Supporting parishes in mission

Adrian Alker, formerly Vicar of St Mark's Broomhill, was licensed in October to a new role - Director of Mission Resourcing. Here he answers some FAQ's

Do you miss being a Vicar?
AA: After nearly thirty years of being seen as the vicar/curate/assistant priest in the various parishes where we have lived there is something liberating at not being in such a role when I leave the house! But I miss enormously the church as a community of people with whom I journey in faith. Christine and I will want to share in the life of a church community once we have settled into a permanent home.

"Director of Mission Resourcing" - it's a new post but how do you see this new role?
AA: Yes the title is quite a mouthful but essentially I want to be able, with members of the Mission Resourcing Team, to help folk in the parishes throughout the diocese to build up the kingdom of God on earth wherever they are. Quite a challenge for us all!

What will you bring to the role?
AA: Well first and foremost my experience as a parish priest inrural and urban dioceses, my belief in the importance of the gathered church serving its wider community and the desire and the boldness to offer a fresh vision of Christian faith for this third millennium.

How are you spending your first few months?

AA: Doing lots of listening to lots of people! I want to travel around this large diocese, learning from clergy and lay people about their Christian journeys and gradually seeing how best together we can build that kingdom of God in this part of the world.

What sort of help can churches contact you for?
AA: I would like to think that the Mission Resourcing Team is here to offer advice and help in whichever way helps people in the parishes be effective in their witness to the love of God. But its a two way system, we need to learn from parishes about some of the great things which are happening and then pass on those ideas!

How have you found things so far?
AA: People have been very warm and welcoming, both in the diocesan office and throughout the diocese. I just hope the honeymoon period lasts a little while!

And how do people get in touch?

AA: Simply ring me or email me. Please invite me to come and see your parish and to share in your worship

Office: (0113) 200 0559

Mobile: 07595 249791

email: adriana@riponleeds-diocese.org.uk