Institution Of Our New Rector
There was much joy, smiles and shouts of celebration in The Church in the Park, Almancil on Sunday 7th April, as Rev Steven Chisholm was officially instituted as Rector of Christ The King Anglican Church Algarve by Bishop Andy Lines of the Anglican Convocation Europe.
On a perfect weather day, with the sun shining and the frogs croaking in the lake, the Congregation and Friends of Christ The King joined together in perfect harmony to welcome Rev Steven, his wife Veronica and two beautiful daughters, to their new Ministry in the Algarve.
The Christ the King Choir sang, prayers were said and Bishop Andy Lines gave a rousing sermon from John Ch 20 based on the appearance of Jesus to the Disciples a week to the day after Easter – saying that it was no coincidence that this Institution was also taking place exactly a week to the day after Easter.
The official Institution which had been personalised for Rev Steve, started with the presentation of Steven Chisholm by Jose Farinha, Chairman of the Christ The King Council, to Bishop Andy Lines ACE. The Bishop then presented Rev Steve with his Licence - his permission to officiate, and a Bible and called him to preach the word at all times, lead the Congregation in prayer and praise and teach them in obedience to the Lord.
In response Rev Steve committed to devoting himself, body and soul to the service of The Lord and his Ministry and the people entrusted to his care.
Veronica and the Children were then called to the Altar and Rev Mike Clarkson, (previous Rector of Christ The King) his wife Linda, the Lay Assistants, and the Warden of Christ The King were invited to lay hands on Steve and his Family and to pray for them.
Speaking after the service Rev Steve said “It is an honour to serve Christ the King as their new Rector. My hope is that our church will continue to grow as a witness to Christ’s love for the people in the Algarve and beyond.”
After the Service a celebratory “Bring and Share” lunch was held in a garden nearby.
The full service can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86QIDzhHFrM