ROMSEY ABBEY PARISH PROFILE Page 1

ROMSEY ABBEY

PARISH PROFILE

ROMSEY ABBEY PARISH PROFILE Page 2

Welcome to this Benefice Profile and Role Description

…and welcome to the Diocese of Winchester!

At the heart of our life here is the desire to be always

Living the Mission of Jesus. We are engaged in a strategic

process to deliver a mission-shaped Diocese, in which

parochial, pastoral and new forms of pioneering and

radical ministry all flourish. Infused with God’s missionary

Spirit we want three character traits to be clearly visible in

how we live:

▪ Passionate personal spirituality; ▪ Pioneering faith communities; ▪ Prophetic global citizenship.

The Diocese of Winchester is an exciting place to be at the

moment. We wait with eager anticipation to see how this

process will unfold. We pray that, if God is calling you to

join us in his mission in this part of the world, he will make

his will abundantly clear to you.

“As the Father sent me so I send you … Receive the Spirit” (John 20:21)

Welcome to Romsey Deanery!

Romsey Deanery is in the Bournemouth Archdeaconry. The Deanery connects the

Southampton area, with the Andover area and runs along the Test Valley which includes the

Waitrose farms, trout farming, mixed farming and a brewery! The Deanery mainly comprises

multi-parish rural benefices, with one suburban parish (on the outskirts of Southampton) and

the market town of Romsey with its historic Abbey.

We are a friendly and active Deanery! The clergy meet monthly for prayer and discussion.

We have strong overseas links – especially in South Rwenzori and Burundi. Synod and Chapter

work together and are galvanised around delivering the Diocesan Strategy – working together

where we can with each other and supporting each other. We run courses together, for all

the Deanery. You can find a bit more out from our developing website

www.romseydeanery.org .

Revd James Pitkin

Vicar of Lockerley, East Dean, East & West Tytherley and Acting Area Dean of Romsey

Tim Dakin

Bishop of Winchester

Jonathan Frost

Bishop of Southampton

CONTENTS

ROMSEY ABBEY PARISH PROFILE Page 3

The Parish of Romsey ........................................................................................................................................................ 4

Our Parish Vision ............................................................................................................................................................... 5

Parish Life and Mission ..................................................................................................................................................... 7

Meet the Team................................................................................................................................................................ 11

Living Here ...................................................................................................................................................................... 15

The Vicarage .................................................................................................................................................................... 17

Role Description .............................................................................................................................................................. 20

APPENDICES .................................................................................................................................................................... 22

1. Map of the Parish ........................................................................................................................................................ 23

2. Worship ....................................................................................................................................................................... 24

3. St Swithun's ................................................................................................................................................................. 26

4. Our School ................................................................................................................................................................... 28

5. Children and Youth ..................................................................................................................................................... 29

6. Our Buildings ............................................................................................................................................................... 32

7. Financial Summary ...................................................................................................................................................... 34

8. The Development Project ........................................................................................................................................... 35

9. Demographics and Statistics ....................................................................................................................................... 37

10. Groups and Social Activities ...................................................................................................................................... 39

11. Pastoral Reorganisation and Suspension of Presentation ........................................................................................ 41

THE PARISH OF ROMSEY

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Situated in the heart of the beautiful Test Valley is the market town and parish of Romsey. We are a single parish

with two church buildings: the 12th Century Romsey Abbey and the 19th Century St. Swithun’s Crampmoor, on the

north-east edge of the town. Both the town and the parish are ancient foundations with vibrant hearts and a strong

mutual sense of belonging.

We sit at the centre of a predominantly rural Deanery. We serve a growing population spanning the demographic

range with areas of both affluence and significant deprivation.

We are a people-focussed, outward looking church that is at the heart of the community. Our theology is liberal-

leaning, sacramental, inclusive, welcoming and open to all. Our worship is centred in the liturgical and choral

tradition, where the Eucharist is celebrated daily and we are developing a range of other services. We welcome

people from all traditions and none. Our desire is to journey together in faith, asking questions and seeking

resolutions collectively.

We are an ecumenical church. We seek to work together with all communities in the parish, developing

understanding and working collaboratively in sharing our commonalities and discussing our differences. To this end

we are an active member of Churches Together in Romsey. We are a Mindful Employer and were instrumental in

establishing the local mental health charity Triangulate and remain closely involved with it. We take an active part in

civic life, from civic services to hosting hustings for the general election.

The parish of Romsey seeks a dynamic, experienced leader who will be committed to the life of both the church and

the town.

A chorister trying his hand at conducting the choir at Christmas

OUR PARISH VISION

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Enlarge the site of your tent, and let the curtains of your habitations be stretched out; do not hold back;

lengthen your cords and strengthen your stakes. (Isaiah 54: 2)

Our strategy is to do exactly this through widening our reach to more people, bringing them the Good News of Jesus

Christ, and caring for their needs as a reflection of God’s love for all.

We have been implementing this vision for the last nine years and it was refreshed in 2017 through a series of parish

meetings and congregation break-out sessions during a Sunday Eucharist. As well as refreshing the vision, we have

ensured that it is aligned with the Diocesan Strategic Priorities and in keeping with our Benedictine tradition.

This diagram shows the four areas of our vision, centred

on the Great Commission to make disciples of all

nations.

To support this vision, we have been working on a

project to enhance our buildings to meet the needs of

ministry in the 21st century. This concept stage of this

project is complete and we are ready to take it forward

into the detailed design stage. More information on the

Development Project is provided in Appendix 8.

ENGAGING WITH THE COMMUNITY

The Abbey is a church for all the people of Romsey. We are seeking to make Christ known and make His message

relevant to a growing and increasingly diverse and secular population, particularly in the new housing areas. We are

enhancing our civic links and further developing our strong profile in the town. We also receive many visitors from

outside of the town and are improving our visitor experience through providing a welcome and hospitality that

reflects our Benedictine roots.

DEVELOPING OUR WORK WITH CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

Our outreach into the local population includes developing new forms of worship that speak to young families and

children, providing holiday clubs, developing our existing work with Baby and Toddler groups, Sunday School, Youth

Group, choir and links with local schools.

ENRICHING OUR MINISTRY

Our daily pattern of Eucharist and Morning & Evening Prayer is supplemented by new forms of worship: a monthly

“Space” service based on Taize or Celtic spirituality, weekly Meditation groups, Way-In, Lego Church, “Say one for

me” requested prayer and Home Groups. These are all aimed at helping people to explore their faith and develop

their spiritual life.

DEVELOPING OUR PASTORAL SUPPORT

We continue to develop a wide range of pastoral support for people at different stages in their lives. These range

from young people coming for baptism, confirmation or weddings, people affected by physical or mental illness, to

the elderly and others facing issues of isolation and bereavement.

OUR PARISH VISION

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SHORT TERM OBJECTIVES (1 – 2 YEARS)

• Work with the Romsey Deanery in completing and implementing the Deanery Mission Action Plan.

• Create a plan to respond to the opportunities presented by the various new housing developments within

the parish boundary and build (ecumenically) on the “Your Kingdom Come” initiative.

