I am Christopher Parkes, Supernumerary Minister appointed on a half-time basis with pastoral oversight for the churches in Bishops Offley, Eccleshall and Gnosall.
I have previously served in the Wolverhampton, Telford and Cannock Chase Circuits, having had responsibility for Town Centre Churches and Village Chapels, and also, the newly established Ghanaian Methodist Church in Ketley, Telford.
During my time in Cannock Chase Circuit (where I served for twelve years) I had a focus on pastoral care and sharing times of joy and sadness with people with a church background and also those with no previous church connection. I enjoy leading and being part of prayer walks, Bible studies and church social occasions. I have enjoyed a good working relationship with ecumenical colleagues and look forward to developing strong ecumenical relationships in Stafford Circuit.
Before offering for ministry, I was a qualified accountant holding senior positions in the Confectionery Industry, both in the UK and in the USA.
I am married – we have three adult children and seven grandchildren (soon to be eight).
In my years in ministry I have never not wanted to get out of bed in the morning – it is a real privilege to be able to serve God.
