On Palm Sunday, 28th March, we were all delighted to welcome Bishop Gordon of Stafford to St Matthew’s, Birches Head, for our Team confirmation service- and the renewal of our Rector’s licence. Following Reverend Keith’s licensing, four candidates, Jean Brassington, Tim Dimond, Dawn Tatler and Marie Tipping were confirmed. The confirmation was an important step on the journey of faith for each candidate and followed many weeks of preparation.  After a super service a substantial buffet was enjoyed and appreciated by all who were present. Please continue to pray for our candidates as they continue on their journey of faith, for our Rector Keith as he continues to minister to us here in Hanley, and for our Bishop Gordon as he prepares to retire later this month.

Bishop Gordon confirmed 4 members of HTM (L to R in picture) - Tim Dimond (SMk); Dawn Tatler (CC); Marie Tatler (SL); Jean Brassington (SMt).

Clergy in the HTM are Licensed to serve in the parish for seven years.  When the rector arrived nine years ago, he initially had a licence  for two years and then another one for seven, which expired in February this year.  Prior to the Confirmation Service commencing, Bishop  Gordon performed a short ceremony for the renewal of the rector's Licence to remain in the Hanley Team for a further term of up to seven years.  Keith wishes to thank all who took part in the process for the renewal of his Licence and for all members of the HTM for their  continued support and confidence to put him with for a little bit longer!