Richard Bewes

Richard Bewes, son of famous missionary parents, was born and raised on the lower slopes of Mount Kenya , along with his two brothers and sister - 'the most tranquil upbringing a child could have had.'

Richard came to England for his secondary education, before going to Cambridge University (UK) as an undergraduate. He then went on to study for the ordained ministry at Ridley Hall Theological College, Cambridge.

After leading two churches in the south-east of England with his wife Liz, Richard Bewes was appointed by the Crown as Rector of All Souls Church, Langham Place, following in the succession of John Stott and Michael Baughen. Over the years as leader of All Souls, the international nature of the congregation (embracing some 70 nationalities) continued to develop with some 2,500 coming through its doors every Sunday. During Richard's time, the facility to listen to sermons online was achieved, and a 'virtual weekly global internet congregation' stands as one of the many legacies of his time in post. He chaired the Church of England Evangelical Council throughout the 1990s.

Stepping down from All Souls in November 2004, Richard was awarded the OBE by the Queen in the New Year of 2005.