On Wednesday 25th August 2010, Richard Hubbard international speaker, CEO of Links International, and long-time member & elder of Arun Community Church passed away after a battle with cancer.
This website is an opportunity for people to leave their thoughts, messages and memories of Rich and to share with others about his unforgettable character.
Please use the tribute section below to post your own reflections on Rich. All comments are moderated so there may be a delay before your message appears.
I really enjoyed Powerpoint when I was a kid! I know people who were dear friends of Rich and – although I don’t know him well – all I have heard indicates he was an amazing guy. May you all hold on to hope in Jesus at this difficult time and know peace beyond understanding.
Richard was someone who always took a genuine interest in me/us as a Church (New Generation – Sidcup). His smile and passion was contagious. He was very helpful in some of our overseas projects and had lots of wisdom that he freely shared. So thanks very much to his close family and Arun Community Church for lending him to us. God bless x
I don’t know how to describe the depth and breadth of influence that Rich had on my life, and these few words cannot even scratch the surface, but I am unusually fortunate enough to be able to do what God created me to do in this life, and I truly believe that I owe much of this to Rich, to his example, his advice, his guidance and his trust in me.
I first met Rich in 1987 when I joined his Powerpoint kids ministry team for the Eurofire 1987 conference held by Reinhard Bonke at the NEC in Birmingham. My best friend Tim and I were introduced to Rich by our youth leader in Worcester, Richard Wood, to play bass and guitar in the worship band and to be part of the ministry team that week. Straight away Rich disarmed me with his confidence, his trust in me and his wicked sense of humour. It was an amazing week where we ministered in the power of the Holy Spirit, seeing miracles take place, seeing kids praying for other kids, and seeing their prayers for healing answered, often dramatically so. And then he told me, a gauche 17 year old, that I was going to lead the children out into the main auditorium on the last day, so that they could sing on the main stage in front of the whole conference. Only this was not your average venue main stage, this was the Birmingham NEC Arena main stage. So there I ended up, dressed as a clown, playing a borrowed 12-string acoustic guitar, fumbling the barre chords and leading our kids singing “Shine Jesus Shine” in front of 6,000 people.
Playing in the Powerpoint band (or the Elastic Band as Rich liked to call us) was a thorough apprenticeship in musical flexibility and variety. Rich wrote and recorded kid’s songs in just about every musical style, and so I had to learn to play in just about every musical style. It was really stretching for a young musician and although I routinely fluffed my parts, it never seemed to matter too much – there was such a sense of fun and freedom worshiping and playing together with Rich at the front doing crazy dances with his Ovation guitar round his neck and pulling silly faces. He had an amazing gift of being able to switch from crazy fun and games straight into a thoughtful holy moment without missing a beat.
Rich was an outstanding communicator – a natural. It’s one of the reasons why he was so good at children’s ministry. He could sum up complex theology in simple words and illustrations, and he could quickly and efficiently communicate plans, ideas, ministry methods and philosophy to a large team of helpers and get them all working efficiently together. After working hours though, my best memories of working with Rich are the long conversations we would have, where he befriended and pastored this motley band of young Christian students and misfits, helping us make sense of life together with endless sympathy, wisdom and compassion. Of course, if there was any mischief taking place, Rich was often at the centre of it. He could be relied upon to punctuate any serious moments with a one-liner or a witty catchphrase and his outrageously accurate impressions of famous church leaders were carefully designed to puncture any smugness acquired from being in the Spring Harvest limelight.
My six years of ministry with Rich were pivotal, formative experiences. He was my friend, leader, mentor and example. He gave me confidence to trust God in any circumstance and to pursue my calling no matter what. He made us all feel loved and accepted for who we were, and he encouraged me in my musical development and to pursue Jesus with everything, wherever he would take me.
In the end, after years of leading worship, serving in my Liverpool church, Frontline, it was that calling from God (which came into focus one summer night on a showground in Malvern surrounded by Rich and my Powerpoint friends) that brought us to Egypt where I have been serving full time as a Worship Pastor in an international church in Cairo for the last seven years.
The last time I saw Rich was in my living room here in Cairo a few years ago when he was visiting some Arun church friends living and working here. After dinner we sat and talked and told stories about the Powerpoint days, and it was such a privilege to share with him what God had done in my life through Rich and Linda’s ministry and friendship, and to thank him properly at last for pouring out his life in serving and loving others. I don’t think he had realised just what a huge impact he had had on me, and it was so special just to sit there and reflect together on how, through God’s grace, Rich’s influence on me and the many others like me has been multiplied and poured out into the world.
He will be remembered as a wonderful husband and father, a true servant leader and a genuine man of God.
