Readers

Readers are trained and licenced in the Diocese to preach and to lead services. At Christ Church we have 2 licenced Readers.

Sheila Brown

Sheila has worshipped at ChristChurch since moving to Gravesend in 1978. She trained with Rosemary Austin, was admitted as a Reader in Rochester Cathedral and licensed to ChristChurch in 1999.

As a member of the PCC, Sheila helps with bazaars and fetes, the music group and God's Gang on a Sunday morning. She takes Home Communions, and prepares children to be admitted to Holy Communion. She is a member of The Mothers' union, loves gardening (though her garden might not make this immediately obvious!), visiting especially RHS gardens, enjoys all kinds of music, especially choral, and when she makes time, sewing.

Rosemary Austin

Rosemary has been a Reader in Christ Church since 1999, having trained with Sheila. She became a member of the congregation in 1968 when she moved with her family from Meopham. Her father, Claude Fox, was also a Reader in Christ Church so she in continuing a fine family tradition.She has now retired after working in Christ Church Pre-school for over 20 years but she hasn’t lost touch with the children because she brings them into church once a fortnight before the 10am service on a Wednesday to sing songs and say, “Thank you” prayers. She also leads our monthly First Steps service, for Pre-school children and their carers. And what fun they all have! Rosemary continues to be a familiar face at our All Age services, our Hot Cross Bun service on Good Friday and our Crib service on Christmas Eve. There is a naughty little sheep that often keeps her company though she has to keep a close eye on him to make sure that he isn’t being too naughty!