Parish has new minister

By Lachlan Ellis

The new Vicar-in-Charge of a Moorabool parish is also a newcomer to the region, but he’s already come to love the community and vibe of the Shire.

Reverend Andrew Gifford was appointed the new Vicar-in-Charge of the Anglican Parish of Bacchus Marsh on 16 February, which covers not only Holy Trinity in Bacchus Marsh, but also Christ Church in Myrniong and St George’s in Balliang.

“I very recently moved into the area, we were living in Box Hill before this, but for the 10 years before that I lived in Spain, working in an Anglican church there. I was ordained in 2000. My family and I arrived here in January,” Mr Gifford told the Moorabool News.

“It’s been a great place to be, people have been very welcoming. We began our ministry in Moree in northwest New South Wales, so being back in a country space, but with a city feel, it’s really cool. A bit different to Barcelona where we were.”

Mr Gifford said the desire to support regional communities inspired him to take on the role of Vicar-in-Charge, and he hopes the Anglican Parish of Bacchus Marsh, and other parishes in the region, can continue being strong contributors to the lives of everyday people.

“God was prompting us over the last couple of years…Spain was an interesting place to be, and we wanted to be in a part of Greater Melbourne where there was a need for parish ministry. Bacchus Marsh kept coming up,” he said.

“I love the fact that there’s a sense of community here, and I’m really keen for the Anglican Church to be part of that and be a contributor. I’m really glad the Parish includes Balliang and Myrniong as well, we’re there in those spaces too some Sundays and engaging with those communities.

“My prayer is that this church, along with other churches in the area, will be places where people can explore what it is to live.”