Our Rector, The Reverend Chris Bedding, has announced that he will conclude ministry in the parish on Sunday 30 January 2022.
He has written to the parish saying:
After eleven years as Rector of Darlington-Bellevue, I will be concluding this ministry on Sunday 30 January 2022. My time among you has been both rewarding and challenging. I believe it is now time for the parish to have fresh leadership and for me to move into a new season of life. In the new year, I will be embracing the life of a 'worker priest' - engaged in some aspects of ministry, but earning a living as a freelance organiser, trainer, supervisor and artist.
Inevitably, 2022 will be a year of some uncertainty for the parish, however I am confident that the parish's ministry, mission, liturgy, finances and infrastructure are secure. I will work with the Wardens and Parish Council to ensure a smooth handover.
The Nominators of Clergy are Lynne Evans, Jan Carroll, Philip Daniels and Caroline Bird. They will form a Nomination Board with Bishop Jeremy James, Archdeacon Tony Drayton and two other clergy of the diocese. The Nomination Board will ultimately nominate a new Rector to the Archbishop. This process will take at least three months, but probably longer. During the intervening period, the Archbishop will ensure continuity of priestly ministry to the parish.
I will be leaving this community with a deep sense of pride and solidarity. We have stood beside one another in times of grief and celebrated joyful moments together. We have united for justice and worked for an inclusive church. Through the scriptures and the sacraments, God has nourished us in a faith that is both credible and progressive. This time has been a deep privilege.
This Sunday we will celebrate All Saints Day with the Eucharist and Evensong, and soon Advent and Christmas will be upon us. There will be time for reminiscing and farewells. But I also urge you to look forward with hope for the future, and sustain your commitment to our parish through the coming time of transition.
In solidarity,
Father Chris