It is with real sadness that we announce today that Reverend Simon is moving on. He has been appointed as Chaplain to the Bishop of Newcastle alongside becoming a minor canon of St Nicholas Cathedral. He starts work in his new role on Saturday 5th December, and so his and Fiona’s last Sunday with us will be 15th November. We recognise that this news will be something of a bolt from the blue for people and not the news we wanted to hear, but we are really pleased for Simon that God has called him into this new and different ministry.Simon comments ‘I have very conflicting emotions about this news. I had fully expected to stay in our parish until I retired, and it has been a great privilege to serve here and share in your ongoing journey of faith and see many signs of God at work among us, and there is real pain over leaving after only two years; but the role of bishop’s chaplain has long held an interest for me, and this particular role in Newcastle seemed to seek me out rather than vice versa, so I have sought to obedient to what I believe is God’s calling, unexpected as it has been, and I am excited about this new chapter of ministry. It goes without saying that Fiona and I would appreciate your prayers at this time of transition, and rest assured that you will remain in my prayers, especially that the person of God’s choice to be your next vicar will be appointed as soon as possible.’
ESBB is looking for enthusiastic people to become part of the team offering a ministry of welcome at our Sunday services. Please speak to the wardens (Liz and John Weatherby) or contact Simon for more information Liz Weatherby churchwarden-lw@esbb.co.uk John Weatherby churchwarden-jw@esbb.co.uk simon.dowson@leeds.anglican.org Tel 07786 282214
