Celebrating 103 years on Nov 21, 2025
- James Houston
- 6 hours ago
- 2 min read
Dear friends
The family would like to thank you for your many birthday messages that Dad has received to celebrate his 103rd birthday. Cards, emails, and phone calls have brought great joy to him. Rather than a one-time celebration, he has been well celebrated over the whole month. His men’s Bible study group, which he attended for over 50 years, came in small groups for a visit.
The group of Rita’s Bible study had a small party for him in his home. Mum had started the group to provide connection for wives of students enrolled at Regent. Sheila Shannon took over for Mum when she could no longer lead, and it is now a joint effort. It is so lovely to see the fellowship continue with this group of women, some even in different parts of the world.
Family met at various times throughout the month, with a birthday party on the 21st with his some of the family attending, including 5 of his 16 great grandchildren. It was a joy for Dad to attend a church service for the first time in many months. First Baptist Church congregation warmly welcomed him, and sang a rousing 'happy birthday' while he ‘snuggled’ with his wiggling 18-month-old youngest great grandchild.
We had no idea that we would have the privilege of still celebrating the gift of this godly father, who has loved and is being loved by so many. It was an honour to hear that, at a Regent Alumni gathering in Oxford on his birthday, 40 voices sang happy birthday to our dear Dad. Christianity Today released an article on his birthday. Many thanks to Isabel Ong for pressing through and writing this special piece in their series of ‘faithful evangelicals practicing a “long obedience in the same direction”’. https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/11/jim-houston-regent-college-books-spiritual-theology-profile/
Thank you so much for all your visits and birthday wishes. He has loved it all.
Dad is doing well overall, although some days he feels more like his 103 years than the usual 80! He still loves to write and shares with us much joy as he describes a new composition idea. Usually, he has spent the night ruminating and praying, and wakes ready to start writing. His capacity fades faster and he rests more often, but delights in seeing others, blessing them, and sharing the love of his dear friend, Jesus. Hymns are a huge part of his worship, and Dad dwells often on the beautiful lyrics that have such deep meaning. He has a friend who comes in regularly to play his recorder while Dad sings the hymns.
We do see a general decline as the physical being fades, but his spirit and passion continue strong. Continue to pray for him. Aging is not for the faint of heart and there are some tough times. We are all grateful that the Lord does not ask us to live the 900 years as in the days of Abraham.
Many thanks for your continued love and interest, your correspondence and your prayers.
The Houston Family
