Bridlington Priory have announced their new Rector in charge of the historic church as the Reverend Neil Bowler.
Rev. Bowler spoke exclusively to the Echo and said he would build upon traditions that are part of the Church, but also lead the Priory into writing a new chapter in its history in Bridlington.
He was a curate in Doncaster before moving to a larger parish in nearby Rotherham. Whilst in Rotherham he was asked to be the Area Dean of the largest deanery in the Diocese, at a time of significant change.
Following this, he led a large church in Sheffield, where the choral tradition was very important in its life and worship.
During his time in Sheffield, Rev Bowler became the Bishop of Sheffield’s advisor in spirituality, and was also made an Honorary Canon of Sheffield Cathedral.
Rev Bowler said: “I embraced these roles with enthusiasm and thoroughly enjoyed them. Then I was asked if I would then be a part of a multi-parish Benefice in Rotherham before then being asked if I would lead a very large Benefice in North Oxfordshire through a time of significant change in its life.”
Rev Bowler describes himself as someone who
‘enjoys being happy and hearing laughter.’
“I know of course that there are times to be serious, but also for me in my ministry, it has been very important, in all the different roles that I’ve had the privilege of being asked to do, to share in the joy of knowing we are loved by God.” said Reverend Bowler.
Visiting and being alongside people has always been a large part of his life and he is excited about becoming the priest at Bridlington Priory and leading the Church into the future.
“I look forward so much to being with you all very soon and getting to know you all, but also leading the Priory church, together with you all, to live out the Gospel in Bridlington, with a smile and in joy.”he added.
Rev Bowler takes his position after the previous Rector, Rev Matthew Pollard, left for a new post as
the Canon Chancellor at Ripon Cathedral in North Yorkshire last year.
Everyone is warmly invited to Rev Neil’s Licensing Service, led by Bishop Eleanor, on Thursday 27th July at 7.30pm. Refreshments will be available afterwards.
