A COMMUNITY came together to welcome a new church leader.

Representatives from the entire Weymouth community joined together to welcome Reverend Juliet Stephenson to her new role as Priest-in-Charge and Community Missioner for Holy Trinity with St Nicholas Church, Weymouth.

The Reverend Juliet joins the church from Liverpool, where she oversaw the funeral ministry in the diocese, as well as being a Canon of the Cathedral and the assistant vicar at a church in Toxteth.

Originally from Newcastle-Upon-Tyne she has served communities in market towns in Nottingham, rural farming villages in Gloucester and suburban housing estates in Newcastle.

Rev Juliet received her licence from Bishop Karen of Sherborne and was installed by the Archdeacon of Sherborne, Penny Sayer, in a joyful service attended by the Mayor of Weymouth, Councillor Kate Wheller, together with representatives from the RNLI, Fishermen’s mission, British Legion, Holy Trinity Primary School, All Saints Academy, Weymouth Street Preachers, Refresh and the Lantern Trust.

Dorset Echo: The Reverend Juliet with the Mayor of Weymouth Cllr Kate Wheller The Reverend Juliet with the Mayor of Weymouth Cllr Kate Wheller (Image: Philippa Walker)

The service also included warm welcomes from the Deanery Clergy, the Clergy of Salisbury Cathedral, representatives from other churches in Weymouth, including the Prayer House and Hope United Reform Church and the Friary at Hilfield and colleagues from local funeral directors and Weymouth Crematorium.

Rev Juliet has a passion for outreach and ministering in the local community and is looking forward to working in Weymouth, to build relationships and offer hospitality, friendship and mutually beneficial support to local schools, care homes and institutions.

Services take place weekly at Holy Trinity Church on Weymouth North Quay on Sunday at 8am and 10am. Everyone is very welcome.