Canon Elizabeth Johnston, 1937–2023
Revd Canon Elizabeth Johnston, former Missionary of India and one of the first female Church of Ireland Ministers serving in East Belfast, ARDS and Down, died peacefully aged 86 on 22 August. The funeral service will be held in Down Cathedral on Monday 4 September at 11.00am.
Elizabeth was born in Bangor on 16th July 1937, the daughter of John and Margaret Johnston. She was educated at Regent House in Newtownards before going to Queen’s University Belfast where she graduated B.A.(Hons) in 1958.
She answered the call to ministry as a young woman and served as a missionary to India with Crosslinks (formerly BCMS) from 1962 to 1992. During this period, she achieved a Diploma in Education (Q.U.B.) in 1969 and completed her Bachelor of Divinity degree in 1987 at Senate of Serampore, West Bengal. She also achieved a Diploma in Theology from the University of London. During her time as a missionary in India, she worked extensively with the Church of North India, becoming a deacon in 1981.On her return to Northern Ireland in 1994, she was ordained a priest by Rt Revd Gordon McMullan and appointed to St Christopher’s in East Belfast where she was the incumbent until her retirement in 2003.
Elizabeth became the first female canon of Down Cathedral in 2001 when she was appointed by Rt Revd Harold Miller. During her retirement, Elizabeth settled in the tranquil setting of Whiterock, where she remained active in the ministry as Minister Emeritus in the United Parish of Killinchy, Kilmood and Tullynakill.
The Rector of Killinchy, Revd Dr Stanley Gamble said, “Elizabeth was a wonderful saint of God, who quite simply radiated the light and love of Christ. Theologically, she was crystal clear in her understanding of the Christian faith, and valued Bible Study and the opportunity to teach and preach. Pastorally, she was very caring and compassionate with a heart for the poor, the sick and the bereaved. Her time in India taught her so much about what is truly valuable in life. Her faith was so important to her, and she always tried to encourage others in their own walk with God. She will be sorely missed.”
Bishop David said: Canon Elizabeth served the Lord so faithfully for years both in India as a missionary and then in Ireland as a deacon and presbyter. So many lives were impacted by her great grace and wonderful generosity. As a friend to many, Elizabeth, while gentle, had a strength of character like few I have known. Her love for Jesus was contagious and inspirational.”