Historic Appointments Mark a Significant Moment in the Life of the Free Church of England
The Free Church of England has marked a notable and historic occasion with the admission of the Rev’d Canon Mark Spiers to the office of Canon, and the Venerable Dr Bob Stephen to the office of Honorary Archdeacon – these being the first appointments of their kind within the Free Church of England.
The service, which included the formal presentation of licences, was conducted by the Bishop Primus, Bishop Paul Hunt, assisted by the Rev’d Henry Birtley, who formally presented both candidates to the Bishop for admission.
In a moment of particular significance for the life and development of the Free Church of England, the Rev’d Mark Spiers became the first official minister to be appointed to the office of Canon. His appointment reflects both his faithful ministry at St Andrew’s, Bentley and across the denomination, but also his continued support for the Bishop Primus in all that he does. Since the pandemic in 2020, Canon Mark has also been producing encouraging daily devotionals, which are distributed throughout the denomination and the wider Christian community.
Similarly, the admission of the Venerable Dr Bob Stephen as Honorary Archdeacon represents a further historic milestone. As the first to hold this office within the Free Church of England, Dr Bob’s appointment recognises his continued service as the FCE’s General Secretary and contribution to the Church, as well as the expanding needs of its ministry and oversight.
The service included the celebration of Holy Communion as well as a sermon preached by Bishop Paul Hunt, which can be listened to here.
These appointments represent an important step forward for the Free Church of England as it continues to build upon its foundations and strengthen its ministry for the future.
