A letter from Rev Scott Gardiner

What an exciting time ahead! My family and I look forward to moving into our new home and becoming a part of the Benefice family. I thought this would be a good opportunity to write to you ahead of joining you in person as myself, my wife Donna, and my son Theo embark on this next chapter of our journey with God. I am delighted to be your new vicar, to be a part of your next chapter, and to journey alongside you all. Please bear with me as I seek to learn people’s names, get to know geography, and learn about the history of these wonderfulvillages. I know transitional times can be challenging, but it is here, in these moments, that we can grow through our shared history, through embracing the present, and thinking intentionally about the future.  This is important for all of us because faith is not a solo expedition; it is a shared pilgrimage, a commitment to one another. St Paul in his letter to the Colossians 3:14 reminds us that love is not just a fleeting emotion, love calls us back to commitment, it is something that binds and restores. A perfect unity in Jesus Christ. I pray that we get settled quickly, and that you know my commitment to you will be one of prayer, love, and compassion as we seek to grow together and journey with God on these next steps in our Benefice. This remarkable journey has brought us, as a family, to this place, and what a beautiful place it is. We have a love for the outdoors, and to be able to serve you, God’s people, in such beautiful surroundings, with so many opportunities, is one that will be a blessing to me and my family.

Do look out for us when we move to Birstwith in early July, ahead of the licensing service which will be at St James, Birstwith on 23^rd July at 7pm. I look forward to getting to know you all much better.

With every blessing

Scott, Donna and Theo