton Christian Commando Campaign was announced in September 1951. 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.

Colin A. Roberts, Secretary of the Home Mission Department in 1939, was concerned about the shape post-war society would assume. In 1940 the Methodist Conference adopted a Forward Movement Report recommending plans for evangelistic work over a period, in co-operation with other Free Churches and the Church of England 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, including works canteens, cinemas, clubs, pubs, schools, and colleges. Their theme was New Men for a New World. Colin 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.

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 in February 1952, as announced on Saturday a memorial service will be held in Lincoln Cathedral at 3:30 pm on Friday. Afterwards 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.

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 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.

In March 1952 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.

In May 1952, 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.

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.

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.

In June 1952 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. 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.

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.

The Cliff College (near Sheffield) Years

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.

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.

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.

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 in October 1952 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.

Ministers and congregation at the Trinity Methodist Church tea, held as part of the trust anniversary celebrations in March 1953. 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.

In July 1953 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.

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 (sic) Farndale, Calver, who has made 36 new members during the year, presented flowers to the retiring president.

Members of Cobden Street Methodist Church celebrated their church anniversary in December 1955 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”.

In July 1957 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.

In November 1957 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.

In a debate on educational policy in October 1959, 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.

Florence May Price, died at Trowbridge, aged 86, in 1964.

William E Farndale, died on 4 February 1966 at Waterhouse, Limpley Stoke, Wiltshire.

Circuits

Hartley College

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.

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.”

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.

The Psalms in new light.

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.

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.

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The webpage of William Edward Farndale includes a full chronology of his life and research notes.