The Life And Ministry Of Harold Emanuel Griffiths Part 8 1956

If this is the first post you are reading about Harold Griffiths, or if you want to remind yourself about his life and ministry up to and through World War 2, then please take the time to read these older blogs. Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, Part 6, and Part 7
An earlier post also provides a music sheet for hymn music he re wrote and published.

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I've found no information about Harold between 1953 and 55. In 1956 more articles again crop up in the Redemption Tidings Magazine.

March provides a simple, short change of address.(1)

He now resides at 12, Newleigh Street, Milton, Stoke-on-Trent. A quick search on Google reveals a very short road between two other streets. There are a couple of bungalows present, but no number 12.

The month of April(2) gives even more information, and a photograph, of he and his wife.

Harold and Anne Griffiths are in the center.

It reads:

"Milton (Stoke-on-Trent). The 25th Anniversary Services of H.E. Griffiths at the Bethel Temple Assembly commenced on Saturday, February 11th, with a "dual reception", as it coincided with a farewell Tea to a member and his family who are leaving for Australia. The N.W.M.D., of which Brother Griffiths is Chairman, was well represented including J.Webb (Vice-Chairman), W.C. Scott (Treasurer). Testimony was given to the splendid services and sacrificial labourers rendered by Brother Griffiths and his family, not only in Milton but throughout the entire District. There were grateful tributes of many saved, healed and baptized in the Spirit under the pastor's Pentecostal Ministry. Brother and Sister Griffiths thanked loyal members and friends for gifts which included a cheque for £25 .

Councillor Seater who deputised for the local M.P. made mention in his speech of the fine Christian character of Brother and Sister Newshome. They also received presentations and "bon voyage" from a large company of well-wishers.

The grand tea ended with praise for the past and prayers for the future. E.E.H."

This small piece in September(3) is another reminder of the North West Midlands District Council for the A.O.G. Harold is still Chairman. An R. Griffiths is mentioned. At first it might have been Harold's brother Rhys, but Rhys lived in Blackwood. It is possible that it may be another family member I am unaware of at this time.


The last article(4) I found in 1956 concerning Harold, is about his brother who passed away in September 1956. Harold was by his side as he died. I would like to just note that the picture at the top of this clipping goes with the article on the right. I only just realised that Harold is also in that photograph, being the man on the front right. I am not as familiar with how Annie looked, but I am fairly positive she may be the lady sat next to him.

Here I will transcribe the article on the left. I will do so again when I blog directly about Rhys Griffiths, but that will be some time in the future.

"Home Call of Rhys Griffiths

With much regret we would inform the readers of the Redemption Tidings of the Home Call of Brother Rhys Griffiths, of Blackwood. After a long and very painful illness, our brother passed into the presence of the Lord on Sunday, September 23rd, 1956, with him at the time of his death were Pastors. Harold Griffiths and Bryn Jones.

We would like to pay tribute to our Brother's very faithful service in ministry, and in the affairs of the District Council, always very cheerful and happy, he was a source of inspiration and blessing to all with whom he came into contact.

He will be most remembered for his long and devoted service to the Blackwood Assembly, which he himself established. The funeral took place on Wednesday, September 26th, and was conducted jointly by Pastors A.L. Jenkins, E.C, member and Bryn Jones, of Cwmfelinfach. There was a goodly number of ministering brethren, both of our fellowship and other denominations, present at the service in Blackwood Assembly, and many tributes were paid of our Brother's activity for the Lord.

We would commend our sister Mrs. Griffiths to your prayers before the Lord, that He might sustain and comfort her during these days of sorrow and trial.

F.O.J (D.C. Secretary)."

As of this date, I do not know the name of Rhy's wife. Redemption Tidings don't always mention the first names of individuals, and I haven't traced their marriage certificate yet, though I am sure I shall do so in the future.

The second article, to the right of the notice of death, is about a special event that occurred in the North West Midlands District. Since Harold was Chairman, he no doubt helped to organize it, although he is not specifically mentioned in the write up.

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(1) Redemption Tidings Magazine March 1956, Volume 32
(2) Redemption Tidings Magazine April 1956, Volume 32
(3) Redemption Tidings Magazine, Sept 1956, Volume 32
(4) Redemption Tidings Magazine, Nov 1956, Volume 32