Richard Bewes OBE, the former Rector of All Souls church in London, has died aged 84.
Tributes have been paid to his life and work from other Anglican leaders, including current Rector of All Souls Hugh Palmer.
Revd Bewes leaves his wife Pam and three children.
Love
Born in 1934 to missionary parents in Kenya, he maintained a strong love for the continent of Africa his whole life.
After studying at the University of Cambridge, he trained for ordination and began serving in 1959.
From 1983 to his retirement in 2004, he was Rector at All Souls and in 2005 was awarded an OBE for services to the Church of England.
Prayer
Responding to the news of his death, Hugh Palmer said: “Prayer was at the heart of his ministry. He used to say ‘Prayer doesn’t merely support the work; prayer is the work’.
“He left a prayer impact that continues to be felt across the church.”
“Richard had a gospel heart, determined not just to be true to it but to use all his creative powers to communicate it”.
Gentle
Rico Tice, who also ministers at All Souls, wrote: “How I thank God for his gentleness, prayerfulness and personal godliness, which was such a hallmark of his leadership at All Souls.”
Mike Reeves, Principal of Union School of Theology, tweeted: “Richard Bewes – kind friend, humble mentor, faithful soldier of Christ – is today crowned with glory by his saviour.”
Colin Hart, Director of The Christian Institute, said: “Richard Bewes was an enthusiatic Bible teacher. I heard him speak on several occasions when I was a student and was very impressed by his personal humility.”
Richard Bewes’ funeral will be held on Friday 7 June at All Souls Langham Place.