History of the Church - Part 3

The next minister was the Rev. Earnest Hughes, an eloquent Welshman whose preaching was of a high order. He was also a scholarly man and altogether above the average preacher. He would have made a name for himself had he remained here, but having been long abroad, the climate was too trying and after a four years' ministry, he betook himself a sunnier climate.

He was succeeded in 1899 by Rev. David D. Smith, who was one of the most popular ministers that ever occupied the pulpit. In his preaching he showed a native eloquence that was wonderful. He was a great visitor and had a genial and kindly manner that greatly endeared him to his people. His acceptance to a call to Elgin in 1903 caused deep disappointment in the congregation.

He was succeeded by Rev. Mitchell Hughes who was ordained minister in 1904. A native of Pittenweem, Fife, he was educated in Glasgow University and Dunoon Baptist College, from the latter of which he came straight to Fraserburgh. Mt Hughes' excellent services gave much satisfaction to the congregation and the watchword during his incumbency was "Steady Progress Ahead". A good pulpit man, Mr Hughes was gifted with a kindly manner and a well stored mind, which made him a welcome guest, not only among his own people but among all circles in the town. He was a devoted worker in every good cause, and he gave his services ungrudgingly all over the district. Mr Hughes, having been appointed to a charge in Broughty Ferry, resigned his pastorate in 1911.

Some little time afterwards Rev. Wilfred T. Farrar was inducted to the church. Mr. Farrar was a native of Elland Edge, near Huddersfield, Yorkshire and came from strongly marked Baptist stock. He was educated at Manchester Baptist College and Manchester University. Mr Farrar was quite a young man on the sunny side of thirty, but he was an impressive and forcible preacher, who caught and kept his hearers' ears and feelings. He had any amount of enthusiasm and 'go' in his constitution, and this, combined with a genial and attractive manner, augured well for his future career. He was a great favourite with his congregation. He was a good sportsman, having during his college days, excelled both at cricket and football.

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