Farewell to a dynamic duo

In Wiltshire, The Revd Anna-Claar Thomasson-Rosingh is much loved, as is her husand Keith, Alabaré's former Chaplain.

Stephanie Elcock, Churchwarden of St Andrew’s, Parish of Odstock with Nunton and Bodenham, writes:

"Dear Grapevine,

"I thought you might like some photos of the leaving service we held for Anna-Claar.

"On 11th July the Chalke Valley Benefice said farewell to Anna-Claar Thomasson-Rosingh at an outdoor Communion Service held in the grounds of St Andrew’s church, Nunton.

"We held a wonderful family Communion service outdoors in order to accommodate as many people as possible, and had over 100 attend the service.

"The theme that Anna-Claar had chosen was ‘gifts’ and we had the opportunity to give her our gifts as well as her giving the children gifts. However, her best gift has been her presence with us for the past 3 years.

"Anna-Claar, Keith and their family have been resident at the Nunton vicarage for three years and the villages of Odstock, Nunton, Bodenham and Charlton All Saints have been especially fortunate to enjoy Anna-Claar’s ministry often supported by music and singing from the rest of the family.

"She will be missed by all, especially the children - her Story Time sessions on Zoom with her creative use of puppets, scarves and Lego houses to tell Bible stories proved a big hit during lockdown . She has even trained up our next generation of readers - Marcus, aged 5, read the gospel beautifully at her leaving service.

"Keith, Anna-Claar, Susannah, Reuben and Johan are moving to Troon where Keith has been appointed Rector of St Ninian’s Church and Anna-Claar is planning to learn to kite surf! We wish the family every blessing with their move."