Remembering Chris Beales: A Tribute
Revd Canon Chris Beales: A Pioneer in Church and Housing Community
In a life dedicated to service, Revd Canon Chris Beales made a significant impact on the Church of England and the housing community, particularly in the North East region. His ministry was rooted in an encounter with the love of God in Jesus, and he lived out the Kingdom of God both within and beyond the church.
Chris Beales began his journey in 1972, when he commenced his training for ordination at Cranmer Hall. His commitment to service was evident from the start, and it continued to grow throughout his career. He graduated from St John's College with a BA in 1972, marking the beginning of a distinguished career.
Over the years, Chris Beales held various roles in the region, including serving as Industrial Chaplain in Durham Diocese from 1979 to 1984 and as Director of the Churches' Regional Commission from 1994 to 1998. His work extended beyond the church walls, as he was an active member of the Archbishops' Commission on Housing, Church, and Community.
In 2017, Chris Beales returned to the North East after retiring from public ministry and became a Visiting Fellow of St John's College. As a Visiting Fellow, he was a positive presence known and recognized by a wide range of staff and students. His impact continued to be felt, as he continued to work on the implementation of the Commission's recommendations after the publication of their report, "Coming Home".
The Revd Prof David Wilkinson, former Principal of St John's College, described Chris Beales as an outstanding entrepreneur with a bold vision, strategic wisdom, limitless energy, and generosity. The Warden of Cranmer Hall, the Revd Dr Nick Moore, remembered him as a giant in personality, with an infectious sense of the possible and an imaginative, can-do attitude informed by a wealth of experience in getting things done.
Chris Beales' contributions to the housing community were not limited to the North East. He presented on and advocated for his housing work in a way that enriched and enthused the students' training at Cranmer Hall. His impact extended beyond the church, as he lived the Kingdom of God both within and beyond its walls.
Unfortunately, Revd Canon Chris Beales passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication. His wife and family are being remembered at this time of mourning.
Though detailed and up-to-date information on his biography, specific career milestones, and precise contributions is not readily available, it is clear that Chris Beales was a man of faith, service, and vision. For those interested in learning more about his life and work, official Church of England resources, Diocese websites, or publications related to church-led housing initiatives may provide valuable insights.
Chris Beales' commitment to service extended beyond the church walls, evidenced by his work on the Archbishops' Commission on Housing, Church, and Community, focusing on education-and-self-development for the housing community. Despite his unexpected passing, his impact is still felt, particularly in the North East region, where he implemented the Commission's recommendations and enriched students' training at Cranmer Hall with his housing expertise.
