The Life And Ministry Of Harold Emanuel Griffiths Part 13 - A Tribute

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, Part 7, Part 8, Part 9, Part 10, Part 11 and Part 12.
An earlier post also provides a music sheet for hymn music he re-wrote and published.

*****
Harold passed away towards the end of 1967. In 1968 tributes appear in the Redemption Tidings Magazine.

Obituary in January Copy of Redemption Tidings, VOL 44, 1968

"Obituary

Harold Griffiths WITH THE LORD

Brother Harold Griffiths passed away on Thursday December 7, after a short illness. He was 73 years of age. The funeral service was held in Community Hall next door to his bungalow, at Abbey Hulton, Stoke-on-Trent. The hall was filled to capacity.

Many ministers were present from the District Assemblies, also Brother Whitehouse of the South Midlands. Two Elim ministers were present; also an officer of the Salvation Army.

There were numerous floral tributes mostly in sprays - Brother Griffiths had expressed a wish that the flowers would be given to hospitals and shut-ins. Brother Charles Harthern officiated, supported by other ministers. Mrs. Griffiths and family had great grace and appreciated the note of victory evidenced throughout the service. The fine company sang "The Lord is my Shepherd," to the tune of Crimond as though they were a trained choir.

Brother B.Dixon, District Secretary, led the meeting in prayer, and was followed by the reading of Psalm 90 by Brother E. Howes, Tunstall. The meeting was rising to a Convention atmosphere as everyone sang so fervently, "What a Fellowship." Sister Margaret Donaldson Currie, who was closely associated in the ministry with Brother Griffiths in his pioneer days, recalled other names of persons who shared the enthusiasm and sacrifices with him in those early days. Sister Currie also ministered at the piano. Brother Webb, District Chairman, also referred to those early days when he shared fellowship with Brother Griffiths, in the Crosskeys and District area.

Another highlight of this beautiful service was when the ministers sang, "The Last Mile of the Way." Brother Harthern has been on the sick list but he rallied his strength and brought the meeting a timely and appropriate message. The meeting closed with the chorus, "I Fell in Love with the Nazarene." The weather was dark and dismal with slushy snow under feet, but a fine crowd gathered at the graveside and sang, "There's a Land that is Fairer than Day." Brothers Harthern, Howes and Whitehouse ministered at the graveside.

Bert Dixon, District Secretary"

I want to unpack this obituary a little more. 

Firstly, the Psalm in question reads as follows:

Lord, you have been our dwelling place
throughout all generations.
2 Before the mountains were born
or you brought forth the whole world,
from everlasting to everlasting you are God.

3 You turn people back to dust,
saying, “Return to dust, you mortals.”
4 A thousand years in your sight
are like a day that has just gone by,
or like a watch in the night.
5 Yet you sweep people away in the sleep of death—
they are like the new grass of the morning:
6 In the morning it springs up new,
but by evening it is dry and withered.

7 We are consumed by your anger
and terrified by your indignation.
8 You have set our iniquities before you,
our secret sins in the light of your presence.
9 All our days pass away under your wrath;
we finish our years with a moan.
10 Our days may come to seventy years,
or eighty, if our strength endures;
yet the best of them are but trouble and sorrow,
for they quickly pass, and we fly away.
11 If only we knew the power of your anger!
Your wrath is as great as the fear that is your due.
12 Teach us to number our days,
that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

13 Relent, Lord! How long will it be?
Have compassion on your servants.
14 Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love,
that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.
15 Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us,
for as many years as we have seen trouble.
16 May your deeds be shown to your servants,
your splendor to their children.

17 May the favor[a] of the Lord our God rest on us;
establish the work of our hands for us—
yes, establish the work of our hands.
Secondly, Brother Webb provides his own short tribute to Harold in the Redemption Tidings which I provide here:

Statement in January Copy of Redemption Tidings, VOL 44, 1968

"A TRIBUTE TO H.E. GRIFFITHS
From the first time that I met our late Brother Harold Griffiths, about 1928, until the end of his earthly pilgrimage, I knew him as one with a great passion for souls. His evangelistic fervour, his piano playing, and his singing, were directed to winning men and women to Christ.
We in the North East Midland District will miss his zeal for the Kingdom of God, his counsel and his bright fellowship. He certainly loved his Lord, and his Lord's work.

