Fifty years ago, recovering from Glandular Fever and seeking to rebuild my social life, I began volunteering at the Centre for Young People. This led to Bible study with Curate Andy Couch, Sunday Folk Club, and memorable weekend retreats to Micklepage, where I formed lifelong friendships.
Gradually, my involvement deepened: I joined the 9.30am Eucharist, served as Assistant Churchwarden, volunteered with the Social Service Unit, chaired the Worship and Lay Training Committee, co-wrote a prayer for the 1987 Service Booklet, and helped launch Praxis in 1990. I also served as a Trustee for the Vicar’s General Fund. Crucially, on the PCC, I pushed for visionary plans that sparked the modern transformation of the Crypt.
Under Revd Nick Holtam, I felt called to ordained ministry. Ordained in 2008, I served in Stepney and Bethnal Green as a chaplain, and now hold Permission to Officiate in Europe, enjoying locum posts in Vienna and Lausanne.
St Martin-in-the-Fields remains deeply dear to my heart. I look forward to celebrating its 300th anniversary on 18 October.
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