New Archdeacon of Sherborne

The Diocese has announced that the Revd Penny Sayer, currently Turnaround Minister for the Bradwell Episcopal Area in the Diocese of Chelmsford, is to be the new Archdeacon of Sherborne.

Since November 2016, Penny has been Bradwell Area Turnaround Minister in the Diocese of Chelmsford, a new role in the diocese funded by a national grant from the Church of England ‘[t]o provide support, training, mentoring and where necessary leadership in a limited number of benefices identified as needing ‘turnaround’ support: strengthening congregations and clergy and enabling them to overcome obstacles to mission.

Penny will be collated at Choral Evensong at Sherborne Abbey at 5 pm on Sunday 25 November.

Bishop Nicholas said, “Penny will be a great addition to the Diocese of Salisbury. She was appointed from a strong field and will bring exceptional experience and gifts. I look forward to welcoming her at Evensong in Sherborne Abbey on 25 November.”

Bishop Karen added, “I am delighted that Penny will be joining us in West Dorset. She brings a wealth of experience and understanding of parish life. I look forward to working with her in our service to the people and places in Dorset”

Penny Sayer commented, “It is a great privilege to have been invited to become the next Archdeacon of Sherborne, and to join the team in the Diocese of Salisbury. Having served in rural, urban and coastal parishes I relish the chance to get to know the variety of communities served by the church in West Dorset.

“Although much of the archdeacon's role is thought to be buildings orientated, I very much look forward to getting to know the people of the Sherborne archdeaconry and supporting them in mission and ministry.

“This post comes with additional responsibilities for social justice issues and clergy well-being, areas of ministry which are very close to my heart. It will be a real joy to join the teams already at work.

“The Diocesan vision of Renewing Hope: Pray, Serve, Grow roots Christian ministry in faithful, prayerful discipleship. I look forward to this next stage in my own Christian journey.”

Since being ordained in 2006, Penny has served in parishes in Hastings and the London/Essex borders before taking on her current role, and therefore brings a particular understanding of the needs of coastal communities and those with high levels of deprivation.

Before ordination, she raised six children, who have given her three grandchildren – so far!