Both new and experienced chaplains frequently turned to Rowland for advice and guidance, which was always freely given.

Rowland, for me, was an embodiment of all that is good about Industrial Mission.

He was a model for a "good Chaplain," not defined by his narrow areas of responsibility or job description but always pushing the boundaries of discernment.

He engaged and was not fearful to join in debate or to create one if it was needed.

He was not just a man of words. He produced many briefing documents for the Churches and wrote three books.

One was on Stress in the Workplace the other "Living in the Fast Lane" and "The Manchester Pilgrimage" looking at the social and historical links to faith within the City of Manchester.

Only last year he escorted our IM colleagues from Finland around the City, his passion and enthusiasm never wained.

We remember Jean and the family at this time and record our appreciation for sharing Rowland with us.

Industrial Mission is all the richer for his unique contribution.


Kevin Flanagan


Tribute to Rev Rowland Goodwin, R. I. P.



It is with sadness that we report the death of the Rev. Rowland Goodwin in July 2005.

Rowland served as an Industrial Chaplain in Manchester for 12 years until his "retirement" in 1998.

Prior to this he served in the North East at Darlington.

He was also a regular lecturer at Luton Industrial College and other training Institutions.

Ordained as a Methodist minister he proudly fought for a united ecumenical approach to industrial chaplaincy.

He was a great enthusiast and a man of deep theological insight and pastoral concern.

Generations of ministers and chaplains, as well as those he served in industry, benefited from Rowland's experience of wisdom, knowledge, insight and guidance.

He became the Chairman of the new Manchester Technology Forum he developed many good friends there; a few of them joined a Faith in Work group which he established some time later.

He was passionate about justice and pastoral care for people in the workplace.

This included the campaign for the Manchester Ship Canal in the mid-80's and the Regeneration of the Trafford Park industrial estate in the 1990's.

In this capacity he served as a member of the Community Liaison Committee.

He had a regular workplace visiting programme within Trafford Park which included the British Steel Corporation and ICI.

He also took responsibility as the GMIM Team Leader.

His motto for GMIM was "Helping to bring real hope" this he achieved to a high degree.