{"id":4112,"date":"2024-09-24T22:11:36","date_gmt":"2024-09-24T22:11:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newton-le-willows.com\/?p=4112"},"modified":"2024-09-28T17:09:15","modified_gmt":"2024-09-28T17:09:15","slug":"the-parish-church-of-st-john-the-baptist-earlestown","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/?p=4112","title":{"rendered":"<span>The Parish Church of St. John the Baptist, Earlestown<\/span>"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong>A Brief History with details of some of the individuals involved with the Church between 1878 to 1932<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some sixty or seventy years ago Earlestown was a small but growing collection of houses, built to meet the needs of the workers at the Viaduct Wagon Works and situated in the parish of Newton-in-Makerfield, the nearest Church being that of Emmanuel, Wargrave. As the works extended and a large increase of population became resident, Canon Whitley, then Rector of Wargrave, seeing the necessity of providing religious services and instruction, erected an Infant Schoolroom, where for a time Church services were held. The next step was the erection of the Chancel and first part of the nave of the Church.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The plans of Mr. C. Whitley (architect) were accepted and the Church built of stone in the early English style. Building was commenced in 1875, and the consecration took place in 1879, by Bishop Kelly, Assistant Bishop of Chester (Liverpool Diocese not being in existence).<br><br><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"625\" class=\"wp-image-4122\" style=\"width: 800px;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/003.jpg\" alt=\"St. John the Baptist, Earlestown\" srcset=\"https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/003.jpg 1271w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/003-780x609.jpg 780w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/003-840x656.jpg 840w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/003-768x600.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Rev. T. R. Matthews was appointed Curate-in-Charge and on the parish being formed became the first Vicar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>His long vicariate continued until 1914. Many developments had taken place, notably the erection of the fine Vicarage adjoining the Church, the acquisition of an excellent three manual organ, the erection of the Mission Hall in High Street and the beginning of St. Philip\u2019s Mission Church.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The next Incumbent was the Rev. H. C. Moor, M.A., whose ministry in the parish lasted through the difficult period of the war. He was followed in 1919 by the Rev. Robert Marsden, M.A., who did much to strengthen the spiritual life of the parish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The completion of the West End of the Church and the first part of the Tower was accomplished and the Dedication conducted on March 6th, 1926, by the Lord Bishop of Liverpool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The installation of electric light was completed in the autumn of 1927, in memory of the late Mrs. Marsden, senior. The present Vicar, the Rev. E. W. Storer, M.A., was Instituted and Inducted on February 28th, 1928.<br><br><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"1015\" class=\"wp-image-4121\" style=\"width: 800px;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/002-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"St. John the Baptist, Earlestown\" srcset=\"https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/002-scaled.jpg 2017w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/002-615x780.jpg 615w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/002-662x840.jpg 662w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/002-768x975.jpg 768w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/002-1210x1536.jpg 1210w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/002-1614x2048.jpg 1614w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A LIST OF VICARS.<\/strong><br>1878\u20141914: Rev. T. R. Matthews.<br>1914\u20141919: Rev. H. C. Moor, M.A.<br>1919\u20141927: Rev. R. Marsden, M.A.<br>1928\u2014: Rev. E. W. Storer, M.A.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>THE CURATES.<\/strong><br><em>Rev. H. E. Smith.<\/em><br><em>Rev. G. Lovett.<\/em><br><em>Rev. E. W. W. Kaye.<\/em><br><em>Rev. F. C. Shirtcliffe.<\/em><br><em>Rev. J. C. Matthews.<\/em><br><em>Rev. A. Ainley, M.A.