DARLINGTON, John Michael - 1962

Born at Falmouth in 1891.

A son of the manse, he was educated at Kingswood School and trained at Richmond College.

Called out from college in his final year to supply at Wolverhampton he went from there to Birmingham.

Then came six years in Calcutta, after which he returned to work in England, serving in Ilfracombe, Birmingham, Bristol, Lincoln, Hull, Ilford and London.

His term in India intensified an enthusiasm for Overseas Missions and he served several times as District Secretary.

He had a wide range of interests including a love of sport, especially cricket.

As a preacher and pastor he set for himself and for others the highest standards of ministerial competence and integrity.

As a superintendent he did his work with an easy grace, always inspiring confidence in his fortunate colleagues, and showing himself as a true father in God to his people.

Everybody loved him, young people especially, perhaps because he was so youthful himself in bearing and outlook, for mature and wise as he was, he managed to reach his three score years and ten without ever becoming old.

He was indeed the truly Christian gentleman, kindly, courteous, thoughtful for others and always self effacing. Many give thanks to God for this friendly man who fulfilled his ministry with such charm and good humour.

During his last illness he showed a depth of quiet courage and sure trust ; he was a great soul and never greater than when he knew his days were numbered.

He died on 22 January 1962 in the seventy-ninth year of his age and the forty-sixth of his ministry.

©Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes 1962