“I am truly thankful to God for bringing such a diverse, exciting and committed group of people to the Diocese to serve Him here.” 

With those words, Bishop Jill welcomed more than 50 clergy to the Start of Ministry gathering in Blackpool this week.  

The event, organised by the Growing Leaders team, is part of a new Start of Ministry programme investing in our recently ordained curates and first incumbents and, through them, our parishes across Lancashire. 

The programme has been developed with input from lay leaders, clergy, senior staff, Bishops and members of the Emmanuel Theological College team.  

It is overseen by the Diocesan Director of Vocations, Revd Nick McKee and the Start of Ministry Team (Revd Jon Price and Revd Helen Scamman). 

Alongside Nick himself, Diocesan contributors included Bishops Jill and Philip; Archdeacon David; Revd Anne Beverley; Jen Read, Senior Church Buildings Officer; Ruth Haldane, Warden of Lay Ministry; Amy White, Lay Ministry Officer and Revd Sam Cheesman, Bishop’s Chaplain.  

Sam delivered a session on building a ministry on prayer and said after the event: “The atmosphere was absolutely fantastic. Lots to learn, lots of challenge and a great opportunity to catch up in the margins with colleagues from across the Diocese.  

“We are so blessed to have such a wonderful cohort of curates and new incumbents and this event was a great blessing to them.” 

Meanwhile, guest contributors in Blackpool included Revd Canon Dr Michael Leyden (Dean of Emmanuel Theological College); Sandra Cobbin (Head of Clarity Development) and Professor Andy Schofield (Vice Chancellor of Lancaster University). 

Reflecting on a successful event, Revd Nick McKee commented: “Our Start of Ministry programme is part of the support we offer to our new clergy. It’s been a joy to be with them this week. They are a fabulous bunch of women and men who span the traditions of the Church of England who came together to be built up and encouraged as they seek to share the good news of Jesus with the people of Lancashire.  

“With a diverse range of sessions, covering topics including prayer, teamworking, mission, buildings, power and conflict, the Blackpool gathering was really well received and appreciated by those who attended.”  

This appreciation was reflected in a number of comments on social media afterwards from clergy on the Programme, including Rev. Ian Sarginson from Buckshaw Village Church who said: "Beneficial event in Blackpool with great colleagues and excellent input. A privilege to serve in this Diocese alongside such people."  

Captions for above photos, top to bottom:

Revd Canon Dr Michael Leyden speaks about resilience in ministry

Jen Read outlines way to make the best use of buildings

Archdeacon David gives insights into his role