J.G. Webb, Chairman of the N.W. Mids. District Council." 

Thirdly, at the time of writing, I have not unpacked the hymns listed in this obituary, but I will be doing so here. The one exception is "I fell in love with the Nazarene" to which Harold penned his own music. 

Fourthly, the Crosskeys district mentioned by Brother Webb also happens to be where my paternal grandfather and grandmother's line first connected, with both sides of the family doing ministry in Crosskeys, Wales. This provided the connection which led to my grandparents Idris and Iris pursuing a relationship later in the 1930's.

Another tribute lands in the February edition of Redemption Tidings. This is provided by Charles Harthern who also attended the funeral and is mentioned in the original piece.

Feb 1st 1968 Redemption Tidings, VOL 44

"TRIBUTE TO HAROLD GRIFFITHS
The West Midlands District has suffered a loss with the "home call" of Harold E. Griffiths. He was truly a Pentecostal Pioneer in the Reieval days in the Potteries. When many pastors denied a good part of the Pentecostal in-heritance, he held fast to the old ancient landmark. How well I remember on Whit-Sunday 1931, at the Milton 7am prayer meeting, I received my Pentecost, "As at the beginning." This was the turning point of my spiritual life. Many people walked nine miles to be at the early morning watch.
Like his master, he went "To the villages," in all weathers, on an old motor cycle. He was very much at home in the old fashioned cottage meetings at Leigh, Wetley Rocks, and many other places.
The Memorial Service was conducted by Pastor Ernest E. Howes, one of Harold's old boys. One lady accepted Christ as Saviour. The musical arrangement were ably handled by Mrs. M. Donaldson Currie. Both services were held in the Barratt Cmmunity Hall, Abbey Hulton, in accordance with Pastor Griffith's instructions. Mr. T. Harthern-Ashley was the steward for these meetings.
Mrs. A. Griffiths and family were delighted to have a letter of condolence from Pastor Edward Jeffreys, from Bournemouth. All flowers were taken to hospitals, shut-ins, and sick people. Another Pentecostal veteran has passed "Within the veil." 
Charles H. Harthern, On behalf of the N.W. Mids. D.C." 

Once again, there are a couple of items I want to address.

Firstly, the reference to many pastors denying a good part of the Pentecostal in-heritance is, I believe, with regards to a 1930's theological discussion within the Bethel church movement that was begun by Pastor Edward Jeffreys. Harold had helped Edward Jeffreys in an evangelistic campaign across the middle and north west of England.(1) I unpack this a little further in the footnote.

Secondly, the reference to cottage meetings is a church meeting that takes place in the home. We would probably call them home groups today, though they were often larger than what is associated with that term and still often followed the structure of a full worship service rather than a small group meeting. Another of my great grandfathers (Price Davies) writes about some of the cottage meetings in great detail, but that is another blog post.

Thirdly, Pastor Edward Jeffreys was quite famous and sometimes controversial in his day. Receiving a letter from him was no small feat and I know meant a lot to the family, particularly Anne.

In the 1968 Assemblies of God Conference, Harold was added to the deceased minister's list along with 5 others.(2)

I would just like to add my own thoughts before I finish this post.

I never knew Harold Griffiths. I don't even recall hearing talk of him when I was a child, though I am sure Dad probably mentioned him from time to time. When I first began to research his life I had no idea how much information I would find. During the course of this project, I feel like I came to know him quite personally. As a man of faith myself,  his passion for God is something I admire greatly. I have friends who attend churches that he pioneered in the 1930's. I have others that I have met simply because of pastors he put in place to lead churches. So, although I never knew Harold, my life, and that of my friends, has been touched by his work in more ways than just being a direct descendant. This is perhaps the biggest tribute I can give.

It will be strange now to focus on someone different, but I hope for as much success in researching my other ancestors as I have had in researching him.
______
(1) Harold believed that speaking in tongues was a necessary and initial sign that baptism of the Holy Spirit had taken place within a believers life. Edward Jeffreys and many other pastors from the Bethel movement he began, came to believe it was not. This led to a split from the Pentecostal movement, and is, I believe, what led to Harold re-joining the AOG and leaving Bethel in the mid 1930's. This theological difference of opinions has been well documented elsewhere but I don't see the need to unpack it any further in this blog post. 

