Richard Allen of Trelawny Benefice celebrated on Saturday the 30th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood (presbyterate) at Lanteglos by Fowey. Around 100 partitioners gathered along with Richard`s family. The Lanreath Community Choir became the choir for the day. Everyone tucked into a traditional Cornish pasty lunch and listening to traditional Cornish folk songs from the choir following the service. The service indeed was rather special as it was conducted by Bishop Paul Hunt the Southern Diocesan Bishop of the Free Church of England. Richard handed over the Diocesan Secretaries role to Paul in 2002 when he moved on from Christ Church Exmouth. Paul has always been a lovely friend and we always enjoyed a very competitive game of table tennis at clergy conferences! Richard began his career in the Free Church of England and transferred to the Church of England when he took up a chaplains position with Millfield in 2002. He comments I think I only came into the Church of England because the then Bishop of Exeter Michael Langridge liked cricket and he offered to straighten me out! Richard`s career then took him to Christ College Brecon as chaplain and now here in Trelawny. His outdoor ministry on farms and quaysides and village greens has been a great success. He very much values his Free Church of England heritage and the special little family they are. Richard has had many highlights. He is grateful for the 6 couples that came out of Christ Church Exmouth who are all in full time Christian work. Rev Graham Adamson evangelist in Redruth was in his youth group in those days so he also has a Free Church of England heritage! The thousands of young people he has shared his faith with. He had a great 2 days at Lords in the summer watching Ben Duckett play for England whom he coached for 3 years a Millfield. The Rev comments I have had a great innings so far and I`m only 30no lets hope for a 50!
Richard Allen Rector of Trelawny
