While researching the background of a new book (released in February 2025) I discovered the story of Pastor Dick Lucas and The Proclamation Trust.
Brief Biography of Pastor Dick Lucas
Dick Lucas (Richard Charles Lucas, born September 10, 1925) is a significant figure in Anglican evangelical Christianity, particularly known for his influential ministry at St Helen’s Bishopsgate in London and his contributions to biblical teaching and preaching.
Lucas was born in Lewes, Sussex, and attended Radley College. His conversion to evangelical Christianity occurred in 1941 through the Iwerne camps ministry. Though he initially began his studies at Oxford, World War II interrupted his education when he served in the Royal Navy. After the war, he completed his education at Trinity College, Cambridge, earning his BA in 1949 and MA in 1957.
Following his ordination training at Ridley Hall, Lucas was ordained as a deacon in 1951 and as a priest in 1952 in the Church of England. He served his first curacy at St Nicholas’ Church, Seven Oaks, from 1951 to 1955, before working with the Church Pastoral Aid Society until 1961. His most significant role began in 1961 when he became Rector of St Helen’s Bishopsgate, where he served for 37 years. Under his leadership, the church grew from a small congregation to a thriving community serving city workers, families, students, and young professionals.
Lucas made lasting contributions to evangelical ministry through two major initiatives: founding the Proclamation Trust in 1986, which promotes biblical exposition, and helping establish the Cornhill Training Course in 1991 with David Jackman. These institutions continue to influence biblical teaching and preaching in the UK and beyond. He also became well-known as a speaker at the Keswick Convention and authored several evangelical books and commentaries.
Along with figures like John Stott and J.I. Packer, Lucas played a key role in shaping the conservative evangelical movement in the United Kingdom during the 20th century. His influence was such that a Festschrift (a collection of writings published in his honor) was published in 1995, featuring contributions from prominent theological figures including D.A. Carson and Peter Jensen. Even in his nineties, Lucas has maintained an active ministry as Rector Emeritus of St Helen’s, continuing to preach and speak at conferences.
Throughout his career, Lucas has been particularly noted for his emphasis on systematic expositional preaching and his commitment to biblical teaching. His legacy lives on through the institutions he helped establish and the many ministers and preachers he has influenced through his teaching and example.