Lawrence Francis Bartlett

Movers Sherlock, C.

That the General Synod adopt this Minute of appreciation for Lawrence Francis Bartlett:

Lawrence Bartlett served the Liturgical Commission continuously during the period in which both An Australian Prayer Book and A Prayer Book for Australia were produced. Throughout this time he offered careful and insightful advice on the full range of matters which came before the Commission, informed by a nuanced understanding of the Anglican liturgical tradition, graced by profound spiritual insight, and seasoned with a gentle humour and a delightful sense of the ridiculous.

Lawrie chaired the Commission during perhaps the most difficult period of its life, the years surrounding the authorisation of A Prayer Book for Australia. He was hard-working, tireless in patience, thorough in attention to detail, never pretentious, and willing to work with anyone and everyone, despite considerable personal cost.

Alongside his ministry on the Liturgical Commission, and as a faithful parish priest, Lawrie served for many years as an Anglican representative on The Australian Consultation on Liturgy, and on The Australian Hymn Book Company, serving as its chair in the period leading to the publication of Together in Song.

In 1996 Lawrie was awarded the degree of Doctor of Theology by the Australian College of Theology in recognition of his multifaceted academic contributions to the life of the Church, especially in liturgical work. In 2000 he was made a member of the Order of Australia for services to the Church, awards in which the Liturgical Commission took particular pleasure.

We, the members of the General Synod of the Anglican Church of Australia, record our thanks to God for the life, person, friendships, prayers and music of Lawrence Francis Bartlett.

Charles Sherlock – 5 Oct 04


Resolution year: 2004
Resolution number: 44/04