BARBER, John Andrew, Rev (1873-1958)
Assembly memorial minute, 1958
Born at Framlingham on March 4th, 1873.
Graduated Bachelor of Arts, Melbourne University.
Ordained - Beaufort - June 5th, 1900.
Parishes - Beaufort - 1900-1904.
Hamilton - 1904-1915.
Woollahra, N.S.W. - 1915-1918.
West Hawthorn - 1918 - resigned 1927.
A.I.M. - 1927-1933.
Gisborne - 1933 - resigned 1936.
Richmond - 1941 - resigned 1947.
Appointed by the General Assembly of Victoria, Administrator - 1935-1939.
Supplied Malvern on death of the Rev. R. J. Howie - 1949.
Assembly appointee - Chaplain to Pentridge.
Last years - in charge of Moreland Home Mission Station.
Died - 7th January, 1958.
Mr. Barber fulfilled a vigorous and widely extending ministry throughout fifty-seven years of ordained service. At the time of his death, at the age of eighty-four, he was still in charge of a Home Mission Station. He was first and always a parish minister, with intimate knowledge of every aspect of parish life. The Assembly recognised this in his appointment as Administrator in 1935.
John Flynn and Andrew Barbour were young men together.
The title - "Flynn of the Inland" - was coined by this friend of that great Church pionner and statesman. He had a large share in encouraging John Flynn in the initial labours. Later, after almost thirty years in parish work, John Barber himself responded to the call of Patrol and organising work in the Inland.
He was ever practical, and his unique humour and cheerfulness instantly set people at their ease. He naturally inspired comfort and confidence. He had a great love of men, was a good friend and presbyter, a beloved pastor, and a devoted minister.
To Mrs. Barber, her son and daughter, the Assembly tender sincere sympathy.
Gender
- Male