Bishop Jonathan is delighted to announce that the Rev Judi Hammill, Vicar of St James Church, Tunbridge Wells, has accepted his invitation to become Bishop’s Adviser for the Ministry of Ordained Women.
This is an important role within the Diocese offering appropriate advice when required to the Bishop on issues affecting ordained women, alongside offering ordained women in Rochester Diocese a supportive central point of contact for issues affecting them.
The role forms part of a national network of similar roles that every diocese has, convened as the National Association of Diocesan Advisers in Women’s Ministry (NADAWM)
Bishop Jonathan says:
“I am delighted that the Revd Judi Hammill has accepted my invitation to become Bishop’s Adviser for the Ministry of Ordained Women, especially as we prepare to mark the 30th anniversary of the Ordination of Women to the Priesthood this month.
“Judi brings great experience of ministry to the role and a deeply pastoral heart for the support of her colleagues – as well as a willingness to challenge us all to build up and encourage the ministry of women across the Diocese and in the wider Church.
“We look forward very much to commissioning her for this important role at the 30th anniversary celebration at the Cathedral on 30 June.”
Reflecting on her appointment, Judi says:
"I am really excited about taking on the role of Bishop's Advisor for the Ministry of Ordained Women as I am passionate about encouraging and supporting all women to live out the calling God has given us. I bring to the role my experiences as a teacher and headteacher of a primary school, a clergy wife, a Licensed Lay Minister, a mother, a deacon and a priest.
“I have loved serving God through all of these roles, which have enabled me to gain helpful insights into what sharing God's love, light and life looks and feels like as a woman in many different situations.
"I love people and really enjoy getting to know their stories, walking alongside them and praying for them and I am hopeful that this role will give me plenty of opportunities to do just that. Please pray for me as I will be praying for you."
All are welcome to attend the Service of Celebration and Thanksgiving for the 30th anniversary of women ordained to the priesthood taking place at 3.15pm on Sunday 30 June. Click to find out more