A NEW minister in Christchurch has launched his time in the parish in what is quickly becoming a tradition for the area.

Rev Andrew Jablonski began his ministry in the parish of Mudeford by leading the Blessing of the Waters service from a rowing boat in the middle of “The Run” at Mudeford Quay last Sunday (right). This followed how the previous incumbent, Rev Helen Griffiss, began her time in the parish 12 years ago.

Last year she marked her retirement by taking the same service.

Rev Jablonski was greeted on the calm water by glorious sunshine and a shoreline packed with parish members.

The RNLI were on standby and Rev Jablonski was safe in the hands of Peter Dadds, a well-known local fisherman who rowed him out into The Run.

Mayor Nick Geary did not pursue an offer to join them in the boat but supported him from the quay, along with his wife.

The band, led by Phil Randell, provided a musical accompaniment to the singing and Ken Pickard from the 1st Mudeford Sea Scouts recited the story of Jesus calming the storm.

The seaside service followed Rev Jablonski’s licensing as the priest-in-charge of the parish of Mudford, which includes All Saints Church and High Cross Church in Somerford, on Wednesday, May 2.

The congregation included the local sea scouts and a large group of parishioners from his former parish in Bromley.

Rev Jablonski’s wife, Rev Anne Jablonski, was also formally welcomed to the parish and will be licensed by Bishop Jonathan in September.

The new priest-in-charge recently completed five and a half years working as associate priest in the Bromley Parish Church supporting his wife who was the vicar there. He also chaired the Churches Together in central Bromley.

Together the couple have four grown up children and four grandchildren. They said they are looking forward to being part of the parish community of Mudeford and Somerford, while also hoping to make greater use of their bikes as well as enjoying walks along the coast.

“People are very happy to stop and chat here,” he said.

“It has been wonderful and we have enjoyed settling in. We feel very much at home because the people have been so welcoming.”