Licensing of Gareth Banton as Vicar of St John’s Worksop
It was another joy filled evening at St John’s Worksop last night as the Rev’d Gareth Banton was licensed, inducted and installed as Vicar by Bishop Andy.
The choir from Redlands’ School beautifully sang a blessing over all present, and Archdeacon Tors opened her talk with a reminder that Jesus calls each of us by name. Recognising the achievement of the structural building work completed at St John’s during the vacancy, Tors reminded those present that first and foremost we are called to build God’s kingdom in the power of the Spirit by putting Jesus at the centre and doing His missional work together as a church. She also challenged those present to keep doing this alongside their new vicar and his family!
Gareth was ordained in the Diocese of Liverpool in 2018, and most recently has served in St Helen’s, Merseyside. He enjoys preaching, creating worship that draws people close to God, and helping churches grow in faith and mission. In his spare time Gareth loves reading science fiction and fantasy novels, gardening, hiking, and playing guitar. Gareth grew up in Liverpool, while his wife April is from Dorset. April is a counsellor and currently teaches counselling skills at a local college, and she also loves to be involved in church ministry. They have two sons, Samuel (10) and Jonathan (8), who are keen on Lego, gaming, and all things Star Wars — and who keep life full of fun and energy! As a family, the Bantons enjoy playing board games, going for walks, and visiting National Trust sites — and they are especially looking forward to exploring Clumber Park.
Gareth and his family are delighted to be joining St John’s and are looking forward to getting to know the church and the wider community. They are excited to share in the life of the parish, and play their part in helping the church to grow in numbers, in spiritual commitment, and in service to the local community.
We delighted for Gareth and for the parish of St John’s, as they begin this new phase of ministry together. Please join us in praying for Gareth, April, Samuel and Jonathan as they settle in to the role and new church, and for a fresh move of the Holy Spirit that will bring an overflow of God’s blessing to these churches and communities.
