Chester Diocese
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How Yorkshireman Richard hopes to develop God’s work in our Diocese
OUR new Parish Mission Development Officer is Yorkshireman the Revd Richard Burton. The 49-year-old father-of-four was for many years the Vicar of Tadcaster, the town with three breweries in it. “It had more beer per person than any other place in the world, “ he said. Born in Beverley, in the East Riding of Yorkshire, Richard has spent most of his life so far in his native county, apart from several years when he was studying in Nottingham and Durham. Now he’s moved to Chester with his wife Sarah, 46, and their son Ben, 14. The couple’s other children – Alex, 18, John, 21, and Hannah, 22 – are now away from home studying. It was the special nature of parish mission development that persuaded Richard to leave Yorkshire (a place known affectionately as ‘God’s own county’ by Yorkshire folk) for our Diocese. Richard said: “I saw the chance to explore a whole new and exciting ministry, with new challenges and a new perspective. “The job description itself was something I warmed to – helping parishes meet the challenges of mission in our quickly changing culture. “After more than 20 years of ministry, covering city, country and town, I have some experience of the joy and struggles of getting the church to reach out to the world with Christ’s love.” His wife Sarah, meanwhile, is preparing for ordination with Northern Ordination College. Their son Ben is a keen Liverpool fan, and he’s excited to have moved closer to Anfield. Richard added: “I am enjoying getting to know the people and churches of Cheshire. If you think I could help you in your mission and ministry please telephone me at Church House on 01244 620444.” You can also email him on richard.burton@chester.anglican.org
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Richard Burton
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