A Double Celebration!

On Tuesday evening (21st July) the church was filled with friends, family and well wishers to be a part of the joyous celebration when Stephen was installed as the new Rector and Helen was licensed as a Lay Worker by The Right Reverend James Grier, Bishop of Plymouth.

Bishop James prays for Stephen Yates as he is licensed at St Matthias

Helen Baker, shortly before she is licensed by Bishop James

Here is a bit of background to Stephen and Victoria.

Stephen was born and brought up just outside Bolton in Greater Manchester. After attending local schools, he studied Chemistry at the University of Wales, Bangor, where he and Victoria met.

After graduation, they married and returned to Torbay, where Victoria had grown up, while Stephen completed a Science PGCE at Exeter University. He then taught Chemistry for 12 years, first at Coombeshead College in Newton Abbot and then for eight years at Torquay Girls' Grammar School.

Stephen trained for ordination at Trinity College, Bristol, before serving his curacy at St Matthias. He then served as Rector of Brixham for three years. In 2023, he returned to teaching, this time at Torquay Boys' Grammar School.

Victoria has worked mainly with children and young people. As well as being a full-time mum, she worked in the pre-school and as Youth Worker at St Matts. Her degree and MA are in Theology, and she is currently the parish administrator at Cockington. Together, we have four children ranging in age from 8 to 21.

Stephen writes that:

“as a couple, we have been part of almost every style and size of church. Although styles and settings have varied, a few things have remained constant. We believe that church is family, and that all its members can play a full part regardless of age. We believe that church should welcome everyone as they are, and that the whole church should be gradually transformed into people who are more and more like Jesus.

When we're not busy with the joys of family life, we love making the most of everything that Torbay's outdoor and seaside life has to offer. Stephen's passion is running, while Victoria is happiest reading a book—when she can find the time.”

Our MARINE ECO-FEST was a wonderful success on Saturday 18th - and we say 'THANK YOU' to all who were involved in organising the day, as well as to our fantastic panel of experts for their illuminating and sobering presentations.

We look forward to the next event, and in the meantime encourage everyone to consider how they can help protect and restore our Marine environment.

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