Last weekend saw two special services take place to say farewell and thank you to the Venerable Karen Hamblin, as she looks forward to her retirement.
The services were held on Saturday 13th at St John’s church, Walton and on Sunday 14th at Derby Cathedral.
The special evensong at Derby Cathedral was beautifully sung by the Girls and Lay Clerks of the Cathedral Choir, the first lesson was taken from Isaiah 63.1-16 and the second lesson, read by archdeacon Karen, was Corinthians 1.8-25. Prayers were led by Archdeacon Matthew and Archdeacon Nicky.
The sermon was taken by Revd Alicia Dring, who reflected on why people are called to ministry.
“A life in ministry is costly and demanding but it is worth every moment to see lives changed, communities built, and hope restored. Karen, I have seen you do this throughout your life. Planting seeds, watering with encouragement and kindness, pruning with love when needed, but always, always encouraging growth.”
She also presented Archdeacon Karen with an olive tree, explaining that Karen often gave olive trees to couples she married as something to grow with them throughout the seasons of their marriage.
“Here is an olive tree for that next season. One where you continue to share God’s light and love and hope, but maybe now there will be time and space to sit and actually watch things grow rather than having to dash onto the next thing.”
At the end of the service, Bishop Libby reflected on Karen time in the diocese and how she shown such Generous Faith, Courageous Hope and Life-giving Love. She added that it was appropriate that Karen’s last day in ministry had been spent at the Bishop’s badge service honouring the gifts, ministry, service and mission of the whole people of God across the whole diocese.
Archdeacon Karen was then divested of her Archidiaconal Cope by Archdeacon Matthew and Archdeacon Nicky. The cope was taken to the high alter marking the end of Karen’s role as an Archdeacon.
Karen was presented with a hamper of goodies and joined guests for refreshments after the service.
You can watch the service on Derby Cathedral’s YouTube channel here
Photos from the service are here
