Henham, Elsenham, & Ugley Churches

Dick Farr

I was brought up in a church-going home. We went first to Stratford parish church and then to Holy Trinity Claygate. Sunday school, a Saturday bible club and then Bible Class were regularly attended.

During my Bible Class years the teacher explained Jesus' death by using two figures and a cross. He told us that one figure represented us, and that we all deserved to die on the cross because we had sinned - that is rebelled against God, been selfish - but Jesus, the other figure, took out place and our punishment. By putting our trust in Him we could enjoy forgiveness and new life, and look forward with certainty to heaven.

I was fortunate to attend a school where the christian presence was both strong and credible. Christian union meetings, houseparties and summer camps all helped to keep me going. There were mnany times when, just to make sure, I prayed a prayer of commitment to be found in the back of an excellent booklet, Journey into Life. At the start of my first year in the 6th form a couple who had recently moved to Claygate started a bible study in their home for teenagers. This group and their patience and teaching came at just the right time for me before heading off for Exeter University.

By that time I had been brought to the conclusion that the only thing I could do with my life was offer for Anglican ministry. In my second year at Exeter I attended a selection conference and was recommended for training.

Before going to train at Ridley Hall in Cambridge, I married Diana, a friend from the Claygate youth group. During our final Christmas holiday whilst at theological college, as we prepared to go to Cockfosters for my first curacy, Diana was killed in a road accident. The certainty that God keeps His promise to those who believe, and the companionship of christian friends, were invaluable at this time. That time, maybe above all other times, demonstrated to me God's faithfulness and His ability to more than meet any needs we may have in whatever circumstances we may encounter.

Last updated 20^th May, 2003