As a member of the Abbey Church (formerly Family Christian Center) in Azle/Ft.Worth, TX, Rich has imparted God’s Word in our lives. One time, he ministered to the men, he stressed the importance of being real. Another time, he was part of an apostolic presbytery. He imparted God’s direction and confirmation in our lives. He was steady in his faith, a strong teacher. He always gave us a “now” word. His sense of humor was always a welcomed joy. Though missed here on Earth, he is in his reward. You ran the race; you finished the course. Well done brother, well done!
I was honored to be there for his incredible last sermon and so much of my childhood learning about the foundations of God and Holy Spirit were through the teachings of this man. I am honored to have known him and heaven is so much richer. I pray that the fruit of his life would be known and would have been richer more than anyone thought possible.
We will always remember Rich for his enthusiasm, energy, expressions and excellence ( 4 ‘e’s in true preacher style).
An inspiration to us and always such a warm welcome, we love you Rich RIP
Stuart and Caz Johnson xx
“This desert is not our destiny” True words spoken out and live out by Rich – and you knew it was real.
Hey Rich… you were/are such an amazing guy – you’ll certainly neva be 4gotten. One in a million. Now a royal gem (or izzit dia-dem). First met you when I was sweet 16 (which was a little while ago!) – rememba me n’ Rabz…!!…! More recently, your messages on Sundays @ ACC were always inspiring. Do they have lotsa steps in heaven I wonder?? RIP bro – Donna Garman and family, NZ.
Rich was an inspiration and I feel privileged to have known him and heard him preach. We even talked at the end of last year, about him visiting us in New Zealand to discuss a branch of Links down under – always the visionary!
Thankyou for all you did in building the kingdom of heaven here on earth. Your life is an inspiration. Much love to all of Richs family and friends. xxx
Rich in name, Rich in laughter (…ggggoal!), Rich in vision, Rich in hope, Rich in battle, Rich in grace, Rich in life, Rich in eternity! Love to all the family. Al & Jan xxx
Rich, you did so much for the Kingdom in you short life – you blessed me & my children’s lives. Praying for you family. You are now enjoying the greatest adventure of all.
Love you.
Dearest Rich, always an inspiration, a true servant of God, ready to go wherever the Lord sent you, always open to what he had to say. To know you was a privilege, to listen to your jokes was…something else!!!! Only kidding. The sheer tiggerishness of you was infectious. You made me laugh, you made me groan, but you had such a gift of encouragement and your input was invaluable in my early years as a Christian when you and Lynda opened your home to the “young” people. The first real conversation we had has always stuck in my mind because you made me know without a shadow of a doubt that God had always planned to call me to him because the odds of my keeping to my commitment as I had, with so little real shepherding (at that point) were actually quite low! Looking forward to seeing you again one day bro, meanwhile R.I.P Rich Hubbard, in my book, one of God’s finest. xxxx
Rich, your input changed my life, thank you. I came to the Faith Camp YP’s work for several years back in the day and learnt so much about God in my time there. It was during a time of prayer there that I had my first ‘picture’ and really began to understand what worship was. Good times. Thank you again.
It is with sadness but joy for you that I heard this news.
Rich you were a good friend, companion and influence to all our family, standing firm in Jesus right to the end.
Our sons Jon and Dan’s faith in God was especially strengthened from your input into their lives. One year we were at the same 3 conferences, by the end of it they knew all your jokes and still loved being there with you!
We cherish the way you have touched our lives. Thank you Rich for the amazing input of the love of God you have given to the Bilbroughs.
Our prayers and love remain with all the Hubbard family.
To Rich; a mighty warrior before the Lord.
The Soldier by Robert Frost
He is that fallen lance that lies as hurled.
That lies unlifted now, come dew, come rust.
But still lies pointed as it ploughed the dust.
If we who sight along it round the world
See nothing worthy to have been its mark,
it is because like men we look too near.
Forgetting that as fitted to the sphere, our missiles always make too short an arc.
They fall, they rip the grass, they intersect
The curve of earth, and striking, break their own;
They make us cringe for metal point on stone.
But this we know, the obstacle that checked and tripped the body, shot the spirit on,
Further than target ever showed or shone.
Thank you Brave Rich, for all the Laughter, Encouragement and Enthusiasm, you made sermons fun! Our thoughts go out to your family. We will miss and remember you RIP Ian & Kathy Jones
Rich was a “diamond geezer”.
We met when I was only 15.
21 years ago we were visiting my Cousins in Tavistock, and one sunday morning service, i was introduced to Richard as a teenage guitarist. I don’t remember it that well, but i do know that the during the next decade, my life was hugely impacted by working alongside Rich at Grapevine, Family Camp, Faith Camp & Spring Onion (Harvest).
I can’t begin to tell of how much I received from Rich in terms of Love, encouragement, discipline, houmour, fun & faith.. he was such a role model. He’s probably impacted my life more that anyone i’ve ever met or heard of (besides JC). I saw my cousin, brother and best friend totally impacted by working along side Rich in serving God. Rich was truly inspirational.
