Joshua Gaskell, a trombone enthusiast from Glyndyfrdwy, Denbighshire, in North Wales, has enjoyed a colourful and diverse employment history before entering ministry. Including "working for a Member of Parliament as a caseworker, to obtaining a beer license through working with Robinsons Brewery, Stockport!". Having always had a strong passion for the "transformational power of Christ's Gospel", Joshua told us "when church and parish is at its best and embedded in its locality, it’s simply a glimpse of Heaven on earth!".
Joshua trained at Emmanuel Theological Training College, which he found to be a unique experience, Joshua said:
"So often we can get caught up in our differences amongst church communities, that we forget that we are all part of the body of Christ and his bride here on earth – from High Church Traditionalists to Charismatic Evangelicals. We all have a gospel to proclaim and should be supporting each other in this, we can’t let the devil drive our family apart!"
Reflecting on his most significant personal achievement so far, Joshua stated the completion of his training with the Duke of Lancaster's Army Reserves gave him "...some of the most character-building and memorable years of my life! I have the utmost respect for anyone willing to lay down their life for their family, community and country".
In his spare time, Joshua volunteers with the Church Lads' and Church Girls' Brigade, including leading a small and talented brass band in Heaton Norris. Joshua also enjoys hill walking with friends and good pub lunch on a Saturday morning. We wish him all the best in his future ministry.
Joshua Gaskell is due to be ordained Deacon on Sunday 2 July at 10:30 am, Joshua will be ministering in the Shaw and Crompton Mission Community.