(2) Redemption Tidings July 1968, VOL 44

The Life And Ministry Of Harold Emanuel Griffiths Part 12 - His Passing

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, Part 7, Part 8, Part 9, Part 10 and Part 11.
An earlier post also provides a music sheet for hymn music he re-wrote and published.
****

The first we read of Harold in 1967 occurs in July.

Harold Griffiths is the man in the middle of the picture at the very back.

The article(1) is about a new church opening in Prestatyn. Harold was one of the guest speakers they invited. The pertinent information about Harold is fairly simple:

"H. Griffiths retired pastor read Psalm 134."

Psalm 134 reads:

"Praise the Lord, all you servants of the Lord
who minister by night in the house of the Lord.

2 Lift up your hands in the sanctuary
and praise the Lord.

3 May the Lord bless you from Zion,
he who is the Maker of heaven and earth." (New International Version.) 

It's a fairly common Psalm to read at church dedications. Short and to the point, encouraging praise and Thanksgiving.

Before moving on, I will also point out that there was a telegram sent by D. Griffiths (Harold's son) from Umtali where he was working as a missionary.

Later in the year there's a simple thanks printed by Harold and his wife Anne.(2)

"Our elder brother, H.E. Griffiths, retired minister, wishes to thank all friends who have prayed for him and his dear wife through their time of illness. Both are now much stronger and praising God for His goodness."

It's the first sign that all was not fully well with the family. Despite them being better at the time of publishing their death is announced only a few months later. Before that announcement, there was one more found in the Redemption Tidings Magazines.(3)

It merely states he was one of the officiating ministers for the funeral of one Cecil Allen on October 6th 1967. This man died within the district that Harold was once Superintendent for. Doubtless, he knew him well. 

Little would he have known that only a month or so later he himself would pass away. (4)

"HAROLD GRIFFITHS WITH THE LORD

Verteran Minister Harold Griffiths died at his home in Stoke-on-Trent on December 7th, after a brief illness. He was 73 years of age. A well-known figure in Pentecostal circles in the Potteries, he was particularly prominent in the Edward Jeffreys revival in the early thirties as pianist and singer. He pioneered Milton Assembly and was its pastor for many years. Our sympathies are with Mrs. Griffiths and the family in their bereavement."

I have a couple of observations to make from this.

Firstly, as of the time of writing this blog I do not possess a death certificate for Harold Griffiths. It's on my list to apply for but right now this blog and the word of his daughter will have to do for attesting to the date of his passing.

Secondly, this has his age as 73, which would make his birth 1894. This confirms the 1911 census record and as far as I can figure out also confirms that the age is wrong on their marriage certificate, though I can't figure out why that would be the case. 

It's not until 1968 that we see tributes for Harold appearing in the Redemption Tidings magazine, but those are for part 13 of this series which will be a tribute to his life, and the final piece I write for now.

****
(1) Redemption Tidings Vol 43, July 1967
(2) Redemption Tidings Vol 43, Sept 1967
(3) Redemption Tidings Vol 43, Nov 1967
(4) Redemption Tidings Vol 43, Dec 1967

The Life And Ministry Of Harold Emanuel Griffiths Part 11

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, Part 7, Part 8, Part 9 and Part 10
An earlier post also provides a music sheet for hymn music he re-wrote and published.

*****

There's a few years silence about Harold in the Redemption Tidings magazine. Then, suddenly, in 1965 he turns up as full minister at a church in Newcastle under Lyme.(1)

I have a few thoughts on why there is a five-year gap here. I believe Harold stepped down from being a District leader for the Assemblies of God, and it might be likely that he either planted a new church at Newcastle-under-Lyme or was simply requested as pastor. I am positive this is still my great grandfather as further articles confirm it.

In the same year, he prays at a funeral for fellow pastor Harry Weston. I've included the full article about the funeral for a few reasons I will explain next.(2)

So why contribute this full article? 

Firstly, because it mentions Harold's association with the Assemblies in this district since its early days. 

Secondly, because this man was, like Harold, also a pastor who worked full time in the secular world, and noticeably the mining community. 

"For the last 20 years he was the canteen manager at the local colliery. He was also the Vice Chairmen of the North West Midland District Council."

