New Age fro Anglicanism's Affirming Catholics
In a move that marks a renewed vision and vigour and renewed enthusiasm and optimism for its work, Affirming Catholicism, a progressive Anglican Catholic organisation in the Anglican Communion, has appointed the Revd Richard Jenkins as its first full time director. Fr Jenkins, 36, born in Belfast, was educated at the Methodist College Belfast, and in Oxford, ordained in the Diocese of Wakefield, and is now canonically resident in the Diocese of London.
The Bishop of Salisbury and President of Affirming Catholicism, David Stancliffe, says: "This appointment will enable Affirming Catholicism to engage fruitfully with the key issues that face humanity. Affirming Catholicism takes scripture, reason and tradition seriously, and we have good news for all God's people.".
Father Richard Jenkins, speaking from the Affirming Catholicism office at St Matthews, Westminster, said: 'I am inspired by the progressive and generous vision of the kingdom which lies at the heart of the catholic tradition and which Affirming Catholicism exists to celebrate and share. This new ministry gives me the opportunity to work with others to make that vision real, through praying for and helping build a just society and an inclusive church, where women and men have a full place."
The Anglican organisation, which works to deepen spirituality, celebrate the catholic heritage and support social action, has groups in every English diocese and sister groups across the British Isles, North America, Australia, New Zealand and Southern Africa. Membership is open to all Anglican laity and clergy and the new director hopes entire congregations will want to identify with the vision expressed and celebrated by Anglicans in Affirming Catholicism.
Notes for Editors
* Affirming Catholicism was formed in 1990 at St Alban's, Holborn, one of the most famous Anglican Churches in the Catholic tradition. Rowan Williams was a key speaker at the first meeting.
* The independent charity has nearly 2,000 members in the British Isles. There are sister organisations across the Anglican Communion. A large number of members of General Synod count themselves as members or supporters of Affirming Catholicism.
* The Revd. Richard Jenkins LLB MA Dip Min. 36 years old. Born in Belfast. Degrees from Dundee (Law), Oxford and Leeds Universities (Theology). Ordained Diocese of Wakefield, deacon 1994, priest 1995. Served two curacies in Brighouse and Barnsley. Former adviser to the Bishop of Wakefield on ecumenical affairs and member of Church of England's Council for Christian Unity. From 1999 - 2004 he worked in the Home Office, finishing as Assistant Director in the Active Community Unit. Since 2002 he has been an assistant priest at St Matthew's, Westminster.
* An installation Mass will be held in the Spring
* Contact The Revd. Dr. Barry Norris, Chair of the Executive Committee for additional information.
Tel 0118 9814435
[email protected]