The Archbishop of York has appointed the Reverend Samantha Rushton, Diocesan Adviser for Licensed Ministry, Warden of Readers, Area Dean of Chippenham and Associate Minister of the North Chippenham Group of Churches in the Diocese of Bristol, as the next Archdeacon of Cleveland.
In addition to her role as Archdeacon of Cleveland, Samantha will hold the diocesan-wide portfolio of Warden of Readers.
The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu said: “It is fantastic to be able to welcome Sam to the team. These are exciting times for the Diocese of York as we seek to grow as generous Churches Making and Nurturing Disciples. Sam brings with her a wealth of experience both inside and outside the Church and will be a great encouragement to us all as we seek to make Christ visible together in all that we do”.
The Reverend Samantha Rushton said: “I’m delighted to accept my new role as Archdeacon of Cleveland. It will be a great pleasure to build on the work that Bishop Paul has already started and to get to know people and places which are new to me. I am especially looking forward to experiencing the spirituality of the North East and learning more about the pioneering ministry of St Hilda – a lovely echo of my undergraduate days in Oxford”.
The Rt Revd Lee Rayfield, Bishop of Swindon, said, “Having worked closely with Sam over the past seven years, I have witnessed at first hand her rich mix of personal and organisational skills. As our Adviser for Licensed Ministry, Sam has played a key role during a period when we have seen record numbers of men and women offering themselves for authorised ministries.