For many years, I have served my local community as a councillor, representing five parishes. Known as being a councillor with a strong social conscience, my focus has always been people rather than systems, technology, or cumbersome policies.
My professional life has been rooted in service, whether as a former Cabinet Member for Communities, a director and trustee of various organisations, or through active involvement in local social groups and events.
Yet alongside my public service has been a much longer and deeper journey of faith.
My vocation began in childhood, while kneeling at the altar rail, I found myself wondering what a vicar actually did. I also remember my parish priest for wearing red socks! Unknowingly this planted a seed that would remain with me for decades.
It took over twenty years for that early sense of calling to develop into a recognised vocation.
A significant milestone was studying for a BA (Hons) in Christian Theology at Cambridge between 2006 and 2009 as a mature student. When the opportunity to pursue ordination training finally arrived, the Elizabeth Pathway proved to be the ideal route.
I needed a pathway that was flexible, part-time and rooted in local ministry to fit in with my other commitments. The Elizabeth Pathway provided exactly that. It enabled me to continue serving my community while preparing for ordained ministry.
The training at Ripon College in Cuddesdon created opportunities to learn alongside others who had different experiences and perspectives. These relationships have provided me with a support system both from clerics and students, and quickly became an important source of encouragement, challenge and support.
Through the training, I have gained confidence in my abilities, developed practical ministry skills and become better prepared for the responsibilities that lie ahead.
I now serve as Curate at Lavenham with Preston St Mary, where I continue to develop my ministry and serve the Church in the community. And maybe one day I will consider further academic study, potentially progressing to an MA!