<\/em><br><em>Rev. S. Devinney, M.A., LL.D.<\/em><br><em>Rev. O. E. Hill.<\/em><br><strong>Rev. B. H. Watts, M.A.<\/strong>*<br><em>Rev. J. A. Cooil.<\/em><br><em>Rev. Wilfrid Greenwood.<\/em><br><em>Rev. F. H. Milward, B.A.<\/em><br><strong>Rev. F. A. Holt, L.Th.<\/strong>*<br><strong>Rev. T. Lever, M.C.<\/strong>*<br>* <em>An asterisk denotes Curate-in-Charge of St. Philip\u2019s, Newton Common.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>THE CHURCHWARDENS.<\/strong><br>1879-1880: James Fairclough and Francis Harwood.<br>1881-1882: Nathan Slinn and Thomas Nevitt.<br>1883: Nathan Slinn and Benjamin Corlett.<br>1885-1890: Robert Bell and Peter Foden.<br>1891-1897: T. A. Pimblett and Peter Foden.<br>1898-1900: T. A. Pimblett and Dr. Mouncey.<br>1901: Dr. Mouncey and Samuel Findley.<br>1902-1904: Dr. Mouncey and T. A. Pimblett.<br>1905-1908: Dr. Mouncey and George Dale.<br>1909: Dr. Mouncey and John Boardman.<br>1910-1911: George Dale and John Boardman.<br>1912: Frederick Taylor and John Boardman.<br>1913: Frederick Taylor and Charles Dean.<br>1914: Frederick Taylor and George Makin, jun.<br>1915-1918: Frederick Taylor and Charles McGregor Duncan.<br>1919-1920: Frederick Taylor and John Boardman.<br>1921-1928: Harold Thorn and John Boardman.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>ORGANISTS.<\/strong><br>Mr. H. J. Durman, Mrs. and Miss Thacker, Mr. G. Weeks, Mrs. Latimer, Mr. W. H. Radford, Mr. J. Harrison, and Mr. Harold Lewis.<br><br><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"1102\" class=\"wp-image-4114\" style=\"width: 800px;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/001-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"St. John the Baptist, Earlestown\" srcset=\"https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/001-scaled.jpg 1858w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/001-566x780.jpg 566w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/001-610x840.jpg 610w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/001-768x1058.jpg 768w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/001-1115x1536.jpg 1115w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/001-1486x2048.jpg 1486w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>St John the Baptist in 1928<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Vicar \u2014 <em>The Rev. ERNEST W. STORER, M.A.<\/em>, St. Catharine\u2019s College and Ridley Hall, Cambridge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ordained Deacon 1919 and Priest 1920, by Dr. Chavasse, Lord Bishop of Liverpool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Appointments: Curate and Senior Curate of St. Helens Parish Church. Curate-in-Charge of St. Mary\u2019s Mission, St. Helens, 1919-1924. Vicar of St. Paul&#8217;s, Widnes, 1924-1928. Instituted and Inducted to St. John the Baptist, Earlestown, February 28th, 1928.<br><br><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"916\" class=\"wp-image-4116\" style=\"width: 800px;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/007-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"St. John the Baptist, Earlestown\" srcset=\"https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/007-scaled.jpg 2237w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/007-682x780.jpg 682w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/007-734x840.jpg 734w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/007-768x879.jpg 768w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/007-1342x1536.jpg 1342w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/007-1789x2048.jpg 1789w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hon. Licensed Lay Reader \u2014 <em>Dr. C. J. Mouncey<\/em>,<br>Patterdale Lodge, Market Street, Earlestown.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Church Wardens \u2014<br><em>Mr. Harold Thorn<\/em>, 122, Market Street.<br><em>Mr. John Boardman<\/em>, 234, Crow Lane West.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Lay Representatives \u2014<br><em>Mr. T. E. Clough<\/em>, 183, Crow Lane West.<br><em>Mr. Jones<\/em>, 333, Patterson Street.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Organist and Choirmaster \u2014<br><em>Mr. H. Lewis<\/em>, Bishopswood, Cross Lane.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Church Army Worker \u2014 <em>Vacant<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Auditor \u2014 <em>Mr. J. Boon<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Verger and Apparitor \u2014 <em>Mr. Wilson<\/em>, 134, Haydock St.