The new priest-in-charge in the Vyrnwy Mission Area will be welcomed into the service at the end of next week.

On Friday, June 14, the Reverend Sarah Burton will start her new ministry as a part time priest-in-charge in Vyrnwy Mission Area with a service led by the Bishop of St Asaph, the Rt. Rev’d. Gregory Cameron.

The service will take place in St Mary’s Church, Llwydiarth, at 7pm.

She is a former Rector of Whittington and West Felton where she introduced Praise and Play and Messy Church services for families, as well as building close links with the two Church of England primary schools.

Last year Sarah helped to start up Oswestry Rural Youth Church, a new and exciting venture developing Church for 11-18 year olds across the Oswestry area.

"I am excited about this new role which will allow me to focus on ministry with families and young people," she said.

"[My husband] and I are very much looking forward to living and working in the beautiful Vyrnwy valley."

Sarah is a graduate in medical sciences from Nottingham University, and after a year volunteering with London City Mission, trained as a teacher.

During that time Sarah focused on caring for their four children and leading church activities for children and young people.

Over time this led to Sarah herself discerning a call to ordained ministry and she was ordained 11 years ago, serving her curacy in Eastham, Wirral, where she helped the church to achieve an Eco-Congregation Award.

In their free time, Richard and Sarah enjoy birdwatching, walking in the countryside, and meeting up with their family, including their 17-month-old granddaughter who brings them lots of joy.

Bishop Cameron said: "I am delighted to welcome Sarah and Richard to the Diocese of St Asaph. Sarah is a successful priest from the Diocese of Lichfield and will bring many gifts to the Llanfyllin area."