It has today (Sunday, August 4) been announced that the Revd Philip de Grey-Warter will be stepping down as Vicar of Fowey, and as priest-in-charge of Golant.

Philip is planning to set up a new church community in Fowey, under the auspices of the Anglican Mission in England, part of the Global Anglican Futures Conference (GAFCON) movement.

His last service at Fowey Parish Church and St Sampson, Golant, will be on Sunday, September 29.

‘Friendly parting’

Archdeacon of Bodmin, the Ven Audrey Elkington, said: “I will of course be sorry to see Philip move on, but he feels strongly about God’s call to take this sacrificial step.

“Both the diocese and Philip are firmly committed to a friendly parting of the ways.  Our concern is both for Philip and his family as they take this next step, and for the parishes of Fowey and Golant that the Diocese of Truro will continue to serve them well.

“We still share the Christian calling to communicate the Gospel of Christ, and pray for it to make a difference to people’s lives.

Support for parishes

“The diocese will support and work with its parishes in their transition to a new minister, and we will seek to work with Philip as we build on our ecumenical work in the Fowey area.”

The Revd Philip de Grey-Warter said: “I am totally committed to the people of Fowey and communicating the good news of Jesus as faithfully and engagingly as I can to our town and beyond. Setting up a new church will provide our community with an additional and different way to encounter Jesus which I hope and pray will be attractive to many and open a new opportunity.”

The Rt Revd Philip Mounstephen, Bishop of Truro, said: “Philip goes with our good wishes, as he follows his calling as a minister.

“I am grateful to him for his years of faithful service within the Church of England and for the people of Fowey, and will pray for him that his ministry will continue positively. We look forward to working with Philip in a different way, but nevertheless in our shared discipleship and commitment to serving the people of God, and bringing the word of our Lord to the people in Fowey and the surrounding area.”

Process of discernment

As with any parish entering a period of transition, the diocese will now work with the parishes to begin a process of consultation and discernment as to their future mission and ministry.