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Parochial Church Council:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Chairman: The Vicar, the <em>Rev. E. W. Storer, M.A.<\/em><br>Secretary: <em>Mr. J. Boardman<\/em>.<br>Treasurers: The <em>Wardens, Mr. H. Thorn<\/em> and <em>Mr. J. Boardman<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Lay Representatives: <em>Mr. T. E. Clough, Mr. Jones<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sidesmen: <em>Messrs. Jones, Rylance, Welsh, Lord, Potts, Richards, Lea, junr., Cave, Higson, Collier, Jackson, Griffiths; Mr. Pimblett, Mr. Dale<\/em> (Permanent Sidesmen).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Lay Reader: <em>Dr. C. J. Mouncey<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Congregation\u2019s Representatives: <em>Mr. Gregory, Mr. Wilson, Mrs. Boardman, Mrs. Thorn, Mrs. Sutton, Miss A. Spencer<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Men\u2019s Bible Class: <em>Mr. W. Spencer<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Women\u2019s Bible Class: <em>Mrs. Williams, Mrs. Richards<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sunday Schools: <em>Mr. Greening and Mr. Bretherton<\/em>.<br>Day Schools: <em>Mr. Spurr<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Choir: <em>Mr. Houghton and Mrs. Martindale<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mothers\u2019 Meeting: <em>Mrs. Hordrige and Mrs. Waring<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mothers\u2019 Union: <em>Mrs. Dodds and Mrs. Smith<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Church Completion Fund: <em>Mr. Whitehead and Mr. W. Smith<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mission Hall: <em>Miss Foden, Mrs. Stead, and Mr. Cave<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Girls&#8217; Club: <em>Mrs. Storer<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>SUNDAY SERVICES.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Holy Communion<\/strong>: Every Sunday at 8 a.m.<br>First Sunday of the month also at 10-30 a.m.<br>Third Sunday also at 6-30 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Morning Prayer and Sermon<\/strong>: 10-30 a.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Evening Prayer and Sermon<\/strong>: 6-30 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Holy Baptism<\/strong>: 3-15 p.m. (when notice is given).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Men\u2019s Bible Class<\/strong> in Church at 2-15 p.m.<br>President: The Vicar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Women\u2019s Bible Class<\/strong> in the Mission Hall at 3-15 p.m.<br>President: Mrs. Storer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Young Men\u2019s and Young Women\u2019s Bible Classes<\/strong> in the District School at 2-15 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Children\u2019s Mission Service<\/strong> in Mission Hall at 6-15 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Churchings<\/strong> after any Service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>WEEK-DAY SERVICES.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Holy Communion<\/strong> on Saints\u2019 Days at 9-30 a.m. and as announced.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Morning Prayer and Intercessions<\/strong>: Daily at 9-30 a.m.<br>Litany, Wednesday and Friday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Evening Prayer<\/strong>, Acts of Devotion and Bible Study, every Wednesday at 7-30 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Holy Baptism and Churching<\/strong> on Wednesdays at 6-45 p.m., and at other times as desired. Notice should be given in all cases to the Vicar.<br><br><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"614\" class=\"wp-image-4124\" style=\"width: 800px;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/005.jpg\" alt=\"St. John the Baptist, Earlestown\" srcset=\"https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/005.jpg 1378w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/005-780x598.jpg 780w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/005-840x644.jpg 840w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/005-768x589.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>SUNDAY SCHOOLS.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Every Sunday, in the District Schools, at 9-30 a.m. and 2-0 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Every Sunday, in the Mission Hall, at 9-30 a.m. and 2-0 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Sunday School is conducted on the modern graded system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Superintendents\u2014<br>Senior Dept.: <em>Mr. Greening.