27 July 2011
Dear Langham Scholar,
We are sure that, as a Langham Scholar, you would wish to be among the first to know that today at 3.15pm (UK time), John Stott went to be with the Lord. Close family and friends were with him during the morning, and they listened together with him to selections from Handel’s Messiah, including “I know that my Redeemer liveth”, and read through 2 Timothy. He died very peacefully during the afternoon. He had become very weak and weary in recent months and we thank God for a merciful and peaceful ending to his earthly pilgrimage.
During his lifetime, John Stott became known worldwide for the clarity, faithfulness and relevance of his writing and preaching, combined with extraordinary integrity and humility. Countless people around the world can testify to the personal encouragement they have received from ‘Uncle John’. As a Langham Scholar you are among the 300 men and women around the world in the Fellowship of Langham Scholars who are indebted to his great vision and commitment to the cause of theological education and godly leadership.
As the Founder and Honorary President of the Langham Partnership International, John will be remembered as a tireless advocate and friend of the churches in the majority world, demonstrating his concern for their well-being through the provision of literature, the support of younger leaders, faculty development of evangelical seminaries, and the training of pastors and preachers.
In honour of his memory, a memorial web site has been set up in thankful recognition of all that John Stott did to serve the church and to further the cause of God’s Kingdom. The site contains many biographical details of John Stott’s life, ministry and writing, photographs, a remembrance book, and ways in which you can respond to the event. This website will also publish, in due course, details of memorial services in different parts of the world. We are sure you will appreciate visiting this site, http://www.johnstottmemorial.org
Please join us in praying that the Lord, who has now called his good and faithful servant John home to his rest and reward, may continue to bless with increasing fruitfulness all the ministries that have sprung from his vision and leadership.
Thank you.
Rev Dr Chris Wright
International Director
Langham Partnership International
Persona 