Description:When the Rector, Rev. W Marsh, commenced his ministry at St Thomas’ Church, the majority of the congregation had never entered a church before and as a consequence of the disorderly conduct of many who attended simply for the novelty of the Services, a strong body of Police was for some time required to be in attendance. Within six months however we lean that two constables only were required and even they could take their place as worshippers.
Boys would bring mice, which they held on leading strings, and let them stray about among those who were within reach; other boys, and even grown up persons, would bring packs of cards with which to play. The climax to all this was reached on the first evening that gas was substituted for candles. Owing to some accident, after each attempt at lighting the gas went out, leaving the Church in total darkness. Peals of laughter resounded though the sacred building, and the Curate, who was taking the service, was unable to subdue it.
The termination of this incident gives us some idea of the wonderful magnetic influence of the Rev. Wm Marsh, the then Rector.
Appearing from the Vestry carrying a lamp, with quiet and calm dignity he slowly ascended the pulpit stops. Placing the lamp by his side, he knelt in silent prayer for a few moments, then he stood before the congregation and said: “Remember, my young friends, whose House this is in which you are assembled, and remember that the darkness is no darkness to Him, but the night shineth as the day.” He said no more. Instantly there was a hushed silence, and he gave out a hymn, which was sung by almost the whole congregation.
From that day he was master of the field, and so greatly was he esteemed, that multitudes thronged to hear him; and Sunday after Sunday the great church was packed, and crowds turned away from its doors.
In 1838, the continuous strain of the arduous work began to tell so seriously on the Rector’s health, that he contemplated leaving the parish. So greatly was he beloved by all that his congregation urged him to reconsider his decision, and they offered to guarantee the sum of £1000 a year to enable him to provide the fullest clerical assistance.
So touched was he with this manifestation of affection, that he consented, before relinquishing the charge, to try what a season of comparative rest would do; and for this purpose removed to Leamington Spa, where, with the assistance of a few friends, he had built a Church.
(text by E.R.Mason)