Dr. Wilkerson Linwood Ware is the son of Paulus McDaniel Ware and Eleanor Elizabeth Hudson Ware. He was married to Daisy Augustine Marshall Ware, of Westmoreland County, Virginia, on 19 October 1898 in Westmoreland County, Virginia (Grace Methodist Church). They had six children: Louise Martha Ware, Marshall Linwood Ware, Robert Early Ware, Elizabeth Lee Ware, and Virginia Augustine Ware (Virginia had a twin sister, Sadie Maxine Ware, who died in infancy). He attended Randolph-Macon Academy and Randolph-Macon College (1894-1895). Dr. Ware was admitted to the Virginia Methodist Conference in 1895 and appointed to the Batesville Circuit. See below for a list of churches within the Virginia Conference that he served during his lifetime. He received an Honorary Degree , Doctor of Divinity, from Eastern College, Philadelphia in 1935. In retirement he and his wife lived at 4007 Mount Vernon Street in Richmond, Virginia. His funeral services were conducted at Ginter Park Methodist Church in Richmond by Reverend C. A. Turner, Jr. and Dr. Walter C. Gum.
######################################
Churches and dates of Dr. Ware's service.
Ordination: On Trial (1895), Deacon (1897), Elder (1900).
Batesville - 1895
Rockfish - 1896-1897
Whealton (Rappahannock) - 1898-1899
West Mathews - 1900-1903
East Mathews - 1904-1907
Lancaster - 1908-1910
South Hill - 1911-1914
Wakefield - 1915-1918
Crewe - 1919-1922
Saint James (Richmond) - 1923-1926
Laurel Street (Richmond) - 1927-1930
Orange - 1931-1934
Trinity (Lynchburg) - 1935-1938
Retired in 1939
(In the Virginia Methodist Conference it was normal practice for pastors to serve four years at a given church before being reassigned.)
######################################
From "Portraits of the Virginia Conference":
REV. WILKERSON LINWOOD WARE
Mr. Ware, though young counting years, possesses a record worthy of imitation. Few men have a character so pure, noble and Christlike. Courageous, sympathetic, kind and gentle, he attracts both young and old by all of the qualities that constitute genuine worth and Christian manhood. He has no superior among the meritorious men of the Methodist ministry as a thoroughly consecrated young man. An ideal portrait of him would represent a man on whose face the words, "All for Christ", are legibly written. Like Paul of old he seems to have been a chosen vessel. The hand of God was upon him turning his feet to the path of usefulness which he has followed with fidelity and success.
Mr. Ware was the third son of Paulus M. and Ellen E. Ware. and was born in Amherst County, Va., April 5, 1877. He has parents of whom he is justly proud. His father is a steward in the Methodist Episcopal Church, and his mother is one of the brightest of Christian women.
He was converted at the age of seventeen in a meeting held by the aged and saintly Devine Rev. Pitt Woodruff. He must have received the Pentecostal Blessing immediately, as he at once engaged in Church work. His prayers were so earnest and powerful his associates were amazed, and thought surely his mouth was filled with utterances from on high. He joined the Ivy Hill Methodist Church and at once commenced the study of God's work. Soon an impression of the Divine vocation fell upon him. The more he read the more he became convinced that God was calling him into the work of the ministry. As soon as the conviction took full possession of his mind his heart was so filled with joy and peace he surrendered his life to do whatever the Holy Spirit directed. At the age of nineteen, after receiving exhorter's license, he entered Randolph Macon Academy and spent two years there. The following two years he served as local Preacher and Teacher. Then he entered Randolph Macon College leaving after one term to supply Batesville Circuit as a junior pastor. In 1895 he was admitted to conference and sent back to Batesville, and served one year. Then to Rockfish Circuit where he gave the people two faithful years' service. Then to Whealton Station, Lancaster County, where he spent two years in successful work, he is (1900-'1) on West Mathews Circuit.
He was happily married to Miss Daisy Augustine Marshall, of Westmoreland County, Va., on October 18, 1897 - a lady suitable in every respect for the itinerant's wife.
Mr. Ware is striking in personal appearance. Tall and slender: dark, wavy hair; the mild expression of the blue eyes and the smile which usually lights up the countenance are not easily forgotten. His friends are numerous, and he writes his name in kindness, love and mercy on their hearts. As a preacher he is clear, earnest, zealous and faithful. He loves to preach. His heart is in his work. He preaches to save souls, and is tireless in his labors. He has the consolation to know the world is better for his living in it. He lives for something. He does good and will leave behind him a monument of virtue that the storms of time can never destroy. Behold in him, "an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no guile"
#####################################
Memoirs - 200 years! Soldiers of the Cross, 1785-1987 - edited by W. D. Keene in 1988.
