The speaker for 2009 is Richard Bewes. Son of missionary parents, Richard was born and raised on the lower slopes of Mount Kenya, along with his two brothers and sister - "The most tranquil upbringing a child could have had." He travelled to England for his secondary education, before going to Cambridge University as an undergraduate. He then went on to study for the pastoral ministry at Ridley Hall Theological College, Cambridge.
He comes from a family whose Gospel preaching tradition began with D L Moody's sermon of September 26th, 1882, when his grandfather, 14-year-old Tommy made his response, and later became a preacher himself. Beginning his ordained ministry in Beckenham, Kent (where he met his wife Liz) Richard, together with Liz, went on to lead churches in Harold Wood and Northwood, prior to their time in leadership at All Souls, Langham Place. Following his retirement as Rector of All Souls in November 2004, Richard was awarded an OBE in HM the Queen's 2005 New Year Honours' List for services to the Church of England.
Richard's speaking engagements have taken him into Europe, Australia, Africa, USA and Canada. He has written over twenty books, including 'The Top 100 Questions' and '150 Pocket Thoughts' - published by Christian Focus Publications. He is also known for his hymnwriting and his regular contributions on Christian radio and television - including his co-hosting (with the Revd Dr Paul Blackham) of the Open Home : Open Bible, and 'Book by Book' on-screen Bible Study series.
Close to Richard's heart are mission and outreach. For many years he has been UK Chairman of African Enterprise. Also he has been a keen supporter of the ministry of the BGEA, including serving as Chairman of 'Mission '89' held in London England with Dr Billy Graham. Richard was honoured to accept an invitation to join the board of Gospelcom International in 2004, as their very first international board member. The following year in 2005 (thanks to the generosity of some American friends) Richard's own website was launched - at www.richardbewes.com.
Most sadly, following an illness, Richard's wife Liz died in May 2006. Two sons, a daughter and four grandchildren make up the family today.
What does Richard sound like?
For a taster of who Richard is, try this sample MP3:
Talk - 'Amos: The Plumb Line' — 14 October 2007 at Emanuel Church Northwood
Can I get a copy of the flyer?
Click the picture below to begin downloading last year's flyer.
What is the Topic?
Not yet known.
When does it start?
Monday 20th April to Thursday 23rd April 2009 at Woodlands Evangelical Church from 7.30 p.m. each evening.
Where is Woodlands Evangelical Church?
Blenheim Parade
Derby, DE22 2GP
Tel: 01332 551 336
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We are grateful to Portway Junior School for the provision of car parking space and ask that drivers use these facilities and leave the local roads clear, please. There is a limited amount of parking for disabled drivers near the church entrance.
