We would like to take a moment to reflect on the life of Rev. Lloyd Lyness Wark, who served as Principal of Emmanuel Bible College from 1953 to 1958. Lyness went to be with his Lord and Saviour on April 10that the age of 93 after battling cancer.
Born and raised in Port Elgin, Ontario, Lyness began attending Emmanuel Bible College in the mid-1940s. During his time at Emmanuel, he met his wife Helen, who was also a student. They shared 66 years together and raised five children: Gloria, Gwendolyn, Gavin, Fay and Evangeline. Helen passed into eternity in December 2015.
Lyness joined Emmanuel as a faculty member in 1952, teaching English and Psychology. He also served as Registrar. He took on the role of Principal in 1953 and continued in this capacity until 1958 when he resigned in order to return to pastoral ministry.
As Principal, Lyness was forward thinking, seeking to adapt the College’s facilities and course offerings to ensure they met the evolving needs of the local church. He expressed his vision for the College in a letter written for the Pilot yearbook in 1956: “Under the direction of the Holy Spirit, Emmanuel Bible College wants always to be ready to prepare men to meet the needs of their time.” More than 60 years later, this vision remains relevant.
The memorial service for Lyness Wark will be held Saturday, April 13that 1:30 p.m. at the Mindemoya Missionary Church (51 Yonge Street, Mindemoya, Ontario). Visitation will be held at the church one hour prior to the service. The Emmanuel community sends their condolences to the family.