Wilkerson Linwood Ware was born in Amherst County, Va., April 5, 1871. His parents, Paulus M. and Ellen E. Ware, were devout Christians and the influence of that Christian home was reflected in the life of their son. Brother Ware was converted at the age of seventeen, and at once began to work for his Master. It is stated that "even as a boy, his prayers were so earnest and powerful that his associates were amazed and thought surely his mouth was filled with utterances from on high." Shortly after his conversion he felt that God was calling him to a Christian ministry. In preparation for his life work he attended Randolph-Macon Academy and Randolph-Macon College. In 1895 he was admitted into the Virginia Conference, on trial, and was appointed to the Batesville Circuit.
Brother Ware was blessed in his home life. On October 19, 1898 he was happily married to Miss Daisy Augustine Marshall of Westmoreland County, Va. who survives him. Their home was blessed with five children: three daughters: Mrs. J. A. Berry of Roanoke, Va., and Mrs. Herman A. Schmidt and Mrs. T. F. Crittenden, of Richmond: Two sons: Col. Robert Ware of the U. S. Army and Marshall L. Ware, both residing in Arlington, Va.
Brother Ware was a man of faith, consecration, zeal and possessed the essential qualifications for the Christian ministry, as stated by Bishop Hendrix in his message to ministers. Bishop Hendrix said: "Christ's greatest work was His character, and so is the preacher's, The best commentary on the Bible the world has ever seen is a holy life; it even illuminates and beautifies the sacred text."
If those who have had the privilege of knowing W. L. Ware as their pastor were asked to state what about the man impressed them most, doubtless the almost unanimous response would be: his holy life.
He was a man of attractive personality: full of good cheer, warmhearted, sympathetic, ever seeking to be helpful to others; he drew people to him and held them as his friends. A hard worker, a good preacher, an excellent pastor, a gifted revivalist - no wonder he was known as a four-year man, and served for four years each the following charges: West Mathews, East Mathews, South Hill, Wakefield, Crewe, St. James and Laurel Street, Richmond, Orange, and he concluded three fine and successful years at Trinity, Lynchburg, when he superannuated.
The honorary degree of doctor of divinity was conferred upon Brother Ware by the Eastern College, Philadelphia in 1935. In 1938, on account of failing health, he retired from the active work of the ministry and made his home in Richmond. A few months after his retirement, the editor of the Virginia Methodist Advocate published an account of an interview he had with Brother Ware, from which we quote a few paragraphs, as they reveal the character of the man and his ideals:
"The advocate does not know of a more beloved man or minister, active or retired, than Doctor W. L. Ware, recently superannuated." says the editor. "All over the conference he is affectionately known as 'Brother Ware.' In a recent interview we asked him what he would do if he were starting over again in the ministry. We felt the fruits of his ripe experience would reveal many points of worth to his brethren still active in the work. Here is his story:
The two major points that I would stress, were I starting over again would be faith in God and hard work." ... "I sought the victorious life in my early ministry. I was not satisfied in preaching from a sense of duty, but entered into this great work as an experience of love. I have preached because I love to preach."
Brother Ware regularly sounded the evangelistic note in his sermons and was a profound believer in the value of evangelistic services in the local church.
"Quietly musing," says the Editor, Brother Ware continued: "This is a busy age; an age of rush and hurry. The work of the ministry is becoming increasingly complicated and nothing is easier than to neglect this quiet hour. If I were beginning over again, I should try, even at this busy age, to let nothing keep me from my early morning period when I should get alone with God in prayer and meditation." The interviewer adds: "From the light in his eye and the radiance of his expression, it was not difficult to see that he has not neglected this 'means of grace,' through the busy years of his life."
Brother Ware excelled as a pastor, and in the interview the Editor asked him to tell the Advocate family why he visited so much. "I have always loved my people," he replied, "and tried to be a shepherd in feeding the flock." The Editor says: "Then reminiscing, with a far-away look in his eye, as though he were actually seeing some of the homes and persons he used to visit, he told of the opportunity for constructive work when a pastor listens to the sorrows of his people; comforts them in their troubles; prays with them, knows them by name and tries to help them carry their load of responsibility or sorrow, or perchance speak a word of encouragement to someone who is trying to follow some beckoning ideal. If he had it all to go over again, whatever else he might emphasize, he would not neglect these pastoral contacts with his people."
The interview concludes: "A beautiful note of Christian hope was sounded when Brother Ware confided that really he did not wish, if he could, to turn back the pages of time and begin over. He believes that in the divine plan there is something better 'further on' in the direction in which he now travels. In the confidence of this faith he is continuing his journey."
