With the help of God and the support of both parishes, St Matthew’s and St Stephen’s (our Westbourne Park neighbours) are working jointly on a proposal for a way ahead in the near future. In this, our Area Dean, the Revd. Jeremy Allcock, who is also Vicar of St Stephen’s, would become Priest-in-Charge at St Matthew’s. An associate Priest, based at St Matthew’s, would be appointed.

This arrangement was suggested after the chosen candidate for Vicar at St Matthew’s found, for family reasons,  that he was unable to take up the appointment. As we have now been without  a Vicar for almost two years, a temporary closer association between the Parishes is a practical and positive way forward.

St Matthew’s retains autonomy while gaining experienced spiritual, pastoral and administrative strength, plus time for the church to grow. The proposal has been discussed in depth and approved by the Parochial Church Councils of both churches. The arrangement will last for up to five years with reviews at such intervals as both PCCs determine.

We will be advertising the new post as soon as possible.