Rich was down to earth, humble and “normal”, yet always persued excellence. He wanted to Glorify the Father in all that he did. 8.15am team meetings @ SH were a killer, but it was all for the sake of the kingdom.
@ PowerPoint we had so much fun serving God together. Rich was one of the Quality Leaders that are true servants. He so loved his family, embarasing then on stage…. i guess “little Sam” is not so little now!!!!
I never once saw him “big himself up”…… in nearly a decade. He was all for team and working together. Some of my lifes happiest, faith building and moving moments were @ skegness and camping over the summer in the lae 80′s and 90′s. Seeing God’s power at work in 8-15year olds was awesome…. truly awesome.
Richard Hubbard “man of God” was such an example and inspiration to thousands of people. I could never deny all that God has invested in me through the small part of his life I was so privledged to share.
Richard Hubbard – Glory to God!!!!
Va t’en loin, va t’en sereine
Qu’ici rien ne te retienne
Your inspirational life and work will surely be continued through those whose lives you have so greatly touched with your gifts.
My prayers go out to your wonderful family.
Tina
Well, what to say that hasn’t already been said….
I was introduced to Rich in June 1990 when he came to our church in Greenford, West London. He was hosting a praise party for us, and needed a local drummer – so I was recruited. The first thing that attracted me to this bloke was his brilliant sense of humour and fun. I was blown away by his enthusiasm, his desire to serve God and yet his complete lack of religion and “churchyness”. I loved him from that moment….Over the next 7 years I had the honour of travelling around much of the country with him – from Ramsgate to Scunthorpe – and witnessing a true revolutionary man of God in action. The times spent at Spring Harvest and Grapevine with the Powerpoint Team were both hilarious and profoundly life changing in equal measure! To be given opportunities to be used by God, to be encouraged, to be given the freedom to express and to visit so many curry and kebab houses was all just brilliant.
Rich was one of the most incredible communicators, and at any level. I still to this day do not think it was appreciated just how good he was. As has been said elsewhere, his ability to bring Gods word for the season and to impart that to any audience was thrilling. I was at the Pioneer Conference in Southampton in March this year, and attended the seminar that he spoke at. It was the first time I’d heard him speak for a number of years, and even though he was in the middle of this terrible illness, he spoke with conviction, desire, passion, faith and inspiration. A colleague of mine, who has had involvement with Pioneer for over 2o years commented that it was probably the best seminar he had heard at any Pioneer conference…..I rest my case.
I have many fond memories of Rich. I loved the way he would throw me a look from the platform as he dropped a Fawlty Towers reference in to his talk, his uncanny ability to find bargains in the local charity shop in the town we were visiting, the conversations in the Espace on the way to gigs – everything from Church politics to Del boy and Rodney, and just sitting in his caravan at Grapevine drinking tea and just laughing…..
Thank you Rich for being a huge part of my life.
Thanks Rich or all the input into my kids life through your minstry. They are all grown up now and going on in their Christian lives. You and your team wer something to look forward to in the summer for the kids and they were so enthusiastic after camp. Thanks for that.
Our kids came through Rich’s powerpoint meetings when trish was ministering on stage @various bible weeks. We were always encouraged when you met Rich he would take a genuine intrest in how we were or what we were doing. Now the twins are 22, still going on with God and beginning service in their local churches. They were inspired in their young faith by Rich & team and we hope his family whilst grieving with the loss can take strength from the amazing stories & testimonies of those who knew him and those he didn’t realise that he made such a difference. Well done Rich…you ran your race well.
Our love, malc & trish morgan
I knew Rich when I was a child growing up in Gunnislake in the 1980s and our families were neighbours, and when I think of Rich the first thing that always comes to mind is the ‘Victory Gang’, the Christian children’s club which met after school in the Public Hall in the village – we sang, played games, and had so much fun, but the best thing was that all my school friends were there, Christian and non-Christian alike, everyone learning about God together – what an amazing thing! I will always treasure the memories of the Victory Gang days – Rich jumping around with his guitar, the crazy games, the bright yellow t-shirts, the Victory Gang song – even the Victory Gang tape! Although in many ways it all seems so long ago, I’m sure I’m not the only person who is still so thankful to God for the witness that Rich and the Victory Gang were to the children and wider community of that small Cornish village 25 years ago.
It was a privelage to share our journey with you Rich, and you are much missed! It is a comfort to know that death is not so much the extinguishing of a light, but the putting out of a lamp because the dawn has come! Thank you and your beautiful family for being such in anspiration! Much love. Dale & Debs xx
So many memories of Rich, most that included laughter and a sideways viewpoint, but always encouraging, inspiring and challenging. His impact on our 3 (now grown up and married children) was immense – ‘Aband, aband, abandon ship, jump into the arms of the Lord’ – I can still hear it in my head so clearly. Through all the praise parties, kids groups at Faith week and Grapevine, and more recently the passion for Links and world missions, Rich exuded a great love of God, the kingdom, the lost, the marginalised and always his family. My last significant memory was a 4 hour meeting in July 2009 at Heathrow Airport with Rich and Graham Catto from South Africa to discuss how we could work together on missions. I fly to the Democratic Republic of Congo on the 8th September as part of that plan and Rich will be strongly on my mind. We are thankful to God that our paths crossed so many times, even though once would have been enough to have been influenced and inspired by such a man.