During the years of retirement Brother Ware kept busy in his Master's work, as far as his health would permit, and was often called upon to supply the pulpit for his brethren. Nearing his 81st birthday, on February 5, 1952 our friend and brother quietly, almost suddenly, slipped away from us and went to his eternal Home.
The funeral services were in the charge of Rev. C. A. Turner, Jr., of Ginter Park Church, assisted by Dr. Walter C. Gum. The burial was in Forest Lawn Cemetery, Richmond.
By H. H. Smith, Sr.
####################################
######################################
Churches and dates of Dr. Ware's service.
Ordination: On Trial (1895), Deacon (1897), Elder (1900).
Batesville - 1895
Rockfish - 1896-1897
Whealton (Rappahannock) - 1898-1899
West Mathews - 1900-1903
East Mathews - 1904-1907
Lancaster - 1908-1910
South Hill - 1911-1914
Wakefield - 1915-1918
Crewe - 1919-1922
Saint James (Richmond) - 1923-1926
Laurel Street (Richmond) - 1927-1930
Orange - 1931-1934
Trinity (Lynchburg) - 1935-1938
Retired in 1939
(In the Virginia Methodist Conference it was normal practice for pastors to serve four years at a given church before being reassigned.)
######################################
From "Portraits of the Virginia Conference":
REV. WILKERSON LINWOOD WARE
Mr. Ware, though young counting years, possesses a record worthy of imitation. Few men have a character so pure, noble and Christlike. Courageous, sympathetic, kind and gentle, he attracts both young and old by all of the qualities that constitute genuine worth and Christian manhood. He has no superior among the meritorious men of the Methodist ministry as a thoroughly consecrated young man. An ideal portrait of him would represent a man on whose face the words, "All for Christ", are legibly written. Like Paul of old he seems to have been a chosen vessel. The hand of God was upon him turning his feet to the path of usefulness which he has followed with fidelity and success.
Mr. Ware was the third son of Paulus M. and Ellen E. Ware. and was born in Amherst County, Va., April 5, 1877. He has parents of whom he is justly proud. His father is a steward in the Methodist Episcopal Church, and his mother is one of the brightest of Christian women.
He was converted at the age of seventeen in a meeting held by the aged and saintly Devine Rev. Pitt Woodruff. He must have received the Pentecostal Blessing immediately, as he at once engaged in Church work. His prayers were so earnest and powerful his associates were amazed, and thought surely his mouth was filled with utterances from on high. He joined the Ivy Hill Methodist Church and at once commenced the study of God's work. Soon an impression of the Divine vocation fell upon him. The more he read the more he became convinced that God was calling him into the work of the ministry. As soon as the conviction took full possession of his mind his heart was so filled with joy and peace he surrendered his life to do whatever the Holy Spirit directed. At the age of nineteen, after receiving exhorter's license, he entered Randolph Macon Academy and spent two years there. The following two years he served as local Preacher and Teacher. Then he entered Randolph Macon College leaving after one term to supply Batesville Circuit as a junior pastor. In 1895 he was admitted to conference and sent back to Batesville, and served one year. Then to Rockfish Circuit where he gave the people two faithful years' service. Then to Whealton Station, Lancaster County, where he spent two years in successful work, he is (1900-'1) on West Mathews Circuit.
He was happily married to Miss Daisy Augustine Marshall, of Westmoreland County, Va., on October 18, 1897 - a lady suitable in every respect for the itinerant's wife.
Mr. Ware is striking in personal appearance. Tall and slender: dark, wavy hair; the mild expression of the blue eyes and the smile which usually lights up the countenance are not easily forgotten. His friends are numerous, and he writes his name in kindness, love and mercy on their hearts. As a preacher he is clear, earnest, zealous and faithful. He loves to preach. His heart is in his work. He preaches to save souls, and is tireless in his labors. He has the consolation to know the world is better for his living in it. He lives for something. He does good and will leave behind him a monument of virtue that the storms of time can never destroy. Behold in him, "an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no guile"
#####################################
Memoirs - 200 years! Soldiers of the Cross, 1785-1987 - edited by W. D. Keene in 1988.
Wilkerson Linwood Ware was born in Amherst County, Va., April 5, 1871. His parents, Paulus M. and Ellen E. Ware, were devout Christians and the influence of that Christian home was reflected in the life of their son. Brother Ware was converted at the age of seventeen, and at once began to work for his Master. It is stated that "even as a boy, his prayers were so earnest and powerful that his associates were amazed and thought surely his mouth was filled with utterances from on high." Shortly after his conversion he felt that God was calling him to a Christian ministry. In preparation for his life work he attended Randolph-Macon Academy and Randolph-Macon College. In 1895 he was admitted into the Virginia Conference, on trial, and was appointed to the Batesville Circuit.