Harold was not unique among the pioneers of the A.O.G. Church and the Pentecostal movement. Church planters and ministers of small community churches did not have the overhead to cover a salary. They worked for the church out of a sense of faith and passion.

I also have a photograph of Harold, Annie and their grandson Glyn Davies which was taken in 1965.

I don't know where this was taken, but it's quite a clear picture and I cherish it for that.

The following year there is a brief summary of a funeral which Harold conducted as minister at Newcastle under Lyme. (3)

It reads simply, "Frank Baker of Newcastle Assemby, Staffs, died on January 27th. He was well known throughout the Potteries for his faithful and unceasing labours for the Lord Jesus Christ. The funeral service on January 31st was conducted by the Pastor, H. E. Griffiths, assisted by K. Robinson (pastor of Hanley) and S. Dyson (Biddulph). Our sympathies are with his wife and family."  

The second and final article of 1966 has a simple, yet sad, absoluteness about it.(4)

"Brother H.E. Griffiths, owing to advancing years, has resigned from the Newcastle-under-Lyme assembly. Correspondence for the Assembly should now be sent Mr. G. Foddy, 35 Astro Grove, Longton, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs.

So 1966 was the year Harold officially resigned from being a full time minister of a church. I do not believe it an accident the he passed away the following year, but as my next blog post shall clearly state, there were still a few more things for him to do before he left this earth for a better place. 

*****
(1) Redemption Tidings Magazine Vol 41, August 1965
(2) Redemption Tidings Magazine Vol 41, December 1965(3) Redemption Tidings Magazine Vol 42, February 1966
(4) Redemption Tidings Magazine Vol 42, May 1966

The Life And Ministry Of Harold Emanuel Griffiths Part 9

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, Part 7 and Part 8.
An earlier post also provides a music sheet for hymn music he re wrote and published.

****

There are a few years now with little to say about Harold. I know that he continued with ministering and serving in the A.O.G. but have very few specifics.

An article in the Redemption Tidings Magazine of February 1959 provides a general history of the Pentecostal churches in Staffordshire and a brief outline of Harold's part to play in pioneering pentecostal churches there. I only have a pdf document for this article so I can provide no image here. One paragraph explains the North-West Midlands A.O.G District:

"The boundary points are, Macclesfield, Buxton, Uttoxeter, Longton, and Silverdale. Within this area lie ten more assemblies most of them clustered around Hanley. A number of these assemblies were pioneered or brought into Pentecostal blessing by local brethren. Brothers Charles H. Harthern and Harold Griffiths deserve mention in this respect, but one would love to mention others perhaps not so prominent but equally present in these ventures." 

Much of Harold's role in this early 1930's boom of churches has been mentioned in earlier blogs so I will not go into more detail again here.

March 1931 lists Harold as speaking at an Easter Convention in Prestatyn, Wales. (1)

In April we read a brief summary of how the conference was received. (2)

"The Word of God, anointed by the Holy Ghost, and ministered to us by Brothers E. Davies and H. Griffiths, searched out hearts, imparted zeal, and filled us with Joy. Jesus, the Christ of the Cross, uplifted in praise, drew us still closer to Himself."

Later that year Harold and Annie celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. This picture was taken. 

Back left to right: Anne, Ruth (Annie's daughter), Valerie, toddler Jean with mother Naomi. Ruth (Harold's daughter) with son Keith, Betty (Real name Rosemary) and David Griffiths.
Front left to right: Norman (Anne's husband), James Lawton (Naomi's husband), Arthur Elkes (Anne's husband), Harold and Annie, Jack (Real name Harold, behind his mother),  Gillian and Angela (David and Rosemary's children), Eric (Jack's son),
Very Front: Joy is the child on the left, Rhys is the child on the right.

It's difficult sometimes to get everyone's names right but I think I managed it with this one thanks to help from Harold's daughter Ruth. Iris is noticeably missing, due to living in Africa at the time.

In 1962 we see Harold commissioning a new minister in Leek

Harold is again listed as having "worked so sacrificially in the early days at Leek,". It was he who was chosen to pray for the minister as the services closed. (3)

I will finish this post with one last extended family photograph. This was taken by Roy, Ruth's husband, shortly before her brother David and his family left for Africa. (They worked fairly close to Iris and Idris.)

