THE RECTOR of a Wokingham church is retiring after 26 years of service in the borough.
The Reverend Canon David Hodgson will lead two church services on his final Sunday as leader of All Saints Church.
He will then spend the afternoon saying goodbye to friends and parishioners, residents, and groups, over tea and cakes in the newly re-opened and re-dedicated church building.
“We’re holding the tea party for anyone in the wider community who would like to drop in to say goodbye,” said Mr Hodgson.
“After 26 years living here in Wokingham, I am sad to be leaving all the friends we have made here.
“Wokingham has been a big part of my life story.
“My wife, Lorraine, and I have very strong links with the community here.”
The All Saints rector is not only leaving the borough, he is retiring from full time ministry.
“I was ordained in yorkshire in 1983,” he said.
“I’ve been 40 years in the ministry, and have served during that time in four dioceses.
“Knowing that you will eventually move on is an element of the job, it’s part of what you sign up for.
“So we’re sad to leave, but Lorraine and I are also excited about what comes next.”
Lorraine having retired from her self employed gardening business at Christmas, the couple are moving to Royal Leamington Spa.
“We’ll take a few months to settle in and then I’ll find out how I can help the church in the area, and how we can get involved in our new community,” said Mr Hodgson.
“But I certainly won’t be sitting at home all day, and if Lorraine wants to enjoy some gardening, I’m sure I’ll be drafted in to help.”
Mr Hodgson is especially delighted that he has been able to see the final fruits of the five years long SpaceForAll project.
This has seen the Wokingham church transformed into a multi purpose community space.
He said: “I’m so grateful to have been part of this plan, and to be able to lead my final two services here in the wonderful newly opened All Saints Church building.
“Moving on is a big step forward, but I feel that I have done what I set out to do, and what God wanted me to do.
“I’m ready to move on.
“Lorraine and I are excited about what comes next.”
Anyone who would like to say goodbye to David and Lorraine, can join them for tea and cake at All Saints Church.
The rector will lead his final two Sunday services on June 25, at 8am, and at 9.30am, when he will both lead and preach.
The same afternoon, tea and cakes will be available in the church for well wishers to drop in to say goodbye between 3.30pm and 5.30pm.
Access to the church is via the Wiltshire Road gateway, opposite Rose Street.
For information about the church visit: www.allsaintswokingham.org.uk