<\/em><br>Junior Dept.: <em>Mr. Sutton.<\/em><br>Primary Dept.: <em>Miss A. Spencer.<\/em><br>Infants\u2019 Dept.: <em>Miss Tomkinson.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Secretary and Treasurer\u2014<em>Mr. Greening.<\/em><br>Assistant: <em>Mr. J. Bray.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Preparation Classes are held weekly as arranged by the Superintendents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Anniversary is held on the first or second Sunday in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Annual Walking-Day and Tea is held on the third Saturday in June.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mission Hall Sunday School\u2014Superintendent: <em>Mr. Pritchard.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Banns, Marriages and Funerals<\/strong>\u2014Notice should be given and arrangements made at the Vicarage. The Vicar is Surrogate for the granting of Marriage Licences.<br><br><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"595\" class=\"wp-image-4123\" style=\"width: 800px;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/004.jpg\" alt=\"St. John the Baptist, Earlestown\" srcset=\"https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/004.jpg 1423w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/004-780x580.jpg 780w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/004-840x625.jpg 840w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/004-768x571.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>DAY SCHOOLS.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>ST. JOHN\u2019S DISTRICT C.E. SCHOOLS.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Board of Management\u2014<\/strong><br>Chairman: The Vicar.<br>Correspondent: <em>Mr. Peake.<\/em><br>Dr. Valentine and <em>Mr. T. Gregory.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Mr. Mullins, Mrs. Williams.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Head Teacher, Mixed Dept.: <em>Mr. Spurr.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Head Teacher, Infants\u2019 Dept.: <em>Miss Duckworth.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>THE MANOR C.E. SCHOOLS.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Board of Management\u2014<\/strong><br>Chairman and Correspondent: The Vicar.<br><em>Colonel Pilkington, Mr. W. Thompson, Mr. C. McGregor, Mr. Duncan, Mr. Martin, Mrs. Gee.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Head Teacher\u2014<em>Mr. Collinge.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Women\u2019s Fellowship<\/strong> \u2014 President: <em>Mrs. Storer<\/em>.<br>Thursday afternoons, in the Mission Hall, at 3 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mothers\u2019 Union<\/strong> \u2014 Enrolling Member: <em>Mrs. Spencer<\/em>,<br>33, Tamworth Street.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Girls\u2019 Club<\/strong> \u2014 Every Tuesday at 7-30 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Girls\u2019 Guild<\/strong> \u2014 Every Thursday at 7-30 p.m. (for Juniors).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Boys\u2019 Club<\/strong> \u2014 Every Wednesday and Thursday evening in the Mission Hall. Leader: <em>Mr. W. Sutton<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Guild of Youth<\/strong> \u2014 Secretary: <em>Miss Spencer<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Men\u2019s Bible Class and Savings Club<\/strong>.<br>President \u2014 The Vicar.<br>Secretaries \u2014 <em>Mr. H. Thorn<\/em> and <em>Mr. Lord<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Women\u2019s Bible Class<\/strong>.<br>President \u2014 <em>Mrs. Storer<\/em>.<br>Secretary \u2014 <em>Mrs. Williams<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Badminton Club<\/strong> \u2014 In Mission during winter months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tennis Club<\/strong>.<br>Courts: Patterson Street.<br>Secretary: <em>Mr. R. Lea<\/em>, 39, Newton Terrace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Band of Hope<\/strong> \u2014 On Mondays at 6-45 p.m. in the District Schools.<br>Secretary \u2014 <em>Miss A. Spencer<\/em>, 33, Tamworth Street.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>District Visitors and Magazine Distributors<\/strong>.<br>Printer and Publisher \u2014 <em>Mr. Welsh<\/em>.<br>Secretary for Advertisements \u2014 <em>Mr. Thorn<\/em>.<br>Treasurer (pro tem.) \u2014 <em>The Vicar<\/em>.