HOLY Trinity Church has welcomed a new associate vicar.
Many well-wishers from his former parish in Wiltshire made the journey to Stratford for the licensing of the Rev Steven Jarvis. The service was conducted by Archdeacon Pastor of Coventry Diocese, the Venerable John Green.
Welcoming Steve, the Vicar of Holy Trinity, Rev Patrick Taylor, apologised for enticing away the man who had been team vicar of the White Horse Ministry in the diocese of Salisbury for the past four years.
Steve was ordained as priest in 2008 and much of his ministry in both Hereford and Gloucester has been working with young people.
The 44 year-old will continue the role at Holy Trinity in support of children and families Minister Phil Harper, along with special oversight of the pastoral, community and social needs in the town.
Steve said: “Stratford is bigger than Westbury with special events taking place throughout the year. Many people who live here don’t feel part of that and are on the fringes of the community.
“My experiences of Shakespeare as a schoolboy were not great, and though I’m sure I will be drawn into the heritage and history of Holy Trinity, I see my role very much as one of discipleship, nurture and engagement with people.
Former associate vicar, the Rev Dr Steve Bate, is now team vicar in the diocese of St Albans.
