Who‘s Who in Lopen Church, within the Benefice of Merriott
Behind every service, event, and coffee morning is a small team of people who help keep our church running — some in a formal role, many simply giving their time because they love their village and its church. Below you'll find the people to contact for different things, from our rectors Julia and Bob, to the treasurer and secretary who keep things ticking over, to our safeguarding officer, who is always on hand if you have any concerns. Whatever your question, there's a friendly face here ready to help.
Rector (Revs Julia and Bob Hicks)
Julia and Bob share the role of Rector across our Benefice of six churches — leading services, and the first point of contact for weddings, christenings, funerals, and pastoral support.
PCC Secretary
Keeps our Parochial Church Council organised — handling some of the administrative side of how each church is run. Another PCC member keeps on top of minutes and agendas.
Treasurer
Looks after the church's finances, including donations, fundraising income, and the costs of keeping the building open and in good repair.
Fabric Committee
Looks after the care and maintenance of the church building itself — from routine repairs to longer-term projects that keep this historic space safe, sound, and welcoming for years to come.
PCC Member
Serves on our Parochial Church Council, helping to guide decisions about church life, finances, and mission on behalf of the wider congregation and community.
Organist
Provides the music that shapes our services — from hymns to quieter moments of reflection — and helps make every occasion feel special, whatever the event.
Health and Safety Officer
Keeps an eye on the practical side of things, making sure our building and events are safe and well looked-after for everyone who visits, worships, or volunteers with us.
Electoral Roll Officer
Maintains our church's electoral roll — the official record of church membership — and is the person to contact if you'd like to be added or have questions about your entry.
Deanery Synod Representative
Represents our parish at Deanery Synod, helping to connect our church with the wider work, decisions, and life of churches across the deanery.
Parish Safeguarding Officer (PSO)
The named contact for any safeguarding concerns involving children or adults — please reach out directly if you ever need to raise something, however small it may seem.
Sunday School Room Bookings (SSR)
The person to contact for hiring the Sunday School Room (SSR) — checking availability, arranging bookings, and helping make sure your event goes smoothly, whatever you're planning.
Website — All Saints, Lopen
Keeps our church's page on A Church Near You up to date — service times, news, and events — so visitors and villagers alike always have the latest information at their fingertips.
Benefice Administrator
The friendly first point of contact for the benefice office — handling enquiries, bookings, and general admin across all six churches, and often the quickest way to reach Julia and Bob.
