The day has come! Rev Philip Hawthorn held his final service at St Stephen's after 16 years in the Benefice. St Stephen's was packed as the community flocked to hear Rev Philip for the last time. The congregation exploded into a rousing whoop and extended applause as the Wardens presented Phlip with a charming watercolour of St Stephen's interior, by local artist and congregation member, Margaret Knowles.
This is definitely the end of an era, as Philip is also the longest serving clergy in Bath! The benefice will greatly miss Philip's charisma, spirituality and stunning communication skills. Amidst a pervading aura of sadness at Philip's departure, the congregation and the wider benefice gave sincere thanks for all that he has given them during his long tenure, and wished him every joy for his retirement.
The benefice now moves into vacancy as it enters an interregnum. Watch out for your opportunity to have a say as to what you would like a future incumbent to offer the benefice in a discernment and selection process which hopefully will start later this year.