Chris Boden has been appointed as our new Stewardship and Resources Officer, taking over from Alison Maddocks.
Chris starts in the role on Monday 15 February and will work with parishes across the Diocese to support them in their financial stewardship and help them to offer a clear and compelling vision for generous Christian giving.
For the past 10 years, Chris has been a brother in the Society of St Francis, an Anglican Order based at houses around the country, including at Glasshampton in our diocese. Most recently he has worked as Provincial Bursar for the Society and was responsible for all financial, legal and building maintenance aspects of the charity, including how to best use their finances for mission and ministry. This has been more challenging during the pandemic with the Society’s houses unable to host retreats.
Chris said: “This is an exciting role to be taking on at this time. The Diocese is going through a time of change and finances need to be a part of that; but it’s important that issues around money are seen in the context of our mission and ministry. My role will be about talking with parishes to understand the challenges they’re facing, which have been made more acute due to the pandemic, and helping to find new and creative ways of dealing with these.”
Diocesan Secretary, John Preston, said: “I’m delighted we have appointed Chris for this role from a very strong field of candidates. Ensuring our parishes are able to nurture generous giving is key to obtaining the financial stability that is essential to their health and sustainability. Chris’ spirituality and background in the Society of St Francis equips him really well to bring a different focus and approach to stewardship.”
Chris concluded: “I see this role as very people-focussed and I’m looking forward to getting to know people around the Diocese. As soon as we’re allowed, I will get getting out to meet PCCs to find out how I can help.”