• Build on our existing provision for children and families and establish new provision for families moving into

new housing on the edge of the town

• Maintain and develop our stewardship/‘giving in grace’ programme to enable us to fulfil our commitments

and achieve our vision.

• Launch the Development Phase of our Building Project

• Support those who are less mobile through streaming services, lifts and car sharing.

MEDIUM TERM PRIORITIES (3 – 5 YEARS)

• Increase the growth and stability of our spiritual life and faith as authentic disciples of Christ, through

expanding the brief of the Discipleship Group.

• Further develop our ministry of hospitality and welcome for all who come to worship, or to visit and explore

the building by reviewing our literature and enhancing the role of ‘Welcomers’ and Stewards.

• To develop a chaplaincy presence in the Abbey and town

• Continue to develop our “Going Green” plans to reduce our environmental impact

• Further develop the Pastoral team and links to other churches in Romsey, local charities and support groups.

• Improve our understanding of the needs of the people of South Rwenzori and Burundi and strengthen these

overseas links.

• Deliver the first phase of our Development Project

Building Noah’s Ark at

Lego Church

PARISH LIFE AND MISSION

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THE ABBEY

Romsey Abbey is one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in Europe. It is the largest parish church in

Hampshire, a member of the Greater Churches Network, and is set in the centre of the growing market town. Apart

from our small daughter church of St Swithun, on the edge of the town, the Abbey is the only Church of England

church in Romsey and is seen as an important centre for the community.

The Abbey hosts a wide variety of concerts, artistic and cultural events, as well as visits by schools, and organisations

such as U3A, as well as the 40,000 visitors and tourists who come each year. Events range from hustings for local

politicians before recent General Elections, to Compline followed by a Bat Walk run by our Environmental Group.

OUR BENEDICTINE HERITAGE

All who arrive as guests are to be welcomed like Christ, for he is going to say, “I was

a stranger and you welcomed me.” (Rule of Saint Benedict 53:1)

Our Benedictine Heritage is important to us and our robed stewards welcome

visitors during the day. Many stewards are members of the congregation, but

others are local non-churchgoers who love the Abbey.

We remember also our monastic past in a daily cycle of prayer, celebrating morning

Eucharist and Evening Prayer each day. The prayers left at our prayer station, where

around 12,000 candles are lit by visitors each year, are included in our Evening

Prayer intercessions.

“How wonderful this building is. A true testament to the presence of God for over a

thousand years. Best of all it is alive with today’s faithful, not just tourists.”

(tripadvisor® review)

CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

We have a full range of provision for children and young people, although we recognise that there is much to do to

attract more families and young people. Our Baby and Toddler group meets on Wednesday mornings and we have

infant (age 4-7) and junior (age 8-11) Sunday School groups on the 2nd, 4th and 5th Sundays. Our 1st Sunday Eucharist

is aimed at all ages and, on the 3rd Sunday, the informal “Way In” service is held in the Church Rooms at the same

time as the Parish Eucharist.

We have strong links with our church school, Romsey Abbey CE(A) Primary School, where members of the clergy

lead worship once a week. There is a School Eucharist in the Abbey twice a term and other events, including

sleepovers.

We decided to recruit a Children and Families worker in 2016 and a financial plan was developed. Whilst some

funding was available, there was a shortfall of £49,000 over five years. A congregation appeal was made to support

the post and the money was raised in two weeks. Rhiannon Wilmott was appointed to the post in January 2017 and

has started several new initiatives including “Lego Church” on Saturdays, a holiday cookery club and “Singing

Storytime” on the Woodley housing estate.

The Youth Group meets on Tuesday evenings during term time in the Church Rooms from 6.45pm to 9pm. The

current level of attendance each week ranges from eight to twelve coming from school years 7 – 13, the majority

from families who worship in the Abbey.

PARISH LIFE AND MISSION

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Some of the Romsey Abbey Choirs

MUSIC

We have a strong musical tradition in the Abbey. We host an extensive series of concerts each year arranged by

Music in Romsey which launches its season in February each year. There is a lunchtime recital each Tuesday .

We have a large choir with separate boys, junior girls and senior girls groups who join our “ATB” section for choral

services in rotation. The Abbey Consort is a congregational choir open to all and sings regularly for services, often

during school holidays. Children too young for the main choir can join “Quavers” which meets weekly in the Church

Rooms and who occasionally sing at informal services. There are currently over 50 children in the choirs and there is

a recruitment drive underway to increase numbers to our capacity of around 80. We have a group of choir

chaperones who support the Director of Music in managing these large groups of children safely.

The choir sings on Sunday at the 10am Eucharist and 6:30pm Evensong. A sung Evensong on Thursdays at 5:45pm

was introduced in early September. “Quavers” occasionally sing for the informal “Way In” service held on the third

Sunday in the Church Rooms and at St Swithun.

We are very fortunate to be accompanied in our worship by a remarkable organ built by J.W. Walker and Sons in

1858. Major restoration work was carried out in 1995-96, restoring the old mechanical actions and overhauling much

of the pipework to its former glory. 1998 saw the construction by Walkers of a completely new organ in addition to

the 1858 original. Its pipework is located on the South Triforium and can be played either from a mobile console in

the Nave or in conjunction with the main organ from the console in the Choir.

THE PCC

We have a large PCC with 22 members including 5 members of Deanery Synod. Most of the work of the PCC is

carried out through sub-committees which can co-opt members who are not on the PCC. The current committees

are: Standing, Fabric, Financial Resources, Discipleship, Children and Young People, Pastoral, Outreach and

Evangelism, St Swithun’s, Health and Safety, Communications and Magazine, Church Rooms, Social and Abbey

Development. The Vicar attends or chairs a number of these committees. The PCC gives strategic direction and

oversees the committees’ work, receiving reports and minutes from them. Churchwardens serve for 4 years, with a

change every 2 years. Prior to election they serve as Deputy Warden during the previous year to learn the job.

PARISH LIFE AND MISSION

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PASTORAL SUPPORT

Our team of forty-five Pastoral Visitors is overseen by an ordained minister, working closely with the incumbent and

the PCC Pastoral sub-committee. The parish is divided into 6 areas each headed by a pastoral coordinator, with a 7th

“area” covering those outside the parish who attend services.

The coordinators and visitors meet several times a year to exchange experiences, provide mutual support and

receive training. Several visitors have trained as Dementia Friends and the Parish is recognised as Dementia Friendly.

The visitors aim to be a “Listening Ear” and to provide company and sympathetic support. Some visitors take

Communion once a month to the less mobile at their homes and to residential homes. There are currently thirteen in

the parish and we are working on improving our outreach, including making our Livestream service available.

A short Eucharist followed by tea is held on the last Sunday afternoon of each month for those who may find it

difficult to get to morning services or who may be isolated and lonely.

Others visit families who have asked for a baptism to prepare them for the service. A short service followed by tea is

held once a year for families who have had a child baptised in the last two years.

