BURNHAM-ON-SEA Baptist Church ordained its new Minister at a special service on Saturday, September 10.

Reverend Rob Howlett was appointed in a joyful celebration, marking the start of his work with the church and in the community.

Revd Howlett had been working part-time as a Minister-in-Training for the church for the last four years.

Alongside that, he studied a degree in Theology, Mission, and Ministry at Bristol Baptist College.

The service host, Revd Dawn Brown, opened the ceremony by acknowledging the sad death of Queen Elizabeth II.

Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News: Revd Gary Woodall and Revd Rob Howlett. Picture: Burnham Baptist ChurchRevd Gary Woodall and Revd Rob Howlett. Picture: Burnham Baptist Church (Image: Burnham Baptist Church)

Revd Gary Woodall, Regional Minister for the West of England Baptist Network, conducted the ordination and induction. 

The preacher was Revd Dr Tim Welch from Bristol Baptist College.

Eileen Wood, the longest-standing member of the church, said: “We would commend Rob for the way he rose to the challenge of Covid, when the church was closed for over a year.

“He faced this with courage and compassion, working steadfastly to hold the church together.

“During lockdowns, alongside his wife Paula, he applied his musical and technical talents to offer weekly streamed services of a very high calibre.

“This is now a church that is seeing growth following Covid while others have struggled.”

Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News: Members of the congregation welcome Revd Rob Howlett as their new Minister. Picture: Burnham Baptist ChurchMembers of the congregation welcome Revd Rob Howlett as their new Minister. Picture: Burnham Baptist Church (Image: Burnham Baptist Church)

Burnham Baptist Church is located in College Street. 

It holds weekly services that are open to everybody. 

Its community work includes supporting the food bank, The Food Pantry, and hosting weekly English lessons for Ukrainian refugees.