11th April 2011

The Rector writes,

"For 19 years, Chris Bowen has been the friendly voice on the Parish Office phone and the welcoming face for all callers. When the phone and enquirers stopped, she has got on with so much behind the scenes work to ensure that all runs smoothly in church and churchyard, with baptisms, weddings and funerals, with meetings and events and much else. With husband John, she has also given much in her own time to keep buildings and people on the go.

During the interregnum in 1998/9, her role in the middle was crucial. The parish kept going through the faithful prayers and work of so many people, but they needed someone to ensure that all services were covered by clergy or Readers, to keep a sensitive and deft finger on the parish pulse and to keep all the tiny but essential details in place. Chris was that person. The parish owes her so much from that time alone.

Chris’s role was just as vital during the 2004 Restoration campaign, although that did have the benefit of working less with clergy than with some very personable production teams. During her time driving the Parish Office desk, Chris and colleagues have arranged some 750 burials, over 5000 funerals, nearly 2000 baptisms and around 1500 marriages alongside so many other events, meetings and simple warm conversations. What a lot of people!

Chris retired at the beginning of April, although Seniors Club and many other things will still keep her busy. We marked the occasion with a presentation and much gratitude for all she has given so tirelessly.

Chris, from us all, thank you very much indeed.