Remembering H.B. London

by Wendy Kittlitz

“Precious in the sight of the LORD
is the death of his saints.” (Psalm 116:15)

A dearly loved friend of Focus on the Family Canada went home to be with the Lord last month. Somewhat fittingly, in the middle of Clergy Appreciation Month, Reverend H.B. London finished his race on earth with the courage and faith he lived his life and is now fully enjoying the presence of His Lord.

H.B. had an immeasurable influence on our efforts to care for pastors. He wrote numerous books which we were able to use to inspire many. He was the champion of Clergy Appreciation Month, which Focus on the Family has promoted for many years. He was a frequent speaker here in Canada at pastors’ gatherings which we hosted across the country. He produced a series of recorded interviews called “Pastor to Pastor” that discussed timely and important issues for pastors and their families – advice that was uniquely relevant to those who served in pastoral ministry but also reflected his heart for the Church and mission of Christ.

A couple of years ago, we received an email from a Saskatchewan pastor who said:

“Several years back, as a pastor, I would get monthly cassettes (to start off with) then later it was CDs called Pastor to Pastor or PK @ Home. They were interviews by H.B. London with pastors and other ministry people. I looked forward to getting mine in the mail and then I would share them with other pastors.”

Though these had not been produced in a few years, since H.B. retired from Focus, it was encouraging to think that people still remembered their impact. I forwarded these thoughts to H.B., who replied that he was greatly encouraged to hear this and wished he could do more!

H.B. served people with great humility, always eager to help. He had a passion for seeing pastors thrive in ministry and had considerable wisdom to share on that topic. He was also an individual who was so very warm, personable and encouraging. His last email to me concluded with, “Tell the team hello – you guys are great!” Even in retirement, he was quick to respond when I would ask him questions or for permission to reprint something he had written!

We were richer for having known and served beside H.B. London. We are grateful for what his ministry brought to ours. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time of loss.

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