On Saturday the 29th of June, a special Eucharist was held in Celebration of Father Stephen's Silver Jubilee. A perfect English summers day provided a wonderful setting for this joyous occasion. The Church was filled with fellow Clergy, members of the Guild of the servers of the Sanctuary,and Society of the Holy Cross, family, friends from afar and from the congregation. Fr Stephen, attired in silver vestments for the occasion celebrated the Eucharist with the Clery present. The address was given by Fr Roger Jackson SSC Vicar of the Church of St John the Evangelist, Clevedon. Fr Stephen and Fr Roger had been students together at Chichester Theological College, and Fr Roger told us of some of their early experiences in Parish Placements. He explored the role of Priest, its challenges and its joys, and congratulated Fr Stephen on achieving his Silver Jubilee!
The congregation sang some of Fr Stephen's choice of Hymns, and the Choir sang 'Laudate Dominum' by WA Mozart, solo by Sarah Amos.
Following the service all were invited back to the Vicarage where the ladies of the WI put on a splendid lunch, the house and garden were filled with joy as everyone wished Fr Stephen well. A magnificent cake was cut and a short speech made by Fr Stephen's Brother, champagne and cake were distributed and a toast to Fr Stephen proposed and drunk!
A wonderful occasion, many congratulations from us all!!

Some lovely pictures thanks to Susan, Stephen and Margaret's daughter