Brother Ware was blessed in his home life. On October 19, 1898 he was happily married to Miss Daisy Augustine Marshall of Westmoreland County, Va. who survives him. Their home was blessed with five children: three daughters: Mrs. J. A. Berry of Roanoke, Va., and Mrs. Herman A. Schmidt and Mrs. T. F. Crittenden, of Richmond: Two sons: Col. Robert Ware of the U. S. Army and Marshall L. Ware, both residing in Arlington, Va.
Brother Ware was a man of faith, consecration, zeal and possessed the essential qualifications for the Christian ministry, as stated by Bishop Hendrix in his message to ministers. Bishop Hendrix said: "Christ's greatest work was His character, and so is the preacher's, The best commentary on the Bible the world has ever seen is a holy life; it even illuminates and beautifies the sacred text."
If those who have had the privilege of knowing W. L. Ware as their pastor were asked to state what about the man impressed them most, doubtless the almost unanimous response would be: his holy life.
He was a man of attractive personality: full of good cheer, warmhearted, sympathetic, ever seeking to be helpful to others; he drew people to him and held them as his friends. A hard worker, a good preacher, an excellent pastor, a gifted revivalist - no wonder he was known as a four-year man, and served for four years each the following charges: West Mathews, East Mathews, South Hill, Wakefield, Crewe, St. James and Laurel Street, Richmond, Orange, and he concluded three fine and successful years at Trinity, Lynchburg, when he superannuated.
The honorary degree of doctor of divinity was conferred upon Brother Ware by the Eastern College, Philadelphia in 1935. In 1938, on account of failing health, he retired from the active work of the ministry and made his home in Richmond. A few months after his retirement, the editor of the Virginia Methodist Advocate published an account of an interview he had with Brother Ware, from which we quote a few paragraphs, as they reveal the character of the man and his ideals:
"The advocate does not know of a more beloved man or minister, active or retired, than Doctor W. L. Ware, recently superannuated." says the editor. "All over the conference he is affectionately known as 'Brother Ware.' In a recent interview we asked him what he would do if he were starting over again in the ministry. We felt the fruits of his ripe experience would reveal many points of worth to his brethren still active in the work. Here is his story:
The two major points that I would stress, were I starting over again would be faith in God and hard work." ... "I sought the victorious life in my early ministry. I was not satisfied in preaching from a sense of duty, but entered into this great work as an experience of love. I have preached because I love to preach."
Brother Ware regularly sounded the evangelistic note in his sermons and was a profound believer in the value of evangelistic services in the local church.
"Quietly musing," says the Editor, Brother Ware continued: "This is a busy age; an age of rush and hurry. The work of the ministry is becoming increasingly complicated and nothing is easier than to neglect this quiet hour. If I were beginning over again, I should try, even at this busy age, to let nothing keep me from my early morning period when I should get alone with God in prayer and meditation." The interviewer adds: "From the light in his eye and the radiance of his expression, it was not difficult to see that he has not neglected this 'means of grace,' through the busy years of his life."
Brother Ware excelled as a pastor, and in the interview the Editor asked him to tell the Advocate family why he visited so much. "I have always loved my people," he replied, "and tried to be a shepherd in feeding the flock." The Editor says: "Then reminiscing, with a far-away look in his eye, as though he were actually seeing some of the homes and persons he used to visit, he told of the opportunity for constructive work when a pastor listens to the sorrows of his people; comforts them in their troubles; prays with them, knows them by name and tries to help them carry their load of responsibility or sorrow, or perchance speak a word of encouragement to someone who is trying to follow some beckoning ideal. If he had it all to go over again, whatever else he might emphasize, he would not neglect these pastoral contacts with his people."
The interview concludes: "A beautiful note of Christian hope was sounded when Brother Ware confided that really he did not wish, if he could, to turn back the pages of time and begin over. He believes that in the divine plan there is something better 'further on' in the direction in which he now travels. In the confidence of this faith he is continuing his journey."
During the years of retirement Brother Ware kept busy in his Master's work, as far as his health would permit, and was often called upon to supply the pulpit for his brethren. Nearing his 81st birthday, on February 5, 1952 our friend and brother quietly, almost suddenly, slipped away from us and went to his eternal Home.
The funeral services were in the charge of Rev. C. A. Turner, Jr., of Ginter Park Church, assisted by Dr. Walter C. Gum. The burial was in Forest Lawn Cemetery, Richmond.
By H. H. Smith, Sr.
