New innovative appointment for the church in Keighley

Jonathan Pritchard and Toby HowarthA new chapter for the church in Keighley has begun as the Revd Dr. Jonathan Pritchard has been licensed to an innovative new role – as Keighley Town Chaplain.

The incumbent of All Saints' Church, Keighley the Revd Dr. Pritchard has been appointed as Assistant Priest at Keighley Shared Church in the town centre, and Town Chaplain with a pioneering ministry that can cross parish boundaries, as part of an ecumenical team based at the church.

Pictured left, Revd Dr Pritchard and Bishop Toby Howarth on a prayer walk around Keighley.

The Bishop of Bradford, the Rt. Revd Dr. Toby Howarth, took the service of licensing  on Tuesday June 2nd at 7.30pm, at Keighley Shared Church (situated in Church Street in the town centre) and many from across the community and from different faiths folled the church.

Speaking of his appointment, the Revd Dr Pritchard said, “We tend to focus on neighbourhoods or congregations, but Keighley is a town of 60-80,000 souls. If the gospel is good news for Keighley then I believe we must engage our faith on a town-wide basis too. The role of Town Chaplain will help this happen.”

He said that the new role would be exciting but challenging. “I have lived and served in Keighley for ten years now. God called me to be here, and I love this town and its people. I remain full of hope on the threshold of a new ministry – and open to what God brings. Much is possible but the challenges are immense.”

Before moving to All Saints Keighley as Priest in Charge in 2004, Jonathan was Curate of Holy Trinity Skipton (2000-2004). He was ordained to the Anglican priesthood in 2001, and is married to Anna. The couple have two children, Gethin and Gwynfor. He describes himself as ‘passionately Welsh’ - and is looking forward to the Rugby World Cup. 

Powered by Church Edit