I am thrilled to introduce some new faces we are welcoming to the Chanctonbury Churches team as we serve what God is doing in Ashington, Washington and Wiston villages.
Their arrival heralds the end of a year long period of preparation, vision, prayer and recruitment. The journey began rooted in our long-term vision for the parish churches to play their part in helping all three of our communities continue to thrive with what Jesus called “life in all its fullness”. This means flourishing churches, aspirational schools, businesses and community entities bringing blessing, loneliness being banished through rising bonds of friendship – faith, hope and love present amongst us all! In short, this is what Jesus famously taught us to pray, “Thy Kingdom come and will be done, on earth as it is in heaven”.
In response to what we believe God is leading us in for the future, during the past twelve months, the three churches have prayed and financially given to enable the creation of several new staff roles. These new posts have not been funded by the Church of England centrally, but by local church members who care about village life and the desire to make a difference.
Welcoming new team means we are beginning to develop different ways of serving than perhaps has traditionally been done in churches. We are excited to bring substantial time and involvement in school life and in children and young people through Nick Taylor and Holly Draper. Nick will take on leading Ashington Youth Club from Paddy Donovan who has recently been selected to train as a Vicar!
Speaking of vicars, Rev. Jim Waddell will bring quality clergy support as we journey alongside people at crucial life moments. Investing in a bright future has led us to develop a bespoke intern programme for three ‘newbies’, who I am sure we will all enjoy being around!
I would be so grateful if you would extend a warm welcome to them all, and to help them settle in to village life.
James di Castiglione
Rector, Chantonbury Churches
Jim Waddell
Associate Vicar
Nick Taylor
Children and Youth Leader
Holly Draper
Children’s Leader
Sophie Cleeve
Intern
Tom Meldrum
Intern
Jack Roberts
Intern