04/05/2026
A beautiful message from Sarah, one of our churchwardens who was newly elected at our annual meeting yesterday:
Hey everyone, I hope you all have a lovely Bank Holiday Monday!
I wanted to share some good news — at yesterday’s APCM, I was voted in as Churchwarden for St James. I’m really honoured and looking forward to serving in this role.
I’d like to begin by thanking Father Chris Minchin for giving me the opportunity to serve as Churchwarden — although I’m still not entirely sure whether it’s an opportunity or a very well-disguised long-term plan. Either way, I’m here now.
It’s quite something to reflect that, nearly four years ago, I was at a very low point. A simple nudge from Chris Foskett to come along to a Christmas lunch at St James set me on a path that has led to this moment — though I do sometimes wonder if that invitation came with terms and conditions I didn’t fully read.
Since then, I’ve been warmly welcomed into the life of the church — preparing for baptism and confirmation, helping at the food bank, and gradually becoming part of the community. Along the way, I’ve been supported with great kindness, patience, and encouragement… and, thankfully, no one has stopped me yet.
St James has truly become a second home to me. I’m here often enough that I half expect the coffee machine to greet me by name — and at some point, I was even trusted with keys, which in hindsight feels like a significant step.
In all seriousness, I know that St James has my best interests at heart, and I’m deeply grateful for the welcome and support I’ve received here.
I’m very aware that I have big boots to fill. Mike, thank you for your dedication and service over the past few years — you’ve set the bar high, which feels slightly unfair, but I’ll do my best to live up to it.
It’s an honour to take on this role, and I look forward to serving the church and the wider community of St James.
Thank you to everyone who has supported and encouraged me along the way.
Sarah Meighan.