<br>Visitors \u2014 Twenty-two, covering the whole parish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Magazine is published on the 1st Wednesday of every month. Price 2d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Free-will Offering Fund.<\/strong><br>Secretary and Treasurer \u2014 <em>Mr. Thorn<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Electoral Roll and Liverpool Review.<\/strong><br>Secretary \u2014 <em>Mr. T. E. Clough<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The Mission Hall.<\/strong><br>Caretaker \u2014 <em>Mrs. Stead<\/em>, 6, Crown Street.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cSomewhere, some way, some time each day,<br>I\u2019ll turn aside and stop and pray<br>That God will make my Church the way<br>Of blessing unto men.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pastoral Visitation.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is the Vicar\u2019s aim and earnest wish to be of service at all times. It will be very helpful if friends will keep him informed of new cases of sickness, accident or bereavement. Any intimation from anyone will be acted upon mostly gladly and at once. It is also desirable that names and addresses of new residents in the parish be sent in, so that they may receive a personal visit and an invitation to our Church Services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Church\u2019s Ministry in sickness is primarily of a spiritual character. We seek through prayer and the comfort of the Scriptures, the healing and restoration in soul and body that Almighty God alone can give.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cThe prayer of faith shall save the sick and the Lord shall raise him up.\u201d \u2014 James V., 15.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"1094\" class=\"wp-image-4115\" style=\"width: 800px;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/006-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"St. John the Baptist, Earlestown\" srcset=\"https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/006-scaled.jpg 1872w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/006-570x780.jpg 570w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/006-614x840.jpg 614w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/006-768x1051.jpg 768w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/006-1123x1536.jpg 1123w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/006-1497x2048.jpg 1497w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><br><br><strong>St John the Baptist in 1932<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Vicar: \u2014 <em>The Rev. ERNEST W. STORER, M.A.<\/em>, St. Catharine\u2019s College and Ridley Hall, Cambridge.<br>Ordained Deacon 1919 and Priest 1920, by Dr. Chavasse, Lord Bishop of Liverpool.<br>Appointments: Curate and Senior Curate at St. Helen&#8217;s Parish Church. Curate-in-Charge of St. Mary\u2019s Mission, St. Helens, 1919-1924. Vicar of St. Paul\u2019s, Widnes, 1924-1928. Instituted and Inducted to St. John the Baptist, Earlestown, February 28th, 1928. Hon. Secretary and Chapter Clerk, Winwick Rural Deanery, 1931; and Chairman, Newton-in-Makerfield Higher Education Committee, 1931.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Lady Worker<\/strong> \u2014 <em>Sister E. G. Brewster<\/em>, 27, St. John Street. Appointed October 1928.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Hon. Licensed Lay Reader<\/strong> \u2014 <em>Mr. W. Sutton<\/em>, 169, Crow Lane West.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Church Wardens<\/strong> \u2014<br><em>Mr. Harold Thorn<\/em>, 122, Market Street.<br><em>Mr. John Boardman<\/em>, 234, Crow Lane West.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Lay Representatives to Diocesan Conference<\/strong> \u2014<br><em>Mr. T. Gregory<\/em>, Clifton, Cross Lane.<br><em>Mr. Alec Brown<\/em>, \u201cRibbleton House,\u201d Crow Lane West.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Lay Representatives to Rural-Deanial Conference<\/strong> \u2014<br><em>Mr. J. Collier<\/em>, Hall House Farm, Earlestown.<br><em>Miss A. Spencer<\/em>, 33, Tamworth Street.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Organist and Choir Master<\/strong> \u2014<br><em>Mr. H. Lewis<\/em>, \u201cBishopswood,\u201d Cross Lane.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sidesmen<\/strong> \u2014<br><em>Messrs. Potts, Welsh, Jackson, Griffiths, Collier, Clarke, C. Spencer, Richards, Rylance, R. Lea, Higson<\/em> and <em>T. Stead<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Permanent Sidesman<\/strong> \u2014 <em>Mr. T. Pimblett<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Church Council<\/strong> \u2014<br><em>Chairman<\/em>: The Vicar.