####################################
Dr. Wilkerson Linwood Ware is the son of Paulus McDaniel Ware and Eleanor Elizabeth Hudson Ware. He was married to Daisy Augustine Marshall Ware, of Westmoreland County, Virginia, on 19 October 1898 in Westmoreland County, Virginia (Grace Methodist Church). They had six children: Louise Martha Ware, Marshall Linwood Ware, Robert Early Ware, Elizabeth Lee Ware, and Virginia Augustine Ware (Virginia had a twin sister, Sadie Maxine Ware, who died in infancy). He attended Randolph-Macon Academy and Randolph-Macon College (1894-1895). Dr. Ware was admitted to the Virginia Methodist Conference in 1895 and appointed to the Batesville Circuit. See below for a list of churches within the Virginia Conference that he served during his lifetime. He received an Honorary Degree , Doctor of Divinity, from Eastern College, Philadelphia in 1935. In retirement he and his wife lived at 4007 Mount Vernon Street in Richmond, Virginia. His funeral services were conducted at Ginter Park Methodist Church in Richmond by Reverend C. A. Turner, Jr. and Dr. Walter C. Gum.
######################################
Churches and dates of Dr. Ware's service.
Ordination: On Trial (1895), Deacon (1897), Elder (1900).
Batesville - 1895
Rockfish - 1896-1897
Whealton (Rappahannock) - 1898-1899
West Mathews - 1900-1903
East Mathews - 1904-1907
Lancaster - 1908-1910
South Hill - 1911-1914
Wakefield - 1915-1918
Crewe - 1919-1922
Saint James (Richmond) - 1923-1926
Laurel Street (Richmond) - 1927-1930
Orange - 1931-1934
Trinity (Lynchburg) - 1935-1938
Retired in 1939
(In the Virginia Methodist Conference it was normal practice for pastors to serve four years at a given church before being reassigned.)
######################################
From "Portraits of the Virginia Conference":
REV. WILKERSON LINWOOD WARE
Mr. Ware, though young counting years, possesses a record worthy of imitation. Few men have a character so pure, noble and Christlike. Courageous, sympathetic, kind and gentle, he attracts both young and old by all of the qualities that constitute genuine worth and Christian manhood. He has no superior among the meritorious men of the Methodist ministry as a thoroughly consecrated young man. An ideal portrait of him would represent a man on whose face the words, "All for Christ", are legibly written. Like Paul of old he seems to have been a chosen vessel. The hand of God was upon him turning his feet to the path of usefulness which he has followed with fidelity and success.
Mr. Ware was the third son of Paulus M. and Ellen E. Ware. and was born in Amherst County, Va., April 5, 1877. He has parents of whom he is justly proud. His father is a steward in the Methodist Episcopal Church, and his mother is one of the brightest of Christian women.
He was converted at the age of seventeen in a meeting held by the aged and saintly Devine Rev. Pitt Woodruff. He must have received the Pentecostal Blessing immediately, as he at once engaged in Church work. His prayers were so earnest and powerful his associates were amazed, and thought surely his mouth was filled with utterances from on high. He joined the Ivy Hill Methodist Church and at once commenced the study of God's work. Soon an impression of the Divine vocation fell upon him. The more he read the more he became convinced that God was calling him into the work of the ministry. As soon as the conviction took full possession of his mind his heart was so filled with joy and peace he surrendered his life to do whatever the Holy Spirit directed. At the age of nineteen, after receiving exhorter's license, he entered Randolph Macon Academy and spent two years there. The following two years he served as local Preacher and Teacher. Then he entered Randolph Macon College leaving after one term to supply Batesville Circuit as a junior pastor. In 1895 he was admitted to conference and sent back to Batesville, and served one year. Then to Rockfish Circuit where he gave the people two faithful years' service. Then to Whealton Station, Lancaster County, where he spent two years in successful work, he is (1900-'1) on West Mathews Circuit.
He was happily married to Miss Daisy Augustine Marshall, of Westmoreland County, Va., on October 18, 1897 - a lady suitable in every respect for the itinerant's wife.
Mr. Ware is striking in personal appearance. Tall and slender: dark, wavy hair; the mild expression of the blue eyes and the smile which usually lights up the countenance are not easily forgotten. His friends are numerous, and he writes his name in kindness, love and mercy on their hearts. As a preacher he is clear, earnest, zealous and faithful. He loves to preach. His heart is in his work. He preaches to save souls, and is tireless in his labors. He has the consolation to know the world is better for his living in it. He lives for something. He does good and will leave behind him a monument of virtue that the storms of time can never destroy. Behold in him, "an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no guile"
#####################################
Memoirs - 200 years! Soldiers of the Cross, 1785-1987 - edited by W. D. Keene in 1988.
