IT was standing room only at St Stephen's Anglican Church, Dorrigo, when the Reverend Mike Ridge, accompanied by Steph, Sophie and Ben, was inducted as Priest in Charge of the Parish.
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The induction ended a journey of nearly 17,000km for the family, who left their home in Blundellsands near Liverpool, England, to take up the appointment.
Worshippers stood at the rear of the church, in the foyer and spilled over onto the steps.
A dozen clergy from diocesan parishes attended, some making night time round trip journeys of more than 300km to be there.
Reverend Mike was inducted by senior diocesan archdeacon, the Venerable Gail Hagon, standing in for bishop elect, Reverend Dr Sarah Macneil.
The preacher was the Dean of Grafton, Rev. Donald Kirk.
Clergy and members of all local denominations attended, with Pastor John Woolhouse, representing the Dorrigo Interchurch Council, and Dr Chris Shirley, on behalf of the Dorrigo community, adding to the well wishers.
Rev Mike, admitting it may be an unfortunate metaphor, said his family had been “bowled over” by the nature and generosity of the welcome they had received.
As he spoke, the England cricketers were losing their 10th match in 11 games. However, the real focus of the night was on celebration and worship, praise and laughter.
Rev Mike began his year as priest in charge, on the first Sunday of February.
Under diocesan policy all clergy assuming first parish appointments are made priest in charge for 12 months and then become rectors.