BENEDICTINE HOSPITALITY

Food and drink is important to us at the Abbey and we cater for many events from our monthly Parish Lunch, a

monthly Parish tea following the Sunday afternoon Eucharist, to wine served in the Abbey after festival services. As

part of our Benedictine Hospitality we host many visitors and events, both small and large, such as Christian Aid Lent

Lunch, funeral wakes, wedding receptions, lunch and sometimes dinner for visiting groups. Our enthusiastic catering

team comprises around 30 volunteers who have cooked, baked and served at over 50 events for around 3500 guests

and visitors between January and October 2017, generating a surplus of over £3,000.

Members of the Catering Team

PARISH LIFE AND MISSION

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ENGAGING WITH THE COMMUNITY

The Romsey Town Christmas Lantern Parade starts and ends at the Abbey, illuminated for the event

Romsey Abbey has a close association with several local charities and organisations:

• The Romsey Abbey Appeal raises money to support the maintenance of the Abbey building

• The Friends of Romsey Abbey supports the mission of the Parish

• Music in Romsey runs an annual programme of concerts in the Abbey

• George’s Trust supports young people with cancer and supports the Romsey Abbey choir

• Triangulate promotes changes in attitudes and approach to mental illness, particularly in the workplace

We support the Tree of Life Café that meets in Caffè Nero in the Market Place on Monday afternoons and offers a

safe space to explore wellbeing, spirituality or simply to chat. We are also active members of Churches Together in

Romsey which launched the Romsey Foodbank in 2016. The Abbey is a collection point for food donations.

The Parish Priest has a strong profile in the town with many civic links and is very much seen as the Vicar of Romsey,

not just the Parish. The profile in the town can be judged by the response when we approached people in the

streets, shops and pubs during our “Pray one for me” campaign during the Novena of Prayer. Asking if they would

like us to pray for them was well received with many talking to us about what the Abbey meant to them, even if they

didn’t wish a specific prayer. The Parish Priest, Town Mayor and constituency MP carry out a “shoe shine” service in

the Market Place on Maundy Thursday.

MEET THE TEAM

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OUR TEAM

We have a small but highly dedicated team of permanent employees who work closely together to ensure a positive

experience for both congregation and visitors. We are also very reliant on the 200+ wonderful people who regularly

contribute to the life of the Abbey as volunteers, including our retired clergy, LLMs, stewards, sidesmen, servers,

cleaners, caterers, flower arrangers, bellringers, committee members, pastoral visitors and fundraisers. Here is a

brief introduction to some of the individuals with whom you would be working most closely but there are many

more who give their time willingly to ensure that Romsey Abbey continues to be not just a beautiful building but a

place where everyone will find a warm welcome and spiritual refreshment.

David Potterton – Assistant Curate, currently leading the clergy team

Leaving school, I studied clarinet at the Royal Marines School of Music. From there I

completed Social Work Training in Cumbria supporting people with learning disabilities. I

then studied theology in London and was ordained a Baptist Pastor in 1990, leading churches

in Hampshire, Northamptonshire and Middlesex. In 2002 I was appointed Principal Chaplain

with a Christian maritime charity, leading its Chaplaincy operation of 50 staff in ports across

all continents. After completing an MA at Cuddesdon, I was ordained Deacon in 2015 and

appointed Assistant Curate at Romsey Abbey. Being part of an inclusive church with an

interest in discovering fresh ways of making God possible to generations who we have

passed by is very exciting. Ann and I have a grown-up family with 6 grandchildren as well as

a very 'un-grown up' Tibetan Terrier, called Clarrie.

Nik Gower- Assistant Curate

I’m currently in my first year of curacy (ordained Deacon in summer 2017). I’m originally from

Norwich and before ordination training was a soldier with the Household Cavalry. I’m married

to Heidi and recently we had our first child, Emilia. I am just preparing to run a confirmation

course this autumn and along with Heidi have been looking after the parish youth group. I

enjoy taking our dog for a walk and sports which happen to involve sitting down such as

rowing and horse riding.

? – Future Associate Priest

I am a full time associate colleague who is hoping to join you in the life and mission of the

parish and I am eagerly watching the work of the Deanery which is aiming to liberate this

post for deployment to the Abbey once your own appointment has been made. Until the

schemes have been finalised I can’t be certain, but God willing I look forward to meeting you

when you interview me for the post during your first year in Romsey (see Appendix 11 for

more information on the Deanery Pastoral Reorganisation)

MEET THE TEAM

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Paul Hollingworth, Assistant Curate (SSM)

I was originally in the Church of England in my youth and was a choir boy. For the past 16

years I have been a member of the Roman Catholic Church, the last seven as a permanent

deacon. In October 2016, after three years of discernment I moved back to the Anglican

Church to seek ordination to the priesthood. My RC ordination was accepted in the Church of

England and on Mothering Sunday 2017 I was licenced as an assistant curate in Romsey

Abbey whilst working towards priestly ordination in 2018. I am married to Mary and we both

retired from our fulltime employment at Southampton Hospital on 27th October 2017. I am

supporting the pastoral visiting team and have a love for ministering to the elderly, sick,

bereaved and dying. I am very outgoing and enjoy photography and cycling.

Jill Aussant – Self Supporting Minister

I am a retired volunteer priest assisting at the Abbey, to which I give three days a week (that’s

the theory anyway!). Following a career as a lawyer I was ordained ten years ago in

Winchester Cathedral as a self-supporting minister. I joined the team at the Abbey in

September 2010 and with the assistance of many others in the different sectors – children,

youth, young families and older people -I have overall responsibility for organising the pastoral

work of the parish, working closely with the incumbent and the PCC. I’m married to Victor who

is French, so gastronomic treats are always a source of interest!

Bryan Taphouse – Self-Supporting Minister

I married Jackie in Romsey Abbey back in 1973 and was very involved in the Abbey's children

and youth work as well as leading a house group for 17 years before training at Sarum College

and being ordained at Winchester Cathedral in 1997. I own an international fabric business,

sometimes preaching in the US on my travels. I am also very involved in the community

through the Rotary Club and have twice been President. I enjoy spontaneity and am very

happy in most roles except singing!

David Williams – Self-Supporting Minister

I worked in the accountancy, legal and IT professions and was very fortunate to move to

Romsey in 1986 after a change of job. I trained (part time) and was ordained priest in 1995 to

serve at the Abbey as a non- stipendiary minister (SSM). Now retired, I continue to take some

of the occasional offices, including conducting services of the Book of Common Prayer. I'm also

responsible for drawing up service rotas. Christine and I have been married for 42 years and

have two grown up daughters and three grandchildren who keep us busy! I enjoy listening to

music, being out with my camera trying to capture the moment and reading – I have too many

books (so I am told!)

MEET THE TEAM

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Averil Bamber – Licensed Lay Minister

LLM ministry comes in many forms; I think of my own as first and foremost that of preaching.

My husband and I have worshipped at different parish churches over the years as we have

moved with his career; now retired, we value being rooted in the Abbey community. I have

the pleasure of leading monthly Morning Worship in the daughter church of St.Swithun (the

parish’s only Sunday morning service that is non-eucharistic) and preaching in the Abbey,

mainly at Evensong. In both churches, I am always struck by how good the congregations are

at listening; but not really surprising – there is a rich and varied range of sermons, always

worth hearing.

