Last night (28
November), the Bishop of Leicester, Martyn Snow, licensed Steve Bailey,
currently the Vicar of St Paul’s, Oadby to be Rector designate of the whole
parish. He is only licensed as “designate” because the parish borders are
undergoing reorganisation. The “designate” ceases when the scheme is completed.
At the same
service, Liz Wilson, who has been the Curate of St Denys' Evington, to be the Team
Vicar (designate) of St Peter’s. Liz will be sharing in the Ministry of the
team and we look forward to seeing her at St Paul’s.
The licensing
took place in a joyous service, with a packed church, filled not only with
members of St Peter’s and St Paul’s congregations, but also people from
previous parishes of both clergy, representatives of the community and of neighbouring parishes and family. The service contained both the necessary
legal promises, but also devotion and praise to God. The exuberant music – both
traditional and modern – nearly raised the roof as we praised God for this
occasion.
In his sermon,
Bishop Martyn pointed both clergy to the way that Jesus preached, starting from
small beginnings (the mustard seed) but always pointing to faith in Christ –
the Pearl of Great Price.
After the
service everyone was invited to a magnificent buffet in the St Peter’s Centre.
We offer Steve
and Liz our prayers and support as they start this new stage of their ministries.
