I still don't have proper internet access outside of work (though some NTL engineers are allegedly scheduled to be digging up the road outside my house to connect me to the internet as I type this - but that's what they said two weeks ago) so blogging is still a little sporadic. I came back from holiday yesterday to find out that after six years, two changes of course, one serious illness, and approximately 200,000 words later, I finally have a first class honours degree in theology.

However the edge was taken off my good mood when I found out upon my return to Manchester that one of my lecturers passed away on Saturday night after a long illness, so I'm not really in the mood for celebrations. Gordon Thomas actually taught me more of my undergraduate modules than any other lecturers did, and his loss is a real blow that will be felt by anyone who ever had the privilege to be taught by him.

Gordon had battled cancer for about 3 years and after a break from teaching had returned to lecturing earlier this year. I find it a little hard to process the fact that he was teaching me just a few months ago and that his condition worsened in such a short time. I think those of us who knew him had been prepared for the worst for some time but it doesn't make it any easier.

I have lots of very good memories of Gordon. As a teacher he was excellent and always got the best out of his students, and he really enabled them to flourish in biblical studies. He was patient and thorough but I think that above all he most excelled in his ability to combine his skill and expertise in biblical studies with a great deal of pastoral concern and godly wisdom. He would nearly always close his lectures with some insighful and practical pastoral advice that ensured that the gap between academic study and godly living was never left open.

Most of all I think people will miss Gordon's friendly and caring attitude outside of the classroom. Gordon had a deep pastoral sensitivity and concern for people that was appreciated by both staff and student alike. Even in just a few moments I can think of dozens of students who benefited from the wisdom, kindness, and prayerful attitude that he possesed, and there must have been hundreds of other such people who knew this side of Gordon throughout his many years of teaching and ministry. His loss will be very keenly felt by everyone who knew him and it is a very sad time for both his students, church, and family.

Dwight has written about his own friendship with Gordon here.