New Rural Dean

Our vicar, the Rev John Harper, has been appointed and commissioned as the new Rural Dean of the Shefford Deanery.

The commissioning ceremony took place at the Deanery Synod meeting in Langford. The Ven. Paul Hughes, Archdeacon of Bedford, led the commissioning service which was attended not only by the regular Deanery Synod representatives from each church, but also by many of the Church Wardens as well.

John welcomed the appointment as "an opportunity to support local clergy and the Lay Readers as well as the congregations of the Deanery. It entails responsibilities to do with the Deanery Synod and Chapter, being a link between the Diocese and the local church, and supporting parishes during vacancies. It's an exciting challenge, but I will also do all I can to ensure that my primary work in Shefford and Meppershall is not unduly constrained."

The Rev. John Morley, retiring Rural Dean, led the final prayers at the Synod meeting, with special mention for the Benefice of Henlow and Langford, the parishes he is leaving.

Date: 19th November 2008

Source: Judith Robinson

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