Taken in Basford where David Griffiths was the minister.
Back row: James Lawton (Naomi's husband), Naomi holding Julia who is David's daughter, Jack (Harold Jr), David, Ruth, Harold and Annie, Annie (Daughter) with her daughter Joy,
Front: Angela (David's daughter), Jean and Keith (Ruth's children),  Gillian (David's daughter), Betty (Rosemary), David.

*****

(1) Redemption Tidings March 1961, Volume 37

(2) Redemption Tidings April 1961, Volume 37
(3) Redemption Tidings November 1962, Volume 38

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.

****

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.

*****
(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

The Grandparents I Never Knew: Addendum 1

As I worked through the history and stories of Idris and Iris chronologically I  was loath to interrupt it when I found information that slotted into a past post rather than where I was at. I decided to put all the new information I discovered into this post as an addendum to that project. Yes, that is with the full knowledge that I may one day discover even more. There's a reason books have prologues right?

In the mean time, if you wish to catch up on their story you can find all the posts about Idris here.
The posts about Iris can be found here. Unfortunately, I have yet to link all of Iris' stories into one page.

Firstly, I now have a copy of Iris' marriage certificate to William Sargeant.

Though I knew many of these details, I did not have them all and it's always good to confirm sources. I'll transcribe the document here.

1936 marriage solemnized at Wesleyan Chapel, Cheddleton, district of Cheadle in the county of Stafford.

When Married: 19th December 1936

Name and Surname: William Sergeant
Age: 24 years
Condition: Bachelor
Rank or profession: Bricklayer, Journeyman (I believe.)
Residence at the time of marriage: 16 Heaton ave, Milton, Stoke on Trent
Father's name and surname: Joseph  Sergeant
Rank or profession of father: School caretaker (retired.)

Name and surname: Iris Griffiths
Age: 20 years
Condition: Spinster
Rank or profession: Mental hospital ward/maid
Residence at the time of marriage: "Marantha"Barford, Bridge Lane, Cheddleton.
Father's name and surname: Harold Emmanuel  Griffiths
Rank or profession of father: Minister

Married in the Wesleyan chapel, according to the rights and ceremonies of the Methodists. Certificate by me, James William Harrison (?) minister. John ? Steele, Registrar.

The marriage solemnized between William Sargeant and Iris Griffiths, in the presence of us, Harold E Griffiths and Joseph Sargeant.

Personal Observations:
1. The wedding date is the same as my own.
2. This puts William living in the same area as where Harold was ministering, which is no surprise considering the time line. I had previously wondered if William had lived in Wales though.
3. I don't know much about William's father, I may investigate this further in the future, but for now I have a very definite pile of research on other direct family members which  I still need to conduct.
4. Iris is listed as 20 here. This confirms my suspicions of her being born in 1916. Iris always lied about her age, to the point she couldn't remember her own.
5. I never knew Iris worked in a mental hospital. I wonder if her residence at time of marriage was a place very nearby (It would make sense if it was.) and if I might be able to one day figure out which hospital it was. This is of interest to me since my wife works in the mental health industry.
6. Although Harold often worked second jobs, it is interesting that by this point he is definitely listing his full time job as minister, not collier etc.
7. In the early days of my blogging I often put down Harold's middle name as Emmanuel with double M - as it is listed here. It was in fact a single M, Emanuel.

Secondly, here is the marriage certificate between Idris and Iris.

1938 Marriage solemnised at Bethel Gospel Templ, Wardend Road in the district of Bimingham, in the county borough of Birmingham.

When Married: December 24th 1938.
Name and surname: Idris Davies.
Age: 24.
Condition: Bachelor.
Rank or profession: Viewer at Aero works.
Residence at time of marriage: 45 Asquith Road, Wardend.
Father's name and surname: Price Davies.
Rank or profession of father: Coal miner.

Name and surname: Iris Sargeant.
Age: 22.
Condition: Widow.
Rank or profession: General Stores lift operator.
Residence at time of marriage: 78 Morris Road, Washwood Heath.
Father's name and surname: Harold Emmanuel Griffiths.
Rank or profession of father: Minister of religion.

Married in Bethel Gospel Temple, according to the rites and ceremonies of the Union of Gospel Churches by Certificate.

This marriage was solemnized between us. Idris Davies, Iris Sargeant. In the Presence of us
Harold E Griffiths, Edward I/(orJ) Davies.
And in the presence of (W. Myrddinn Lewis ?) authorized person for Bethel Gospel Temple.

