I’ve been sharing my Quirky England bits on Wednesdays but let’s take a break (I do have more to quirky things to discuss!). I’d like to share the video of my institution service. It was a lovely evening with encouraging words from the bishop, archdeacon, and village officials, an amazing team of people who will serve with me, music from our benefice choir with the organist from Sandringham, prayers, bell ringing, large keys, and a letter from King Charles III!
A short explanation: These are two benefices coming together as one. A benefice is a group of churches under the care of a priest or team of clergy and benefices under the same clergy are known as benefices in plurality. Churches in England have patrons and only a patron can declare a priest as rector of the church or benefice. Currently the patronage of Grimshoe is under transition so the bishop can declare me priest in charge. Eventually I will have the title of rector for both and I will function as rector for both as of now.
The ministry team and I work together as if there is one benefice, sharing the services and care of the people of all twelve churches. I describe it as one collective of twelve unique places. We are in discussion for a collective noun to use.
Enjoy the video and ask questions if you have them! And together, let’s keep lovin’ louder than the hate, Y’all!
P.S. Here’s the bit of me tolling the bell that you can’t see in the full video. Thank you to the Methwold bell ringers!
