In a world often marked by division and mistrust, the life of Michael Halliwell stands as a shining example of the power of reconciliation. This humble Anglican clergyman from the Channel Island of Jersey dedicated much of his 96 years to the noble cause of fostering friendship and understanding between the United Kingdom and Germany, two nations with a complex shared history.
A Childhood Shattered by War
Born in Jersey in 1928, young Michael enjoyed an idyllic upbringing on the picturesque island until the dark clouds of World War II descended. In 1940, as German forces prepared to occupy the Channel Islands, 12-year-old Michael, his siblings, and their mother were evacuated to Somerset, England. This wrenching experience would plant the seeds of his lifelong commitment to healing the wounds of war.
From Devastation to Dedication
After the war, Michael began studying French and German at Oxford University. In 1947, a university exchange trip to Cologne, Germany proved to be a pivotal moment in his life. Profoundly moved by the destruction and hardship he witnessed, Michael resolved to devote himself to the cause of Anglo-German reconciliation.
“The devastation I saw in Cologne left an indelible mark on my soul. I knew then that I had to do everything in my power to help rebuild the bonds of friendship and trust between our two peoples.”
– Michael Halliwell, reflecting on his 1947 visit to Germany
A Calling to Serve
Following his graduation, Michael felt called to the ministry. He attended theological college and was ordained as a Church of England priest in 1955. Over the next decade, he served as a curate in London and Bournemouth, while also working for the Church of England Council for Inter-Church Relations. This role allowed him to visit churches behind the Iron Curtain, further broadening his perspective on the need for international understanding.
Building Bridges in Bonn
In 1962, Michael’s commitment to Anglo-German relations took him to Bonn, where he served as chaplain at the British embassy. There, he worked alongside future luminaries like MI6 chief Dickie Franks and novelist John le Carré. Michael’s dedication to his cause was evident in gestures like preaching at a joint “friendship” ceremony of German and British naval servicemen at the Cologne war memorial.
Healing Wounds in Jersey
Returning to his beloved Jersey in 1971, Michael took up the post of rector at St Brelade’s Church. In this role, he extended a warm welcome to German visitors seeking information about relatives buried in war graves, offering solace and closure. His patient, compassionate approach laid the groundwork for the eventual twinning of Jersey’s capital, St Helier, with the German town of Bad Wurzach in 2002.
“Father Halliwell greeted me in perfect German and invited me in for coffee when I came seeking information about my grandfather’s war grave. His kindness and understanding helped me find peace.”
– Jürgen Müller, German visitor to St Brelade’s Church
A Legacy of Understanding
Throughout his ministry, Michael worked tirelessly to build links not only between nations, but among people of all faiths. His establishment of Communicare, an ecumenical center at St Brelade’s, stands as a testament to his inclusive vision. Though he retired from St Brelade’s in 1996, Michael’s efforts continued to bear fruit, as evidenced by the German-British Friendship Award he received in 2024.
As we mourn the passing of this remarkable man, we are called to reflect on the enduring impact of his life’s work. In a world still riven by division and discord, Michael Halliwell’s legacy of reconciliation and understanding shines as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the transformative power of building bridges across the chasms that divide us.
