Reverend Dr. Michael Relton, a devoted husband, father, most recently grandfather “baba”, and beloved follower of Jesus Christ transitioned to his eternal heavenly home with Jesus, while embraced by his family, on May 21, 2024 at 8:31 p.m. in Dallas, TX. He was 83. Michael was born to Samuel Swaminathan and Rebecca Swaminathan, both military personnel, on May 11,1941 in Madras, Chennai, India.
Michael graduated from St. Paul’s High School in India in 1959 then went on to work at the State Bank of India. During his time at the bank he received the call from God to enter into ministry. He joined Operation Mobilization to preach the gospel and train young people in ministry, traveling all over India for two years.
To prepare for full-time ministry he enrolled in Union Biblical seminary. After graduation, he was ordained as a minister and pastored three churches in Canada. Michael also earned his M.Div. at Canadian Theological College. He also obtained several certifications in biblical studies.
In 1980 Michael immigrated to the United States with his dear wife Grace and his two young children. He started a non-denominational church shortly after in Irving TX, then felt God was calling him to travel within the U.S and India to preach, teach and share the gospel of Jesus. In 1990 he completed his first of two 40 day fasting and prayer sessions, surviving only on water and his daily devotionals. During this time, he learned from God the utmost importance of Prayer, and 13 years later Michael’s experience and work culminated into a Book titled, "Dear God ... Prayer Book.” His heart's desire was to teach people how to deeply connect with the Lord, equip believers with tools for effective ministry, and to find strength and healing for life’s challenges. His book on prayer has sold thousands of copies on multiple Christian media platforms. Michael formally continued his work by founding Prayer Outreach Ministries.
Michael wholeheartedly placed his hope and trust in God and the Power of Prayer. No matter the obstacle, he would follow Jesus with unwavering dedication. No matter the opposition, he knew who he was, who His God was and how His God would go before him, behind him and all around him. He lived to build his Father’s church, to make His name known and to give Him all the glory!
For 60+ years, Michael dedicated his life to the cause of Christ. He was a fervent soul winner who loved all people, and he shared the hope of Jesus with every person he came in contact with. No one could ever get past him without hearing the gospel and how Jesus can change their lives; including literally every waiter/waitress at every restaurant he visited. God blessed him with such charisma, courage and ability to talk to anyone and everyone. He never met a stranger!
During his third year in seminary, Michael met his lovely wife, Grace, who was in nursing school. They were married on May 28, 1970. They shared 54 years of marriage together and although they had many issues having children, they were blessed with a son, John, and daughter Esther. Michael remained steadfast that prayer and faith are solely responsible for their ability to have children. Michael cherished his family and enjoyed vacations, taking his family to amusement/theme parks, car/air shows, and animal exhibitions. No one had a better time at Disney World than he did! Michael was a true adventurer who encouraged his children to pursue their interests, hobbies and talents. He instilled in them a strong desire for education and finding their divine purpose in life. Michael prayed for his family incessantly and relentlessly. He fought for them on his hands and knees; surrendered to God in worship.
Michael had many hobbies and interests that occupied his free time. He loved to travel, collect watches, pens, ties, hats and buying/selling/fixing old cars. He enjoyed watching western television shows such as Gunsmoke, and Lone Ranger along with sports (especially his Dallas Cowboys), wrestling, nature, comedy and films with Bruce Lee, Charlton Heston, John Wayne and Jerry Lewis. Michael had a deep passion for music, especially songs of faith and devotion/hymns. He was a lifelong learner and an avid collector of books. He was a rescuer of animals and brought home many furry friends that became family pets; the two most beloved being his dogs, Buttons and Bentley.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather Dr. Cornelius Gopal Rao and Mrs. Esther Thangarathanam; parents Samuel Swaminathan and Rebecca Swaminathan; uncle Daniel Tyagaraj and brothers; Sunder Swaminathan, Moses Swaminathan and sister; Saroja Swaminathan.
Michael is survived by his wife, Grace; son John; daughter Esther; grandson Ford; brother Johnny Swaminathan, sister Sarah Kalyamonie and numerous brother-in-laws, sister-in-laws, nieces, nephews and cousins across the United States, Canada and India.
We honor our beloved husband, father, grandfather & Lord’s servant by celebrating his life:
Wednesday June 5, 2024 @ 1:00pm
Truett Chapel - First Baptist Church Dallas
1707 San Jacinto, Dallas, TX 75201
Livestream Link:
https://vimeo.com/event/4342696/8d0fbdfa1a
A private viewing Wednesday, June 5, 2024 from 12pm to 1pm in the Truett Chapel of First Baptist Dallas.
The family requests that all flowers, remembrances, and expressions of sympathy be sent to Sparkman-Crane at 10501 Garland Road, Dallas, TX 75218.
“Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever” ~Psalm 23:6
Partager l'avis de décès
v.1.11.0