<br><em>Vice-Chairman<\/em>: <em>Mr. Thorn<\/em>.<br><em>Secretary<\/em>: <em>Mr. J. Boardman<\/em>.<br><em>Treasurers<\/em>: <em>Mr. H. Thorn<\/em> and <em>Mr. J. Boardman<\/em>.<br><strong>Lay Representatives<\/strong>: <em>Messrs. T. Gregory, A. Brown, J. Collier<\/em> and <em>Miss A. Spencer<\/em>.<br><strong>Elected Members<\/strong>: <em>Sister Brewster, Mrs. Watkinson, Mrs. Wilson, Mrs. Boardman, Mrs. Thorn, Mrs. Dodds, Mrs. Green, Mrs. Hirons, Mrs. Storer, Mrs. J. Green, Mrs. Halton, Mrs. Hughes, Mrs. Spencer, Mrs. Waring<\/em> and <em>Mrs. Lammas; Miss Foden, Miss B. Appleton, Miss Naylor, Miss Higson<\/em>;<br><strong>Messrs.<\/strong> <em>J. Bretherton, Wilson, Greening, Griffiths, Jackson, Potts, C. Spencer, W. Smith, R. Lea, Pimblett<\/em> and <em>Barker<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Auditor<\/strong> \u2014 <em>Mr. I. Boon<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Verger and Apparitor<\/strong> \u2014 <em>Mr. H. Wilson<\/em>, 134, Haydock Street.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The Parish Hall<\/strong> \u2014<br><em>Chairman<\/em>: The Vicar.<br><em>Secretary<\/em>: <em>Mr. J. Bretherton<\/em>, 5, Bridge Street.<br><em>Treasurer<\/em>: <em>Mr. T. Griffiths<\/em>, 99, Earle Street.<br><em>Committee<\/em>: <em>Mr. Potts, Mr. Dodds, Mr. Wainwright, Mr. Richards, Mr. Sutton, Mrs. Thorn, Mrs. Boardman, Mrs. Dodds<\/em>.<br><em>Caretaker<\/em>: <em>Mr. Cummings<\/em>, 44, Nelson Street.<br>(Applications for booking must be made to the Vicar.)<br><br><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"1047\" class=\"wp-image-4120\" style=\"width: 800px;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/009-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"St. John the Baptist, Earlestown\" srcset=\"https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/009-scaled.jpg 1956w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/009-596x780.jpg 596w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/009-642x840.jpg 642w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/009-768x1005.jpg 768w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/009-1173x1536.jpg 1173w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/009-1565x2048.jpg 1565w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Day Schools<\/strong> \u2014<br><strong>Earlestown District C.E. School<\/strong>:<br><em>Foundation Managers<\/em>: Chairman, The Vicar; Correspondent, <em>Mr. Peake<\/em>; Dr. Valentine and <em>Mr. T. Gregory<\/em>.<br>Head Teacher: Mixed Department, <em>Mr. H. Spurr<\/em>;<br>Staff: <em>Mr. G. F. Barnes, Mr. E. L. Hughes, Mr. W. Appleton, Mrs. Holgate, Miss Dickenson, Miss Edwards, Miss Ball, Mrs. Sutton, Miss Maudsley, Miss Spencer, Miss Goff<\/em>.<br>Head Teacher: Infants&#8217; Department, <em>Miss Duckworth<\/em>;<br>Staff: <em>Mrs. Hughes, Miss Ball, Miss Bailey<\/em> and <em>Mrs. Sephton<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The Manor C.E. School<\/strong>:<br><em>Foundation Managers<\/em>: Chairman and Correspondent, The Vicar, <em>Mr. W. W. Thompson, J.P., Mr. C. McGregor Duncan, J.P., Colonel Pilkington<\/em>.<br>Head Teacher: <em>Mr. G. Collinge<\/em>;<br>Staff: <em>Miss G. M. Traverse, Mr. J. Higham, Mrs. J. Allen, Miss M. C. Clough, Miss W. Ball, Mrs. Webster, Mrs. Evett, Mrs. Birchall<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>SUNDAY SERVICES:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Holy Communion<\/strong>: Every Sunday at 8 a.m.;<br>First Sunday of the month also at 10-30 a.m.;<br>Third Sunday also at 6-30 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Morning Prayer and Sermon<\/strong>: 10-30 a.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Evening Prayer and Sermon<\/strong>: 6-30 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Holy Baptism<\/strong>: 3-15 p.m. (when notice is given).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Men\u2019s Bible Class<\/strong> in Church at 2-15 p.m.<br>President: The Vicar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Women\u2019s Bible Class<\/strong> in the Parish Hall at 3-15 p.m.<br>President: <em>Mrs. Storer<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Young Women\u2019s Bible Class<\/strong> at 2-15 p.m. in the District School.<br>Leader: <em>Sister Brewster<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>WEEK-DAY SERVICES:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Holy Communion<\/strong> on Saints\u2019 Days at 9-30 a.m. and as announced.