I first met Richard (that dates it) at Worthing Boys High School when we were students in Worthing. We were both thrown into confusion when at the start of year five the school converted into a college and took its first intake of girls. (and Lynda!) Somehow we managed to keep our studies on track, though we soon found there were more important things to do than books. (I met Ros the next year)
A now lovestruck Richard and I had a wonderful weeks holiday on the Thames in 75 with Rich getting a considerable amount of stick from me about getting himself tied into a relationship at his age (just jealous). Rich patiently put up with a diet of warm beans and cold pasties while I tried to understand the rudiments of using an oven.
Time moved on and we fell out of contact at the end of college days, no Facebook or electronic communication in those days. I now so much regret not having made the effort to get in contact again. We would have had so much to talk about. I am now associated with a children’s charity in Cambodia, and campaign for the travel industry to take an active part in helping in the communities in which it works.
He was a very special person, always smiling. My thoughts go to his family at this time.
I was introduced to Rich by Ishmael, Grapevine 1989. I was a childrens worker at my own church in Bristol, and when given the opportunity to work with Rich, I jumped at it. The mixture of fun & worship, teaching & ministry was life-changing for me. One minute running around the marquee shouting ‘I’ve got a hairy chest’ (honestly!), the next seeing young people becoming Christians & having their lives transformed.
I was in his team at Faith Camp from 1990-94, 5 glorious years. Richs’ exuberance & passion were contagious. He could capture young peoples’ hearts & imaginations, he could lead them towards a relationship with Father God, he showed them that being a Christian was FUN! I was the target of many a ‘Rich’ll Fix It’ (there is video of me somewhere dressed as Mrs Doubtfire!). As a team member, you had to be prepared to step out of your comfort zone; when Rich lined the leaders along the front of the stage and expected everyone to have a word of knowledge about healing, a prophecy or the like, you learned to hear God VERY quickly! Having said that, when a young person came to me at the end of a meeting and said “You prophecied over me 4 years ago that God was going to use me – tonight He told me where!”, I felt so humble that God had chosen to use me in that childs’ life.
I loved the worship songs that Rich wrote, and it was a source of disappointment to me that they never got the recognition they deserved. One song in particular, ‘I call out to you Lord’, spoke to me so deeply; when a friend and ex-Powerpoint leader told me of Richs’ passing, I found myself singing that song through the tears.
Rich, my inspiration, my friend, you will be so missed.
We came to know Rich at a time when we were serving in Bujumbura, Burundi. He came several times during years of great crisis in the nation. Each time he came, he had a relevant word for us. His joy was infectious, his passion for the world was matchless! All of Africa feels this great loss as Rich was a soldier for the cause of Africa. We are blessed to have had a season in his path.
Our hearts and prayers are joined with you during this time. We love you!
Jamie and Lea Peters
Trinity Church International
Africa
I have Mark Jaffrey and Alexa Summers (nee Jaffrey) to thank for introducing me to Rich. I, like many, worked with him and his family, both close and extended, on various summer camps with Power Point. The experience he brought to both the staff and the children was immense. He ooozed the power of God from every pore and you knew from both talking to him and watching him work that he was a very special man, chosen from many, by God to do His work. He was a delight to be in the company of and the fun and laughter we had during those times has never left my memory. There may be others who will do the same kind of work, but they will never match the vitality and zest to bring Jesus to the lives of young people all over the world. I am thankful that Mark and Alexa brought me to work with Rich and the team and can honestly say that it was “life changing” is a serious understatement. I pray that many will come to know the Lord through listening to those who speak at his memorial service who may not yet know the power of God in their lives.
i just remembered something else… sorry!
it was his birthday when we were away and he walked round the entire week with a large bage on which said “smart, good-looking and rich!” what a great guy! see ya again one day Rich, Chrissie xx
We celebrate a life spent in sharing The Kingdom around the globe, and now celebrate a life immersed in The Kingdom, WITHOUT limitations!! Butch and Darlene Breed -Azle, Texas
Some people leave barely a ripple, when they leave this earth – others leave a crater and we all know which was Rich’s legacy! Speaking selfishly, we will both miss him so much. We’ll miss his humour, his wisdom, his championing of little understood areas of spiritual life (work, business, etc), his insight into the wholeness (shalom) that breaking down barriers – sacred/secular, rich/poor – can bring. And, of course, his wonderful mimicry of individuals and demolishing of “holy cows”. He is one of the few who manage to live life in God seamlessly – whether sharing a curry and a joke or preaching and teaching. Ministry in the most demanding of situations in the two-thirds world was transformed into a stroll in the park, through his positive servanthood. Who can forget the frogs in Gambia? Love and peace to all the family!
