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Ministerial Vacancy . . .

. . . a phrase certain to cause consternation amongst the
Eldership in most churches as well as the congregations.

It can mean

· uncertainty
· increased work
· more planning ahead

Firstly, our thanks must go to Martyn, Lynn and Alex and
more recently Graham and Madge for the time they have
spent with us. We all wish them every blessing as they
start their ministry in a new area of the country. We also
thank them for their Ministry here in Swanage, Wareham
and Skinner Street, Poole.

Martyn is the 31st minster to have served in this Church;
so change is a part of the life of the Church.

I know that here are a number of questions about the
future, so I will attempt to answer some of them.

The Manse is owned, and is the responsibility of the
Wessex Synod Trust. It is most likely that it will be let.
Synod will manage this and rent will go to the Trust, and
when we eventually need it any necessary work will be
the responsibility of the Trust.

Soon an Interim Moderator will be appointed to this
Pastorate, usually an experienced Minister, who will be
responsible for guiding us through the process of finding
a new minister. This is rarely a swift process so patience
will be needed. Your Elders will need the support of
everyone in order to achieve a smooth transition.

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