John Redmond was born in Portadown, Co. Armagh, but his most influential work was as a chaplain during WW1’s bloodiest battle and as a champion of the underprivileged in one of Belfast’s poorest neighbourhoods.
John was assigned to the 36th (Ulster) Division as padre, arriving at the Somme on 16th June 1916 and witnessed at first hand the dreadful loss of life and terrible injuries suffered by the soldiers who took part in the Battle of the Somme. He remained a war chaplain until 1918 when he was called back to Belfast’s St Anne’s Cathedral to serve as a Curate Assistant for two years, before becoming Vicar of what would become his spiritual home, the huge Ballymacarrett district of east Belfast.
When riots erupted in Belfast following a sectarian murder, Reverend John intervened to prevent further violence, working to calm both factions. His efforts, which included a sermon condemning lawlessness and advocating for Christian peace, were widely recognised. As the unrest continued, he focused on addressing the challenges within his parish, particularly the large number of nominal Church of Ireland members who did not attend church. In response, he expanded his clerical team and launched outreach programs, including Sunday Schools and youth organisations. By early 1922, attendance at these programs had significantly increased, though many poorer parishioners still refrained from attending services due to their ragged clothing.
To engage these members, Redmond established three new mission halls, where people could attend without feeling judged. He also took practical steps to alleviate poverty, particularly during the 1921 depression and the strikes of 1926, organizing food distribution and providing firewood for families in need. His efforts were supported by various charitable donations and appeals, including a successful 1929 campaign to reduce the parish’s debt. However, Rev. John’s health deteriorated due to the stress of his work, leading him to resign as vicar of St Patrick’s in late 1929. His work was recognised and celebrated as he left to take a quieter position in rural Kilbride, County Antrim, where he served until his retirement in 1951.
Rev. Redmond tended to and prayed with Major Willie Redmond MP, - no relation - 16th Irish Division brother of nationalist leader John Redmond, before he died on 7 June 1917 from wounds received at the Battle of Messines.