BISHOP Jonathan has appointed the Rev David Morgan as team vicar for the new benefice of Ryde.

David will have specific responsibility for traditional worship in the five Isle of Wight churches that make up this new benefice – All Saints, St John’s, and St Michael’s in Ryde, plus Holy Cross, Binstead, and St Peter’s, Havenstreet. He will be appointed subject to a DBS check.

It’s expected that David will be part of a team that will also include other clergy and lay people serving this newly-created benefice. He will have particular responsibility for the inherited and sacramental aspects of worship in these churches, as well as developing its musical expertise further.

David was most recently vicar of Newtown, Soberton and Hambledon on the mainland, and before that was a curate at St Faith’s Church, Havant – all within our diocese. His wife, the Rev Vickie Morgan, is currently priest-in-charge of Rowlands Castle, Blendworth, Chalton and Idsworth.

David said: “It is a very exciting time to be joining the work of God in the churches of the Ryde area. I am looking forward to getting to know a new place and new people, and I was made to feel very welcome when I visited for the appointment process.

“I know that many people both in Ryde and in the wider diocese have some big ideas and plans for what we hope and pray might be possible in the future, but I am confident that the Holy Spirit is already at work.

“Personally, I am delighted to be returning to full time ministry after a short break, and very pleased to be staying in the diocese. This new role is definitely an answer to prayer for me, and I hope as I serve with the people of Ryde that they will feel the same.”

The Archdeacon of the Isle of Wight, the Ven Steve Daughtery, said: “This is an exciting time for the churches in Ryde as they seek to work together in this brand new way.

“David’s appointment is a really important one, as we seek to preserve and build on the faithfulness of many years of traditional worship and musical excellence. We hope it is just the first stage in the creation of a whole team to serve this area in the best way possible.”

Meanwhile, David’s first book, entitled ‘The Mind’s Empty Tomb’ is set to be published later this year. It relates to faith and mental illness.

David will be licensed by the bishop for his new role on a date yet to be confirmed.