On the evening of Monday 12th December Rev Chris Parsons was installed as Vicar of the Parish of Kenwyn with St Allen.

Having previously served as Curate to Pakefield Parish Church in Lowestoft, Chris and his wife Veronica arrived in Truro in 2008, being licensed as Priest-in-Charge on 1st April.

Rev Chris Parson with Archdeacon Bill Stuart-White and Bishop Chris Goldsmith

It was decided earlier this year that he be appointed as Vicar, a legal process which culminated in a well attended service held in Kenwyn Church, led by the Archdeacon of Cornwall, the Venerable Bill Stuart-White and the Rt Rev Chris Goldsmith, Bishop of St Germans. Having affirmed his loyalty to the Anglican Faith, Rev Chris swore allegiance to the Queen and canonical obedience to the Bishop. As symbols of his ministry he was escorted by the four Churchwardens firstly to the church door, then to toll a bell and finally to his stall. Worship Leader John Dean read from the Bible, followed by another lesson and then a sermon from the Bishop who spoke about being a Disciple of Christ.
Following a gathering around the font as sign of Baptism, Dr Liz Barnes, Councillor Bill Robinson, Councillor Jonathan McCulloch, Mr Chad Wilson, Mrs Alex Hill and Ms Jeanette Mullett, all representatives of the local community, came forward in welcome. Prayers were led by Mrs Maureen Woodhouse and Mrs Pat Perkins, both members of the congregation, after which symbols of bread and wine were placed on the altar.

Rev Chris said a few words, thanking everyone for their support over the last eight and a half years, after which the Service concluded with a hymn. The music was led by an augmented choir, under the leadership of Angela Gilbert and included the anthem “Dear Lord and Father of Mankind”, and an “Irish Blessing”. Many local Clergy and Readers were present, forming a long procession.

Local clergy and Readers gather before the service

The evening concluded with a time of fellowship and an ample supply of refreshments.