By Gordon Govier

A Tribute to Sir Fred Catherwood

InterVarsity Christian Fellowship/USA is mourning the loss of Sir Fred Catherwood, a longtime leader and volunteer with the International Fellowship of Evangelical Students (IFES). InterVarsity is a founding member of IFES, which now has movements in 155 countries. Sir Fred Catherwood died November 30, 2014. He was 89.

“The loss of Sir Fred is a family loss—certainly for IFES and InterVarsity/USA— but also for Christian clergy and laypeople around the globe,” said InterVarsity president Alec Hill. “He was a devoted follower of Jesus, a passionate teacher of the Scriptures, and a servant leader among statesmen and Christians, exemplified by his service as vice president of the European parliament and his long-term commitment to IFES.” 

Sir Fred was a highly successful businessman and politician who believed that his Christian faith should direct all of his activities. He was knighted in 1971 in recognition of his many public service roles, which continued on for many years thereafter. For more on his life of faithful service, visit the IFES website. Julia Cameron, a former IFES colleague, also wrote a remembrance for the Independent newspaper.