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

There Was A Man In South Wales - The Life and Ministry Of Harold Emanuel Griffiths Part 10

I am taking a brief break from following the chronological order of Harold's life.
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 and Part 9
An earlier post also provides a music sheet for hymn music he re-wrote and published.

The reason I'm breaking with chronology is because the other week someone left a comment on a blog post from three or four years ago. It read as follows:

"Dear Michael. I have a friend who attends the Penralt Baptist Church in Bangor. I have just listened to a sermon(preached on Sunday 28th January) by a man called Donald Poirot who attends that church. In his sermon he mentions your relative Harold and that as a baby Harold took Donald in his arms and blessed him. You can listen to the sermon for yourself. Jan Kelson-Martin ( Hanford, Stoke-on-Trent)"

This is a major reason I am a big proponent of family history blogging. It brings in comments by all kinds of people, from all kinds of places. These comments then lead to information that would otherwise be lost.

I responded to the comment, but also did a search for the church and sermon in question. Sure enough, the sermon is online and Harold's story appears from 11 minutes and 32 seconds, continuing to 14 minutes and 30 seconds.

I've transcribed it in case the link is moved in the future.

There was a man in south Wales. He was a miner. Big fellow. He’d come home and he’d be covered in coal dust, and he found the LORD for himself, this big burly man. He found the Lord. And fell in love with Him. This big man when he got over his shifts he wanted to go to the meetings, and if his shifts didn’t coincide just right he’d be seen at the back of the church before he would have taken his shower, because he didn’t want to dirty anywhere up. He wanted, he wanted to serve the LORD and understand about the Lord. He witnessed at work, and the men would scoff at him. They would often actually physically hurt him. On one occasion they pinned him down and they wanted to make him swear. But he just loved the LORD. Years later he went into ministry. He went from village green to village green. And then he had a building he found. He just loved to preach. He loved to sing, and he sang at the piano and I was thinking about him the other day, and there was a chorus that was around at that time. And he penned another tune to it. And it’s absolutely lovely, and he composed this tune, it goes like this.

“I fell in love with the Nazarene, the beautiful Nazarene, who’s face with glory was alight, the fairest I’ve ever seen. Near his side I would abide, when ne’er a vale between. Since I fell so deep in love with Jesus the Nazarene.”

Can you imagine a coal miner, singing that and loving that. You know in 1947 a couple, a christian couple brought their little baby to him to be dedicated. And his name was Harold and he held this baby and he prayed for this baby and he said, “Lord would you bless this baby, we thank you for the life of this baby. We pray that in the years to come he will fall in love with Jesus too. That baby is me. Me. Me. And it’s so lovely to tell you I love Jesus Christ.”

-- Donald Poirot, speaking at Penrallt Baptist Church, Bangor on Sunday 28th January 2018. -- 

The church contact information was present on the website, so I emailed to see if they could put me in contact with Donald. It appeared that he knew something of my great grandfathers ministry and I wanted to know more. The church responded and forwarded my request to Donald. Donald emailed me with the following response:

"As a miner he was persecuted for his faith - verbally and I believe physically. There was one man - a fellow miner who particularly hated him.
One day there was a serious roof collapse down in the mine. This miner was trapped and they could only shout through to him. He shouted back fetch Harold! Harold was called and this man asked Harold to pray for him - amazing. I can’t remember the outcome of that story.

You already know that in 1947 I was born and was dedicated to the Lord by my parents. They took me to Bethel in Milton where Harold Griffiths prayed for me. When my mum had come to Christ through the ministry of one of the Jeffreys brothers (Stoke-On-Trent Town Hall.) she had been introduced to Harold Griffiths. My mum came to Christ as a teenager. Harold Griffiths encouraged my mum in the things of God and asked her to speak. He advertised something along the lines - come and hear this teenage preacher! My mum would tell me stories of Harold’s evangelical work - village green services - a caravan. She told me of his zeal and love for the Lord. It was my mum who often sang the chorus you heard me sing. (In fact my mum went on to be an Assemblies of God minister - which was unusual in those days for a woman.) So we would often visit Harold in Milton and his assembly.

One incident which has stuck in my mind - the date I’m not so sure. I think I would be around 11 - so that would be approx 1958. We had been visiting Harold Griffiths and was staying for the evening service. As I climbed the steps to go into the building I started with a nose bleed. Harold who arrived ready to take the service - immediately stopped and bent down to me and prayed for me. He had the responsibility of the service ahead of him - but all that was put aside in that moment as he prayed for me.

