Introductory letter from Rev Patrick Parkes, December 2021

Season’s Greetings

I thought it might be nice to introduce myself as the new Church of England minister for the parishes of Kenton with Mamhead and Starcross. Advent is all about arrival, so it is perhaps a pleasant coincidence that Viv and I will be joining you during this season.

We are very much looking forward to being part of the daily life of these lovely villages and their surroundings. The area is not unfamiliar to us as we have previously lived in Kenton and still have a house there. We will, however, be living in the Rectory at Staplake Rise on the edge of the Village of Starcross for the duration of our time with you.

Due to the ongoing restrictions on the numbers able to attend services, I am unable to offer a general invitation to my licensing on the 14th of December but hope to make the acquaintance of as many as possible over the coming months and years.

I will be taking my first Holy Communion at Kenton on the 19th of December and will be at services in Starcross:   Crib Service (24th Dec) and Carol Service (19th Dec) in Starcross

As we reflect on the joyous news of ‘Emmanuel’ - God with us, may we all experience Christ’s loving presence at this special time of year.

<span style="font-size: 1rem;">Patrick</span>

Editor:  We look forward to welcoming Patrick (Revd. E Patrick Parkes) who joins us having previously been the Rector of Newton Abbot Benefice.