 The Effect On St. Cuthbert's St. Cuthbert's continued from strength to strength during the first world war, under Brother Harry's leadership. His bulldog, Beauty, was a well-known sight in these parts; and he had a bike nicknamed 'the general' because it was always availiable for anyone who needed transport urgently but could not afford it. But, on September 15th, 1916 the Rector, after a short illness, suddenly died. The Parish church-wardens, and Harry Greatbatch met with the Church Association to discuss the future of the parish. They came back with the promise that the Association would ensure the appointment of a Rector who was in sympathy with Cheadle Churchmanship. In November 1916 the Rev. William Brown-Pollock was appointed Rector. On the very day of his induction he gave Brother Harry one month's notice to leave and introduced Rev. Hugh Thomasson as the new curate. With great Christian love and patience, Brother Harry quietly left, his last service being in January 1977. He stayed at St. Stephen's house for a short time before being appointed priest-in-charge at St. Cuthbert's mission, Isle of Dogs, London. Others from St. Cuthbert's were not so Quiet, and a breakaway movement began in what was called 'the upper room' in the 'Picker Shop' on Old Road. Eventually this folded up as a few joined St. Chad's and others moved to St. Augustine's. St. Cuthbert's Survives the Storm There were difficulties to be faced and new customs to get used to, but on the whole, love prevailed, and the Christians of St. Cuthbert's grew in a new dimension. On 12th April 1917 the church held its first ever evening communion service. However, the clergy felt that children should not be present at communion while the people wanted them there. This controversy lasted three years. Most people tried to be tolerant and gradually, through the 1920s the Rector won the affection of the congregation and was very much respected in the parish. St. Cuthbert's settled down and was soon back to a happy community. In 1926 it did something very modern; changed from gas lighting to electricity! |