We are delighted to announce the appointment of the Reverend Thomas Sander as the next Rector of St Giles-in-the-Fields.
Tom has served for the last six years as the Vicar of Flamstead and Markyate Street in the Diocese of St Albans, where he is also the Rural Dean of the Wheathampstead Deanery. Tom studied theology at Canterbury Christchurch University and received a Master of Philosophy degree from the University of Cambridge, where he prepared for ordination. He was ordained priest in 2012 and served his curacy in the benefice of Sharnbrook, Felmersham with Knotting and Souldrop.
Among a large pool of immensely thoughtful and qualified applicants, Tom stood out for the exceptional missional activities he has led in his current parish, his reverent approach to liturgy and his intuitive understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing St Giles in the coming years. In Tom, the Holy Spirit is calling to St Giles a prayerful priest with the energy and determination to lead our parish in an exciting new chapter of ministry. We wish Tom the very best as he prepares for the move to London and look forward to welcoming him at his collation at St Giles-in-the-Fields, which will take place at the Feast of Candlemas.
The Bishop of London, The Rt. Rev’d and Rt. Hon. Dame Sarah Mullally, said: “I look forward to welcoming Tom into the Diocese of London to lead the ministry at St Giles in the Fields. In Tom we have an excellent priest whom God has called at this time to express leadership in the Church and to play a full part in helping God’s people fulfil that vision. I am excited for St Giles and for the possibilities of new life that Tom’s appointment will bring.”
The Rev’d Thomas Sander said: “I am delighted to be joining St Giles-in-the-Fields and I look forward to working together with the churchwardens, the PCC and all those who have made St Giles their spiritual home, to further our church’s mission to bless, encourage and praise. I am very thankful for the warm welcome I have received so far and I look forward to making my new home among you.”