I took up my post at Youth Minister at Evenlode Vale Benefice 2 years ago this September. It has been my joy and privilege to serve the children and young people, as well as the wider church for the past two years.
One highlight of my time here came just last Saturday (10th July) when myself and a group of other local youth ministers hosted a fun-filled afternoon for young people at Kingham Hill School. We were joined by ex-gladiator (of 1990s’s TV fame) Warren ‘Ace’ Furman, who provided plenty of exciting gladiators style games, as well as an absorbing story of his own journey to faith in Jesus Christ. But more generally a highlight for me has been taking long walks through the glorious Cotswold countryside with the young people. I will miss it!
I would like to express my gratitude to those especially in the church who have been so hospitable and kind to me; thinking particularly of Cami Aston, Peter and Brione Hudson, the whole Mapimhidze family, the Turners and the Smiths. And also thank you to Stephen Blake for his guidance and support over the last 6 months while we have been sans Rector. And finally I must thank my lovely parents who have housed me for two years!
I shall be getting married to Rowena (see above) on 7th August, having a honeymoon (yet to be decided where!) and moving somewhere (yet to be decided!) in Buckinghamshire where I will serve as an Emerging Generations Pastor at Latimer Church. My confidence as, one more step along the world I go, is in this: That God - The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit, is with me.
May the God of Jesus Christ be with you also.
Mark. Smallwood, Youth Minister