Much remains to be researched when I can get to London and Cambridge and find the time to do further research . But I hope that the work done on Charles ’ s uncle William Henry reveals the military networks of which he was so deeply a part and the deep Christian faith which may have led him to send the Bible to the young Charles and to entrust his own son to his tender care after his decease . And just look what a mighty work God had in store for that great man to help the Waldensians !!
Tim Macquiban
In memory of Albert Bertin ( 6 December 1925 – 27 March 2020 )
The Swiss Church in London has lost its longest standing member Albert Bertin . With much sadness we had to say goodbye to this wonderful man who will be remembered for his wit , kindness and historic knowledge . Due to the current circumstances and Albert ’ s age the committal service was brought to his friends and family via live stream from Hendon crematorium .
Albert leaves behind his wife and life companion Serenella and many friends and family who cared for him until the very end . Serenella and Albert , whose parents migrated to the UK from northern Italy , met at the Swiss Church in
London . They had been married for over sixty years .
Albert ’ s cultural identity as a French-speaking Italian and Waldensian was hugely important to him , and he stayed faithful to his roots until the very end . Albert first joined the Swiss Church with his mother and sister Elena who was also a member of the church until her death in 2018 . They had been introduced to the congregation by a Swiss family friend .
In the past months there was one particular memory that Albert was keen to share with his visitors . When his mother and her two children first came to the Swiss Church , she pointed out to the then Reverend Hoffman that they weren ’ t Swiss citizens . Reverend Hoffman said : ‘ Dans mon église il n ’ y a pas besoin de passeport .’ – ‘ In my church there is no need for a passport .’ This story made Albert chuckle , and the wit in his eyes will always be remembered .
Switzerland became his adopted country just as much as England .
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