Wilkerson Linwood Ware was born in Amherst County, Va., April 5, 1871. His parents, Paulus M. and Ellen E. Ware, were devout Christians and the influence of that Christian home was reflected in the life of their son. Brother Ware was converted at the age of seventeen, and at once began to work for his Master. It is stated that "even as a boy, his prayers were so earnest and powerful that his associates were amazed and thought surely his mouth was filled with utterances from on high." Shortly after his conversion he felt that God was calling him to a Christian ministry. In preparation for his life work he attended Randolph-Macon Academy and Randolph-Macon College. In 1895 he was admitted into the Virginia Conference, on trial, and was appointed to the Batesville Circuit.
Brother Ware was blessed in his home life. On October 19, 1898 he was happily married to Miss Daisy Augustine Marshall of Westmoreland County, Va. who survives him. Their home was blessed with five children: three daughters: Mrs. J. A. Berry of Roanoke, Va., and Mrs. Herman A. Schmidt and Mrs. T. F. Crittenden, of Richmond: Two sons: Col. Robert Ware of the U. S. Army and Marshall L. Ware, both residing in Arlington, Va.
Brother Ware was a man of faith, consecration, zeal and possessed the essential qualifications for the Christian ministry, as stated by Bishop Hendrix in his message to ministers. Bishop Hendrix said: "Christ's greatest work was His character, and so is the preacher's, The best commentary on the Bible the world has ever seen is a holy life; it even illuminates and beautifies the sacred text."
If those who have had the privilege of knowing W. L. Ware as their pastor were asked to state what about the man impressed them most, doubtless the almost unanimous response would be: his holy life.
He was a man of attractive personality: full of good cheer, warmhearted, sympathetic, ever seeking to be helpful to others; he drew people to him and held them as his friends. A hard worker, a good preacher, an excellent pastor, a gifted revivalist - no wonder he was known as a four-year man, and served for four years each the following charges: West Mathews, East Mathews, South Hill, Wakefield, Crewe, St. James and Laurel Street, Richmond, Orange, and he concluded three fine and successful years at Trinity, Lynchburg, when he superannuated.
The honorary degree of doctor of divinity was conferred upon Brother Ware by the Eastern College, Philadelphia in 1935. In 1938, on account of failing health, he retired from the active work of the ministry and made his home in Richmond. A few months after his retirement, the editor of the Virginia Methodist Advocate published an account of an interview he had with Brother Ware, from which we quote a few paragraphs, as they reveal the character of the man and his ideals:
"The advocate does not know of a more beloved man or minister, active or retired, than Doctor W. L. Ware, recently superannuated." says the editor. "All over the conference he is affectionately known as 'Brother Ware.' In a recent interview we asked him what he would do if he were starting over again in the ministry. We felt the fruits of his ripe experience would reveal many points of worth to his brethren still active in the work. Here is his story:
The two major points that I would stress, were I starting over again would be faith in God and hard work." ... "I sought the victorious life in my early ministry. I was not satisfied in preaching from a sense of duty, but entered into this great work as an experience of love. I have preached because I love to preach."
Brother Ware regularly sounded the evangelistic note in his sermons and was a profound believer in the value of evangelistic services in the local church.
"Quietly musing," says the Editor, Brother Ware continued: "This is a busy age; an age of rush and hurry. The work of the ministry is becoming increasingly complicated and nothing is easier than to neglect this quiet hour. If I were beginning over again, I should try, even at this busy age, to let nothing keep me from my early morning period when I should get alone with God in prayer and meditation." The interviewer adds: "From the light in his eye and the radiance of his expression, it was not difficult to see that he has not neglected this 'means of grace,' through the busy years of his life."
Brother Ware excelled as a pastor, and in the interview the Editor asked him to tell the Advocate family why he visited so much. "I have always loved my people," he replied, "and tried to be a shepherd in feeding the flock." The Editor says: "Then reminiscing, with a far-away look in his eye, as though he were actually seeing some of the homes and persons he used to visit, he told of the opportunity for constructive work when a pastor listens to the sorrows of his people; comforts them in their troubles; prays with them, knows them by name and tries to help them carry their load of responsibility or sorrow, or perchance speak a word of encouragement to someone who is trying to follow some beckoning ideal. If he had it all to go over again, whatever else he might emphasize, he would not neglect these pastoral contacts with his people."
The interview concludes: "A beautiful note of Christian hope was sounded when Brother Ware confided that really he did not wish, if he could, to turn back the pages of time and begin over. He believes that in the divine plan there is something better 'further on' in the direction in which he now travels. In the confidence of this faith he is continuing his journey."