Adele Beston - Parish Administrator

I’ve lived in Winchester for the past three years where I completed a Master’s degree. I have a

great interest in the promotion and maintenance of historic buildings, as my academic study

has been centred around this. Last year I did a year’s internship at my local church which has

grown me spiritually and has led to me having roles in the Children’s and Student ministries in

my church. My passions include helping others and growing children in their faith. I’m quite

new to the role of Parish Administrator but enjoy being part of Romsey Parish and working for

the Church

Neil Howe – Head Verger

I’ve been head verger at Romsey Abbey since February 2016, having come from Winchester

Cathedral where I’d been number four virger since 2012. In addition to my responsibility for

the shop floor of the Abbey and Verger's Department, I also oversee the Abbey's team of

Altar Servers and sit as an Ex Officio member of the Fabric Committee. Before becoming a

verger I taught history at the universities of Nottingham, Bath Spa and Winchester, and am in

the process of completing a book on the rivalry of Charles James Fox and William Pitt the

Younger in Caricature, which I hope to publish in 2018. I’m married to Sharron and have a 3

year old son, Jeremiah and a 23 year old step-son Connor.

George Richford – Director of Music

I joined the Abbey team in September 2015. Before coming here I have held positions at St

John’s College, Durham, Newcastle Cathedral, Newark Parish Church, Canterbury

Christchurch University and Dartford Parish Church. I am a published composer as well as a

Choir Trainer and Organist. I write music reviews for national publications, have worked

extensively in music publishing and am in demand as a guest lecturer and conductor. In my

spare time I like to explore the New Forest with my partner Charlotte, go fishing or do some

cooking at home whenever I get the chance!

MEET THE TEAM

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Amanda Taylor – Parish Administrator

I’ve been involved with the Parish for 10 years - firstly as a parent of two choristers in the

Abbey Choir, and as wife to Assistant Organist, Adrian Taylor, and on the ‘Open Door’

magazine team for several years. Since June 2017 I’ve joined the staff as Parish

Administrator, working four days a week with specific responsibility for Events and

Marketing. I love the variety of people, events and services that being involved with the

Abbey brings. I’m a member of the choir at St Mary’s Church, Copythorne and sing there on

a Sunday morning. Any other spare time is spent with my two teenage sons or swimming.

Rhiannon Wilmott – Children and Families Worker

I realised I felt a calling to children's ministry around 8 years ago. I began by taking Sunday

School, running toddler groups and expanded into running Messy Church and becoming a

Messy Church regional co-ordinator amongst other things. I joined the team at Romsey Abbey

in January and the most visible projects I’ve done so far include starting a fresh expression of

church as 'Lego Church' and running a children's cooking club for a week in the summer, aimed

mainly at families dependent on free school meals during term time. I’m more a Greenbelt sort

of person than a Spring Harvest sort of person.

Nigel Herriott – Churchwarden

Jenny and I retired to Romsey in 2011 after a management career in a large multinational

and I became churchwarden in 2014. I had been warden of a village church in the past, but

the Abbey is so buzzing with very many activities and volunteers that it is a much busier role.

We managed to marry off our two children over the last couple of years and our first

grandchild arrived in September. When not busy at the Abbey, I am Area Minister of the local

Third Order of the Society of St. Francis. Jenny and I are keen bellringers and enjoy travelling,

walking, local pubs, eating and drinking, often managing to combine several of these

interests at once.

Janet Wallace – Churchwarden

I’ve been a churchwarden here for a little over 18 months, following in the footsteps of my

father who was a warden in Coventry Cathedral for several years, and husband Mike who was

warden here until 2014, so I knew exactly what I was signing up to! It’s a busy role but a great

privilege to be part of such a dedicated team in such an amazing place. I’ve been self-employed

since 2006 and although almost retired, I’m fortunate to still do a little work with students in

international schools in cities across Europe – not always as glamorous as it sounds! Mike and I

enjoy walking, good food and holidays and also have four children and eight grandchildren, so

life is pretty busy.

LIVING HERE

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LOCATION

In the heart of Hampshire, Romsey nestles on the river Test which passes through and under much of the town.

Settled from 700AD the name may originate from Rum, a local Saxon leader, leading to Rum's Island or Rumsey, the

'ey' being an Old English word for island. Further information about the history of Romsey is available from the

Romsey Local History Society.

Romsey is a small market town that evolved around the great Abbey founded in 907 by Edward the Elder. At the

dissolution the Abbey was purchased for the town to preserve a parish church for the people. To this day the Abbey

is a centre of activity as we continue to make everyone welcome.

The town has continued to grow and many residents have found Romsey by chance, visiting as tourists, holidaying in

the area and visiting for the day, through business connections or by temporarily renting a flat or house. Having

discovered this special place, they have then made Romsey their home, a place to live, grow and bring up families.

TRANSPORT

Romsey has close access to the main motorways, the M27 and M3 and, with a bus and train station, it is in easy

reach of Southampton, Portsmouth, Winchester and Salisbury. With a good mix of shops in the town it also has

major high street names and out of town shopping centres only minutes away.

EDUCATION

Romsey has four primary schools including the church school adjacent to the Abbey. Two secondary schools serve

the town and the surrounding areas: Romsey School and Mountbatten School. Stroud and Hampshire Collegiate

College also provide private education on the outskirts of the town.

LIVING HERE

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HEALTH

The town has its own Community Hospital , two General Practices on three sites and six dental practices.

Southampton University Hospitals NHS Trust is 7 miles away and is a regional centre for many specialist services.

HOUSING

A diverse population with regard to age is served by a broad mix of housing ranging from large detached houses with

large grounds, to flats, starter homes and social housing managed by housing associations. In recent years there

have been at least five new developments for elderly living and/or care. Several new estates and others in the

planning stage, catering for younger people and families, have been built. Romsey continue to grow reflecting the

popularity of the town for both young and old, families and singles.

ATTRACTIONS

Within the town Romsey Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society (RAODS) owns and operates The Plaza which offers

a wide range of plays and entertainment. The Rapids offers classes in swimming, sports, gym as well as access to a

wide range of physical and fun activities. The town centre offers a mix of independent shops and well known brands.

There are a large number of pubs and restaurants offering food from around the world. See Romsey Chamber of

Commerce.

Within Romsey we have Romsey Memorial Park and on the outskirts of the town and set in extensive parklands is

the eighteenth-century mansion of Broadlands, the former home of Lord Palmerston and also Lord Louis

Mountbatten. On the outskirts of the town is the Sir Harold Hillier Arboretum and the National Trust’s Mottisfont

Abbey, five miles north-west of Romsey, is well known for its walled kitchen garden and a national collection of old-

fashioned and species of roses. To the west of Romsey is Paultons Park the home of Peppa Pig World.

The River Test offers one of the finest trout and salmon rivers in Europe. Romsey sits on the edge of the New Forest

boasting idyllic glades, ancient woodland, open moors, heath land and cliff top walks.

