The Rector of Bath Abbey, the Revd Prebendary Edward Mason, has announced that he will be retiring later this year after 13 years in this role.
He will continue to serve the Abbey’s congregation and the city of Bath until his retirement in November.
Edward’s last Sunday at the Abbey will be on 5th November. More details about Edward’s final service at the Abbey will be released nearer the time.
In addition to his role as Rector, Edward is also an Honorary Chaplain to Her Majesty The Queen. He will continue to serve in this role after his retirement.
On announcing his retirement to the Abbey community, Edward said: “I have enjoyed my time here at Bath Abbey and in Bath immensely. Being rector of this busy, thriving church in the heart of Bath has been a wonderful experience and a privilege.
“In my 13 years as rector, the Abbey has undergone many changes and it will continue to do so in order to adapt to and meet the needs of the community.
“There is now a very strong team, both lay and ordained, staff and volunteers, here at the Abbey and I am confident that the Abbey will continue to thrive under their guidance.”
“The timing is also right on a personal level. My wife and I have our sixth grandchild on the way, so I will be busier than ever! I also expect to continue serving the church in other ways.
“My passion has always been for sharing the Christian message and I hope to have more time to focus on specific interests, especially supporting the church in the Holy Land and opportunities for broadcasting.
“I don’t believe that Christians ever retire from learning about their faith and being a follower of Jesus Christ. As soon as you leave one responsibility something else appears.
There will be opportunities between now and November to say more, but my overwhelming sense is a deep gratitude for the privilege of serving amongst you all.
Edward was appointed as Rector of Bath Abbey in 2004. From being Director of Music at a comprehensive school in Gloucestershire, Edward and his wife Hilary spent six years in Uganda with their family as Mission Partners with the Church Mission Society working as Christian educators. He was ordained in 1991 and has served in both inner-city and suburban contexts.
The process to nominate his successor will be led by the Bishop of Bath and Wells and will start in November after Edward’s retirement.
The Bishop of Bath and Wells, the Rt Revd Peter Hancock said: “Edward has overseen a great many changes at Bath Abbey in his time as Rector, not least as a driving force behind the innovative Bath Abbey Footprint project which will open up the Abbey to more people, enrich worship and reduce the Abbey’s carbon footprint.
“Over the years he has wisely shepherded and served the Abbey congregation and the wider community, ensuring the Abbey has a special place – spiritually as well as physically – at the heart of the city.
“There will be opportunities before November for us to mark and celebrate Edward’s ministry. Today may I simply express my sincere thanks to Edward for all he has done and wish both Edward and his wife, Hilary well as they prepare for this new chapter.”
1 Comment
Trevor Manson
Thursday 13th July, 2017 at 08:57He won’t be missed. A man of tremendous arrogance, smarminess and pomposity who has deeply hurt many people who have had the misfortune to encounter him over the years. Here’s hoping he’ll spend his retirement in penitential reflection of his unhappy time in office.