I remember the first time I met Wil, it was when I came to St. Giles to look around the parish before my interview for the post of Rector. My first impression of him was as a man in possession of a deep faith in God, someone who knew the delicate spiritual infrastructure of St Giles and someone who had clearly worked hard to nurture and support the physical and spiritual life of the parish. Throughout my first year in post my initial impressions have been proved right in every aspect. Wil has offered gentle support and guidance to me and this has always come from a place which has sought the best for all those he represents as Churchwarden. Alongside his kind support to me, he has over seen St. Giles through 2 interregnums, (one of which occurred alongside a global pandemic), supported a number initiatives to grow the parish and perhaps most significantly he has managed the full restoration and letting of 24-26 West Street (which is the main source of income for St. Giles parish). All this he has done with the upmost professionalism, calmness and spirit of service and we all owe him a huge debt of gratitude for his 10 years as Churchwarden - I know you will want to join with me in thanking him publicly for all he has done. I’m delighted that Wil is remaining as a member of the PCC and I’m know his contribution will be of significant worth to the life and witness of the parish in the years to come.
Wil is succeeded by Catherine Campbell who was duly elected to the position of Churchwarden on Sunday at the APCM – thank you Catherine and we look forward to all that you will bring to the role. Another change is that Robert Throw is stepping down from the role of PCC secretary, I am grateful to him for 6 years of hard work and faithful recording of all the goings on of our meetings. Do join me in praying for all those who have stood for this year’s PCC as they begin another year of work for the Glory of God in this place.