Years later I found the Lord for myself and I wanted to tell him. I was going out with a young lady called Glenys - she found the Lord at the same time as me.(We married and Glenys is by my side right now - we both love the Lord.) I told her about Harold Griffiths and we went to visit him and his wife several times. He was then living at Woodhead Road not far from Milton. It was a retirement bungalow which looked over trees and green grass - a lovely outlook. (It actually was and still is Carmountside Cemetery & Crematorium.) He would laugh and smile with us and said jokingly - they have put us here so that they can cut down on the expense of funeral travel costs when we die. This would be in the mid sixties.

I ask myself if this email can also be a vehicle for greater blessing to you and your family. It would be my prayer that the life, testimony, and voice of Harold Griffiths reached over to you and your family and all who consider this man Harold Griffiths to see that his heart was for the Lord. Harold’s message was simply put. If Harold would speak to you right now I believe this is what he would say to you:

The Bible is the Word of God.
We are all sinners.
There is eternal judgement coming for all who reject Christ.
There is eternal bliss in heaven for those who put their trust in Christ.
That Christ died on the cross and shed his blood for our sins - for my sins.
That Christ rose the 3rd day from the dead & he lives for evermore.

The Bible message has not changed - man cannot save himself.

Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

God bless you Michael - you have a pedigree second to none!

Donald. 7th. February 2018"

----

I have just a couple of observations from this.

1. The story of the roof collapse is something I had never heard before, and fascinating. It's one of those things that would be lost to history if not for the recollection of someone who had heard it told.

2. I've already documented how the Assemblies of God in the U.K gave opportunities for women to preach and lead churches. I am gratified to find that my great-grandfather was one of those who encouraged a woman to preach and advertised it. That she then went on to become an Assemblies of God minister is very encouraging. 

3. The story of the nosebleed and the comments he made while in the retirement bungalow are yet more tidbits that I could not have known without contacting Donald. They are once again those stories which give more insight into his character and condition. 

4. It's reminded me once again to contact the gentlemen in my grandfather's old bowling league who knew him, and see if there's still any chance he might email me the testimonial he had considered writing. 

That's all for now, and I'll continue Harold's story again in the next blog. 

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.

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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

The Life And Ministry Of Harold Emanuel Griffiths - Part 7 1953

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

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The first article(1) I discovered about Harold in 1953, actually sheds light on an event in 1952, and the different church practices that occurred then, vs now.

The news is located in Milton, Staffs, and reads, "The Boxing Day Convention in the Milton Bethel Hall (A.O.G.) was a real source of blessing. The speakers were Mr. Beckett, of Chesterfield, and Mr. W. Turner, of Leek. The Pastor, Mr. H. E. Griffiths, convened the meetings. Inspiring solos were beautifully rendered by Mrs. Turner and Brother Robert Norman, both of the Leek Assembly. The services were thoroughly enjoyed, the presence of God being very real. Backsliders returned unto the Lord. Praise God for a real, happy and blessed time in  God's presence."

Being very familiar with the Assemblies of God in the United Kingdom, I can't imagine them convening a convention on Boxing Day. Christians will go to church Christmas Day morning, and on a Sunday, regardless of whether it's a national holiday or not. To pull off a convention takes a lot more effort, and I think that Boxing Day(2) is generally seen as a time for the family.

1953 Also saw Harold announced as the Chairman for the North West Midlands District of the Assemblies of God. The address which follows is 318, Longton Road, Bucknell, Stoke-on-Trent. At first I didn't know if this was a house address or church address. A quick look on Google Maps shows an A road with no building. I think it should also be noted that Mr. D Griffiths is listed as the secretary here, which I believe is Harold's son, David.(3) This same information is given again in August of the same year. After speaking with Ruth Griffiths, I discovered that this was the address the whole family lived at. The road used to be called Dividy Road.

Another historically interesting tidbit is provided in the March Redemption Tidings.

Harold and his son David are now listed as being on the telephone. The following information is provided.(4) "Mr. H. E. Griffith's, Milton; Mr. D. Griffiths, Longton; 318 Longton Road, Bucknall, Stoke-on-Trent. Hanley 1629."

A four digit phone number always makes me smile. 

June brought an announcement in the Redemption Tidings(5), that Harold would be officiating the opening of a new church, Boundary Street Chapel, on Saturday July 4th at 3pm. 

In the August issues of Redemption Tidings(6) we find a couple of articles which provide pictures of Harold and some of the family as they open two new Assemblies of God churches. One details the opening of the church on Boundary Street listed in the June issue, the other is found in Leek. The opening of the building in Leek was also mentioned in the Post and Times, a regional newspaper in the Stoke on Trent area. I have not found the original article yet, but will share the copy in Redemption Tidings.

Before I provided a transcription of the article, I first want to note the family members in the photograph.

Back row, fourth from right is Harold. Rhys (His brother) may be the older gentleman opposite him.
Front row, center is David Griffiths and his wife Rosemary.

