Hi Wilma,
I am replying to this post as it seems more directly related to my query. The John Sutcliffe you have been seeking, born in Rossendale, Lancs around 1815, was I believe minister at Easingwold, Yorkshire, from about 1842 to 1851 I think. I have found some information snippets in the History of Congregationalism in Yorkshire, James C Miall, 1868. If you have not seen these I can send them to you. Google also finds it.
My wife's paternal great-great-grandfather John Germain was from the area, born in Husthwaite in 1823, apprenticed to a tanner and currier in Easingwold (present at the 1841 Census), and then migrated to Australia in 1848. We have a transcript of a letter written by him detailing his voyage, addressed to Mr John Sutcliffe, and mentioning that he was writing about his travels as he had been requested to do by Mr Sutcliffe - but no other clues were given as to why this was the case.
I thought he could be a relative, but finding your John Sutcliffe in Easingwold has caused a light bulb to shine. If you are interested in the letter I would be happy to copy it to you.
Have you found any more detail regarding John Sutcliffe since the posts here? All I know is the 1851 Census information, and that he was situated at the Peniston-Netherfield Chapel from 1851 (came from Easingwold) until replaced in 1858.
Best wishes for your research,
Stewart Cameron