Welcome, Vanessa!

We have a new vicar!

On Sunday, we welcomed Revd Vanessa Lawrence to our benefice. Vanessa was formally instututed in a short service on Thursday 10 March; we wanted to properly celebrate God calling her to serve as our vicar, and to give thanks for the ministry of all Christians.

It was indeed a joyful service. We were blessed to be joined by Revd Mike Griffiths and friends from East Winchester Benefice, where Vanessa has been part of the team for the last nine months. Mike preached an inspiring sermon and led worship with us. Our Area Dean, Revd James Pitkin, welcomed us all and prayed for Vanessa and our benefice.

It was great to see so many from all the parishes in our benefice take part. Our thanks also go to the many visiting clergy and to members of Community Life Church for supporting us. We are also grateful to all those who stayed to drink tea and eat cake!

We look forward to finding out what God is calling us all to do in this place…