Read Reverend David Warner's final column for the Tameside Reporter before he leaves behind his role as the Vicar of Mossley for pastures new.

This Sunday (30 January), we celebrate the end of the Christmas and Epiphany seasons in church with a feastday we call Candlemas - or more correctly, the Presentation of Christ in the Temple - it reminds us of the moment, 40 days after his birth when Jesus, like all babies of the time, was presented in thanksgiving at his place of worship.

This Sunday is also my final day as Vicar of Mossley, and after it, we shall move to Norfolk to look after a new parish. Moving is part of a priest’s life, and it has been the privilege of my life to serve here.

When I was installed here in September 2016 the Bishop gave me what is known as the Cure of Souls - cure comes from the word care, and is a reminder that I’ve been here to care for and serve this whole community.

Over those five years I’ve baptised many, have married quite a few, and have been extraordinarily privileged to be involved in many funerals too.

I have witnessed the highest points of success and joy, and the hardest and most poignant moments of loss and desolation.

I’ve assisted mayors in their duties, taken many hundreds of school assemblies, been to lots of meetings, visited hundreds of homes and drunk more tea than I dare to recall.

What I do is less of a job and more of a way of life. It’s been a joy and a privilege to live here and to serve you, and I am grateful for all the kindness I have always been shown.

Please, look after each other, know how wonderful this community is, and be thankful for all who work to make it a better place.

God bless and keep you all, and thank you.

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