Celebrating Fr Andrew's Ministry of Mission

The Rev'd Andrew Meredith, Ministry Area Leader for Bro Noddfa Newydd has announced his retirement commencing from Easter.

Since leaving his career in banking to pick up a dog collar over 30 years ago, Fr Andrew has had a strong heart for mission, working seeking out ways to serve people in poorer communities and particularly young people. Since coming to Bro Noddfa Newydd after serving in the Diocese of Swansea and Breacon, in 2016 he has established 'The Lounge' in Ysgol Gyfun Cymunedol Llangatwg Community Comprehensive School where he is governor.

The Lounge is a space where students can spend a lunch break and get free hot chocolate and squash from Fr Andrew and church volunteers, leading to organic conversations about faith as the students receive first-hand the actions of a serving church who cares about them and the community. Having outgrew the first venue, on a busy day The Lounge can now see up to 300 pupils. The interactions has led to students changing perspective on the church and Christian students wanting to help serve their peers.

Fr Andrew has also been key in implementing the GSUS project which provides a lesson for all year groups to openly speak and ask questions about faith and theology. He has aslo thoroughly enjoyed working with 15 primary schools in the ministry area and hosting them at the annual concert in St Catwg's.

Fr Andrew said, "My heart lies in mission. That's what it's all about. There are lovely people in this community and I would just like to encourage them to keep finding the gifts they have got and exercise them. There are open doors in the primary and secondary schools for people to do things. You can't just rely on a dog collar. It is far better to get a team mobilised and working."

Fr Andrew is also joyful at the success of Messy Church that run in St Catwg's Church.

With his supportive wife retiring as a nurse this season, Fr Andrew is looking forward to more relaxing ventures and prays for his successor as God prepares the way for them and hopes they are a team player also with a heart for mission.

We would like to deeply thank Fr Andrew for his ministry in this diocese and throughout his life.