It is my absolute joy and privilege to be moving to the parish of North Stoneham and Bassett as the next Rector. My wife, Esther and I, and our four young children are excited about what God has in store for us as I take up this role.
From Engineering to Ministry
My background is in engineering. After graduating from Loughborough University, I spent eight years with Rolls-Royce in Derby, where I worked on developing Solid Oxide Fuel Cells for greener electricity production and testing large civil aeroplane engines.
It was during this time that I felt called to a different direction in life, and so I began exploring different ministries within the church. In 2020, I moved with my family to Ripon College, Cuddesdon, where I trained for ministry as a priest.
Community & Diocesan Care
Since my ordination at Winchester Cathedral in 2023, I have been serving as Assistant Curate in the Benefice of Tadley with Pamber Heath and Silchester. Alongside leading worship in a wide variety of styles, I have thoroughly enjoyed playing an active role in the wider local community. During my time at Tadley, I have: led weekly Open the Book sessions in local schools; served as Chaplain to the local Royal British Legion branch; collaborated with ecumenical partners through Churches Together Around Tadley; and served as an active member of the Diocesan Environmental Group.
These are all deep interests of mine, and I look forward to continuing this outward-facing ministry with you in Southampton.
Heart for Ministry: Inclusive & Creative
Personally, my interests include music—mostly rooted in the English choral tradition, alongside more recent ventures into contemporary worship songs. I hold a strong liturgical and sacramental expression, with ecological care, inclusive church values, and generous hospitality being particularly close to my heart. To this end, in 2026, I became Rector to the Society of Catholic Priests Chapter for Winchester and Portsmouth, an Anglican group promoting inclusive priestly spirituality and catholic evangelism.
Fresh Expressions of Church greatly appeal to my creative side. I love seeing people innovate, experiment, and stretch themselves across a range of traditions. I believe these creative approaches strengthen us as existing disciples while simultaneously attracting, welcoming, and encouraging people of all ages who are yet to step through our doors.
Looking Ahead
I am incredibly excited to see where God will lead us together in the coming years. Please pray for my family and all the people of North Stoneham and Bassett, as I prepare to take on this new role in January 2027.
Save the Date: Collation and Induction Service
Chris’s service of Collation and Induction will take place on Monday, 18th January, 2027. If you are intending to come, please RSVP by Monday 11th January 2027 using this RSVP Form