Personal Observations:
1. As with many ancestors, they were married on  Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. This was often a day off. In this case I believe Harold has to be in Stoke on Trent for the Sunday, where he was ministering at his church.
2. I had forgotten the wedding was in Birmingham, and not Stoke on Trent. Since it is a Bethel church, the likelihood is it was Pentecostal and one that Idris was ministering in at the time. An April 1937 article of Redemption Tidings records Idris as being part of an assembly in Birmingham.
3. I am not sure of Idris' job at this time. I recall a family member saying they thought he worked with planes at one point, and aero works would seem to fit in with this. I am not convinced I translated the word "Viewer" right.
4. It is good to see a confirmation of the fact Iris worked at General Stores, since this was a recollection her family had.
5. I am not sure what relation Edward Davies is to Idris, I will have to look into this. It does seem more likely that he is a relative, rather than just a friend.

The third piece of information I discovered is a small one.

Taken from Redemption Tidings Vol 4 Oct 1958

It is a small announcement celebrating Price and Annie Davies' (My Great Grandparents) 50th anniversary. In it is news of their family and the information pertaining to Idris and Iris is simply this: "Their second son, Idris, has a situation in Southern Rhodesia, and spends all the time he can in missionary work." 

I admit, the wording is a little strange, as it sounds like he is in crisis. As far as I can guess, they probably didn't know how to succinctly describe what Idris was doing in Southern Rhodesia (Now Zimbabwe.) Idris had a job and helped plant churches.

Idris' eldest daughter, Wendy, is also mentioned.

The fourth and final piece of information I gained since writing the blogs, also comes from the Redemption Tidings magazine.

Taken from Redemption Tidings Vol 23 Sespt 1947

In this brief report there is an even briefer mention of Idris sailing for Africa. "On July 15th a farewell service was held on behalf of our dear Bro. I. Davis (son-in-law to our pastor H. E. Griffiths) who sailed for South Africa."

Although they spelled Davies without the E, it is definitely Idris, as is confirmed by the article being about the Assemblies church in Milton and being pastored by Harold E Griffiths.

It does mean I am now going to have to search through all the old Redemption Tidings magazines for any mention of Davis, in case there are any more spelling mistakes in there!

That concludes the additional evidence and sources I have discovered since blogging about my grandparents stories. It's been a great adventure and I feel like I have learned significant things about them.

The Life And Ministry Of Harold Emanuel Griffiths. Part 6 - The Opening Of Milton Hall

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.
An earlier post also provides a music sheet for hymn music he re wrote and published.

In mid 1950 Harold is found ministering as a guest speaker in Scarborough. His son David was now the pastor of the Assemblies of God church there. (1)

It's a Whitsuntide service, which means it was often used as an occasion to invite other ministers. I love that it gives an address to write to David. I don't know if it was his actual parsonage, or a church office, but it would not surprise me if it was his actual abode. 1950 was a different time and place. I also find the phone number quite quaint. 33, that was it. There were obviously not many people with phones at the time.

Later, for the summer, Harold is speaking at another Christian camp in the Staffordshire area.(2)

There's not a lot to add to this, but as the latter part of 1950 was entered it became a very big year for Harold Griffiths and his family.

Harold had been working on building a church in Milton for quite some time. It seems they had been renting out rooms and using unused space since the church began in 1931. On Saturday, September 16th, the new church building was officially opened.

In December of that year, the A.O.G. published a short article about the opening of the hall, but the picture from the event made the front cover.

Redemption Tidings Vol 26, Dec 1950 Front Cover.
Far left opening the door is Rhys Davies.
Front center is Harold Griffiths, Front second from right is David Griffiths.

 The caption at the bottom of the picture reads, "Bro. Rhys Griffiths opening new hall at Milton, supported by local and visiting ministers."

Inside the short piece appears.

There's just a couple of points I want to make about the article. Firstly, the "local labour" reference here doesn't go into much detail, but Harold's daughter Ruth explained it. Harold, the family and church members would 'sell' bricks to the public. So any member of the public was able to buy a portion of the wall that built the church. Harold and others would do the actual building. £1,090 was quite a bit of money in the 1950's and it was a great effort to raise the amount.