EVENTS IN ROMSEY

Romsey is a place where community involvement thrives. Here is a selection of events that take place annually:

Beggars Fair, Romsey Festival (every three years), Romsey Show, Romsey Carnival, Lantern Parade, Food Festival

ROMSEY SOCIETIES

Choirs for all ages flourish in Romsey, here are some links to the choirs we know of Mountbatten Community Choir,

Romsey Choral Society, Romsey Ladies Choir, Romsey Male Voice Choir, Romsey Youth Choir, Romsey Singers,

Romsey Voices. In addition, the schools in Romsey have choirs and orchestras of outstanding quality and we are

privileged to host these talented youngsters for concerts and school Christmas Carol Services. The Abbey hosts many

concerts and Music in Romsey organises these events.

There are many other societies in Romsey including the History Society, the Arts Society, and the Romsey and District

Society.

SPORT IN ROMSEY

Sport also features in the opportunities available within Romsey. There are clubs for football, rugby, hockey, cricket,

tennis, running, swimming, cycling, bowls, table tennis and rambling as well as several gyms for fitness training.

THE VICARAGE

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THE HOUSE

The Vicarage is close to the West end of the Abbey. There are four bedrooms and a bathroom on the first floor. On

the ground floor the living room can be opened into the dining room with double doors. A new kitchen was installed

in 2016. The entrance hall with a shower room/cloakroom separates the living area from the Vicar’s study which is

connected by two lockable doors to the Parish Office. The Vicarage is carpeted with 80% wool carpets which are in

good condition. There is a single garage and parking area beyond.

Solar panels are installed on the south and west roofs which reduce the vicarage electricity bill. Outside there is a

decent sized garden which is pleasant and secluded. It is mostly lawn with shrubs and fruit trees.

The photo above shows the front of the vicarage. The Parish Office is on the left (see the photo on the next page).

THE VICARAGE

ROMSEY ABBEY PARISH PROFILE Page 18

The rear of the Vicarage from the garden

.

The Parish Office was extended 10 years ago, and a new entrance was created. The right-hand side contains the

office on the front and the Vicar’s study at the rear. The left-hand side contains a meeting room on the front and at

the rear there is a toilet, a small kitchen area where tea/coffee can be prepared and space for the

photocopier/printer.

THE VICARAGE

ROMSEY ABBEY PARISH PROFILE Page 19

This floor plan of the Vicarage was made before the Parish Office extension was constructed. The position of the

extension is indicated on the left of the plan. The Office and the Vicar’s study are connected to the extension by

separate doors.

ROLE DESCRIPTION

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THE PRIEST IN CHARGE OF ROMSEY

This role description should be read in conjunction with the vision and priorities in the Parish Profile and the

Guidelines for the Professional Conduct of the Clergy that apply to all the ordained. It should also be read in

conjunction with the Diocesan Vision ‘Living the Mission of Jesus’.

We are looking for a leader who will be the Priest in Charge and then Vicar of Romsey in the fullest sense. They will

have a passion for our Benedictine roots, our inclusive ethos and for an Abbey that has a strong presence in the

town and wider Deanery. They will value this presence and the sacred space of the Abbey with its strong liturgical

and choral tradition. They will help us use these strengths to find new ways of bringing the Good News of Christ to a

fast-growing town. They must bring a sense of excitement and enthusiasm about the future, help us to discern the

Spirit’s leading and to make the changes needed to make Christ known in an increasingly diverse and secular world.

We are looking for a priest who, supported by a strong and diverse team:

SPIRITUALITY

• holds spiritual life at the centre of their being and is both reflective and prayerful

• recognises the value of support for their own spiritual health and development, through retreats and

Spiritual Direction

• is sympathetic to our Benedictine tradition, is open and inclusive and “welcomes others like Christ”

WORSHIP AND PREACHING

• leads worship prayerfully, confidently and competently giving glory to God using the building and sacred

spaces effectively

• is an effective and inspirational preacher and teacher to all ages

• has good musical and liturgical abilities with knowledge of a broad spectrum of church music

• can lead the development and resourcing of worship styles attractive to families, children and young people

• has the talent to maintain our sacramental worship in a variety of traditional and contemporary contexts

including civic services, major festivals and less formal occasions

LEADERSHIP AND COLLABORATION

• liberates the spiritual and creative energy of people and place; for worship, witness and discipleship

• has, or will develop, an understanding of employment and will line-manage Abbey employees effectively

• offers clear leadership to a large team of clergy, employees and volunteers; discerning skills and gifts in

others; delegating appropriately and encouraging their growth

• will work collaboratively with the ministry team, churchwardens and other leaders in the congregation

ROLE DESCRIPTION

ROMSEY ABBEY PARISH PROFILE Page 21

DISCIPLESHIP, LEARNING AND NUTURE

• nurtures the spiritual growth of all in our Church community

• has a proven track record in developing others for ministry including curates, ordinands in training and lay

people through direct mentoring and training programmes

• will engage proactively with local schools and maintain and develop our close links with Romsey Abbey CE(A)

Primary School.

EVANGELISM AND CONCERN FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE

• is committed to encouraging church growth with experience of creative ways of engaging an increasingly

diverse and secular community in a rapidly growing town

• is an innovative and independent thinker, who will contribute ideas and initiatives

• speaks with a prophetic voice and empowers others to act on matters of social justice and the integrity of

creation

PASTORAL CARE

• supports the continued development of our team of baptism, pastoral and bereavement visitors.

• is sympathetic to our mental health links and our commitment as a “Mindful Employer”

• is an approachable, empathetic and an active listener; skilled in assessing pastoral need and providing an

appropriate response

STEWARDSHIP AND PARISH ORGANISATION

• will be an effective chair of a large PCC and will attend (and chair in some cases) several sub-committees

• is a well organised, confident user of IT who will self-manage and prioritise their workload effectively,

maintaining a good work/life balance

• supports and encourages the work of the individuals and groups which ensure that the Parish meets

financial, legal and National/Diocesan requirements

• will provide vision and leadership to our stewardship programme and major development project, building

links with key stakeholders and influencers

ECUMENISM AND LINKS WITH OTHER BODIES

• will maintain and develop the profile of the “Vicar of Romsey” in the town, developing links and building

relationships across the local community and civic bodies

• will take an active part in local community groups and charities

• is committed to working closely with Churches Together in Romsey, taking a leading role when appropriate

• will fully participate in and contribute to the life of the Deanery (including Synod and Chapter) and Diocese

ROMSEY ABBEY PARISH PROFILE Page 22

APPENDICES

1. MAP OF THE PARISH

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2. WORSHIP

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SUNDAY SERVICES

THE ABBEY

8:00AM HOLY COMMUNION (36)

A said service, without music, that follows Common Worship Order I.

10:00AM SUNG EUCHARIST (263 ADULTS 20 CHILDREN)

The main service of the day, this follows Common Worship Order I. It includes a sermon and music, both choral and

congregational. Following the service there is the opportunity to receive healing ministry.

1st Sunday: This service uses a more accessible liturgy with participation by children, with a mix of child friendly,

contemporary worship songs and more traditional hymns.