Rich. You have left a terrific legacy. Our children enjoyed Powerpoint at Spring Harvest. We all enjoyed the children’s worship cassettes. F.U.N.E.N.R.G. was, for years, a firm favourite with the children at our church’s Holiday Clubs. We admire the workrate you put in for Links & the church, and it was a pleasure to be able to support your ministry in the early years. We will miss your presence in the area!!
Rob and Marie White, Worthing
I met rich many years ago as a teenager. I joined the childrens team powerpoint at spring harvest. I went on to work with rich and powerpoint for several years at spring harvest, spring bank, kingdom faith and grapevine. It was also a sad day full of happy memories when i was part of the final powerpoint team at grapevine 1995 i think it was. so long ago i can’t remember. Though i do remember Rich calling me joey as i used to spell my name joe. I have seen many children become christians, speak words of knowledge, prophecy and speak in tonges and generally just blossom and grow in just a few days when Rich would teach them about God and His love for them. I remember all the laughs, tears, jokes and many meals shared with Rich and the powerpoint team. He left a huge mark on many peoples lives, not just the children but the teams as well. Linda was always there supporting too.
I have many great memories and good friends who i met through powerpoint. And of the music which was biblically based, and overhearing parents commenting on how good the worship was because it was more biblical than some.
I could go on and on. Rich’s humour, leadership, friendship and much more will be missed. Rich you are a legend and have left a huge legacy behind in the many lives yu touched in your ministry. thankyou. and God bless your family , i pray for peace for linda and sam and amy, and your wider family.
Rich was such a wonderful man. I grew up with him leading in the kids venue at Grapevine. I remember a tape with ‘a band on ship’ or ‘abandon ship’ on it! It started with some kids shouting “Rich!” then there were footsteps and he shouted “coming!!” I loved it. He inspired me and instilled some amazing things in me. I am now part of the worship team at Grapevine and i know that I couldn’t guarantee I would be where I am with out his hard work behind the scenes and his realisation that children hold an amazing amount of potential and are worth investing in. I did get to tell him last grapevine what he had done for me but really words aren’t enough. What a brilliant man! Sending you all our love xxx
Lamento mucho que ya no este…
Rich was a fabulous inspiration- I too have tapes of those brilliant kids songs, and loved going to powerpoint as a child. I still have the recording of one of the seminars he led at grapevine about reaching your destiny in God- it must be over 15years but I still remember his passion, commitment and determination to live life for God, and with God at the heart, walking into the potential he has for us all…..and now through sadness we can smile, knowing Rich is enjoying his biggest adventure, worshipping the Lord he lived for…..his legacy will live on, Hubbard family I know in your sadness you will be proud of all Rich achieved. Peace and comfort be yours at this time xxx
I first met Rich 17 years ago when we shared a stage at Spring Harvest. He was leading Powerpoint (for children aged 8-11s) and I was part of Whizz Kids (for children aged 5-7s). It was a family worship event in the Big Top and we were both struggling with a demonized Sound Engineer who seemed intent on making every request we made into screeching sounds, which Rich quickly turned into hilarious one liners! From the first moment of meeting Rich could no wrong in my eyes – especially as I had taken a liking to his little sister and I was keen to impress.
Rich spoke at our wedding 3 years later and became more than just my brother in law, but my friend and a regular travelling companion.
Together we travelled around the world, sharing a caravan in Cefn Lea, spending a week together for a ‘prayer retreat’ on his boat around the Thames and Medway to sharing a double bed in India all via a large numbers of motorway ‘greasy spoons’ and city curry houses, we visited many incredible people and churches (and a few unusual ones as well) but being with Rich it was never dull.
On my first trip to Texas we stayed in the home of Paul and Perrianne Brownback and Rich decided to wake me up on the first morning with a nice cup of fresh coffee. In he came with a smile on his face and a tray full of a cafetierre and cups. Unfortunately he was wearing a set of Virgin Atlantic pyjamas given to him by Norman Barnes that were designed to fit any size. At the critical moment the drawstring gave way and Rich was unsure whether to drop the tray and hold onto his trousers or hold the tray and drop… you can imagine the rest
Life with Rich was full of funny events, many of which probably shouldn’t be shared today, but Rich had an ability to be funny without being flippant. He lived life to the full, but he was very serious about his faith and loved the local church (One Christmas my wife Lottie banned us from talking about the church and created a Christian ‘swear box’ that if we mentioned the word church we would have to put some money in for Links International!)
