New clergy ordained

New clergy for the borough of Rochdale have been ordained Deacon by the Bishop of Manchester on Sunday 3 July at a special service at Manchester Cathedral.

The brand-new clergy will serve in parishes around Rochdale, including Balderstone and Rochdale.

James Greenfield will join the Revd Ben Wilkinson at St Mary’s in Balderstone, whilst Georgina Stirling will join the Revd Janie Cronin at the Nelson Street Church in Rochdale in the new year.

Georgina said: “We are so excited to be moving to Rochdale. We will be joining Janie and the team at Nelson St Church. I’m originally from Blackburn but we have been living in Salford for the last decade.

“I’m looking forward to making new friends, going for some long walks in the beautiful countryside and getting to know the local restaurants; our three-year-old can’t wait to visit the Fireground Museum.

“Jesus’ message is one of hope, he came so that we can have fullness of life. I’ve experienced this in my own life, and I love seeing people recognise their gifts and discover they’re able to do things they never expected. I love chatting with people and hearing their stories, especially over coffee.

“I’m also always happy to discuss Jesus, sewing and food so please come and say hello.” 

 

 

James said: "I used to work as an engineer but will now be the new curate at St Mary’s, Balderstone. I am settling in well and really enjoying getting to know everybody. It’s really exciting joining a church that is passionate about making Jesus known to the community they serve around them. My role is very simply to help them in that.”

The Bishop of Manchester, The Rt Revd Dr David Walker, said: “We are very blessed in the Diocese of Manchester in both the number of candidates coming forward for ordination and the qualities they bring. Each comes with their own passion, to live the love of Jesus Christ and to make that love known among those to whom God is sending them.

“Together, they represent a huge diversity of background, church tradition and previous experience, a diversity that will enrich us as we continue to grow the church, serve the people of Manchester, and nurture one another in faith.”

Darren Quinlan was ordained priest at the cathedral the previous day and will join the Rochdale Parish Churches, St Chad's, St Mary in the Baum and St Edmund's, Rochdale, with St Luke's, Deeplish, and St Peter's, Newbold.