Sunday School takes place on other Sundays during the Sung Eucharist, except for the 3rd Sunday when the Way-In

service is held. The children join the procession at the start of the service, leaving for Sunday School as the service

begins. They return during communion to join the rest of the congregation at the altar rail for a blessing.

11:30AM BCP EUCHARIST (THIRD SUNDAY) (9)

Said in St. George’s Chapel, according to the 1662 Book of Common Prayer.

12:15PM BAPTISM

A Baptism service is held most Sundays, usually for two families, baptising two or more children and sometimes

adults. Baptisms for members of the congregation are held during the 10:00am service. Numbers at the 12:15

service vary greatly from small intimate occasions to large family gatherings of over 100 people.

6:30PM (48)

BCP Choral Evensong sung by the Abbey Choirs. During school holidays, there is a combination of said services, and

services sung by visiting choirs and the Abbey Consort, the congregational choir.

ST SWITHUN

10:00AM PARISH COMMUNION (32)

Family Worship is held on the 1st Sunday, other Sundays the services are a Parish Communion.

6:30PM (SECOND SUNDAY) SPACE (15)

An opportunity for a more contemplative approach to Evening Prayer offering Iona and Northumbria Evening Prayer

and a Taize Service on a three-monthly cycle. It is attended by members of the Abbey community and members of

other local churches.

2. WORSHIP

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MID-WEEK SERVICES AT THE ABBEY

MORNING PRAYER AND HOLY COMMUNION

Said daily at the following times:

Monday 8:00am (9:15am on Bank Holidays)

Tuesday 9:15am (Healing focus on 1st Tuesday)

Wednesday 8:00am

Thursday 10:00am (Morning Prayer) and 10.30 (Holy Communion)

Friday 8:00am

Saturday 9:15am

EVENING PRAYER

Every Day 5:45pm Evening Prayer

On Thursdays during school term, Choral Evensong is sung by the boys and ATB.

OTHER SERVICES

10:00AM “WAY-IN” (THIRD SUNDAY ONLY) (10 ADULTS 18 CHILDREN)

Informal worship, prayer and learning for all ages is held in the Church Rooms at the same time as the main Abbey

10am Sung Eucharist.

10:30AM LECTIO DIVINA (THIRD WEDNESDAY ONLY) (10)

A 45-minute Lectio Divina is held in Wisdom House, which is opposite the Abbey on the south side and is part of the

La Sagesse Convent.

12:00AM LEGO CHURCH (THIRD SATURDAY ONLY) (18 ADULTS 22 CHILDREN)

A service which was started in August 2017 and is aimed at children. It includes teaching on a Bible story using Lego,

with simple prayers and songs and food is served.

Congregation numbers are averages for the month of October 2017

The Abbey Sung Eucharist is streamed to the internet using Livestream on 2nd and 4th Sundays and major festivals.

Recordings of services are kept for one month and can be viewed by creating a user id on the Livestream website

and searching for Romsey Abbey.

3. ST SWITHUN’S

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BACKGROUND

St Swithun's was built in the mid-nineteenth century as a chapel and school to serve the outlying hamlet of

Crampmoor. The same space was used for both, with the chancel screened off during weekdays; the schoolteacher

lived in part of the building. Refurbishment and redecoration were carried out in 2016. The building is now a simple,

flexible space with moveable chairs. A car park has level access to the church. We have a small vestry, toilet and a

small kitchen with an urn and kettles.

3. ST SWITHUN’S

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OUR CONGREGATION

Most of the congregation are retired and some are quite frail. There

are usually about 30-40 people on a Sunday morning, but we probably

have around 50 people attending regularly. We are small enough to

know each other well and care for each other. Special events such as

‘big’ birthdays or anniversaries are often celebrated with drinks and

cakes after the morning service. We normally have coffee or tea and

biscuits after one service a month.

Cards signed by members of the congregation go to those who are ill,

bereaved or celebrating. A number of members of our congregation

also attend the Abbey and volunteer in various ways. We have lots of

volunteers who help us to run smoothly. They carry out such activities

as cleaning, gardening and grass cutting, general maintenance tasks,

flower arranging, reading for services, assisting at Communion,

sidespeople, singers and making and serving refreshments, and we

also have 4 volunteer organists who work on a rota.

SERVICES AND SOCIAL EVENTS

Our regular service is on Sunday mornings at 10am.

We have Morning Worship on the first Sunday of

each month and Holy Communion on the other

Sundays. We also have special services for our

Patronal Festival, an afternoon carol service and a

9am service on Christmas day. The church is also

used for small funerals and for baptism services. An

informal service called ‘Space’ is held in the evening

on the second Sunday of each month. All our

services include hymns of various styles, using New

English Hymnal or Mission Praise. The church does

not have a licence for marriages, although we have

had one wedding by special licence and at least one

marriage blessing. Other parish groups also hold

occasional services and meetings.

We aim to contribute £1000 each year to Parish fundraising and this is done by holding social events which also raise

money. A typical year includes a ‘Cottage pie and cava lunch’, beetle drive and good-as-new sale and we have also

held barbecues and cream teas. Food for these occasions is provided by members of the congregation. Our social

events are an important part of our church life, and the majority of regular worshippers also join in with them.

4. OUR SCHOOL

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My name is Julie-Anne Palfrey and I am the Head Teacher of Romsey

Abbey Primary School. We are aiming to offer high quality education

within a Christian context and, as such, have very close links with

Romsey Abbey. We teach RE in line with the Hampshire Agreed Syllabus

and are using “Understanding Christianity” as a tool. We hold a daily act

of collective worship and one of these each week is led by a member of

the Romsey Abbey clergy team.

Our worship, timetabled for the year, is planned carefully by the school

in liaison with the Abbey. This ensures that we are able to make the

most of the festivals and the Church calendar. Once every half-term our

children attend a Eucharist service at Romsey Abbey to which parents

are invited.

As a school we see the Abbey as an extension

of our buildings and we make use of this

resource as often as possible. Some examples

this year include: an Anglo-Saxon history day

and an overnight residential in the Abbey. It is

our rich curriculum alongside our distinctively

Christian nature that enables us to flourish.

Our education is underpinned by Christian

values. We are walking in the footsteps of

Jesus in love, trust and forgiveness.

A school Eucharist service

5. CHILDREN AND YOUTH

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CHRISTENINGS

When the Church of England introduced the Christening Website, we decided to use Christening rather than Baptism

as it is more accessible to unchurched families. We try to make the service a formal welcome into the Church and

mark the beginning of the journey into faith. We also offer, as an alternative, a Thanksgiving service, when we offer

thanks to God for the gift of a child. Parents are encouraged to make contact to discuss Christening through the Baby

and Toddler Group. One of the team of Baptism Visitors meets parents before the service to discuss what will

happen on the day and to answer any questions.

BABY AND TODDLER

The group meets every Wednesday in term time from 9.30-11am. We look forward to welcoming all who come

whether they attend our church, another church or none. We have dads, grandpas, childminders, mums, grans and

we welcome even the youngest with our current youngest member being 23 days old. We always have sensory play

along the themes of each term and inclusive singing. We're seeking to develop our baby space to include more

opportunities for heuristic play and are currently working on making a new role play zone of 'office'.

