Retiring reverend thanks people of Rochdale

Revd Lars Olav Ruden currently Priest in Charge of All Saints, Hamer and Priest in Charge of Christ Church, Healey will retire with effect from 7 July 2013.

Lars, who moved to Rochdale in 1974 described his years in the town as a “privilege and memorable.”

Lars previously worked at St Michael's Church in Bamford before becoming Priest in Charge of Christ Church, Healey in 2005.

Currently Priest in Charge of All Saints, Hamer, Lars said: “Rochdale is home. My family are all here so it is definitely home.”

Before becoming a priest, Lars worked at a local manufacturing business in Rochdale. He then became ordained as a priest in 2000 and has continued to work in the Rochdale community.

Lars said: “I have lots of memorable moments. It has been a huge privilege to be a part of people’s weddings and things.”

Lars has been fortunate enough to see his congregation grow over the past eight and a half years and believes “it is all about the people.”

Even though Lars is due to retire in July, he says this won’t stop him being actively involved with the church. He said: “I won’t miss anything because I will continue to serve as a priest. I will have an active retirement with lots of family time and travel.”

Revd Andrew Howell, Priest in Charge of Wardle and Smallbridge will also retire with effect from 30 June 2013.

Wardle and Smallbridge Village Church is a fully integrated congregation which shares both Methodist and Anglican worship. The church plays a full part in both the Rochdale and Littleborough Methodist Circuit and District and the Rochdale Deanery and Diocese of Manchester.