CHRIST CHURCH BURNTWOOD

At last week's service I shared the news that our Rector Rev’d Richard Westwood has been appointed to be the Interim Priest in Charge at St Michael's Boldmere, Sutton Coldfield. Sadly, this means that Richard and Rose will be leaving St Anne's Church in Chasetown and the Benefice in January 2026.

Together with everyone, I will be sorry to see Richard leave as it has been a privilege to serve alongside him, firstly as his Curate at St Anne’s for 3 years, followed by the past 3 years as the Interim Team Minister of Christ Church and St John the Baptist Church. Also, it's sad news for everyone at St Anne’s where Richard has been the Minister for the last 10 years.

As he prepares to leave, Richard has said that some of us may have a few questions which we would like to ask him, for which he has said ‘please ask away’, and if he knows the answers he will share them with us.

Obviously, after Richard and Rose leave, there will be a time of vacancy for St Anne's and hopefully a new minister will then be appointed, to help lead St Anne's and oversee the Benefice as Rector with fresh vision and energy to enable it to continue to grow and thrive. Also, Richard has asked us to pray for the Church Wardens and the PCC at St Anne’s, as they take the lead in the Church in the months that lie ahead.

Richard and Rose have both said that St Anne's and the Churches across the Benefice will always have a special place in their hearts and that they will miss us when they leave. Also, Richard has said that there will be time for farewells in the weeks that lie ahead, but he wants us to know that Rose and he have enjoyed their time at St Anne’s and in the Benefice. Finally, they are thankful to God for calling them to serve among us, and as they prepare to leave they have asked for our prayers as they look ahead to move house and continue in ministry in a new Town and Parish.

With thanks to Richard and Rose for their ministry among us.