The charge of All Saints is now in vacancy following the retiral of Rev Sydney Maitland as Priest-in-Charge, with his final Eucharist taking place on Sunday, August 31. The Diocese and Vestry will now work on determining the church’s future.
Sydney writes:
This is an announcement that I always knew had to be made, but in making it, I have to admit some very mixed feelings. Having celebrated my 74th birthday on 23 June, it was inevitable that I would eventually cease to have license to minister in All Saints, as the canons of the church require retirement from ministry at the age of 70, although this may be continued until the age of 73 with the approval of the bishop. In the event, Bishop Kevin agreed to one year’s extension from my 73rd birthday.
Bishop Nick really had little option in not renewing my license beyond 23 June 2025, although he has granted me permission to officiate until the end of my tenure. Nevertheless he firmly believes that All Saints has a future and he will be initiating a process of shared discernment with the Vestry following my final Sunday in church which will be on 31 August.
The Bishop believes that All Saints has lots of potential and can look forward to a positive future. I would therefore ask that all connected with All Saints support its congregation, Vestry and Bishop Nick with their prayers and active presence as one chapter in the life of the congregation closes and a new chapter waits to be written.
For myself, it has been an honour and a privilege to serve the life of All Saints and I wish the church every blessing in the Lord as you seek to know and to fulfil His will in the coming years. Equally, Eileen has fully enjoyed her role as a member of the choir and in arranging the monthly Tea and Talk meetings, which recently held its 100th gathering.
Bishop Nick Bundock adds:
Dear Sydney
I’d like to take this opportunity to publicly acknowledge my own gratitude for your ministry – marked by steadfastness, pastoral devotion, and a generous spirit.
As you note, my role, and the Dean’s, is now to accompany All Saints through the next chapter with care and discernment. I look forward to working closely with the vestry in the coming months as we begin a process of listening and imagining what comes next for this much-loved congregation.
Sydney, you and Eileen have offered so much to All Saints over many years. Please be assured of my thanks and prayers as you approach your final Sunday in this ministry.
With every blessing,
+Nick
