In Memoriam: Fr John Baron

By John Parratt, October 2025

We were sad to hear of the death of Fr John Baron, a former member of Engaging Theology in Cumbria.

John Baron was born in Blackpool in 1936. He graduated in Classics from Cambridge University while training for the Catholic priesthood. He spent some time as chaplain to the Blessed Frederick Ozamin Society, which began his life-long love of France. Subsequently he spent five years in Zambia as a priest and teacher. Returning to the UK he served in various parishes in Carlisle, and was then appointed priest of Christ the King, at the same time as acting as chaplain to the Catholic schools in the city. John made an immense contribution to ecumenical cooperation in Cumbria, taking an active role in Churches Together, and also the One World Centre.

In 1992 he became a founder member of the Cumbria Theological Society (CTS), the precursor of Engaging Theology in Cumbria (ETC), and for many years acted as its treasurer. When the CTS became ETC John continued to play an important role. Those who were privileged to know him will honour his memory both for his enormous contribution to ecumenical fellowship and for his ever joyful celebration of his faith.