Secondly, I don't know who many of the visiting speakers were but David and Rhys were invited because they were both ministers and family members.

Thirdly, Ruth also supplied an additional 'leaflet' or 'booklet' that was produced by Harold at the time of the opening. It provides a great many more details.

Page 1 has a picture of the pastor, Harold Griffiths, begins to explain more about how the church was built, what the opening day was like and how the church came into existence. It continues for another two pages. Here is the transcription of page 1.

"This little book marks the end of a chapter - a chapter in the lives of a group of people whose church was situated in an old dilapidated building. Trusting in God and the goodness of their friends, and fired by their own enthusiasm they built a church with their own hands. Now it is finished at a cost of over two years in time and over £900 in money, but their work goes on...."

The transcription for page 2 and 3 is as follows:

   "Saturday, September 16th, 1950, will ever remain a memorable day-the day on which the new building, officially opened by Pastor Rhys Griffiths (Brother of the resident Pastor), became another House of God. 
   What inspiring scenes there were...nearly 200 people singing their hymns of praise... a cold, cheerless day transformed into one of sunshine by the fervour of the Milton adherents...a fruitful and enriching climax to long months of earnest endeavour.
   Unmindful of the restless wind and the occasional showers of rain, the congregation gathered outside the main door for prayers offered by Mrs. Adams. Then there were hymns; hymns of adoration and thanksgiving sung from the heart by young and old. One hundred and eighty voices, some as sweet as the Spring air and others mellowed by the passing years, caught the glory of those inspiring words and sent them soaring- up and over the rooftops. For were not their hearts soaring and rejoicing just as the meadow lark climbs trilling into the heavens.
   Pastor J.Phillips (Secretary of the District Council of the Assemblies of God) told them that the joint Pentecostal movement was founding a new church every fortnight and, he imagined, it was the only religious movement in the country doing anything like that. "Most of them are closing churches; thank God we are opening them."
   Referring tot he 18 churches established in the Potteries during the last few years, he said the buildings had gone up by the sacrificial giving of those who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ. They had no stunts or jumble sales, dances or whist drives. "We believe the church should be self supporting. We have no right to go to the people outside to keep us inside," he said. 
   It was a day of thankfulness too for Pastor Griffiths. Although his father, aged over 80, was not able to perform the opening ceremony, this long-awaited duty was admirably performed by his brother. And also taking part was his son, David, who is ministering in Scarborough.
   Extra seating had to be provided inside the church for the first service - a service that will long be remembered; a service studded with the wisdom of the speakers (including Pastor C.L. Parker, of London) and a service as beautiful as the lovely golden chrysanthemums that graced a table 'neath the platform.
  A building had become a church.

Pastor H. E. Griffiths

Pastor H.E. Griffiths was converted June 7th 1922, and from that day was characterised with a great fervour of the Gospel. Within a week of his conversion he was singing and preaching in the open-air. During those early years he and his brother Rhys were instrumental in the opening of several Assemblies in their home district (Blackwood, S. Wales). Throughout this period he was still employed as a collier.
   In the year 1928, he received an invitation to take some services in Ireland. Seeing the great need for evangelistic work, he sent for his wife and family (5 children) to join him. They made their home in Ballyclare, then using a Gospel caravan, he itinerated throughout N. Ireland, holding evangelistic services wherever possible. He lived by faith and trusted God for the support of his family, as he did not take up offerings. A box was attached to the caravan into which free-will gifts could be placed.
   In 1930 Pastor Edward Jeffreys was holding a great Revival Campaign in the Potteries. Hearing of Pastor Griffiths, and needing someone to campaign the outlying villages and towns, he sent Pastor Griffiths an invitation to join him. The invitation was accepted. He conducted his first service for Pastor Jeffreys at Silverdale on 3rd. December, when 120 souls were converted. He was a talented singer and musician. Many will remember his unique rendering of "I fell in love with the Nazarene." This proved to the the commencement of 20 years of active Gospel work in the Potteries. He established churches at Milton, Leek, Uttoxeter and Leigh. These churches are now in fellowship with Assemblies of God.
   The Milton work was first housed at 70 Market street. Of recent years they used a humble hall behind the dwelling houses, below the New Inn, Leek-road.
   Under the inspiration of Pastor Griffiths and through the voluntary gifts and labours of the people, they have now erected the new Bethal Hall. Something os his personality and character are seen in this recent achievement. His optimism, born of his faith in God's ability to meet every need, won the whole-hearted, unanimous support of the members. His eager participation in acting as labourer to the bricklayer, created a like eagerness in others to assist in the work. 
   It will be readily seen that Pastor H.E. Griffiths is a practical preacher. He teaches by example." (3)

