The Inauguration of a new Ministry in the Parish of Tamworth

It was lovely to see the warm welcome given to Andrew and Annabelle last night at the inauguration of a new Ministry in Tamworth. The service was led by the Rt Rev Clive Gregory - Bishop of Wolverhampton, assisted by the Archdeacon of Lichfield - Rev Sue Weller, the Rural Dean - Rev Gary Simmons and Clergy and Lay Readers from the Deanery. A loud applause and hearty cheers were given to Andrew following the formal induction, installation and welcome. Representatives of the four churches in the Parish were joined by The Mayor and Councillors of Tamworth Borough Council, Street Chaplains, The Royal British Legion and members of heritage and civic groups. Parishioners filled the pews to witness and join in celebrating this long awaited appointment. The service was followed by an excellent spread of refreshments served in the St George's chapel. A big thank you to Briony and Gwen and everyone who helped prepare the church and baking the excellent cakes.

Although we still have the builders inside, completing the work on the new cafe and toilet facilities, there was plenty of room for the congregation. The service began with a welcome from the Rural Dean, the formal procession and gathering of the clergy and Lay Readers. Following a well known hymn, confession, absolution and a reading from the letter to the Ephesians, Bishop Clive gave his amusing but thought-provoking sermon. This was followed by another hymn before the presentation.

After the second hymn, the Rural Dean, Rev Gary Simmons, led Rev Andrew and presented him to Bishop Clive for the Presentation, Declaration and Affirmation of his loyalty, his belief in the faith in the Scriptures, Creed and his promise to use the authorised forms of service. This was followed by his swearing allegiance to His Majesty King Charles the Third, his heirs and successors and canonical obedience to the Lord Bishop of Lichfield and his successors.

We then proceeded to the Institution , where Andrew received the cure of souls and signed the declarations and oaths.

The Archdeacon and Churchwardens then took Andrew to the principal door of the church where he was inducted into the the church and Benefice of Tamworth. The churchwardens then handed him the keys to the church and he tolled the church bell to signify his entry into the incumbency of the Parish.

The Archdeacon then led Andrew back to his seat in the chancel. Rev Andrew was then welcomed individually by the representatives of the parish churches, the Mayor and representatives of all of the organisations present. This was followed by a very enthusiastic applause and cheers! The service concluded with the Bishop commissioning the ministry team; hymns, prayers and the Blessing. We all then retired to St George's chapel for refreshments and fellowship.