News

Tasmanian Anglicans mourn priest and friend
By Market-Place
June 30, 2008
The Revd Christopher Newell MOURNEDl The Revd Christopher Newell

A series of services began 30 June to remember the life and contributions of Anglican priest and academic, the Revd Dr Chris Newell, who died recently.

It's understood Chris Newell died during a bush-walk, however his body was not found until a number of days later. He'd suffered from a debilitating illness for many years.

Tasmania's Bishop John Harrower told clergy news of his death 24 June.

Tasmanian Police detectives are conducting routine investigations into how Christopher Newell died.

Dr Newell, 44, was the son of the retired Bishop of Tasmania, Bishop Phillip Newell.

He was on the honorary staff of St David's Cathedral in Hobart and part of the medical faculty of the University of Tasmania.

He published widely in the fields of medical ethics, spirituality, pastoral theology, bioethical issues and the situation of people with disabilities.

In April this year, Christopher Newell was a delegate to the '2020 Summit' in Canberra, reflecting critically later on his summit experience in an article for Market-Place Online.

Dean of Hobart's Anglican dean, Lindsay Stoddart said he had "lost the closest of friends".

"The Cathedral, indeed the Australian Church, has lost an intellectual giant, a champion of the disabled and a humanitarian of profound depth and care," Dean Stoddart said.

He was awarded the Order of Australia 'for service to people with disabilities, particularly through advocacy and research, to the development and practice of ethics and to health consumers.'

For many years he lived with significant physical disability, while continuing to work full-time.

He is survived by his wife Jill, and three daughters, Hannah, Hayley and Christine.

Because St David's Cathedral is currently closed for renovations three services are being held this week.

A vigil for close friends and relatives to honour the life and ministry of Christopher Newell was held at the parish church of All Saints, South Hobart on Monday evening (30 June).

A private Requiem Eucharist is also to be held at All Saints Church South Hobart on Tuesday 1 July commencing at 11.30 am.

A public Service of Thanksgiving is planned for the Stanley Burbury Theatre, University of Tasmania, Sandy Bay, Thursday 3 July at 1pm to which all Christopher's friends and colleagues are invited.