But Rich is no longer with us
We can choose to remember him for his funny stories, his secret obsession with Coronation Street or his Del Boy French (mange tout, mange tout…)
Or we can be inspired by the way he lived his life so that we achieve more with our own lives. I believe Rich’s life can mirror the words of scripture that Paul wrote in Philippians:
I trust that my life will bring honour to Christ, whether I live or die. For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better. (Philippians 1:20-21)
I will be proud that I did not run the race in vain and that my work was not useless. But I will rejoice even if I lose my life, pouring it out like a liquid offering to God, just like your faithful service is an offering to God. And I want all of you to share that joy. Yes, you should rejoice, and I will share your joy. (Philippians 2:16-18)
Rich was always keen to find ways to resource the kingdom of God and make a difference in his lifetime, but as Jesus told his followers:
Listen carefully: Unless a grain of wheat is buried in the ground, dead to the world, it is never any more than a grain of wheat. But if it is buried, it sprouts and reproduces itself many times over. In the same way, anyone who holds on to life just as it is destroys that life. But if you let it go, reckless in your love, you’ll have it forever, real and eternal. (John 12:24)
Maybe it is to be that in Rich’s death his desire will be realized and a greater impact achieved than could be imagined in his lifetime?
We decide. I decide. You decide.
We can simply remember a good man that lived or… be inspired to live our lives greater, to run the race faster, to fly higher, to live our lives to the full.
because that’s what Rich did and he did it really well…
Well done my friend I am going to miss you.
Rich Hubbard is a name I haven’t heard for many years, yet one that in my formative years meant a great deal to me. First the ministry of Ishmael, then Rich, then in my teenage years Cutting Edge/Delirious, all these ministries have been incredibly significant in developing the deep faith I have today. Thank you Rich, I may not have been aware of your ministry for many years, but the seeds you sowed many years ago are still bearing much fruit.
Richard you will always be alive in our hearts. What a life what a human being!! You are a true inspiration to us all. Thank you for all your unstoppable energy and incredible ministry. You will always be a source of hope when we face difficulties in our every day life or when we are facing opposition doing His work, We will be clapping you goodbye for now butr one day we will be clapping hello.
Rich will be missed in India, especially at Powerhouse Church, Chennai. I was personally blessed by his preaching, loved his sense of humour and the way he brought to life the characters in the Bible. He was always so encouraging ,warm and full of life .
On a lighter note , he was known as the ‘spraying’ preacher’. we avoided sitting in the front row whenever he preached
but then we never missed a single word he spoke!
Many fond memories of Rich from Gunnislake in Cornwall in about 1985. I remember he always led the music at housegroup evening meetings. So after a hard day at work or a harassing day with the kids, everyone would sit down with a tired sign of relief for a restful evening – no, I don’t think so, Rich would get everyone on their feet with a rousing rendition of ‘I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you’ with actions of course, that involved jumping up and down as high as you could, (no one could jump higher than Rich) zigzaging arms in front of you. There were no exceptions, even the oldies had to do it! Those were the days! Then of course in later years at Faith camp when the kids came back shouting ‘Flapper’ ‘Kipper’ or something, and you’d wonder what on earth went on in that tent!! These were the best days of my life, nothing has matched those years since and Rich was such an influence and large part of it. Thanks Rich.
I will write a longer tribute when I am not so busy, but Rich was truly inspirational. Always positive, always encouraging, he saw the Christian life on a broad canvas. His legacy will be used to inspire thousands and I believe much was released and ‘birthed’ at his superb sending off service last week.
Amy has inherited her father’s ability to communicate- watch out for how God uses her in the future……
Now there was a man whom always made you feel like God was standing right next to you…..
He once spotted me at Grapevine, in one of the meetings he was speaking at and announced that i was a good friend of his and he was very glad that i was there.
Felt very honored.
very inspiring and big shoes to fill………… but the challenge is on…….
Rich was an inspiration to so many. We’re grateful to have been among the lives he touched. It’s more than a few years back we first met! Gold Hill, Wycombe… When I met with Rich last to discuss how Links and Frontiers might somehow partner for unreached peoples (I guess around 2 years ago) we had a pub lunch in Castlefield! Our kids (in their 20s) still recall the albums. ‘Rich… coming… (footsteps)!’. Rich leaves a very rich legacy which goes way beyond these shores. Much fruit will follow many seeds sown.
Dad (David) sends much love. With love and prayers from us all for you Lynda – Phil & Gillie Goodchild.
I remember Rich from pioneer meetings..always friendly and always ready to talk… Packed so much into life … An inspiration!
Very sad to hear of Richards recent death. Love and prayers to Lynda and the family. We knew Rich when we were all at vineyard church in Tavistock 24 years ago, where Rich was worship leader and team member of ‘ victory gang’ held in Gunnislake village hall every week. We all have fond memories of Rich leaping around, breaking guitar strings , his energy and committment was infectious and he was no doubt instrumental in developing and encouraging many of the childrens faith. One time i remember him in church announcing as part of the sunday notices, that Only fools and horses was on t.v that night at 8pm, caused a snigger or two! A real pleasure to have know him and spent many homegroups evening benefiting from his wisdom.
