A Farewell Message from Archdeacon Rachel Mann
As the Ven Dr Rachel Mann prepares to retire this week, she has written to the diocese to express her heartfelt thanks for the generosity, kindness and prayers she has received from so many people.
As the Ven Dr Rachel Mann, Archdeacon of Salford and Bolton, prepares to retire this week, she has written to the diocese to express her heartfelt thanks for the generosity, kindness and prayers she has received from so many people.
Dear friends,
As you will be aware, I’ve written to you a few times over the past eighteen months with health updates and thanks for your love, prayer and support during what has been quite a time of trial and discernment. Quite often I’ve written at length and in detail.
However, as my retirement arrives I find – for once – I am actually left nearly speechless. So I will try to keep it brief.
Here’s what I want to say: ‘THANK YOU’. Thank you for the many ways in which you have shown your care as I’ve faced this unanticipated early retirement. Thank you for the retirement cards and warm messages. Thank you for your extraordinary generosity and thoughtfulness. Most of all, thank you for the prayers. They are true tokens of love and friendship; they are the song of the heart that reach deep into the mercy of our wonderful God.
In large measure, because of your love and prayers, I feel (almost!) ready for the next stage in my adventure of faith and life. I will still be around in Manchester and +David has very kindly consented to grant me Permission to Officiate. Do invite me to preach and preside. However, the first priority will be some rest and refreshment; time with family and old friends. So please do not be annoyed if it takes me a while to get back to you.
The ministry of a priest, in parish and as Area Dean and Archdeacon, has been the privilege of my life. God is so gracious and, thank God, I shall continue to be a priest in Christ’s Church. Continue to pray for me as I shall pray for you. May Manchester Diocese continue to be richly blessed by the One who is the Fullness of Love, Grace and Mercy, our saviour Jesus Christ, now and forever, amen.
Much love,
Rachel x