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New priest installed in South Norfolk Benefice 

The Anglican Upper Tas Valley Benefice in South Norfolk has a new priest-in-charge with the installation of Rev Lydia Avery, who has moved with husband Chris from Somerset to take on the role.

Over 130 people attended a service at Tacolneston church on September 13, when the Rt Rev Dr Alan Winton, Bishop of Thetford, licensed Lydia and the Ven Steven Betts, the Archdeacon of Norfolk, installed her into the full-time role.
 
Upper Tas Valley Benefice Administrator, Christine Minns, said: “Friends and family of Chris and Lydia travelled from Somerset, Oxford and Suffolk to join with us in celebrating the start of this new phase in our church life and in Lydia’s ministry.  It was good that we were able to share this service with so many local clergy, many of whom have helped us during the interregnum.”

The schools, district and parish councils and the community at large all turned out to support Lydia at the service, which was followed by a buffet.
 
Lydia said: “Chris and I are absolutely delighted to be here, and to have seen the last of our packing cases!  We have moved from the Mendip Hills in North Somerset where we lived for about 34 years but felt that we were being called into a new challenge away from the West Country. So we've swapped one beautiful part of the world for another beautiful place.
 
“We've been completely bowled over by the friendly welcome we've received, and are looking forward to getting to know everyone well over the coming five years. 
 
“During this time, I hope that we'll worship and work together to serve our Lord, in whatever way He has planned for us. In particular, I hope to see the church-school and church-community relationships develop and grow even stronger.”
 
Pictured is Lydia with husband Chris and the Rt Rev Dr Alan Winton, Bishop of Thetford, at the installation service. Picture by David Kirk.
 


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