Ministers
Rev Keith Pratt
As the Superintendent Minister of the Birstall and Spen Circuit, I am looking forward to the circuit continuing its work to God’s Purpose, and preaching the gospel in the communities in which He has called us to serve. My background is the teaching profession in a Sheffield Comprehensive School where I taught RE, having being brought up in Lincolnshire. I felt God calling me into ordained ministry on an MAYC Youth Exchange programme to West Berlin in the early 1980s.
One of our challenges in the circuit is that some of our buildings have become too large and unmanageable, and we are in the process of addressing that challenge which can distract us from our Mission. The circuit is delighted to have developed its work through Fresh Expressions by means of our Schools Worker and the Wesley Playhouse. We also have several Cell Churches around the circuit.
Through Churches Together we regularly contribute to Thought for the Week in the local newspapers. Some churches hold services in residential & nursing homes, as well as taking Holy Communion to people in their homes.
I continue my chaplaincy to Dewsbury Police, and find myself on the National Executive of Police Chaplains. My hobbies include an interest in classic cars. I own a 1946 Ford Prefect which I exhibit at Classic Car Shows. Digital Photography is also part of my interests. I continue friendships in Berlin, whom I try to visit when possible.
Keith has pastoral oversight of three churches: Birstall, Gomersal and Howden Clough. He took over as Superintendent of the Circuit in September 2008.
Rev Roger Smith
Roger moved to the Circuit in September 2007 with his wife Alison and children Robert, Sally and Isobel, having spent eleven years in the Bradford Great Horton Circuit.
Through his various churches he has previously been involved in a number of projects including work with children, youth work and care for older people.
Roger has pastoral oversight of three churches: Broomfield, Central and St Andrew's.
He will be on sabbatical leave from 18th May to 16th August 2009.
Rev Graham Edwards
This is Graham's first Circuit appointment, joining us in September 2008 after training at Wesley House, Cambridge.
Graham has pastoral oversight of Birkenshaw, Birkenshaw Bottoms and East Bierley.