Since pastoral reorganisation in the Diocese of Truro I needed to wait for what the greatly missed Venerable Paul Bryer, then Archdeacon of Cornwall, formerly Archdeacon of Dorking, called “a Shane-shaped hole” to appear - a place where I can best continue to pastor - to lead, accompany and serve. I am thrilled that it has been discerned that the united benefice of Dunsfold and Hascombe is that place and my wife Jacquie and I greatly look forward to joining you. Our daughter, Hannah, who currently lives, works and studies in Bath/Bristol will no doubt relish visiting this beautiful area that we will call home after 17 years in Cornwall.

I am above all a visible presence in the communities in which I live and serve. I wear a clerical collar when out and about so hopefully people know they can talk to me and I will listen (and laugh with you and enjoy a cuppa or a beer in the Sun Inn or the White Horse if that’s a more comfortable place to meet.) I see myself to be a pastoral priest for the people, not just those who already come to church. One of the joys of rural ministry is that the villagers see the village church as their church, however rarely or often they attend it. By seeking to assure people that it is there for them whenever they need it, by being open and by having a space for contemplation and prayer, we build relationships that can flourish and be mutually supportive. From 20 years in parish ministry I know how much people appreciate some of God’s love shown to them at their happiest, most heart-breaking, challenging and exciting times. And simply by knowing that someone was there for them and was there to listen to them and, where necessary, build bridges and repair relationships. As your new part-time priest in charge I trust I will be able to do similar things with and for you and that together we can transform church, transform lives in Dunsfold and Hascombe, the wider deanery of Cranleigh and diocese of Guildford.

Jacquie and I greatly enjoyed meeting so many of you when I came for interview and look forward to joining in with all that life in our villages and churches has to offer. We may not be physically with you for another few months but please be assured you are already in our prayers.

With love in Christ,

Father Shane