News from Canterbury Diocese Bishop installs new Maidstone Area Dean and Priest-in-Charge of St PaulsThe new Area Dean for Maidstone and Priest-in-Charge for St Paul's, The Revd Andrew Sewell was officially welcomed by the Bishop of Dover at a special service on Thursday (July 15th). The service took place at St Paul's Church on the Boxley Road, in front of a congregation of around 200 people which included the Mayor of Maidstone Cllr Eric Hotson. Mr Sewell, who has served as the Vicar of Otham and Langley for nine years, was described by the Bishop as 'a talented and experienced Priest'. During the sermon, the Bishop explained how the whole community must work together: "This is not just a new beginning for Andrew. This service is about all of us recommitting ourselves to build God's kingdom together." Following the licensing and installation, a number of local people publicly welcomed Mr Sewell, including Mrs Jenny Turner the Sunday Club leader and Revd David Jones, Chair of Churches Together in Maidstone. The Mayor of Maidstone Cllr Eric Hotson also welcomed Andrew saying: "On behalf of the borough and county I offer you a hearty welcome and congratulations." Mr Sewell expressed his pleasure at his new appointment, commenting: "Thank you so much for the welcome my family and I have received. I am thrilled and delighted to be here and I am looking forward to serving the community." Revd Andrew Sewell, 49, is married to Jools. They have three daughters, Rachel, Charlotte and Hannah, all of whom attended the service. Ends Photo Attached shows Bishop Trevor Willmott with Revd Andrew Sewell at the service. Further Information from: Emily Shepherd, Director of Communications, 07876 210 446 |