A warm welcome has been given to Helen Reid, the new Director of Parcevall Hall, our Diocesan Retreat Centre.
A service was held, led by the Rt Revd Anna Eltringham, Bishop of Ripon.
Bishop Anna said: "Parcevall Hall is a place of peace with a very warm welcome.
“We all enjoyed that afresh as we gathered as friends old and new, to affirm and bless Helen as the new Director and the staff team who work and serve with her.
“Helen has many gifts to share and we look forward to what God might do as she leads the Hall in a new chapter.”
Carole Hawkins, one of the Friends of Parcevall Hall who led the prayers, focused on the hospitality of Christ, who welcomes without judgement, in kindness and gentleness.
Carol spoke of the vision to ‘embrace the newcomer and those well known to the Hall, with the love of God’ and offered prayers for Helen and the whole team.
After the service, the summer rain was light enough for a few photographs to be taken outside to remember the occasion, and then all guests, about 50 people, enjoyed an afternoon tea.
Helen said: “I am pleased to be part of this special place where people can find renewal and restoration, as they are cared for in body, mind and spirit.
“Starting to work at Parcevall Hall is a wonderful new opportunity for me and I really appreciated how warmly I have been welcomed and supported.”