WHO'S WHO? - Our Clergy & Reader

The Rev'd Philip Anderson
​- Vicar of Pemberton

I grew up near the Mersey in the Liverpudlian suburb of Aigburth, next door to Battlecrease House, scene of a famous Victorian murder. The gothic details of the story fascinated me, and ultimately led to a degree in History. The experiences of growing up in the struggles of the politically charged Liverpool of the 1980s and 90s marked me with a strong sense of our need for redemption.

At university my faith was given deeper roots by the college chapel’s daily prayer, and the gift of deep friendships. During these years I spent some time with the Benedictine monastic community at Burford, and wondered whether I was called to live their life. On graduating I returned to Liverpool’s Parish Church, and discovered a vocation to priesthood in the rhythm of its daily mass, punctuating work with the homeless and refugees. Three years at Cuddesdon, and in South Africa followed and in 2005 I was made deacon at the hands of the Bishop of Liverpool.

Several formative years in Prescot as curate led to Chaplaincy to Liverpool Hope University.  In 2012 it was a joy to be licensed to serve the Parish of Pemberton, Wigan, a town with a strong culture and history all its own. 

As Pemberton's parish priest I pray for all who live in the parish, and look forward to meeting you. If you would like to know more about the Christian Faith, or have a problem you would like to share, I am here to listen and share the hope that is in Jesus Christ. 
 
God bless you,  Philip

Mrs Janet Presho
​- Reader

I was born in New Springs, moving to Pemberton, where my husband Stephen was born and bred in 1998, or thereabouts, between 1987 when we married and 1998, we moved around wherever Stephen’s army postings sent us.

I first learned about Reader ministry from Father Colin about 12 years ago, but Stephen was far too ill then (I am still his carer) for me to leave him, and I couldn’t start training. Now with hindsight, I see God at work. My faith needed time to grow and mature, my knowledge of God himself and of the Bible needed to grow and I needed to grow up! Those 12 years of extra life experience have proved extremely valuable now for me pastorally – you can’t help people if you have no understanding of what they’re going through. I hope I do, and always will, help those who come or God sends, to me.

Over time I started reading lessons, leading intercessions, taking care of people, leading Bible studies and generally getting deeply involved in the life of every church I was part of. But deep down I know what my true calling was – to preach! That burning desire in me to speak out for Jesus, to proclaim him, to make him and his love known, just burned   more fiercely in me as every year passed, and it’s a fire that won’t ever go out!

I love what I do! My faith is the heartbeat of my life, and church is, as you know, by choice, like a full time job for me, and I serve it in any way I can, from brewing up and wielding a duster to leading Worship, the PCC, Festival Committee, and serving as Church rep on the Pemberton Community Association.
Busy as I am, do I regret becoming a Reader? – not for one second! I admit the training has been a challenge academically at times, – still is, but I still feel incredibly privileged to be serving God and you. Sometimes I still have to pinch myself to believe that this is really happening!

I remember a friend gave me a bookmark in 1998 (still have it) as we left the army, and it said – Delight in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart. (Psalm 37:4) I did and he did, – maybe you should dare to tell him yours!
The Lord be with you all,
your Reader, Janet

The Rev'd Alec Parkinson
- Assistant Curate
​
My name is Alec and I am married to Karen. I have lived most of my life in Ashton, apart from a 7 year stretch in Lowton.   I have previously worshiped in 2 churches throughout my life, St Luke’s, Stubshaw Cross from a youngster before moving to St Peters when I was 32yrs.
I was Licenced Reader in 2000 and have been involved in mission and pastoral support, as well as supporting the work of Readers.
I am a part time Prison Chaplain.  I have also studied counselling skills at St Johns College Nottingham
 In 2012 I attended a life call event led by Bishop James where things began to slot into place like a jigsaw. In 2014 I was accepted for ordination training and began a 2 year course at All Saints Centre for Mission and Ministry before being Ordained in June 2016
I am really excited to come and serve alongside Fr. Philip and I trust that with God’s grace I will be able to serve you and the wider community.
Many Blessings,  Alec