New pastor welcomed at Norwich church 

WitardRoadCF400Witard Road Baptist Church was in celebratory mood on Saturday 13 September, when the Induction Service for new pastor Steve Thomasson was held at the church.
 


A large congregation included church members, local church leaders and members of Steve’s previous Church, Ernest Street Baptist Chapel in Accrington, Lancashire. 
 
The service was conducted by Richard Lewis, Regional Minister for the Eastern Baptist Association, with the address given by Rev Robert Parkinson from Didsbury Baptist Church, Manchester.  Rev Parkinson is a long standing friend and confidant of the new Pastor so it was a particular joy for Steve that Robert was able to make the journey down from Manchester.  

Enthusiastic and warm greetings were given to Steve in person by church leaders Mark Fairweather-Tall (Norwich Central Baptist Church), Ian Charles (Silver Road Baptist Church, Norwich) Peter Howard (St Francis Church, Heartsease), Helen Rengert (St Matthews Church, Norwich) and Geoff Lawton (Vineyard Church, Thorpe St Andrew) with other leaders sending messages of welcome and encouragement including one from previous WRBC Pastor, David Adams.  

Afterwards everyone enjoyed a beautiful afternoon tea prepared by ladies in the church.  
“It was a really great day and one I’ll remember for many years” said Steve.  “I’m delighted to answer the call to come to Witard Road Baptist Church and I look forward to the exciting future that God has planned.”  

Pictured above: Pastor Steve with Richard Lewis (left) and Robert Parkinson (right)