Welcome Service with a Difference
Mid Derbyshire Circuit gave a very warm welcome to a new Superintendent, a
Minister, and a Deacon.
On Wednesday evening, Belper Methodist Chapel hosted the Welcome Service for
new Superintendent, Reverend Ann Anderson, Minister, Reverend Janet Rossall,
and Deacon, Michaela Doherty.
Whilst Reverend Ann and her husband crossed ‘the border’ from the neighbouring
Border Missions Circuit, Liverpudlian Michaela and her family left her home city for
Mid Derbyshire, Janet and her husband travelling furthest across the seas from
Ireland.
A Welcome Service with a difference as Janet's lengthy move suffered a hiccup and
so she ‘zoomed’ from Ireland, being projected onto a wall. Janet will move in the very
near future.
Reverend Helen Penfold introduced the service, and the new trio were welcomed by
Circuit Steward Ruth Beresford and formally inducted by District Assistant Chair,
Reverend Andy Fyall, who also delivered a stirring but moving message based on
John’s Gospel chapter 21 verses 15 to 19.
The new team members were welcomed personally by people from the wider
ecumenical community along with the Mayors of Amber Valley and Erewash local
authorities.
Reverend Ann made a short and humorous address, including “As I join Mid
Derbyshire I pray that God will guide us all in our continued ministry to make
new disciples and support our communities.” After which Reverend Stephen
Pratt led prayers of thanksgiving.
The service ended with Reverend Ann’s choice of rousing hymn Let Us Build a
House. Everyone enjoyed a real ‘chapel tea’ of home-made cakes with chance to
catch up with friends across the circuit and beyond.
Reverend Ann will live in the manse at Darley Dale, Reverend Janet in Belper Manse
whilst Deacon Michaela will live and work in the Heanor area. Our dynamic trio join
Reverends Helen and Stephen to make what should be a cracking team working to
deliver God's Kingdom across Mid Derbyshire.
A wonderful evening of song, God’s Word, fellowship and making new friends.
Written by John Stamp
Comments