Thompson, Laurence

Full NameTHOMPSON, Rev Laurence, M.A. Last edited by: Andrew Smith

Date of Birth9 November 1868 Last edited by: Andrew Smith

Date of Death1 March 1929 Last edited by: Andrew Smith

Biography

born 9 November 1868 at Delting, Shetland Isles, Scotland
- son of Adam Shewn/Shuan THOMASON and Agnes JACOBSON
- brother of Alexander Thomas THOMPSON
married 26 January 1909 Marion Beatrice THOMSON, born 22 November 1877 (Dunedin), died 12 June 1964
died 1 March 1929

His birth certificate spells family name as "Thomason", spelling believed to have been changed to "Thompson" after immigrating to New Zealand.
Theological Hall Dunedin 1900-1902
Licensed by Presbytery of Dunedin 1902

Ordained North Taieri, Dunedin 10 March 1903 — Called to Carterton Oct 1907

"He began a cultured scholarly ministry, sadly enough limited by ill-health to five years. He was an impressive figure of a man, tall, dark and athletic, fond of music, and of human society. Young people held Mr Thompson in high esteem because of his skill and readiness in sporting activities. Among other things he could demonstrate real ability in 'putting the stane' [Rev] Thompson was not a horseman and he visited throughout the parish on foot. He gave great assistance to the choir [and] conducted weekly Bible studies in the North Taieri School."

Carterton, Wairarapa 1907

Suffered considerable ill-health from the end of 1914 (heart attack). His work was carried on by other Ministers in the Presbytery assisted by laymen.
Resigned 23 September 1915 due to ill-health. Suffered a degree of continuing ill-health thereafter.
Mrs Thompson established a branch of the Presbyterian Women's Missionary Union at Gladstone 29th July 1913
"The church was fortunate in obtaining their services at Solway College."

Island Bay, Wellington (Supply)

He soon endeared himself to the congregation with the result that he was inducted to the charge.

Island Bay, Wellington 11.3.1926 (one record states 7.3.1926)

His health was never equal to the task and he was compelled to resign 30 June 1927
Mrs Marion Thompson, his wife, was the first Principal of Solway Girls College at Masterton.
"His life was a struggle with pain and weakness, and through the long weary years he carried himself bravely as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. His love for the work led him to carry out irregular supply in various charges.... He is remembered for his kindly courtesy, genial nature, and genuine piety, which have endeared him to all." [From Memorial Minute].
Their four year old son was drowned in 1916. Last edited by: Andrew Smith

Relates to

Recollect CollectionPeople Last edited by: Andrew Smith

Presbyterian Research Centre

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Thompson, Laurence