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Morning Prayer and Intercessions<\/strong>: Daily at 9-30 a.m.<br>Litany, Wednesday and Friday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Evening Prayer<\/strong>, Acts of Devotion and Bible Study, every Wednesday at 7-30 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Holy Baptism and Churching<\/strong>\u2014On Sundays at 3-15 p.m. and Wednesdays at 6-45 p.m., and at other times as arranged. Notice should be given in all cases on a special form which may be obtained on application from the Verger or the Vicarage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Banns, Marriages and Funerals<\/strong>\u2014Notice should be given and arrangements made at the Vicarage. The Vicar is Surrogate for the granting of Marriage Licences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Parochial Organisations:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>SUNDAY SCHOOLS:<\/strong> \u2014 A Sunday School is held in the District C.E. School every Sunday at 9-45 a.m. and 2 p.m., and also at the Parish Hall at 9-45 a.m. and 2 p.m. The Schools are conducted on the modern Graded System.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Superintendents<\/strong>: District Sunday School \u2014<br>Senior Department: <em>Mr. H. Lewis.<\/em><br>Junior Department: <em>Miss Pierce.<\/em><br>Primary Department: <em>Miss A. Spencer.<\/em><br>Infants\u2019 Department: <em>Miss E. Eccleston.<\/em><br>Parish Hall Sunday School: <em>Mr. W. Houghton.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Secretary<\/strong>: <em>Mr. J. Bray<\/em>, 101, Haydock Street.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Treasurer<\/strong>: <em>Mr. J. Boardman<\/em>, 234, Crow Lane West.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Teachers<\/strong>:<br><em>Mrs. Green, Miss Bailey, Miss Mather, Miss Wainwright, Miss Smith, Miss Mullins, Miss N. Turner, Miss Edith Pritchard, Miss W. Pritchard, Miss Evelyn Pritchard, Miss Atkinson, Miss I. Bailey, Miss D. Sutton, Miss E. Smith, Miss Hill, Mrs. Harris, Miss Powell, Miss Foden, Miss F. Dale, Miss Brierley, Miss Naylor, Miss Bannister, Miss Torrance, Miss Morris, Miss Greening, Miss Bradshaw, Miss Bennett, Miss M. Shallcross, Mr. W. Sutton, Mr. Powell, Mr. Smith, Mr. W. Peake, Mr. F. Jones, Mr. Cummings, Mr. G. Hewitt, Mr. Sharpe, Mr. H. Bailey, Mr. F. Cummings.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Sunday School Anniversary is held on the Second Sunday in June and the Annual Walking Day and Tea on the Third Saturday in June.<br><br><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"538\" class=\"wp-image-4125\" style=\"width: 800px;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/008-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"St. John the Baptist, Earlestown\" srcset=\"https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/008-scaled.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/008-780x525.jpg 780w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/008-840x565.jpg 840w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/008-768x517.jpg 768w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/008-1536x1033.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/008-2048x1378.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>CHURCH CHOIR<\/strong> \u2014<br>Rehearsals every Wednesday evening in Church at 8-30 p.m., and for Boys on Fridays at 6-30 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Organist and Choir Master<\/strong>: <em>Mr. H. Lewis.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Registrar<\/strong>: <em>Mr. H. Smith.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Members \u2014 Soprano<\/strong>:<br><em>Miss Littler, Miss Collier, Mrs. Atkinson, Miss Mullins, Mrs. Morris, Mrs. Hughes, Miss H. Smith, Miss W. Pritchard, Miss P. Williams, Miss Wainwright, Miss Chew.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Boys<\/strong>:<br><em>Master J. Wilson, W. Toomes, A. Carrington, J. Ellison, C. Barcroft, W. Hughes, W. Bethell, J. Money, J. Cooper, E. Fryer, E. Clarke, E. Dooley, W. Welch, W. Pilkington, S. Case.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Contraltos<\/strong>:<br><em>Miss Roberts, Miss Roberts, Miss A. Atkinson, Miss M. Appleton, Miss D. Collier, Mrs. Conway and Miss Robinson.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tenors<\/strong>:<br><em>Mr. Ashcroft, Mr. Marsh, Mr. Saunders, Mr. W. Houghton, Mr. Mullins, Mr. T. Smith, Mr. J. Hewitt, Mr. F. Price.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bass<\/strong>:<br><em>Mr. I. Boon, W. Smith, A. Singleton, A. Burman, W. Peake, T. Horton, G. Hewitt.