Archdeaconry of Gibraltar - growth in faith and numbers continues

Sessions of the Gibraltar Archdeaconry Synod were held from 31 Jan to 3 Feb in Torrevieja, Spain. The Archdeaconry includes, Spain, (with the Balearic and Canary Islands), Portugal (with Madeira), Morocco and Andorra. The Archdeaconry continues to grow; this year the first resident priest and parish reps from the new congregation of St James's Fuerteventura participated.

Sessions covered a range of issues from support for clergy facing problems with addiction and alcohol, communications and media strategy, environmental issues, the Pilgrim Course, and safeguarding. Bible Studies were led by the Revd Dr Richard Briggs of Cranmer Hall, Durham. Bishop Jack Nicholls (retired from Sheffield) provided inspirational reflections on mission and the Church's role.

During the course of the Synod, Paul Turner was admitted by Archdeacon Geoff Johnston to the office of Reader and licensed for this lay ministry in the parish of St Christopher's Costa Azahar. Director of Reader Ministry, the Revd Elaine Labourel, was on hand for this important moment.

Paul Turner is admitted and licensed as a Reader

 At the close of the synod the feast of Candlemas was celebrated in a nearby RC parish church. The members of the synod then processed with their lit candles from the Church through the streets to the hotel where the synod was being held.

Here is a brief YouTube clip of the conclusion of the service:

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