New Rector of Caversham, the Rev Mike Smith, has issued an open invitation to say hello when people see him around and to try out the three churches in his parish of Caversham Thameside and Mapledurham. Mike starts his new ministry with a service, led by the Rt Rev Andrew Proud, Bishop of Reading, and the Ven Olivia Graham, Archdeacon of Berkshire, at St Peter’s Church, Caversham, at 3.30pm on Sunday, March 16.
The congregation at St Peter’s will be joined not only by fellow parishioners from St Margaret’s, Mapledurham, and St John the Baptist, Caversham, but also by Mike Smith’s former boss, the Bishop of Leicester. Mike has acted as Chaplain and Policy Advisor to Bishop Tim Stevens since 2006.
Also helping to celebrate the new Rector’s arrival will be the Rev David Shaw and Deacon Becky Lovatt representing the Methodist Church, Councillors Richard Davies and Ed Hopper, and a further three bishops. Rt Rev Stephen Lowe, the former Bishop of Hulme, who was Mike Smith’s bishop in Manchester for eight years, will be joined by the Rt Rev Christopher Boyle, Assistant Bishop of Leicester, and the Rt Rev Richard Atkinson, Bishop of Bedford.
“Starting a new ministry is an exciting time for any priest and the best way to get to know a new parish is to meet the people. When you see me around, please do say hello,” said Mike. “And feel free to visit our three churches and join our worship. You’ll always be welcome.
“We’re a family of three churches along the length of the Thames in Caversham with different styles of worship to try out but all aiming to be inclusive, generous and life-giving. We’re also part of the community, involved in the Amersham Road Cooking Club, REinspired and its work in schools, and a number of holiday clubs with the other churches in Caversham.”
Bishop of Leicester, the Rt Rev Tim Stevens, said, “Mike is essentially a pastor, priest and minister of the Gospel. He will make an outstanding parish priest in Caversham. I wish him well.”
Mike Smith said, “We have lots of regular services and special ones in the parish. Mothering Sunday is coming up on March 30. Details are on the website www.ctmparish.org.uk, where you can even sample worship at St Peter’s streamed live on Sunday mornings. You’re welcome to join us.”
