In a full church with congregations representing both parishes, along with the Mayor of Amble, local and diocesan clergy including the Archdeacon of Lindisfarne, local councillors and friends from her previous parish, Rachael was welcomed and licensed as priest in charge of Amble and Chevington bythe Rt Revd Helen-Ann Hartley, bishop of Newcastle.

In her sermon the bishop encouraged us to work at ‘growing the church younger’ and to positively welcome diversity, get to know Jesus and foster real and transforming relationships. We are not be shy about sharing our stories. At the same time we should not be afraid of uncertainty, rather we should trust our future to God. And we must not sit back and expect Rachael to provide all the answers. We must all work together and support one another.

The hymns were chosen by Rachael and a ‘pop up choir’ sang a short anthem. Afterwards a reception was held in the church hall where people got the chance to meet Rachael.