On Saturday 30th August, Rev Samantha Sheehan was Inducted and warmly welcomed to the Spen and Calderdale Enterprise (SPACE) Group of Churches. Also attending the gathering were Samantha’s family and friends, as well as members of Synod, local clergy, and the Mayor of Kirklees.
The celebratory service was followed by afternoon tea, lovingly provided and prepared by members of all three churches. They look forward to working together in Dewsbury, Heckmondwike, and Norristhorpe as they begin this new chapter.
When asked, Samantha said, “It was a wonderful service, with an inspirational charge from Jenny Mills to both myself and the churches – God has called us to be disciples. To follow Jesus, to walk in his footsteps and to find ways to share the love of God with those alongside whom we live, work and have our being here in our locality and as widely as possible. … Remember throughout it all, you are not alone – you have fellow travellers in your churches, the Synod and the wider denomination and you have the love of God that is within, before, behind, beside and with you always. – and to help us remember she gifted us a mini Jesus to carry with us. It was a wonderful time of blessing for us all and I hope the start of a strong foundation as we grow together as minister and churches seeking God in all we do.”
Unfortunately no photos were taken on the day, due to everyone having such a good time – hence the ‘space’ cover photo courtesy of Pixabay!