Congratulations to our new vicar, David Babbington. Last Friday, he was at Lambeth Palace for the 2026 Lambeth Awards. At the ceremony, Archbishop Sarah presented him with The Langton Award for Community Service. The award was given for profoundly impacting the lives of Christian LGBTQ+ asylum seekers, refugees and the broader community, whilst embodying the principles of compassion, resilience, and justice, by establishing the support group ‘Emmaus’.The award citation goes on to tell how David has tirelessly advocated for the rights of Christian LGBTQ+ asylum seekers and refugees through Emmaus, collaborating closely with legal teams to provide essential support during their asylum applications. His deep understanding of the legal and humanitarian issues involved has been instrumental in achieving a 100% success rate in court or during substantive interviews.Whether he has been working at The College of the Resurrection, Mirfield, or in parish ministry, David has continued to voluntarily offer personal mentorship and guidance to individuals, providing unwavering emotional and spiritual support during their transition to a new life in the UK. His genuine care and dedication have transformed lives, instilling hope and courage in those he helps. He embodies the core values of love, empathy, inclusivity, and advocacy, demonstrating an unparalleled commitment to social justice and compassion. Recognising that the journey for Christian LGBTQ+ asylum seekers and refugees goes beyond legal challenges, other organisations have approached him to advise on complex cases they cannot represent owing to the intricate challenges involved. David takes the lead by providing holistic support and exemplifies the spirit of compassion and advocacy. His work has changed the lives of many refugees and enriched the community, embodying the true essence of humanitarian service. David Babbington is a beacon of hope and an exemplary figure in Christian efforts. His outstanding contribution leaves an indelible mark on individuals across the country and the community.

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​Join us for a fantastic night of music at Last Night at the Proms with Thornton Cleveleys Brass Band at St Andrews Church, Cleveleys. See poster for details :)