During the years of retirement Brother Ware kept busy in his Master's work, as far as his health would permit, and was often called upon to supply the pulpit for his brethren. Nearing his 81st birthday, on February 5, 1952 our friend and brother quietly, almost suddenly, slipped away from us and went to his eternal Home.
The funeral services were in the charge of Rev. C. A. Turner, Jr., of Ginter Park Church, assisted by Dr. Walter C. Gum. The burial was in Forest Lawn Cemetery, Richmond.
By H. H. Smith, Sr.
####################################
######################################
Churches and dates of Dr. Ware's service.
Ordination: On Trial (1895), Deacon (1897), Elder (1900).
Batesville - 1895
Rockfish - 1896-1897
Whealton (Rappahannock) - 1898-1899
West Mathews - 1900-1903
East Mathews - 1904-1907
Lancaster - 1908-1910
South Hill - 1911-1914
Wakefield - 1915-1918
Crewe - 1919-1922
Saint James (Richmond) - 1923-1926
Laurel Street (Richmond) - 1927-1930
Orange - 1931-1934
Trinity (Lynchburg) - 1935-1938
Retired in 1939
(In the Virginia Methodist Conference it was normal practice for pastors to serve four years at a given church before being reassigned.)
######################################
From "Portraits of the Virginia Conference":
REV. WILKERSON LINWOOD WARE
Mr. Ware, though young counting years, possesses a record worthy of imitation. Few men have a character so pure, noble and Christlike. Courageous, sympathetic, kind and gentle, he attracts both young and old by all of the qualities that constitute genuine worth and Christian manhood. He has no superior among the meritorious men of the Methodist ministry as a thoroughly consecrated young man. An ideal portrait of him would represent a man on whose face the words, "All for Christ", are legibly written. Like Paul of old he seems to have been a chosen vessel. The hand of God was upon him turning his feet to the path of usefulness which he has followed with fidelity and success.
Mr. Ware was the third son of Paulus M. and Ellen E. Ware. and was born in Amherst County, Va., April 5, 1877. He has parents of whom he is justly proud. His father is a steward in the Methodist Episcopal Church, and his mother is one of the brightest of Christian women.
He was converted at the age of seventeen in a meeting held by the aged and saintly Devine Rev. Pitt Woodruff. He must have received the Pentecostal Blessing immediately, as he at once engaged in Church work. His prayers were so earnest and powerful his associates were amazed, and thought surely his mouth was filled with utterances from on high. He joined the Ivy Hill Methodist Church and at once commenced the study of God's work. Soon an impression of the Divine vocation fell upon him. The more he read the more he became convinced that God was calling him into the work of the ministry. As soon as the conviction took full possession of his mind his heart was so filled with joy and peace he surrendered his life to do whatever the Holy Spirit directed. At the age of nineteen, after receiving exhorter's license, he entered Randolph Macon Academy and spent two years there. The following two years he served as local Preacher and Teacher. Then he entered Randolph Macon College leaving after one term to supply Batesville Circuit as a junior pastor. In 1895 he was admitted to conference and sent back to Batesville, and served one year. Then to Rockfish Circuit where he gave the people two faithful years' service. Then to Whealton Station, Lancaster County, where he spent two years in successful work, he is (1900-'1) on West Mathews Circuit.
He was happily married to Miss Daisy Augustine Marshall, of Westmoreland County, Va., on October 18, 1897 - a lady suitable in every respect for the itinerant's wife.
Mr. Ware is striking in personal appearance. Tall and slender: dark, wavy hair; the mild expression of the blue eyes and the smile which usually lights up the countenance are not easily forgotten. His friends are numerous, and he writes his name in kindness, love and mercy on their hearts. As a preacher he is clear, earnest, zealous and faithful. He loves to preach. His heart is in his work. He preaches to save souls, and is tireless in his labors. He has the consolation to know the world is better for his living in it. He lives for something. He does good and will leave behind him a monument of virtue that the storms of time can never destroy. Behold in him, "an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no guile"
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Memoirs - 200 years! Soldiers of the Cross, 1785-1987 - edited by W. D. Keene in 1988.
Wilkerson Linwood Ware was born in Amherst County, Va., April 5, 1871. His parents, Paulus M. and Ellen E. Ware, were devout Christians and the influence of that Christian home was reflected in the life of their son. Brother Ware was converted at the age of seventeen, and at once began to work for his Master. It is stated that "even as a boy, his prayers were so earnest and powerful that his associates were amazed and thought surely his mouth was filled with utterances from on high." Shortly after his conversion he felt that God was calling him to a Christian ministry. In preparation for his life work he attended Randolph-Macon Academy and Randolph-Macon College. In 1895 he was admitted into the Virginia Conference, on trial, and was appointed to the Batesville Circuit.
