We celebrate the work of our clergy around the diocese and share with you two licensings that have recently taken place within the Archdeaconries of the Diocese of Leicester.
On Wednesday 6 December, during Advent Morning Prayer at Bishops Lodge, The Revd Christopher Johnson was licensed as Assistant Archdeacon alongside The Venerable Claire Wood, Archdeacon of Loughborough, who was licensed as Commissary for the Archdeaconry of Leicester.
Surrounded by friends, family and diocesan colleagues, Bishop Martyn commissioned Revd Christopher and Archdeacon Claire into the roles, giving thanks for their work in our parishes and the wider diocese.
Revd Christopher has been seconded to the position of Assistant Archdeacon while remaining Associate Vicar in the Wigston Benefice. He has stepped down as Assistant Area Dean of Gartree Deanery to give 1.5 days per week to the role of Assistant Archdeacon, during the period of the Archdeacon of Leicester, The Venerable Richard Worsfold’s forthcoming sabbatical (January – March 2024).
Christopher will be assisting Archdeacon Claire, together with existing Assistant Archdeacons Richard Trethewey and Kim Ford, in the Archdeacons’ work across the diocese - particularly in the area of church buildings.
Revd Christopher said: “I'm looking forward to the opportunities this secondment will provide, offering some of the skills and experience that I've gained relating to Church buildings matters, but also gaining new perspectives and experience on a range of different things within the life of the diocese.
“As a parish priest at heart, I look forward to engaging with different parishes throughout the diocese and helping them in their ministry as best I can.”
During the same service, Archdeacon Claire was licenced to exercise any archidiaconal function within the Archdeaconry of Leicester, during the period of Archdeacon Richard’s sabbatical.
Archdeacon Claire said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to connect, encourage and support the people in the parishes of the Leicester Archdeaconry, alongside that of the Loughborough Archdeaconry, whilst The Venerable Richard Worsfold is on sabbatical. In addition, along with the members of the Archdeacons’ office, archidiaconal support of the diocesan parishes will continue.
“May I also take this opportunity to wish you all a very blessed Christmas, wherever you are in the diocese.”