Rev. Charles Sugden, Rector of Frenchay Parish Church, to retire

Reverend Charles and Kath would like you to know how much the benefice of Frenchay and Stapleton means to them: its people, its activities and so many joyful times shared together. This includes his involvement with the schools in Frenchay and Stapleton parishes. However, for some time Charles has felt that there has to be a right time to hand over leadership of the benefice, and to move on to new assignments.

So Charles wishes to announce his future retirement, with his last Sunday on duty being 23rd April 2023.

You are probably aware there have been health issues come to light for Charles in recent months. However, plans for retirement, or ‘refirement’ as he and Kath prefer to call it, have been in place for some time. In early May 2023 they hope to move into Pension Board housing in Chard, Somerset, so within easy reach of Bristol.

There will be many aspects of ministry, notably those as school governor, leader of collective worship and host to school visits, which Charles will sorely miss. He feels very thankful for the many opportunities to engage with young people through the support of headteachers, staff and parents of the 4 schools with which he has mainly spent time.

We will continue in very active ministry until the time comes to leave and we will of course hold you all in our prayers both for the coming months and in the time beyond it.

With our love
Rev Charles and Kath Sugden