New preacher welcomed

Following years of extensive study, training, exams and interviews Dr Michael Fryers was welcomed as Gloucestershire's latest Methodist Local Preacher at a special service at Tewkesbury Methodist Church on Sunday 12 March.

Dr Fryers, who worships at St. Mark's Methodist Church in Cheltenham, received his Letter of Accreditation signed by the President of the Methodist Conference of Great Britain, the Rev Dr Roger Walton, during the evening service following the Circuit Assembly from Superintendent Methodist Minister the Rev. Dr James Tebbutt. Dr Tebbutt said "it is a great joy when a Local Preacher completes their training to qualify to take services in the Methodist churches and chapels in the County. We congratulate and give thanks for Michael, and look forward to our congregations benefitting from his gifts and preaching in the years ahead".

Welcomed by the Revd Chris Cory, with music from the Harmony Praise Band, the packed congregation also applauded senior Local Preachers Alan Morgan from Gloucester (60 years) and Nick Butler from Hucclecote (25 years) who received their Long Service Certificates at the circuit service. In his sermon Dr Tebbutt said "this is a special moment and we give thanks for their continuing ministries and for Michael's journey and his calling. Michael is counted now as one of Mr. Wesley's preachers".