Ministers Message

 

Minister: Rev Ruth Childs

I was ordained in 2015, having come to the Vale of Stour as a probationer in 2013 following a call to ordained ministry after my previous career in the law.

I was brought up in a Methodist family but have spent time in other churches and have a heart for ecumenical work. After all, we are one church and one human family. I have a desire to see the church grow and become more inclusive and believe that God’s love is greater than anything that divides us.

With pastoral responsibility for several churches and part of the Children’s and Families Worker’s management group, I have a very busy schedule but, when I get the chance, I like nothing better than to unwind over a good film or book or to go to the theatre (I love comedy and musicals). I am also very much aware of our need as fallible human beings to take care of ourselves, as we are precious in God’s sight.

As many of the church congregation know, I also have a love of flamingos – you’ll have to ask me why if you want to know more!

I am married with 2 adult sons but also have a much bigger extended family in various parts of the world and I very much value family time and the rare opportunities we have to get together are very special.  I feel the same way about the church family, both gathered and dispersed and feel that hospitality to the stranger and outcast is at the core of Christian ministry.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.” (John 14:27)