BURNS, John Abraham, Rev. (1851-1919)
Assembly memorial minute 1919
The Commission of Assembly desires to place on record its sense of loss in the passing of the Rev. John Abraham Burns. Born at Adelaide in 1851, and educated at Prince Alfred College, he had his mind early turned to the work of the holy ministry.
In 1881 he entered the ministry of the Presbyterian Church’. For 35 years he served the Church loyally, faithfully, and with conspicuous ability in three of the Australian States. His most lasting work was done in Western Australia, and in his last charge (Mildura) in Victoria. He was commissioned to visit Western Australia in the interests of Presbyterianism, and as a result churches were established at Kalgoorlie, Menzies, and Coolgardie. Of the last named place he was minister for four years.
On his return to Victoria, he ministered at Albert Park, until failing health induced him to accept a call to Mildura. There, amid much pain and weariness, but with great courage, he set himself to rally the forces of our Church in that great settlement. He was spared long enough to see his work completed, and the beautiful church in Mildura is a fitting monument to the brave spirit which neither sickness nor pain could defeat. He passed away on June 9th, 1919, at the house of his friend and elder, Dr. Cameron, of Mildura.
To his wife and three daughters the Commission of Assembly would extend its sincere Christian sympathy.
Gender
- Male