Little did we realise as we were advertising Richard and Sue Teal’s Leaving Service in June that at that service we would be congratulating Richard on becoming President Elect of the Methodist Conference for 2020-21 (click for more details.)

Penrith Methodist Church was full and, as ever when Methodists get together, the singing was truly uplifting, especially of the John Wesley hymn, ‘Love Divine’.

Before the service started a worship band sang and during the service a number of people spoke of their work with Richard. They included

Amanda Gorton, Agricultural Chaplaincy Co-ordinator

Right Rev James Newcombe, Bishop of Carlisle

Rev Ariel O’Fernandez from the Evangelical Methodist Church in Argentina

Barbara Fryer, Chair of Richard’s Support Group

The service was led by the chair of the Lancashire District, Rev Paul Davis.

The preacher was a Past President of Conference, Rev Dr Stuart Burgess

    After the service a time of fellowship was enjoyed by all.