The former pastor of one of the largest evangelical churches on the south coast of England has died.
Tony Sargent, who helped Worthing Tabernacle Church flourish into an even more thriving church, died aged 83. He had an extensive ministry across UK evangelicalism and was previously a director of Evangelicals Now.
Rich Owen, current pastor of Worthing Tabernacle, said: ‘Tony was well known among the Fellowship of Independent Evangelical Churches (FIEC) for his Bible teaching, philanthropy, and the advancement of global missionary work.
‘He was a gifted preacher who was able to engage the heart with a winsome, warm tone. His gentleness and warmth of character enabled him to lead the Tabernacle family through many changes.
‘He brought in a more contemporary style, an increased community presence in Worthing including a bookshop and coffee house, and widened the sense of ‘family’ among church members by introducing home groups.
Love for the marginalised
‘Tony’s love for the poor and marginalised, together with his attention to the Scriptures, was all modelled on and enabled by the Lord Jesus Christ. For all his celebrated achievements, Tony would be first to say “Yet not I, but through Christ in me”, and “To God be the glory”.
‘On behalf of all of the members of Worthing Tabernacle, past and present, we loved Tony, and we remain in prayer for his wife, Rowena.’
Tony was a leading British evangelical in the non-denominational tradition. After leaving Worthing Tabernacle in 1998, he became Principal of International Christian College, Glasgow’s Bible college, until 2009.
Stephen Gibbs, former Worthing Tabernacle member, said: ‘Worthing Tabernacle grew under Tony’s leadership to a membership of around 600 people, and was one of the largest evangelical communities on the south coast.
‘He travelled extensively, supporting international mission work. He is author of a respected work on Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones, a leading British evangelical figure.
‘Dr Sargent served as director of several Christian organisations, including Challenge Literature Fellowship, Operation Mobilisation, AIM and Elam Ministries. He was committed to various social ministries in India, and held memberships on the Council of the Evangelical Alliance Scotland and Compassion in World Farming.’
The Sussex Express reported: Tony, who retired to Worthing with Rowena ten years ago, took great joy in helping others and co-founded the Acts Trust (Aid Care Training Supply). One of his many achievements was the ‘loos for lepers’ appeal he co-ordinated to provide new toilet facilities in a leper colony.
