Recently announced across the parishes of St James with St Christopher’s, Clacton (Chelmsford Diocese) and the parish of St Nicholas, Saltdean (Chichester Diocese) - The Right Revd Dr Martin Warner, the Bishop of Chichester, is delighted to announce that the Revd Louise Elizabeth Oliver has been appointed as Interim Incumbent of Saltdean. Louise is currently Curate/Pioneer Minister at St James with St Christopher’s, Clacton in the Chelmsford Diocese. A date for Louise’s licensing service will be confirmed in due course. Please pray for Louise as she prepares for her move.
A Bit about Louise
Hi there, just a little bit of background on me, before we meet in person. I am currently a curate, pioneer minister in the Parish of St James, with St Christopher’s in Clacton and Jaywick. I have learnt and grown in this place and will be really sad to leave such a wonderful community and Parish. I am from Surrey originally and previously taught in Special Needs, then childminded and loved both vocations, especially working in a team.
I came to faith late in life but gained a greater sense of conviction in my calling at Sarum College. I describe my ministry as ‘maternal’. I love to teach and see people grow spiritually; I cook and gather people around the table and an openness fires my passion to celebrate diversity and share the Gospel with all people. There is a reverence to faith, but I enjoy good humour, smile frequently and practise gratitude daily. I find joy in creative arts and music and particularly in working with children and young people.
My faith had been life and purpose giving, liberating, and transforming. It is a response to the love, healing, and security that God has freely gifted me, in grace that compels me to share this truth so others can discover it for themselves. I love being outdoors – walking, gardening, and swimming, so living in such a beautiful place should be fun!
I am divorced with two fabulous children – Aaron (22) is in London storytelling and making props and Hannah (20) is at Winchester University studying to be a Primary School teacher. My partner – Garren is from Clacton originally. He is an amazingly talented artist, tai chi instructor and heads up the Clacton Community Transition Group focussed on building resilient communities as we adapt to a changing climate.
I am delighted to be relocating to Saltdean and starting at St Nicholas’s Church. The creativity and exploration involved, discovering and joining with the mission God has planned for this Parish is exciting.
My Facebook account is the best way to initially touch base with me if you wish to add a friend request, but I am excited to meet you all in the New Year.
Warm Regards
Louise Oliver