A SPECIAL church service was held on Sunday to allow parishioners the chance to welcome their new associate priest.
The Revd Julian McAllen has joined the parish of Finchampstead and California, which includes St James and St Mary and St John’s California in the village and St Eligius church in Arborfield Green.
Members of the three congregations gathered together for a service of Holy Communion, featuring hymns and readings picked by Mr McAllen.
Representatives of the Deanery of Sonning, and Churches Together in Crowthorne also attended the service to witness Mr McAllen reciting the declaration that marks the official start of his ministry.
The service was followed by drinks and light refreshments in the Church Centre.
He joins the church from Christchurch in Epsom Common.
