It is with great pleasure that we can now announce that, subject to a satisfactory DBS disclosure, our new Abbey Missioner will be the Rev. Betsy Blatchley, who will come to us from the Diocese of Southwark, where she is Pioneer Minister in the Arts in Southwark Diocese, leading Nine Elms Arts Ministry – a fresh expression of church in Battersea in SW London.
The interview panel were unanimous in their decision and were all impressed by what Betsy had to offer. This appointment is subject to a satisfactory completion of the usual statutory checks made on all clergy taking up a new post.
Please pray for Betsy as she prepares to move here and for her present parishes, and continue to pray for the Abbey as we prepare to welcome Betsy and the rich ministry that she will bring to us.
The Rev. Betsy Blatchley said “I am thrilled to have been appointed as Abbey Missioner, and to have the opportunity to help take forward the mission of such an iconic centre of worship as Bath Abbey. I am passionate about finding creative ways of sharing God’s love and justice and the Abbey and City offer so many exciting possibilities. 200 years ago my Great Great Grandfather was baptised in the Abbey, and I have many other family links to the city, so though it is a big step to leave London after spending so much of my life and ministry there, It feels like something of a homecoming. Alastair and I are excited to make Bath our new home and I can’t wait to get to know you all and minister alongside you.”
The Rev. Canon Guy Bridgewater, Rector of Bath Abbey, said ‘We are blessed that Betsy will be joining us as Abbey Missioner, helping to lead in the Abbey’s call and strategy to “live and tell the Good News of Jesus”. We look forward to welcoming Betsy and working alongside her as she embarks on this hugely exciting role.’
The Rev. Betsy Blatchley’s licensing and Service of Welcome will be held in the summer. Details will be released in due course.
