What do vicars do the rest of the week?

is something many people may wonder. Vicars only work on Sundays…surely?

So welcome to this, the first part of an occasional, myth-busting series giving you an insight into parish ministry, Priory-style.

What you see in the photos above is a Priory congregation which worships in the parish, at Audley Ellerslie Village. Rod, the vicar, visits once a month, to celebrate Holy Communion with the owners.

In the restaurant, with stunning views across the Severn valley as a living reredos, a simple table is set with a crisp white cloth. Candles are lit and owners gather, sitting in informal rows of comfortable chairs.

The service is very similar to Parish Communion held in the Priory, but without the hymns and includes a sermon. Rod is ably assisted by Priory Lay Minister, Sue Williams, who leads Audley Ellerslie services between Rod’s visits. Sue becomes ‘coffee lady’ after the service as Rod and the congregation catch up.

Then it’s back to the Vicarage for the next appointment…but that will be revealed in the next episode.