23rd July 2026
Dear Friends,
Words cannot express my deep, deep gratitude to you all for the most amazing service on Sunday afternoon, the beautiful service, wonderful tea and the very generous gifts, cards and the precious book of personal reflections that you have given to me to mark my retirement. I was completely overwhelmed by the number of people who came to the Songs of Praise service in the afternoon and the distance some had travelled to be there and the amount of work that so many of you had put into making that event so memorable. I am so humbled by, and grateful for, your love. Thank you all so very, very much.
It has been such a privilege to serve as your vicar. We have journeyed together in the light and love of God and He has guided us along new paths and blessed us abundantly on the way. It has been a journey that we have all invested in, all given our time and energy to, all walked together in faith, it has had its ups and downs but together we have all shaped All Saints’ to be the church that it is today and I have had the privilege of helping to guide you on the way. So, thank you everyone for your generosity of love, and time, and patience and commitment. Thank you for being open to the conversations that I have had with you all over the years starting with, ‘I’ve been thinking…..’ ‘or I’ve had an idea……..’ Your willingness to explore and try new things, no matter how strange you think they might be, has been such an encouragement to me in my ministry here.
There have been many physical changes to the church and hall during my time here making both spaces brighter, welcoming and more engaging for those who visit, and it is a wonderful achievement. However, what has brought me most joy in my ministry with you is the love and friendships that I have made with you. I am awed and humbled by the trust you have put in me as you have welcomed me into your life and allowed me to walk alongside you through joyful times and sad times, through times of hope and despair. We have laughed together and cried together. You have allowed me to fulfil my deepest longing as I serve you, that God would enable me to embody the words of one of my favourite hymns which we sang at my licensing and has been my constant prayer over you all throughout my ministry, Brother sister let me serve you. Thank you doesn’t seem a big enough word to express the depth of love and gratefulness that I have for you all.
All Saints’ and all of you will always hold a huge place in my heart, my love for you all will continue after I leave and I look forward with joy to all that will be as you journey into a new era in the life of All Saints’ church. May God continue to richly bless you in all that you do.
With my love and prayers, now and always
Miriam