Revd John Linford tributes

YOUR MEMORIES OF REVD JOHN LINFORD, WHO PASSED AWAY IN OCTOBER 2017

THE REVEREND JOHN LINFORD WAS VICAR OF SEDGLEY FROM 1970-78.

Roy and Linda Watkins

"We remember Rev John Linford very well, it’s thanks to him , through a sponsorship walk, we have such wonderful church bells today.
We remember doing part of an Offa’s Dyke ramble one Easter Monday with Rev Linford along with many church members.
John Linford produced and acted in a ‘theatre in the round’ in which I played a maid.
During Rev Linford’s time with us he put on a flower festival the theme was ‘The Changing Scenes of Life’.
One of his sermons was based on the hymn 'Just as I am' - he counted the number of I’s in the hymn - he came to the conclusion it was a very selfish hymn!
Rev Linford’s services were always uplifting and thought provoking.
We remember him fondly."
Roy and Linda Watkins. (Submitted 29/10/17.)

Kennedy Slater

"John had a great interest in the music at Church and while at Sedgley introduced a  Girls' Choir to add to the ‘Choir’ and Chamber Choir. The three choirs are shown on a photograph in the vestry, taking part in his last service at All Saints'.

He organised days out for the youngsters, and I remember trips to Cosford Air Museum and Stourport (a day at the fair) and cricket for the boys.

He once preached a sermon - his text coming not from the Bible but from Musical Theatre. To emphasise a point, a member of the Choir stood and sang an extract from some appropriate musical.

On another occasion he announced: 'I have just returned from holiday and so there will be no sermon today!' "

Ken Slater. (Submitted 31/10/17.)

Revd Tim Westwood

Treasured memories of John Linford - a man whose ministry ignited the spark of vocation within my own life. God richly blessed us with John.

Revd Tim Westwood (submitted 1/11/17).

Sheila Kendrick 

"I only knew John Linford during his last two years with us in Sedgley.

I remember how helpful he was when I wanted to discuss my Christian faith with him.

Another memory from 1976 was when the Second Sedgley Scouts put on “The Gang Show” in the church hall.

My son played Flora MacDonald, and when he came on he was wearing his wig back to front.. The show was hilarious!

I think that John’s son was in it too.

Nice memories of John Linford, a lovely man."

Sheila Kendrick (submitted 2/11/17)