HOUSTON, Robert John, Rev, M.A., Prof (1872-1953)
Assembly memorial minute, 1954
Robert John Houston was born at Glasgow in 1872. His father came to Australia on commission from the Free Church of Scotland, and after twelve months was called to the Moorabool charge, where he remained until the time of his death 27 years later.
Robert was the eldest of a large family. He was educated at Geelong College and then at Melbourne University, whence he graduated Master of Arts. He entered the Theological Hall in 1896, to complete Exit in 1898. He was ordained and inducted to Cobram on 13th December, 1899, and was translated to Branxholme in 1906.
During this pastorate he was clerk of Hamilton Presbytery (1916-1926). In 1926 he was inducted to the pastoral charge of Werribee, was translated in 1930 to Alexandra, and to his final charge, Mia Mia, in 1934. Five years later, on 30th May, 1939, he resigned from further pastoral duties. In 1948 he became a minister emeritus in the Presbytery of Melbourne North.
Mr. Houston was quiet, of a sincere and devoted life. He possessed the characteristics of the Houston family and remained true to his early heritage of Christian training. His preaching was a humble proclamation of the Gospel of his Lord and was delivered with energy and zeal. He possessed a bright temperament which enabled him to render an effective and uplifting ministry as a pastor.
He died on 30th July, 1953, after 54 years of ordained ministry.
To Miss Pearl R. Houston, the Revs. C.R. and A.S. Houston, and the rest of the family, the Assembly tenders sincere sympathy.
Gender
- Male