Licensing of Lauren Simpson as Rector of the Benefice of Wiverton in the Vale
On Wednesday evening, the Parish of Wiverton in the Vale joyfully welcomed its new Rector, Revd Lauren Simpson, at a Service of Institution and Installation held at St Andrew’s Church, Langar. The packed church filled with members of the six parish churches, local residents, clergy, family and friends, all gathered to celebrate the beginning of this new exciting chapter in the life of the parish.
The service was attended by the Lord-Lieutenant, Professor Veronica Pickering, representing the Patron, and was led by the Bishop of Southwell and Nottingham, the Rt Revd Paul Williams, who instituted Lauren as Rector.
Representatives from the deanery, parish, Langar Primary School, Rushcliffe Borough Council and the Family Praise group all took part in welcoming Lauren to Wiverton in the Vale. The Family Praise team also surprised Lauren with a skateboard and crash helmet, symbolising the adventures and challenges that lie ahead.
The music, a mix of traditional hymns and contemporary worship songs, was led by one of the Diocese’s worship leaders, Hannah Crutch, and former Worship Pastor at Trinity Church Nottingham, Joanne Arton, and was sung gloriously and gustily by all present.
The Bible reading was from Acts 2. 14-21 and the sermon was given by Archdeacon Phil who encouraged that “Working alongside Lauren, let us commit ourselves afresh in our ministry and mission to this Benefice of Wiverton in the Vale and beyond.”
In his address, Bishop Paul also spoke of the gifts and experience Lauren has already achieved.
Lauren grew up in leafy Hertfordshire and moved to Nottingham to study design and engineering. Before ordination, she worked as a barista, launched a fashion brand, and served in youth and community development roles. She has recently been a curate at Lady Bay Church (All Hallows) and St Edmund’s HolmePierrepont with Adbolton, where she enjoyed sharing the generous welcome of Jesus with the local communities.
Lauren is passionate about people of all ages encountering God’s presence, both through ancient practices and in new ways. She enjoys oat hot chocolates, deep conversations, and good food with friends. She will be getting married to her fiancé Damon this summer and look forward to beginning married life in Wiverton in the Vale.
On reflection the next morning, Revd Lauren shared with the parish:
“Wasn’t last night amazing! It was such a joy to see so many people gathered together, singing worship to God and celebrating all that he has done in this place and all that he will do. Thank you for all of the ways you have served God and his people so faithfully for many years!”
We are delighted for Lauren and the benefice of Wiverton in the Vale, as they begin this new phase of ministry together. Please join us in praying for Lauren as she settles into his new role and community, and for a fresh move of the Holy Spirit that will bring an overflow of God’s blessing to the church and the wider community.