Call of the sea

A BAFTA-nominated filmmaker and former Rector, Carole has advised senior staff, been the Bishop’s Press Officer, encouraged greater use of video and high-quality visuals, and relaunched Grapevine as the story-led weekly publication it now is, renewing hope from the grassroots to national and international level.

She has also helped many of our parishes and ministry teams to communicate with the media and their communities.

Diocesan Secretary David Pain writes:

“Carole has brought a real focus on human stories to the heart of the work of the Diocese. As we move into a digital age she has encouraged people to share stories of hope renewed in a creative way, through this many voices have been raised.

“Last autumn Carole led the production of a film which told the story of our time in lockdown and the creative work of churches to respond to needs in our communities which helped to set a positive tone for shaping our future. Many of us have worked with Carole on multiple projects and issues over the last 3 years!”

Carole said:

“I am leaving after much prayer and with a lot of sadness. I genuinely felt called to this role and have loved serving the Diocese and all the parishes, but I am now being called to a new communications adventure.

“I will miss everyone, but will keep in touch with all that’s going on via reading Grapevine.”

Carole leaves to take up a global communications role supporting the work of the Sailors Society.

Digital Resource Officer Michael Ford said:

"It's a joy to work with Carole and experience her wit, wisdom and creative flair. She genuinely understands collaborative work, and is generous in helping others take their work up a notch.

"She also has a profound pastoral side, a gift for hospitality, and a real understanding of what works at parish and school level, which is so helpful to all of us.

"And we enjoy her cheerful calls on Teams and Zoom!"

While Carole is leaving her role in communications, she will still remain involved in ministry in the Diocese, having permission to officiate in and around her home in West Dorset.

Comments have been coming in from around the Diocese, such as:

"Congratulations. You’ve been an inspiration to many in the Diocese over the past three years, and though you’ll been setting sail on a new course, it’s good to know that your home port will still be in Dorset. Wishing you calm seas and a prosperous voyage."

"Sorry you are leaving but life moves on. You have been a blessing here and you will be a blessing where you are going."

David Pain adds:

“With Michael Ford also leaving we will enter a time of transition in our communications staffing. Temporary cover will be put in place while permanent recruitments are made. A review of communications from earlier this year will inform the direction we now take to grow engagement and help us take the next steps in internal and external communications as a Diocese.”

Carole will be leaving her role here in December.