Charles OGG

OGG, CHARLES (b. Arbroath, Scotland, c. 1818; d. Brisbane, Qld, 10 April 1895). Presbyterian minister.

The third son of builder Robert Ogg and Catherine (nee Galbraith), he was educated at the Arbroath parochial school and the University of Glasgow. He trained for the ministry of the Free Church of Scotland at New College Edinburgh 1850-53 and completed the course, but because of health was not then licensed. He arrived in Sydney 1854 and having regained his health was lic. the following year by the Presbytery of Sydney of the Synod of Eastern Australia. He was appointed to develop a church at Gerringong, ordained, called and inducted there by the end of 1855. He was inducted 7 Nov 1856 to the Brisbane charge of the Synod and when this was divided between North and South Brisbane 5 May 1857, he remained with the former, and was the minister of this Ann Street congregation for the rest of his life despite, from 1888 onwards, ill health and disputes over property.

Ogg was responsible for a wide area and travelled extensively. An assiduous pastor, he met incoming vessels even when advanced in age and visited some of his members within days before his death, although at that time relieved of pulpit duties. He was a decided Calvinist, zealous for biblical truth and careful to maintain church discipline in matters of baptism, communicant membership and the conduct of church officers.

When the Presbyterian Church of Qld was formed 25 Nov 1863 he and his congregation joined after some reluctance. He was the moderator of the Synod 1866 and of the General Assembly (which replaced it) 1887. From 1867 to 1887 he was clerk to these bodies. The range of his interests and abilities is seen in his service at various times as convenor of committees concerning church law, finance, statistics, foreign missions, morals and temperance, Sabbath schools, and training for the ministry and these interests were reflected by his activities within his congregation.

At his death he was regarded as 'the father of the Presbyterian Church of Queensland'. His widow Agnes, four sons and five daughters survived him.

B J Bridges, Ministers, Licentiates and Catechists of the Presbyterian Churches in New South Wales 1823-1865 (Melbourne, 1989); Presbyterian Magazine (Sydney 1862-1865)

JOHN J T CAMPBELL