Excited Rich is onwards and upwards to receive his reward and saddened for those who will have to wait a little longer to join him.
As a member of Arun Community church in the 90′s, I benefitted from his energy and enthusiasm for God. I served with Rich at Skegness, where he got me walking on stilts, running around like a maniac, seeing the kids’ faith grow with each day, and left me after three days barely able to walk with stiffness from all the exertion! Fantastic!
Like many others here, a long time ago, but a lasting impression of a servant of the Lord.
At Spring Harvest we remember with gratitude the wonderful years of Rich’s input into thousands of children’s lives. Whether at Butlins or on the road on tour with us Rich was always an inspiration and great fun to be with.
Today, 28th September, I found myself singing the songs Rich taught my daughter at Spring Harvest and also at the City Church in Worcester. I often found myself singing away with those inspired songs, but today it started a train of thought ……. I wonder what Rich is doing now? Well, it was with a little sadness I saw that he no longer walks this earth, but joy that the Father has called him home. Sleep well, Rich, and thank you so much for following the Master and letting Him use you in such incredible ways.
Rich was amazing in the role I knew him for in overseeing Powerpoint at Faith Camp. I recall boundless levels of energy and enthusiasm as he sought to inspire, empower and equip us as young people to walk with God. I’m pleased to say that largely due to these Faith Camp experiences which provided me with a firm foundation, I continue to walk closely with God and now lead in my church’s youth group. I’ve always been incredibly grateful to Rich for his youth ministry and willingness to give of himself as he sought after the things of God. I’m so sorry to hear of his battle with cancer and now pray for his friends and family that they would be comforted with the knowledge that God has used Rich’s life to powerfully impact others and God has won the ultimate battle, allowing us to spend eternity with Him.
I had the privilege of playing guitar with my then pastor Garry Rumbold of Kingdom Faith Church at a leaders meeting in Scarborough, with Richie. I felt so pleased as I’d played many of his songs at children’s meetings and so blessed listening to him teach. His gain really is our loss.
I had the privilege to serve with Rich on the Links Board for a number of years and was always so impressed by his wisdom,enthusiasm and vision for the world.He was passionate for the lost,and knew his calling.I haven’t seen him for a few years now,but understand the loss so may are feeling,and share in that.What is very clear is that so much fruit has come from his life,and that is the greatest legacy he can leave.
Well done Rich.
What magnificent tributes to a truly wonderful and inspiring person. Rich may only have been on this earth for a short 50 odd years but it is clear that the impact he made on all of us will continue to benefit and inspire . I first met Rich in the early 1980′s when he was a newly appointed Solicitor at West Devon Borough Council (my line manager) – in reality he was not a Boss but a great friend and we shared many many laughs together – it was truly a pleasure to go into work and re enact Monty Python/Fawlty Towers sketches – his John Cleese was perfect! We used to have races across the office on our wheeled office chairs -not sure why yours was faster than mine must have been the whitewall tyres?
Rich held the greatest respect from Councillors, colleagues and the public whom we served. He always had the right words and demeanour for any situation whether it be in front a packed Council Chamber or a Court Room where he was conducting Council business – he had local magistrates eating out of his hand!!! Rich always said that he knew his calling and when his Ministry work outweighed his “day job” he would leave and give it (the Ministry) his all (was there any other way with Rich?!). Rich was game for anything and never forgot a blast on the back of my motorbike one lunch hour through the Devon country lanes – even 20 years later when we were fortunate to meet up again this summer he still recounted the thrill of it all. We also had fun photographing the cover of first cassette tape – was it called “Rich”? Messing about in boats, visits to Chimney Rock Gunnislake, talking about cars and the merits of the Espace – never a dull moment when Rich was around was there?
Rich was so amazing about his illness talking about it as if it were a minor inconvenience and regaling me about the possibility of a thrilling ride in an ambulance with blue light and siren wailing! Missed you 20 years ago and missing you now me old mate. Love thoughts and prayers are with your lovely family – you will be missed in so many ways but those memories are forever. One of a kind never to be forgotten.
We are living near to Tavistock, Devon, and Rich and Lynda worshipped in a church there called Vineyard – pre-John Wimber. My first meeting with Rich was in Buckland Monachorum village where he was leading an older children’s event with great enthusiasm, and actively anticipating that God would meet with them in power through Jesus by the Holy Spirit.
As a church we came to know Rich much better after he had left for Arun Community church. Some of the tributes above refer to Rich’s great giftedness with children. We were the recipients of his teaching and prophetic praying as he spoke to the church as a whole. He visited us on several occasions, and with Lynda and Sam and Amy attended on two occasions our week-long camp at Stoke Fleming.