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>CHURCH MISSIONARY SOCIETY:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Treasurer: The Vicar.<br>Missionary Box Collectors: <em>Mrs. Thorn<\/em> and <em>Mrs. Boardman<\/em>.<br>Magazine Secretary: <em>Mrs. Cooper<\/em>, 18, Vista Avenue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>CHURCH PASTORAL AID SOCIETY:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Treasurer: <em>Mr. J. Boardman<\/em>.<br>Ladies\u2019 Home Mission Union: Secretary and Collector, <em>Mrs. Hughes<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>BRITISH AND FOREIGN BIBLE SOCIETY:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Collector: <em>Miss Foden<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>FREE-WILL OFFERING FUND:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Secretary and Treasurer: <em>Mr. H. Thorn<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>ELECTORAL ROLL:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Secretary: <em>Mr. T. E. Clough<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>LIVERPOOL REVIEW:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Agent: <em>Mr. W. Houghton<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>BIBLE READING FELLOWSHIP NOTES:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Series \u201cA\u201d for Adults: 1d. Monthly.<br>Series \u201cB\u201d for Young People: 1d. Monthly.<br>Obtainable from <em>Sister Brewster, Miss Mary Rose<\/em>, and <em>Miss E. Drummond<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>FLOWERS FOR THE SANCTUARY<\/strong> \u2014 Our gratitude is due to the splendid band of ladies who subscribe regularly for the above, and to <em>Mrs. Martindale<\/em>, the Secretary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cSomewhere, some way, some time each day,<br>I\u2019ll turn aside and stop and pray<br>That God will make my Church the way<br>Of blessing unto men.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>PASTORAL VISITATION.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is the Vicar\u2019s aim and earnest wish to be of service at all times. It will be very helpful if friends will keep him informed of new cases of sickness, accident or bereavement. Any intimation from anyone will be acted upon mostly gladly and at once. It is also desirable that names and addresses of new residents in the parish be sent in, so that they may receive a personal visit and an invitation to our Church Services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Church\u2019s Ministry in sickness is primarily of a spiritual character. We seek through prayer and the comfort of the Scriptures, the healing and restoration in soul and body that Almighty God alone can give.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cThe prayer of faith shall save the sick and the Lord shall raise them up.\u201d \u2014 James V., 15.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A Brief History with details of some of the individuals involved with the Church between 1878 to 1932 Some sixty or seventy years ago Earlestown was a small but growing collection of houses, built to meet the needs of the workers at the Viaduct Wagon Works and situated in the parish of Newton-in-Makerfield, the nearest Church being that of Emmanuel, Wargrave. As the works extended and a large increase of population became resident, Canon Whitley, then Rector of Wargrave, seeing the necessity of providing religious services and instruction, erected an&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":4113,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"ngg_post_thumbnail":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[102,40],"tags":[127],"class_list":["post-4112","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-local-hstory","category-earlestown-history","tag-earlestown-history"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4112","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=4112"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4112\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4126,"href":"https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4112\/revisions\/4126"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/4113"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=4112"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=4112"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/newton-le-willows.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=4112"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}