THE congregation at St Mary’s Church, Sherrards Green, gathered to meet their new minister, Rev Lynne Sparkes.

Rev Sparkes is currently assistant curate at a parish in the Diocese of Gloucester, where she is also chaplain to the diocesan board of finance.

She is married to David, a research scientist, and has three daughters. Prior to ordination, she was a primary school teacher.

The event included a beetle drive and fish and chip supper, and allowed churchgoers to meet her, her husband and youngest daughter Abigail.

Rev Sparkes will be licensed by the Bishop of Worcester on Sunday, January 6, at St Mary’s.