Category Archives: News

Revd Rachel Wakefield’s Service of Institution, and Induction: Watch Online

A huge thank you to everyone who made my service of Institution, Licensing, Induction and Installation such a beautiful and joyous occasion. It was wonderful to see so many new and familiar faces come and support me, and St Mary’s Church as we begin this new chapter together.

If you couldn’t be there and want to see what happens you can watch the film here. It is a service with great tradition and sees me receiving the huge key to the church, ringing the bell, and eventually, after being placed in my stall by Archdeacon Charles, giving the notices.

It also features members of the Redbourn Community who welcomed me on behalf of various groups from around the village, and the presentation of water (for the font), a bible (taken to the lectern) and bread and wine (processed to the communion table).

There was great singing and music, prayers, and a wonderful address from Bishop Jane.

Intrigued? Take a look…. Oh, and do say hello if you see me. 

Rachel

Eco Church Silver Award for St Mary’s

We are delighted to announce that St Mary’s has attained a Silver Award as an Eco Church certified by A Rocha.

To qualify for the award, we had to complete a survey of various aspects of our church life:

  • Worship and Teaching
  • Management of Church Buildings and Land
  • Community and Global Engagement
  • Lifestyle

Huge thanks to so many who have helped in our working to this goal, with a special shout out to our churchyard team for their constant hard work which made a substantial contribution to this achievement.

Announcement of new Vicar for Redbourn

We are pleased to announce that The Rev’d Rachel Wakefield, currently Assistant Curate of St Francis Church, Welwyn Garden City, has been appointed Vicar of the Benefice of Redbourn, St Mary. 

The Institution and Installation service will take place on Monday 4th September 2023 at 7.30 pm.

Please remember Rachel and her husband Martin and the family in your prayers.


We are absolutely delighted to be able to share this good news. Rachel is a very accomplished and experienced person, having been involved for many years in communications and more recently in Christian ministry. We look forward to welcoming her in September.

Much of the coming months will be spent in preparation for her starting the new job in September. More details will be released over the coming weeks.

Paul Vernon and Michelle Parry-Slater, Churchwardens