Licensing of Jake Hyatt as Priest-in-Charge of St Thomas & St Wilfrid Kirkby-in-Ashfield

Monday 21st July was a special evening as Revd Jake Hyatt was licensed as Priest-in-Charge of the benefices of Kirkby-in-Ashfield St Thomas and St Wilfrid. The church was full and the service was a celebration that marks the beginning of a new phase of ministry both for Jake and for the people of that community, as together they anticipate God’s blessing on the years ahead. 

Bishop Andy Emerton and Revd Canon Dr Richard Kellett (Associate Archdeacon & Area Dean for Newstead) led the service, with Archdeacon Tors Ramsey sharing an encouraging sermon.

Jake grew up in Mansfield Woodhouse, and has just completed his curacy at St John’s with St Mary’s Mansfield. He was raised in a working class family full of ups, downs, love, discipline and humour. There was some influence for faith, particularly in his teen years but Jake did not really ‘click’ with his faith fully until his late teens. Jake and his wife Sarah met in 2012, and her love and faithfulness to God challenged and continues to challenge Jake. They got married in 2017 and have two daughters. Ahead of the service, Jake shared this moving word:

“Faith is not a crutch or something to turn to when life is tough. A relationship with God is the reason we live, the reason we have been put on this Earth and though it is not simple or always happy – there is simply nothing else that can even come close to understanding the love God has for you. The Bible is not a history book that is done and dusted, it is the word of God and continues to live in us and through us – transforming lives, seeing the miraculous and inspiring worship to this very day. This is what I hope to communicate with Kirkby, the diocese and the world.“

We are so delighted for Jake and his family as they begin this new ministry, and pray for a fresh move of the Holy Spirit that will bring an overflow of God’s blessing to these churches and communities.