OWEN, John Evan Eric, Rev, M.A. B.D. (1901-1965)
Assembly memorial minute 1965
Born April 4th, 1901, at Williamstown. Died May 3rd, 1965, at Warrnambool.
Graduated M.A. Melbourne University; B.D. Melbourne College of Divinity. Ordained March 12th, 1929, at Quambatook.
Other Charges - Manangatang, March 12th, 1929, to December 11th, 1929.
Canberra, Assistant Minister, December, 1929, to June, 1933. Gardiner, June 29th, 1933.
Missionary to New Hebrides, February 7th, 1955. Warrnambool, December 8th, 1960.
Moderator of the State Assembly 1951/52.
Committee Service - Convener, Foreign Mission Committee.
Chairman, Ormond College Council.
Chairman of the Board of Missions of the G.A. of A.
Eric Owen was a man of rare gifts and each of them, dedicated to Christ, was quickened in His service. He was a powerful, thoughtful and challenging preacher who always commanded large congregations. He was a conscientious pastor and an able administrator with a flare for originality in the planning of his parish. He dared to attempt while others only sensed a problem. This made him always years ahead of his time for, what many thought new, to him was already tried.
He served the greater Church with distinction as Convener and Chairman of Committees and Councils. Always concerned for the evangelising of the world, he was dedicated to World Missions and as late as 1955 gave five years’ service to the New Hebridean Church - five years of fruitfulness to the Mission.
Still creative in outlook and vigorous in service he was carrying a heavy responsibility as minister of Warrnambool at the time of his death.
The Assembly thank God for his life and ministry, and pray God’s continuing blessing on Mrs. Oven and his family.
Gender
- Male