HANSE, Martin, Rev (1923-2014)
Assembly memorial minute, 2015
Martin Hanse (1923–2014)
Martin was born in 1923 in the Dutch province of Zeeland and brought up on a farm. As a teenager Martin desired to become a minister of the church – a desire that had to remain undeveloped due to the oppressive and difficult
conditions of war-torn Europe. Much later, circumstances opened up and in 1960, at the age of 36, he migrated to Australia, where he worked as a gardener at Ormond College, while studying hard in order to matriculate. From the gardens of Ormond College to the rich theological climate of Reformed Theological College, Geelong – where Martin was to study for
gospel ministry over the next 4 years.
What an interesting story, considering this was the turbulent theological era of the late 1960s here in Victoria, an era that only a few of us can nowremember. By God’s providence, this man with reformed Dutch theological convictions, four years study under RTC, was accepted by the pre-union faculty of Ormond College to become a Presbyterian minister. Reflecting years later on this providence, Martin told me that he thinks it was because he had so faithfully cared for Dr Davis McCaughey’s Ormond College garden years before that the faculty accepted him.
Martin served the Presbyterian Church of Victoria faithfully and tirelessly. He served as a Home Missionary at Greensborough, and a minister at Framlingham, Warrnambool, Williamstown, the Mallee patrol, Epping/Lalor, North Geelong and then finally at Kirkbrae in Kilsyth – retiring in 2002 at the age of 79.
Martin Hanse was a thoroughly reformed theologian and a kind, gentle and very personable pastor. He always had a kindly smile and genuine interest in people. He took an interest in this Clerk of Assembly when a candidate at College and then as a young minister. He dedicated his life to serving God. He was faithful in his duty. The words of Matthew 25 come to mind, where the Lord Jesus promises this sort of welcome for faithful servants: ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in few things, I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness.’
Gender
- Male