Personally, this filled in some details I was unsure about and had previously had to guess at. I now know that he was converted June 7th 1922. I know also that it was 1928 when he left for Ireland. On top of that I can now confirm it was 1930 when he joined Edward Jeffreys. In a previous post I could only speculate on the date.

I had not realised he had been involved in planting churches in South Wales, or how instrumental he had been in planting several churches throughout the potteries. From this document I can also confirm that my earlier thoughts about where the church was housed were correct.

For those interested in the particular rendition of "I fell in love with the Nazarene" that Harold sang, I have recorded that in a previous post and provided the music sheets. If you want an image of the music that is easier to enlarge I have provided this link.

So 1950 was a good year. What would the rest of the decade hold?

_____

(1) Redemption Tidings Magazine, Vol 26, May 1950
(2) Redemption Tidings Magazine, Vol 26, June 1950
(3) A friend of my fathers provided the following information on Facebook about this church building. "The building he refers to was demolished and a replacement built. That was sold and is now a nursing home. The congregation moved to a nearby venue which was renovated and they now have a thriving AOG church."

It's good to know the church is still thriving, even if the building is unfortunately not. As for the booklet I have provided pictures of, it is impossible to say if there are many more in existence. I can't imagine more than a couple of hundred were produced, and I find it difficult to believe that anyone outside of family would have kept them. I am thankful I have the pictures and the text.

The Marriage Of Harold And Annie

I promised my great aunt Ruth that I would transcribe Harold and Annie's marriage certificate. So here it is. I originally sent off for this record 5 or 6 years ago so I'm happy to finally put it in blog format.

Date: 1911
Marriage Solemnized at: St. Paul's Church, Cwmtillery in the Parish of Abertillery, in the county of Monmouth.
Number: 136
When Married: July 31st 1911

Name and Surname: Harold Griffiths.
Age: 19
Condition: Bachelor
Rank Or Profession: Collier
Residence At Time Of Marriage: 55 Powell Street, Abertillery
Father's Name And Surname: Thomas Griffiths
Rank Or Profession Of Father: Collier

Name And Surname: Annie Simpkins
Age: 19
Condition: Spinster
Rank Or Profession: Blank
Residence At Time Of Marriage: 11 Earl Street, Abertillery
Father's Name And Surname: John Simpkins
Rank Or Profession Of Father: Collier

Married in the Church Of St. Paul according to the rites and ceremonies of the established church
on after Banns by me.

This marriage was solemnized between us, Harold Griffiths, Annie Simpkins, in the presence of James John Simpkins, Emma James.

D.O Loyd Williams Officiating Priest.

****

There's a couple of things to note about the information in this marriage certificate.

1. Cwmtillery had the church of St Paul built in 1890 and it was not opened for worship until 1891, so it was relatively new at the time of the wedding.

2. Cwmtillery was considered a very beautiful place before the coal mining industry became the prominent player in the local economy. According to Wikipedia and local sources there were 4 explosions within the mine its self. The mines closed in the late 1900's and the town is quickly reverting back to a place of beauty.

3. At present I am not sure if the two witnesses James John Simpkins and Emma James are both family members. James John could be Annie's father also listed as John Simpkins in this certificate. He could also be a brother, I need to do a little research. The 1901 census shows a Jas John Simpkins as Annie's brother. It's possible Jas is James. Annie's mother was named Elizabeth, so Emma could be a wife of a sibling, or she could just be a friend.

4. The ages on this marriage certificate are 19 for both. However, I currently have Harold born in 94 and Annie born in 96. The 1901 census has Harold's age as about 6 so I am fairly confident he was born around 94. Annie Simpkins is also listed as 16 in the 1911 census. This would make them 17 and 15/16 respectively. Until the Age of Marriage Act in 1929 the age of marriage for males was 14 and for females was 12. Either I have their birth dates wrong, or they lied about their age on the marriage certificate.