Warm welcome for new priest for villages

The churches and parishioners of Atworth, Shaw and Whitley welcomed their new priest, Reverend Jane Palmer to the benefice on Tuesday 16th July. 

The churches report, “Well over 200 people gathered in Christ Church, Shaw to witness the Bishop of Ramsbury, Dr Andrew Rumsey, license Jane as the new priest for the benefice of Atworth, Shaw and Whitley. 

“The congregation included local councillors; police representatives, leaders of local action groups and youth organisations, school headteachers, as well as many parishioners from her previous parish and local clergy from the deanery.

“A reception was then held afterwards in Shaw School hall.

“ Jane is in her mid thirties and is married to Andrew. They have a dog called Alfie. 

“Since being ordained in 2016, Jane has been the assistant curate in Trowbridge at St James Church and Keevil. Prior to becoming a priest, Jane worked as a youth adviser for Bournemouth Borough Council. 

“Jane, Andrew and Alfie have already moved into the vicarage in Shaw and Jane is looking forward to taking up the duties of priest for the villages.  As well as her priestly duties, Jane also has many other interests that include music, which she hopes to develop within her work. Jane is also a keen gardener – and the garden at the vicarage will give her ample scope to practice these skills.

“Jane is looking forward to the challenges as vicar of the benefice and involving herself within the community.  Jane extends a warm welcome to everyone, and hopes that the love of Christ is shared with all.”