What impressions did Rich leave?
His preaching was inspirational, bringing fresh light on Scripture and drawing out telling applications. His passion for Jesus was so evident. His messages were clearly thought out, but there was an added dimension to them as he was carried along by the Holy Spirit. Within this he introduced from time to time a rich vein of humour. Speaking at our parish camp I can recall the story about the car journey with Lynda after he had been invited into full-time ministry in Sussex, and their contrasting reactions. I think I was relieved that Lynda was out of the tent at the time!
Secondly I learnt a lot from Rich about stepping out in faith; this was so marked in his prophetic praying; sensitive to the person, yet keenly listening for the voice of God. Many must have found their lives strengthened, encouraged and comforted as prophecies were spoken over them.
Third was Rich’s naturalness, and unassuming nature. I wonder if he was sufficiently recognised by the wider body of Christ? This would have meant nothing to him. He was content to go where he was invited, and to leave whichever environment he attended the better and richer for his coming. He was a good listener and identified with the concerns of others. The fruit of the Holy Spirit was very evident in his life. He lived the whole of life under the Lordship of Christ and as someone has written above did not recognise a sacred/secular divide. It was the totality of life expressing the fullness of life that Jesus came to give.
A personal regret is not having visited Rich before he died. The whole manner of his dying, and reading about it from afar sounded so courageous, and lightened by humour. Faith and trust poured out of him. Heaven is certainly the richer and earth the poorer.
Lynda this is a late tribute to Rich. I know that I speak for many in our church, and perhaps many in the Vineyard fellowship from of old. We praise God for Rich, for his zest in ministry and for his willingness to go, travel and encourage as the Lord expanded his frontiers and provided new opportunities.
We are especially remembering you, – Lynda, Sam and Amy, – this Christmas. There is a verse in Acts 8 that says ‘godly men buried Stephen and mourned for him.’ They knew Stephen was with the Lord Jesus as he had leaned over the parapets of heaven to welcome him. But they also mourned for him, and expressed their deep feelings of loss. We do the same.
We have lovely memories of Rich, encapsulated in his infectious smile, and in his enthusiastic, faith-filled presence and demeanour. (Was I the only person to call him Richard?) This must always have sounded very formal!
Lord Jesus, thank you for every memory of Rich; ‘the memory of the righteous is a blessing.’
With our love and prayers,
Graham and Christine Cotter.
I only met Rich once, when he came to speak at the Church Women’s group of the Methodist Church in Rustington. That was about 6 or 7 years’ ago but I was so impressed by his exuberance and his enthusiasm for the work of Links and his Christian love and dedication to God’s calling that I was moved to make a donation to Links Internation. I had recently returned to UK from Rhodesia, am elderly and had never heard of Links International before but I knew from that one encounter that if Rich was involved in that work, it was worthy of my support. I am sorry I didn’t get to know him.
In 1992 my wife Heather and I organised a Bible Camp for the Cornerstone network of churches. Rich was the guy we invited to do the Children’s work. The facilities weren’t great and the marquee we gave him was really too small. But there was never a complaint from him. He just got on and did the job – a great job – with a smile. He was a gentleman. It was a joy to work with him. And from time to time when our paths crossed again we remembered that time and simply enjoyed talking together. A great guy!
It is a long time since I saw Rich when he came to Scarborough to speak at what was then called ‘Breakthrough’. Rich had no heirs and graces – a great guy with a quick whit and sharp mind which made him a very effective communicator and his joy was infectious. It is a surprise for me to just discover that he has gone to be with Jesus but ‘His ways our not our ways’ and we bow the knee in glad surrender. My love to all the family and friends – may Grace fill all the gaps till the day when we all meet again x
Dear Lynda,
Loving Greetings in Christ, wherever you are!
Even as I type this, I am listening to a inspiring message by Rich that Links sent sometime ago. I am looking at his smiling face of joy amidst the pain he went through on the cover page of the links mag; and my sincere concern for your well being and comfort of all your family, has been on my mind and occassional prayer many times.
I was a brand new missionary with my wife and two children to Shillong, and I first met Rich in 2001, and though I hardly knew who he was or what links was about; he so lovingly pulled out this worship cassette of Chris Bowater and gifted me a copy. We used to be in occasional touch via email, and once in great discouragement, I received a caring and personal email conveying he was praying for me and had added my name to receive the book and CD pack from Links. I cannot recall even once, that the LORD would just bring alongside the special giftpack from Links, just at a time I felt like absolutely giving up….and the LORD would prod me to keep going through the encouragement of the message, book and worship CD.
My entire connection with Links was directly with Rich, and now I do feel that missing link in my life. I do pray you would continue your precious involvement and contribution to Links worldwide. Thank you Rich for connecting me to the Links family and I pray to be a blessing back some day.
With the Love of Christ,
Noel Kurian
Pune, India.