Hello to whoever is reading this!
I have the absolute privilege and joy of joining you here at St. John the Baptist, Crowthorne.
I live with my husband Ned, my daughter Sophia (8) and our little Shihpoo Bilbo.
Having grown up in and around Wokingham, I moved around the country to Ilford and Banbury; engaging in community development projects and work with young people before moving to Shrewsbury. Here I worked as a lay licensed pioneer minister amongst young people and young adults, getting involved in Fresh Expressions, University Chaplaincy, and church on Sundays. I have just finished my fantastic curacy in Portishead, just outside of Bristol, having completed my ordination training at Trinity College.
Alongside parish life, I am also in my second year of researching for my PhD. I’m a strong believer in the power of vulnerability, brokenness, and the hope found in everyone’s journey as a starting point for hospitality, reconciliation, and wholeness; which is why I’m looking at the relationship between trauma, shame and reconciliation for this 6 year project.
When I’m not reading, writing papers or procrastinating, I’m passionate about engaging in issues of social injustice, alongside enjoying a good podcast, a boxset and or film. You’ll regularly find me taking up new and exciting creative hobbies which don’t often last for very long…
Of an evening, if there’s a chance for a cheeky cocktail and a dance, you’ll find me there, and love to have people round for meals and drinks, or invite myself over to other’s homes for a cuppa if I can!
We are really looking forward to getting to know you all, and finding the hidden gems and places to visit in and around Crowthorne.
Laura
Churchwardens
We are delighted that our new vicar will be Collated and Inducted at St Johns on Thursday 13 October at 7pm. If you would like to attend, please contact Leigh.Welham@crowthorneparishchurch.org.uk
