Christian Service Medal With 1970 and 1972 bars 33mm
This vintage medal from the Wesleyan Methodist Church was awarded to JMCs (junior missionary collectors). It features two bars from 1970 and 1972, made of bronze and manufactured in the United Kingdom by Firmin. This service medal is a great addition to any collection and a wonderful way to honour the faith and devotion of those who serve the Church. The ribbon is in excellent condition and will make a cherished keepsake for years to come.
These medals were awarded to junior missionary collectors for collecting over £5 for the missionary work of the church during a year.
The first year this was achieved the medal was awarded and in subsequent years a bar was awarded. After 10 years a long service badge was also given.
The practice started in 1904 with the Wesleyan Methodists by a man called Stanley Sowton so £5 was a large amount in those days.
The missionary magazine was also revamped that year so, although I have yet to find the proof, was probably a push to increase the local churches and the children’s involvement in the missionary movement and to increase the amount collected.
The medals and bars were replaced by individual colours of the rainbow badges in 1992 and once the 10 colours were done (seven colours of the rainbow plus bronze, silver) they were then replaced by a full rainbow badge with the year on it.