Preeshenlle United Reformed Church, Gobowen warmly welcomed their new minister, Reverend Chris Burgham, at his induction on Saturday July 28.

The church was full and the inspiring service was led by Rev Steve Faber, moderator of West Midland Synod. Also taking part during the service were Rev James Whately, area minister and Margaret Marshall, Synod clerk with the address given by Rev Mandy Williams, rector of the Hope Churches Benefice in the Hereford Diocese.

Readings from Corinthians and Luke were read by Linda Burgham, wife of the new minister and Angharad Hughes, member of the Preeshenlle URC Fun and Friendship Youth Group. Kath Tinsley gave the presentation of the minister-elect and Statement of the Call at the start of the induction. Prayers were read by Gary Emery, church elder, Sheila Lyndom, church member, Gwen Davies, church member and secretary of the Preeshenlle Woman’s Fellowship and Dawn Pugh, Gobowen Scout Group.

Welcoming Rev Burgham and offering the hand of friendship were Margaret Burton, Robert Roberts, Welsh Frankton U.R.C. treasurer, Rev James Whately, Rev Adrian Bailey, vicar of All Saints Church, Gobowen and Hugh Ellis on behalf of Selattyn and Gobowen Parish Council.

Church secretary and organist Brenda Cassidy played for the service. She also played the piano for the Preeshenlle Singers who sang Psalm 139.

At the end of the service a bouquet of flowers was presented to Mrs Burgham by Angharad Hughes.

Afternoon tea was then held in the church schoolroom served by members of the church.