Friends Who Have Moved On

Derek Groves

Derek

Derek was the founder and Life President of Crisis Centre Ministries, who sadly died on 7th August 2003. Whilst the suddenness of his death was a shock, in a way it could be seen as an example of God's gracious love for him:- Derek suffered from Parkinson's Disease, and he was not looking forward to the progressive deterioration caused by this illness. His prayers were answered, and he was spared its worst effects.

Derek had made a rare visit to the CCM office just a few weeks earlier. It was a beautiful piece of timing that various people who had not seen him since he retired were able to catch up with his news, and tell him how they were going on. We feel very grateful to have been given this last, bright memory.

Derek worked in the Prison Service, was ordained as an Anglican minister, then became an executive director of Life for the World (a drug rehab.) and was instrumental in establishing a number of Christian social action projects.

Derek set up CCM in 1984, and as the Director he was at the forefront of all our activites until the Summer of 2000 when he had to take a step back. His health had been deteriorating for a number of years, and in February 2001 it was agreed that he would retire and take the position of Life President.

Our lives are shaped by the people we love and spend time with. But some people seem able to have a greater and deeper impact on those around them than most of us acheive. Derek was certainly one of those. And as we continue to live out that vision and develop the ministry, so more and more people will be touched by God through his life and legacy

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