Manchester Diocese is blessed by retired clergy who remain active in or around the parishes they have retired to. They do far more than simply act a a spare pair of hands to lead a Sunday service or take a funeral. It wouldn't be possible to sustain the richness of our life as a church without them.
The Bishop's Officer for Retired Clergy and Clergy Widows/ers works with a team of deanery visitors to ensure that retired clergy are kept in touch with diocesan issues, and in order that the diocese may be made aware and respond to any changes of circumstances, sickness, etc. Clergy on retirement in the diocese, following a visit from the Bishop's Officer, receive a pack including details of pastoral care guidelines, fees payable for occasional service, casual duties, etc.
The Bishop invites all retired clergy to share in the annual Holy Week Renewal of Vows service and to occasional social gatherings at Bishopscourt.
Retired clergy are encouraged to join the National Retired Clergy Association. Meetings are held regularly with a view to stimulating intellectual, theological, spiritual development, and fellowship. CMD allocates educational grants to retired clergy for specific ministerial development courses, etc., and encourages attendance at teaching and other training events.
CONTACTS
Retired Clergy Officers
Revd Judith Cooper: judith.cooper5@virginmedia.com
The Revd Christine Sandiford: cksandiford@hotmail.com
The Revd Ian Thompson: iandthompson@virginmedia.com