Clive Gesling
Clive ’ s funeral at North Belconnen UCA was well attended . Three clergy were involved , including Rev Ross Kingham who spoke on behalf of Presbytery saying :
“ Clive served as a ‘ Local Preacher ’ in the Methodist Church for 58 years . On one occasion , he phoned about the Sunday liturgy at one of our country churches . The relieving organist told him that there would be four hymns ( What a Friend We Have in Jesus , Amazing Grace , Onward Christian Soldiers and The Lord is My Shepherd ). He could have them in any order , but they were the only hymns she could play . So they had those four hymns , and , says Clive , ‘ they were sung with great gusto as they had been sung often before .’
Clive served as Chair of the Canberra Presbytery ( as it was then named ) from November 1983 for four years alongside Norman McDonald ( Presbytery Officer ), followed by a similar association with the late Ron Reeson ( Presbytery Officer ). During these four years , Clive had been instrumental in the formation of the local presbytery in the time of the formation of the UCA . Norman McDonald recalls the very significant role Clive had , often behind the scenes , using his deft skills in people management and his legal prowess to negotiate situations that were sometimes fraught . Clive demonstrated a capacity for thoughtful , discerning conversation . He described his time as Presbytery Chairperson as a “ time of the happiest of memories – joys and sorrows shared with the people and parishes throughout the presbytery , and also in the wider ecumenical sphere .”
On leaving the Public Service , Clive , 65 years of age , followed his dream : he served as ‘ Lay Pastor ’ in the Braidwood parish from 1989- 1994 . These five years were fruitful ones for Clive . He loved the people of Braidwood , Bungendore , Araluen and surrounding areas .
Writing to one of his friends , Russ Richards , Clive said ‘ Russ – one who brightened the journey ’. We could well say that to Clive .
Clive has left many gifts with us that bear the imprint of a rich and generous goodness ,
… gifts that are to be recognised and treasured , and which in time , like good seed , has produced , and will continue to produce , their own bountiful harvest .
We are most grateful .”
- Brian Rope
St Margaret ’ s News 11 August 2022