Rev Chris Martin has left the Churches4All Mission Community to take up a new position with the Golden Cap Benefice in Dorset. So what happens next, now we are without a vicar. From one or two conversations we have had, there seems to be an assumption that the Bishop has a handy supply of vicars that can just be parachuted into the position. The reality is that like any job, the vacancy needs to be advertised and interviewed for. Also, while we are very fortunate the have our curate Rev Marc Kerslake with us, Marc is in the final stages of his training. His priority over the coming months will be to concentrate on completing his studies and training modules. Marc will still lead some services along with Ruth Heeley (retired vicar), members of the congregations and visiting clergy. During a vacancy it is the role of the churchwardens, assisted by the PCCs (Parochial Church Council), to ensure that the life, worship and day to day running of the church continues.

There are four churches in our Mission Community: Whimple, Talaton, Clyst St Lawrence and Clyst Hydon. All the churchwardens have met with the Archdeacon to discuss in detail the next steps of the appointment process. An essential stage of this will be to review and refresh our parish profiles which form a key part of the job advert. The PCCs will also meet to discuss the qualities we would look for in a new vicar and how they can fit in with our vision. From this a job specification will be drawn up and advertised on line and in the Church Times. This is not a quick process and experience has shown that vacancies can last for nine months or more.

We are praying for Gods’ guidance during this time of change, and we are trusting that God knows who he will call to the Churches 4 All Mission Community. Why not join us on our journey? Details of our services and prayer meetings can be found on our website. http://churches4all.org/

The Churchwardens