Jo came to us unexpectedly in the summer of 2023 as a deacon and we have been lucky enough to keep her for a whole year. As a curate, deacons and priests work closely with a training incumbent over a period of at least three years, to learn more about the details of worship as well as learning about the practicalities of living and working in a parish. Here at the Cathedral, Jo has had several ‘training incumbents’, has learned a lot about the formalities of worship and has got to know so many of our congregation and volunteers. Working with Canon Tess and Canon Gary, she has helped to establish the children’s corner and the student Lent Group (which has continued long after Easter!), as well as working with Jude Leyman and the Welcomers. Jo’s warm smile and open-hearted approach has brought in many a visitor to Evening Prayer during the summer holidays, and she memorably translated the service into Italian on one afternoon! She has prepared whole families for baptism, and we have all been so blessed by her ministry among us.
In this next stage of her curacy, Jo moves next week to the parish of South Wonston in the Dever Benefice to work with Revd Dr Rob Rees, the Rector. We know how lucky they are and we send her on her way with our love and gratitude.