In November we heard the sad, yet exciting announcement that Dave was nominated to be the next Bishop of Buckingham. Below are his words which I share with you again as this beautifully expresses his feelings.

The last 13 years have been the most enjoyable of my working life. I will never be fully able to express my thanks to you for the way you have loved, prayed for, supported and encouraged me and my family during this time.

My last day as Team Rector will be Sunday 19th January. This means we will have time to say goodbyes at the start of 2025. Following that, I will take a couple of weeks to complete my Masters dissertation before taking some annual leave and going on retreat. I will be consecrated as a bishop on 27th February – probably in Canterbury Cathedral – which is a service to which you are all invited! This will be followed be a series of welcome services in Bucks as I commence my new role, including one in High Wycombe on Sat 1st March.

It has been an exciting and humbling process to discover that Jesus is calling me to take this next step in my journey of following Him. Many of you have played very important parts in this process of discernment, whether you realise it or not! One of the most significant factors for me personally was the recognition that we currently have by far the strongest team of leaders in my time here. The clergy, staff and Team Council teams are filled with capable leaders who are more than able to lead this parish through 2025 and beyond without me. Indeed, I believe it is better for you all that I leave at this point to enable this new generation of outstanding leaders to flourish and grow.

As a family we will be enormously sad to leave a community that has been our home since the children were 7, 5 and 2. Initially we will be moving to Bourne End, before a permanent move to Milton Keynes in 2027.

Looking back, I am filled with gratitude for the privilege of being your Team Rector. As I look to the future, I am filled with hope for all that God is doing in each of the four churches of this team. I look forward to seeing how the Lord leads you by his Holy Spirit and will be praying for you all as I look forward to continuing my association with this parish by serving you as your bishop.

This comes as ever with my love and with my prayers.

Dave