Knowle Church has a new face looking out from the pulpit after the institution of its new vicar.
Rev Geoff Lanham has been appointed as the next vicar of the parish of St John the Baptist and SS Lawrence and Anne Knowle, also known as Knowle Parish Church.
Geoff’s institution as vicar took place at a packed church on Monday evening (September 9) and his first Sunday service – a combined unity service at 10.30am this weekend – will followed by a ‘bring and share’ lunch.
He arrives at Knowle after being vicar of Christ Church, Selly Park a thriving church in South Birmingham. He comes with nearly 30 years’ experience of ordained ministry.
Geoff and his wife Mary have three children, two of whom were present to join the service at which he was given keys to the building and gave the church bell a ceremonial ring.
Geoff told the church’s website: “We are delighted to accept the opportunity of leading Knowle Parish Church, but will be sad to leave the wonderfully caring and supportive congregation in Selly Park. The future for both church communities is exciting and we look forward to what God has in store.”
As part of his induction on Monday, Geoff was welcomed by the mayor of Solihull Stuart Davis and representatives from the school governors, youth sector and Lions club.
Following a curacy in Kent, Geoff held several roles at St John’s, Harborne. He went on to pioneer a new church in Birmingham city centre called B1 reflecting his life long passion for evangelism and mission before moving on to Selly Park.
Geoff says he has varied interests, particularly in sport and, having twice competed the Birmingham half marathon, was urged to get his running shoes back on for Knowle’s own fun run.
Bishop of Aston, RR Anne Hollinghurst, who conducted the service, said: “I am so pleased to see a minister of Geoff’s spiritual maturity and depth coming to lead Knowle into the next season of its growth and ministry.
“His gifts of wise leadership, passion for the gospel, love for people and sensitive reliance on the Holy Spirit, alongside his outstanding teaching and experience of a range of churches will be a blessing to Knowle and Birmingham.”