Here is the transcription:

"It was a joy to see the happiness on the faces of God's children at the opening of the Mount Zion Church in Boundary Street, on Saturday, July 4th. After twenty years of wandering from one unsatisfactory hall to another the Stoke Assembly has found a home. The Lord has wonderfully answered the prayers of His own; a little Methodist Chapel will live again and praise God it will now know the glory of Pentecostal fullness.
   The Church is on the Newcastle-under-Lyme boundary and thus a new field of evangelization is opened up in a town which has known little Pentecostal witness.
   After a brief service outside the building, H.Griffiths. District Chairman, turned the key in the lock and the Church was declared open for the work of God. The messages of our two visiting ministers were delivered under the unction of the Holy Spirit. During both meetings the theme was the need for the complete consecration of the Church and with gladness we read 11 Chronicles 5. Phillip Betty of Cannock reminded us of the many churches empty owing to the lack of complete and continual separation. Trevor Williams of Manchester spoke oft he significance of the Cross - a sacrifice, not a martyrdom-God in His great love suffering for our sin. One man decided for Christ in the evening service when Brother Williams gave the appeal. This man had been suffering from the effects of a third seizure but had been restored to health by the Lord after the Pastor had prayed for him. He is going on steadily and maintaining a faithful witness. His daughter has since accepted the Lord and is now rejoicing in salvation. A Sunday School is gradually being build up and there is a new expectancy in the air. A sound of a going in the mulberry trees! The Lord is Hosts is with us!"

The second article provided another photograph.

Harold in the center, playing the piano accordion.

The second article transcription is as follows:
Firstly, it notes the article and photograph is used courtesy of the Post and Times newspaper. Secondly, beneath the photograph it reads: "Typically hearty singing was a feature when the new meeting hall of Leek Assembly of God, which the members have built in Strangman Street, was opened on Saturday. Varied ages were represented among the congregation. Playing the piano-accordion is H.E.Griffiths of Milton, chairman of the North West Midlands district of the Assemblies of God, who opened the hall. With him are A.G. Roberts of Leek (centre), who conducted the service, and H.Webb of Droylsden, who preached."

The rest reads as follows: "New Building Opened at Leek. The following report is taken from the Post and Times. "SACRIFICAL WORK BROUGHT NEW MEETING HALL INTO BEING."
Droylsden Pastor's tribute at Leek Assembly of God opening ceremony. "The glory of this latter house shall be greater than the former, saith the Lord of hosts, and in this place will I give peace."

This verse from the Book of Haggai was read by Pastor H. Wewbb of Droylsden at the formal opening of Leek Assembly of God's new brick-built meeting hall in Strangman street on Saturday.
  The hall was completed last week after 18 months' voluntary labour by members.
  Pastor Webb said he believed the text could be a practical word for the occasion and in the days to come.
  "We are about to witness the opening of this building as a house of God" he said. "It has been built by voluntary labour to God by the members and we give thanks to God for all who have helped in such a sacrificial work to bring into being what is before your eyes and what in future will be called the new Assembly of God, Leek.
  The assembly's work had been going on locally for over 20 years, witnessing to the saving power of the Lord and to His glory in saving men and women.
Joy in Hearts
  "As we are about to enter this building, joy is filling our hearts, at least mine", he said. "Although I am not a native of Leek, I am proud to say that these are my beloved brothers and sisters.
  "We do not in our movement place great emphasis on buildings because we believe that the dying souls of men and women are more important to the Lord.
  "But we realise also that we have to have a house or place in which to worship and we believe tat the glory we have enjoyed in the past is going to be surpassed in the future and that God's glory will be in this place, speaking to men and women, and healing the sick."
  After the hymn singing the key of the new building was turned by Pastor H.E. Griffiths of Milton, chairman of the North-west Staffordshire district of the Assemblies of God. 
  The service, conducted by Pastor A.G. Roberts of Leek, was attended by 150 people.
  Pastor Roberts thanked, "All friends in the town who have so kindly helped to raise this building to the glory of God."

These events give a fascinating insight into where and why the district chairman of AOG would travel, and I am thankful to have found these documents. Just one remains about Harold from 1953. It is found in the November(7) edition of RT and is brief.

I will not transcribe this one, it simply states that the farewell service for a Brother W.T. Guest of Tunstall was conducted by Harold in his office as District Chairman.

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(1) Redemption Tidings January 1953, Volume 29
(2) Boxing Day is the day after Christmas Day, and a national holiday in England. It is also Saint Stephens Day.
(3) Harold's son,  David, was a minister with the Assemblies of God. I am not 100% sure he is the man mentioned in this article but another article lists his phone number as being the same as Harold's and at this location.
(4) Redemption Tidings March 1953, Volume 29
(5) Redemption Tidings June 1953, Volume 29
(6) Redemption Tidings August 1953 Volume 29
(7) Redemption Tidings November 1953 Volume 29