Tributes have been paid to a respected local priest, Canon Roger Hamblin, who has died, aged 80

Rev. Canon Roger Hamblin, pictured, was Vicar of the United Benefice of St Michael, Cockerham, with St Luke, Winmarleigh and Christ Church, Glasson. 

In an article published in the Lancaster Guardian, former Archdeacon of Lancaster, and now Canon Pastor of Durham Cathedral, The Venerable Michael Everitt said: "In all the places Roger (pictured) served, he loved God, his family and the people.

"May you be welcomed home to the God who has been your faithful companion and of whom you have been a faithful servant for all of your life." 

A tribute written by Rev. Gary Lewis and first published in the local parish magazine follows ...

Canon Roger Hamblin

much loved Vicar of our Benefice 

from 1976 – 2000

As you will know Canon Roger Hamblin died on September 5 and we were privileged to hold his funeral at St Michael’s on September 29. 

Throughout his long ministry Roger embodied the finest qualities of a faithful Parish Priest and Vicar. He was a pastor and friend who delighted and thrived in serving each church and community he was called to.

That term “called to” was at the heart of his ministry, he had a true sense of vocation. This was certainly the case in the way that he threw himself into Rural Ministry. For a long time I thought Roger came from a farming background but he didn’t, he was simply determined to immerse himself in rural life to better serve his parishioners.

Roger was a clever man who although he wore his learning lightly he was passionate about education, particularly in the role of small schools. He served on the National Association of Small Schools, a role he very much enjoyed.

In 2004 Roger was deservedly made an Honorary Canon of Blackburn Cathedral, this recognised both his faithful service as Parish Priest, but also the importance of his work in Education.

Roger had a long Ministry, he was ordained Deacon in 1970 and Priest in 1971. He was loved and respected in all the parishes he served in. His 24 years as Vicar of this Benefice was a huge part of his ministry.

He and Sylvia were much more than a clergy family, they were much loved friends, it would be hard to overestimate the affection in which they are held which a true reflection of the love and care they gave to people of our three parishes.

On Sunday, June 27, 2021 we had the great privilege of celebrating with Roger and Sylvia the 50^th Anniversary of his Ordination to the Priesthood in St Michael’s. Roger preached a heartfelt sermon that reflected the depth and generosity of his faith and Celebrated Holy Communion with his usual prayerful dignity. It was a wonderful celebration of a good and faithful Priest’s ministry.

Sylvia, as we all know, has been at Roger’s side throughout his ministry, they made quite a couple. Our prayers and thoughts are with Sylvia, Tim, Fiona and much-loved granddaughter Ivy Mae, as we give thanks to God for Roger.   

Rev. Gary Lewis

The vicar    

From 'Trinity Times' 

October/November 2023

Ronnie Semley, October 2023