Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

REV. W. C. FRANCIS, D.C.M.

After having completed a happy term of three years in Manilla Circuit, whence he had come much broken in health, after the rigors of the climate of Samoa, where he had been engaged in Foreign Mission work for a period previously, we rejoiced to see his health improve, and something of his former strength had returned when the time of his departure for Mayfield drew near. The last fortnight was practically devoted to a round of farewells, in which all sections of the community participated, testifying to the esteem in which he was held. There were many genuine expressions of regret that in the order of things he had to pass to fresh fields of labour. Having been one of the original Anzacs, with considerable service in the ranks to his credit, and carrying in his system the effects of wounds received in the campaign, he was dearly loved among the local Diggers, whoso great farewell was the first of a round of such functions. Here, all sections of the community and all denominations were represented, everyone testifying to his sterling qualities and gifts as a padre and a man amongst them, wielding much influence for good. The latter part of his war service was as a chaplain to the forces in Palestine.T here were numerous other farewell functions and presentations to Mrs.Francis and himself, culminating in.the general farewell from the church folk themselves, as well as many others, which was held in the parish hall, and very largely attended. It is the dream of the Methodists, of course, that they will one day have a hall of their own. This was a great social function for the church people, but tinged with regret at parting. Numerous speeches and the presentation of gifts to the departing minister and his good wife, one article being a gold wristlet watch to Rev.Francis, which it was suggested should be a frequent reminder of days spent in Manilla.

The Methodist Saturday 03 May 1930 page 22