The Bishop of Rochester, in consultation with the Patron, is pleased to announce that The Revd Clifford Brian Stocking is to be the next Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Cliffe with Cooling.For the past six years Clifford has been Vicar of Holy Trinity, Margate, a significant church within Canterbury Diocese, and prior to that he was a Team Vicar within Ely Diocese. However Rochester Diocese is well known to him as he grew up within our boundaries and lived in the Medway Towns for many years before moving to Hadlow to serve his curacy. He has family still living in Medway and we are delighted he is returning 'home'.Clifford is passionate about sharing God's love and guiding others on their personal, spiritual journeys. His engagement with community is very important to him, and he is looking forward to getting out and about and getting to know people, schools and businesses in the parish.Clifford is married to Cathy (who works for a Kent-based company as a medical secretary and coordinator for private consultants) and they have two adult children and three grandchildren living in Hoo and Rainham. Before ordination he was a train driver. He is a keen musician, playing double bass, piano and guitar, and also enjoys art pursuits as a way of relaxing. A date for his licensing is yet to be confirmed with the Bishop's Office, but you will be kept updated as and when. In the meantime, please pray for Clifford and Cathy as they prepare to move after Easter and Clifford begins his new ministry amongst us."