INFANT SUNDAY SCHOOL

Infant Sunday school runs on the second, fourth and fifth Sundays of the month throughout the year. Each Sunday

school session starts in The Abbey joining the end of the procession and continuing out of the building to the Church

Rooms. This is a great way to extend an invitation to all children to join us and our regular attendees enjoy the sense

of occasion. We continue to run each session with occasional help from visiting parents and young helpers.

Continuity for this age group is very important and we feel that we know our children really well. The children love

to share their work and thoroughly enjoy their moment at the front of the Abbey each week. It helps us as teachers

to know how much they have understood as well as a chance to share the fun and enjoyment we have experienced.

Our Sunday school learning has been extended by a Good Friday Workshop, our Harvest display in the Abbey and

joining with Way In. These events always extend our outreach and give a chance for other children and their parents

to get involved.

Junior Sunday School working on our “Enlarging

our Tents” Vision

5. CHILDREN AND YOUTH

ROMSEY ABBEY PARISH PROFILE Page 30

JUNIOR SUNDAY SCHOOL

Junior Sunday School is about 25 minutes long to accommodate the junior choristers. It starts after the Gloria and

ends when the Director of Music retrieves the choristers for the Peace. This makes it a practical option for the choir

and ties in with research suggesting that spending more time in the main service makes the transition out of Sunday

School easier and encourages young people to stay in church. We start with an energetic game before exploring the

Word and responding to the Word, usually with some kind of food, and then we pray.

We welcome our responsibilities to keep children safe and in junior Sunday School we register children on arrival

and out when they are returned to the choir stalls or handed back to their parents. We reserve seats in the first

arcade on the south side of the Abbey where participants sit with leaders until they're collected.

LEGO CHURCH

Lego Church is a fresh expression of church. Once a month, we meet and explore a Bible story through the medium

of Lego, we listen to a short talk, and we sing and pray. Meanwhile we extend our hospitality by serving a lunch

which can be eaten whilst we bond over Lego. A big part of the idea behind this is that the Lego supplies are easily

portable meaning that Lego Church could be replicated at other locations.

ROMSEY ABBEY YOUTH GROUP

The Youth Group meets on Tuesday evenings during term time in the Church Rooms from 6.45pm to 9pm. The

current level of attendance each week ranges from eight to twelve coming from school years 7 – 13, the majority

coming from families who worship in the Abbey. Members of the group take part in a variety of activities on a

Tuesday evening including indoor games, playing computer games, evenings in Memorial Park, a night time nature

walk and an evening at the Golden Gecko Climbing Club in Romsey.

The group attend Soul Survivor and the Deanery Youth Weekend Away (“the most amazing weekend spent

discovering where to find Jesus, with the most amazing people”)

The Youth Group taking the

Church Urban Fund “Advent

Sleep Out Challenge”

5. CHILDREN AND YOUTH

ROMSEY ABBEY PARISH PROFILE Page 31

St George’s Day service

LOOKING AHEAD

In August 2017 we ran a cooking club for children over a week in the Church Rooms. It was broadly aimed at those

who might experience holiday hunger, but we welcomed everyone. In this week, 40 children attended, were fed and

food was sent home with 24 families. We would like to expand this next summer to include more faith content and

to build a stronger team of leaders.

We are beginning to outreach into the Woodley (established housing) and Abbotswood (new housing) areas on the

outskirts of the town. We have started with a small and portable parent and toddler group which we hope to follow

up with the establishment of a fresh expression of church. The acquisition of Lego means that this could be done

with minimal initial outlay and the next challenge is building a team who have a heart for these areas of Romsey.

6. OUR BUILDINGS

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OVERVIEW

The parish has two churches: Romsey Abbey and St Swithun’s. The Normans started to build the Abbey in 1120 although the remains of the Saxon Abbey dates back to 907. St Swithun’s was built by the Victorians as a school and church. In 1927 a new community school was built nearby and the building has been used solely as a church ever since.

Both buildings are in a good state of repair under the watchful eyes of the Fabric Committee of the PCC. The Abbey by its sheer size tends to occupy most of the agenda of a Fabric Committee meeting so the St Swithun’s Committee oversee the day to day needs of their building, bringing more substantial issues to Fabric for discussion and approval.

THE ABBEY

The Quinquennial Report from 2015 is used as basis for ongoing maintenance and remedial work to the building. In addition, recent work has included installing safety wires on parts of the roof to allow contractors and volunteers safe access for maintenance. We are currently installing new emergency lighting on an emergency exit route used by the bell ringers and lighting on the north driveway.

After the Development Project, renewing the power sockets around the Abbey is probably the next large project.

ST SWITHUN’S

Towards the end of 2016 St Swithun’s went through a thorough internal refurbishment and is in an excellent condition.

6. OUR BUILDINGS

ROMSEY ABBEY PARISH PROFILE Page 33

CHURCH ROOMS

The Church Rooms Committee oversees day to day running, bringing major items to Fabric committee. In 2016 the electrics were completely updated with new sockets and lighting circuits. The committee is currently working on a plan to upgrade the Church Rooms fabric including the toilets and kitchen. Their aim is to make the rooms serve the changing needs of the parish.

VERGER’S FLAT

The flat is above the Church Rooms. Before the current verger took up his position in 2016, the flat and garden were refurbished.

PARISH OFFICE

The office provides a space for the two parish administrative staff, a small meeting room, kitchen and toilet. It is sited next to the vicarage.

VICARAGE

The vicarage is a detached property the opposite side of Church Lane from the West End of the Abbey.

THE CURATE’S HOUSE

The Curate’s house is located in Mount Temple, a road on a small estate to the South East of the town centre. Our

second assistant curate is housed in rented accommodation close to the town centre, funded by the Diocese.

A gala dinner being held in the Abbey

7. FINANCIAL SUMMARY

ROMSEY ABBEY PARISH PROFILE Page 34

£0.00

£100,000.00

£200,000.00

£300,000.00

£400,000.00

£500,000.00

£600,000.00

2014 2015 2016

PCC of Romsey Financial Summary

Income Expenditure£0.00

£200,000.00

£400,000.00

£600,000.00

£800,000.00

£1,000,000.00

£1,200,000.00

£1,400,000.00

£1,600,000.00

£1,800,000.00

2014 2015 2016

PCC of Romsey Total Funds

A FINANCIALLY HEALTHY PARISH

For many years the PCC has benefited from PCC Treasurers who are Charted Accountants and who have given their

time and professional skills free of charge. Currently all book keeping is completed by the PCC Treasurer, however in

the New Year one of the Parish Administrators will become responsible for some of the routine book keeping tasks

under the Treasurer’s supervision. The PCC Treasurer also works closely with a volunteer Assistant Treasurer who is

responsible for day to day matters such as paying invoices. The current Independent Examiner (a paid professional

firm) has been in post for two years and was selected after a formal tender process.

