The Bishop of St Asaph is to license a new priest-in-charge for the communities of Hope, Penyffordd and Penymynydd.

The Rt Revd Gregory Cameron will be visiting St Cynfarch’s Church in Hope tomorrow (Tuesday 2 September) to licence the Revd Simon Piercy to the Rhos a Mynydd Mission Area.

Simon is already well-known for his ministry as he has been assisting with services in the area as non-stipendiary assistant curate, and most recently associate priest, since his ordination in 2019. Indeed, Simon has lived in Penyffordd for his whole life and as a child attended Castell Alun High School.

In entering full-time ministry in the Diocese of St Asaph, Simon leaves behind a 21-year career as a primary school teacher. However, Simon is looking forward to working closely with the local schools using his educational gifts. Simon enjoys music, especially choral music, and is the musical director of St John’s Community Choir.

Bishop Gregory said: “Simon has already established a good track record of ministry in his part-time role as a priest and schoolteacher. It is good to welcome him to his first full-time priestly role, where I am sure that he will be a great success.”

Simon said: “I am looking forward to serving Hope, Penyffordd and Penymynydd, and my vision is to continue to engage the Church with these communities in order to share faith, hope and love.”

Simon’s service of welcome will take place on Tuesday 2 September at 7pm at St Cynfarch’s Church, in Hope, near Wrexham. All are welcome.