The licensing of Revd Steve Bailey as Assistant Archdeacon was held during Morning Prayer at Bishop’s Lodge on Tuesday 2 June.
Revd Steve was presented to Bishop Martyn by The Venerable Claire Wood, Archdeacon of Loughborough, and The Venerable Richard Trethewey, Archdeacon of Leicester.
Steve’s commissioning took place in a service shaped by Jesus’ words to Martha (Luke 10.38-end) - a reminder, in a distracted and demanding age, that faithful ministry begins in attentiveness to Christ, and that leadership is rooted in presence, listening and prayer, not just busyness.
They also prayed that Steve’s ministry might be marked by wisdom and a readiness to see where God is at work.
Currently Team Rector in the Benefice of Oadby Great Glen, and remaining in post, Steve will be stepping down from his role as Area Dean of Gartree to carry out his Assistant Archdeacon duties.
Talking after the service, Revd Steve said: “It was a privilege to be commissioned as an Assistant Archdeacon. Having served in the Diocese for 15 years now, rooted in the same parishes, and an Area Dean for over seven years, the opportunity to learn and grow in a new role excites me.
“My passion for mission and ministry in the local community, showing and sharing faith, making Jesus known and seeing his love transform lives remains at the heart of my calling,” he said.
“My hope is to be able to help support and sustain leaders in mission and change, offering encouragement in the challenges and demands of ministry.
“I look forward to working alongside Claire and Richard (Archdeacons of Loughborough and Leicester) and learning the many faceted role of an Archdeacon whilst remaining rooted in parish ministry. I know the task will be demanding, that I have much to learn and am thankful for peoples’ support and prayers. I am trusting that the saying, ‘God does not call the equipped, but equips those that he calls,’ proves to be true!”
Please pray for Revd Steve, his parish and the wider diocese, as he begins his new role.
