TREMEWAN, Maurice Allison, Rev , B.A., Prof
Assembly memorial minute, 1952
Maurice Tremewan was born of Cornish descent in New Zealand on 16th January, 1892. He graduated Bachelor of Arts at the University of New Zealand. For 29 years he served the Education Department of New Zealand, as a most valuable headmaster. His interest in youth led him to become a leader in the Student Christian Movement in colleges and Universities in New Zealand and Victoria, He was always active in the work of the Church, particularly in the Bible Class Movement, zealous in helping his minister.
He came to Victoria in 1937, and for 15 months was assistant to the Minister at Camperdown. He entered the Theological Hall at Ormond College in 1939, and during the three years of this course he was in charge of Noble Park and assistant to the Minister at Erskine. He relieved for two months in the Myrtleford - Bright charge. He accepted an exit appointment to Whyalla - Iron Knob, where on 29th January, 1942, he was ordained and inducted.
From this pastorate the General Assembly of Victoria called him, in 1944, to the office of Director of Youth Work. Called to take up the work of the Rev. J.C. Jamieson, Mr. Tremewan was loyal to his predecessor, while placing his mark of individuality upon the work of the Department. Zeal for religious education and a wide experience in teaching were brought to bear upon Bible Study in Fellowship work and conferences in Victoria and South Australia.
His literary ability was manifested in preparing Study books, and Sunday School aids. For 6 years he wrote the Handbook - ’’Unto the Hills”, and assisted in preparation of the Intermediate Lessons and Teachers* Handbooks. From 1942 to 1944 he was chairman of the Joint Board of Graded Lessons of Australia and New Zealand.
As Director of Youth Work he was most versatile in administration making use of conference and lecture outside the groups of his own denomination, as well as journalistic and literary avenues. After five years of intensive work the strain began to take toll and in 1949 he sustained a severe illness, after which his activities were greatly curtailed. His resignation was before the Youth Committee with the understanding that he was not available for reappointment, when his tenure of office should expire.
Maurice Tremewan was the soul of honour, strong in conviction. His broad sympathies enabled him to be graciously charitable and conciliatory. Simple in faith and devout in spirit, he believed in his Church and as a Presbyterian was truly catholic. His friends remember him as one who contributed richly to their spiritual well-being.
Two evenings before the end, he delivered a lecture to Anglican Youth workers, and the following morning conducted the weekly Staff Service at the Assembly Hall, taking as the theme for a brief devotional address - "The Trinity, an expression of Christian experience".
He passed away suddenly on the evening of Friday, 18th May, 1951.
To his aged mother and his sister, both in New Zealand, the Assembly tenders sincere sympathy.
Gender
- Male