In February, our recruits graduated from our commissioning service. It was a remarkable event, with four Street Pastors from Canterbury and three from the Whitstable team graduating.

We were honored to welcome the Lord Mayor, Jean Butcher, Lady Mayoress Di Baldock, and Ps John Wood Ward from Kent Police Canterbury to our service, and we thank them for their generous words in support of CSP. Our guest speaker, Bejoy Pal, the CEO of the Ascension Trust (the umbrella organization for Street Pastors nationally), spoke inspirationally about the work and calling of the Street Pastors, directing us to Luke 6:1-16 and to consider “The Lord of the Sabbath.”

It was an inspiring time filled with encouragement from our guests and an opportunity to recognize the service of members of the CSP team: David Clegg – Treasurer and Trustee, and Helen Jones – Engagement Officer. Helen Jones was also commissioned as a Street Pastor and continues to serve on the streets and as a prayer pastor.

The service was held at St. Mary Bredin Church and hosted by our Chair, Liz Jenkins, and Coordinator, Andrew Pantling. We give thanks to God for His continued work through Street Pastors in the City of Canterbury.

Photos by Steve Banks