At a very happy and packed service on 4 September, Patrick officially became our new vicar.
As Bishop Paul said, it is difficult to think of a more worthy and appropriate successor to Frances, held in our prayers along with Jolyon and her family. We believe that Patrick was chosen for this post by God and not by us, as wonderfully illustrated in our reading from John 15.
Patrick was ‘collated’ to St Andrew’s by the Bishop – making him legally responsible to care for the souls of all who live in our parish, and then ‘inducted’ by Archdeacon Martin to own and care for the building. Area Dean Renos and members of the church ‘introduced’ Patrick to the church building that he already knows so well, and was welcomed by representatives from across the community.
We sang praises to the Lord, and celebrated with people young and old from all over Oxshott. Bishop Paul thanked all those who have cared for the church during our period of vacancy, as well as those who organised this joyful event; the celebrations continued after with wine and canapés at the Royal Kent School.
A church, much like every Christian, depends on regular renewal and we have now started a new and exciting chapter in the life of our parish.
If you missed the service you can watch it below.