Circuit Superintendent to take over at Christchurch

Explaining the reasons in the church magazine, the Christchurch Messenger, the Rev Stephen Maunder says: "Change for any of us does not come easily, and over the past year the Circuit Leadership Team has been considering carefully the plans that can be put in place for staffing the Circuit following Roger's retirement."

He says this comes as part of a gradual period of change during recent years.

"The leadership team has had to consider many factors in their decision-making, including the reduction in the number of congregations within the Circuit, the strain on finances for some of our churches, and the availability of ministers.

"A reduction in full-time ministerial staffing has therefore been discussed for many months, with a proposal being put to the last circuit meeting regarding ministerial oversight.

"At this meeting, it was decided that the Rev Peter Timms would be appointed to take pastoral charge at Sackville Road, and that a lay person would be sought to serve at Hollington under my supervision.

"Whilst I shall continue to keep some responsibility there, our new appointee will undertake much of the day-to-day work.

"These two steps will then allow me to exercise a fuller Ministry with you and Little Common and Ninfield.

"As you know, Roger is also chaplain at Richmond, and upon his retirement Methodist Homes have undertaken to appoint their own chaplain, thus taking away this demand from the Circuit.

"So...this means that I shall be with you in September as your Minister, and I am looking forward to it.

"Roger will be a hard act to follow; he knows you well, and it will take some time for me to get to know you.

"As Superintendent there will be other demands upon my time, and so patience from you will be needed; but I can assure you of my best efforts, and prayerful service over the coming years."