Brother Ware was blessed in his home life. On October 19, 1898 he was happily married to Miss Daisy Augustine Marshall of Westmoreland County, Va. who survives him. Their home was blessed with five children: three daughters: Mrs. J. A. Berry of Roanoke, Va., and Mrs. Herman A. Schmidt and Mrs. T. F. Crittenden, of Richmond: Two sons: Col. Robert Ware of the U. S. Army and Marshall L. Ware, both residing in Arlington, Va.
Brother Ware was a man of faith, consecration, zeal and possessed the essential qualifications for the Christian ministry, as stated by Bishop Hendrix in his message to ministers. Bishop Hendrix said: "Christ's greatest work was His character, and so is the preacher's, The best commentary on the Bible the world has ever seen is a holy life; it even illuminates and beautifies the sacred text."
If those who have had the privilege of knowing W. L. Ware as their pastor were asked to state what about the man impressed them most, doubtless the almost unanimous response would be: his holy life.
He was a man of attractive personality: full of good cheer, warmhearted, sympathetic, ever seeking to be helpful to others; he drew people to him and held them as his friends. A hard worker, a good preacher, an excellent pastor, a gifted revivalist - no wonder he was known as a four-year man, and served for four years each the following charges: West Mathews, East Mathews, South Hill, Wakefield, Crewe, St. James and Laurel Street, Richmond, Orange, and he concluded three fine and successful years at Trinity, Lynchburg, when he superannuated.
The honorary degree of doctor of divinity was conferred upon Brother Ware by the Eastern College, Philadelphia in 1935. In 1938, on account of failing health, he retired from the active work of the ministry and made his home in Richmond. A few months after his retirement, the editor of the Virginia Methodist Advocate published an account of an interview he had with Brother Ware, from which we quote a few paragraphs, as they reveal the character of the man and his ideals:
"The advocate does not know of a more beloved man or minister, active or retired, than Doctor W. L. Ware, recently superannuated." says the editor. "All over the conference he is affectionately known as 'Brother Ware.' In a recent interview we asked him what he would do if he were starting over again in the ministry. We felt the fruits of his ripe experience would reveal many points of worth to his brethren still active in the work. Here is his story:
The two major points that I would stress, were I starting over again would be faith in God and hard work." ... "I sought the victorious life in my early ministry. I was not satisfied in preaching from a sense of duty, but entered into this great work as an experience of love. I have preached because I love to preach."
Brother Ware regularly sounded the evangelistic note in his sermons and was a profound believer in the value of evangelistic services in the local church.
"Quietly musing," says the Editor, Brother Ware continued: "This is a busy age; an age of rush and hurry. The work of the ministry is becoming increasingly complicated and nothing is easier than to neglect this quiet hour. If I were beginning over again, I should try, even at this busy age, to let nothing keep me from my early morning period when I should get alone with God in prayer and meditation." The interviewer adds: "From the light in his eye and the radiance of his expression, it was not difficult to see that he has not neglected this 'means of grace,' through the busy years of his life."
Brother Ware excelled as a pastor, and in the interview the Editor asked him to tell the Advocate family why he visited so much. "I have always loved my people," he replied, "and tried to be a shepherd in feeding the flock." The Editor says: "Then reminiscing, with a far-away look in his eye, as though he were actually seeing some of the homes and persons he used to visit, he told of the opportunity for constructive work when a pastor listens to the sorrows of his people; comforts them in their troubles; prays with them, knows them by name and tries to help them carry their load of responsibility or sorrow, or perchance speak a word of encouragement to someone who is trying to follow some beckoning ideal. If he had it all to go over again, whatever else he might emphasize, he would not neglect these pastoral contacts with his people."
The interview concludes: "A beautiful note of Christian hope was sounded when Brother Ware confided that really he did not wish, if he could, to turn back the pages of time and begin over. He believes that in the divine plan there is something better 'further on' in the direction in which he now travels. In the confidence of this faith he is continuing his journey."
During the years of retirement Brother Ware kept busy in his Master's work, as far as his health would permit, and was often called upon to supply the pulpit for his brethren. Nearing his 81st birthday, on February 5, 1952 our friend and brother quietly, almost suddenly, slipped away from us and went to his eternal Home.
The funeral services were in the charge of Rev. C. A. Turner, Jr., of Ginter Park Church, assisted by Dr. Walter C. Gum. The burial was in Forest Lawn Cemetery, Richmond.
By H. H. Smith, Sr.
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