The PCC Treasurer is responsible for

• Annual Accounts and Trustees reports

• Quarterly Management Accounts

• Staff salaries and pensions in liaison with the PCC Standing Committee

Full details of Annual Accounts and accompanying Trustees reports can be found at

http://beta.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regid=1133189&subid=0

The significant increase in funds in 2016 was due to the receipt of an endowment fund bequeathed by a member of

the Abbey congregation. In recent years Common Mission Fund (Parish Share) has been paid in full to the Diocese.

The Abbey’s Financial Resources Committee (FRC) meets regularly and reports to every PCC meeting. Major work

streams are:

• Finances

o Budgets and Bank Accounts

o Legacies

o Stewardship campaigns

o Utilities procurement

o Financial policies and procedures

o Income streams e.g. Abbey & Church Rooms lettings, Abbey events, Friends, Music in Romsey, etc.

• Risk Management

o Business Continuity plans

o General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

o Insurance

8. THE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT

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BACKGROUND

The idea of undertaking a major development to equip the Abbey to meet the mission needs of the 21st century has

grown over several years. An initial concept was developed and tested with the congregation and representative

townspeople and there was good indication of support for such a project. The input from these consultations

resulted in several changes to the project and we now believe we have reached the end of the requirements and

concept stage.

Keith Bamber, a member of the congregation and formerly Receiver General of Winchester Cathedral when they

undertook a major project, was asked to produce a costed plan for the next stage, the Development Phase, which

has been completed and will be ready to be launched in Spring 2018.

PROJECT OBJECTIVES

The project has six primary objectives

1. Conserve and re-establish the Saxon Rood in the history and worship of the Abbey and reopen the Abbess's

door. In earlier times the rood would have been at the heart of worship. This religious artwork is of national

importance. Originally in the Abbey it was moved to the North Cloister. From the Reformation it has been on

an exterior wall.

2. Provide a new Song School on the Monastic footprint to support the long musical heritage and traditions of

the Abbey and town. It will provide the same opportunities for the girls' choir as the traditional boys' choir

and will enable even closer cooperation with "Music in Romsey" and the triennial Romsey Festival.

3. Carry out conservation of the Medieval wall and ceiling paintings in the North Apsidal Chapel, and open it to

public access as an archive repository and a centre of information for reference and learning.

4. The different aspects of the Abbey's heritage provide a wonderful educational resource. The project will

provide the necessary space and facilities to support all age groups, in particular facilities for school

workshops, lectures, exhibitions and tours.

5. Enhance the visitor experience by helping the story of the Abbey come alive for 21st century visitors and

thereby raising the profile of and increasing footfall in the town. The project will provide accessible water in

the Abbey as well as visitor lavatories - neither of which exist at the moment.

6. Provide and update facilities to meet the requirements of the everyday work of the parish. A key element is

the removal of bulky and unsightly items, such as concert staging, that can currently only be stored in the

Abbey, thus opening more of the Norman building to public gaze.

PROJECT PHASES

The PCC considered that the project was too large to consider carrying it out a single project and so it has been

broken down into different stages. There will be a Development Phase and three separate delivery phases. The

project is now at the point where the Development Phase will be ready to start in Spring 2018.

DEVELOPMENT PHASE

Complete the design work to RIBA stage 1. Establish the appropriate structures and staffing to manage the Projects

and to undertake fund raising. Set up a new charitable trust to be the vehicle for raising the funds and managing the

project expenditure. Establish a Steering Group to manage the projects and appoint a Project Manager. Appoint a

fund raising consultant and prepare a fund raising strategy. Appoint temporary skills to assist in the preparation of a

stage one Delivery Phase application for a heritage grant.

8. THE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT

ROMSEY ABBEY PARISH PROFILE Page 36

DELIVERY PHASE STAGE 1

Enclosing and protecting the Saxon Rood. Creation of a free standing enclosed cloister linking a new Song Room to

the South Transept and reopening the Abbess's Door. The creation of the cloister and re-landscaping of the South

Garth provides space for visitor displays and exhibitions and a quiet outdoor area for relaxation and reflection. It will

bring the cloister and the rood back into the everyday life and worship in the Abbey. A larger Song Room will be

created on the foot print of the former western range of the cloister. This space will provide for rehearsals, Green

Room and toilet facilities for visiting musicians as well as the Abbey choirs. Romsey has a fine music tradition and the

Abbey works together with "Music in Romsey" to provide a superb setting for their many concerts. This move will

vacate the apsidal chapel so that restoration of the mediaeval wall paintings can take place in a later stage.

DELIVERY PHASE STAGE 2

A new storage block is to be built on the site of the old St. Lawrence's Church, the former parish church before the

Reformation and before the townspeople bought the Abbey from Henry VIII for £100. The deed of sale is one of the

Abbey's precious artefacts. The space vacated by the Song Room is an apsidal chapel. This will be restored to create

a scriptorium and continue the calligraphy tradition enjoyed by the Benedictine nuns of the Abbey Foundation. It will

house the Abbey archives and historic artefacts and provide facilities for research, study, quiet reflection and

counselling. The medieval wall paintings will be visible again to visitors.

DELIVERY PHASE STAGE 3

A gallery will be created around the West End of the Abbey. This will provide access to the Abbey from the Song

Room and meeting rooms to enable the gift and bookshop to be more satisfactorily separated from worship space. A

passenger lift will be installed giving access to the Song Room and accommodation for vergers, stewards, and other

volunteer helpers under the South Gallery.

9. DEMOGRAPHICS & STATISTICS

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DEMOGRAPHICS OF ROMSEY

At the 2011 Census, Romsey’s population was just under 17,000. Since then there have been significant housing

developments in the area, with over 800 new dwellings built and at least a further 1,300 planned. The population of

the Parish of Romsey now accounts for over half of the total population of the Deanery. There are many

homeowners, however there is also a substantial minority who are financially unable to purchase their own home.

Demographically, more than half of the population at the last census was in the 50+ age bracket. Most were white

and most identified as British. The majority identified as Christian, with ‘no religion’ the next biggest grouping.

The parish has a range of educational and vocational demography. Approximately one-fifth of people in the Test

Valley area have no qualifications and one-third have higher qualifications, with the majority educated to A-level or

equivalent. Approximately half of the population in the Test Valley are in social grades C1 and C2 (lower middle class

and skilled working class), with just under one-third in social grades A and B (upper middle and middle class). There

are areas of relative affluence as well as those of significant deprivation.

SOME PARISH STATISTICS

We have a large congregation of regular worshippers, with around 400 who attend at least one service each week.

We are often full to capacity for major festivals and special services including our annual Christingle, Crib Service,

Nine Lessons and Carols and the Christmas Midnight Eucharist. In addition, the Abbey hosts a large number of school

carol services, charity concerts and other events throughout December.

The statistics below are taken from the 2016 Statistics for Mission returns for both the Abbey and St Swithun.

Romsey Abbey St Swithun Total

Number on the electoral roll for the parish

524

Number over 16 who attend services on a usual Sunday

380 30 410

Number under 16 who attend services on a usual Sunday

50 0 50

Number in our Worshipping Community at end of 2016

Age 0-10

Age 11-17

Age 18-69

Age 70+

40

40

176

264

Age 18-70+

30 550

9. DEMOGRAPHICS & STATISTICS

ROMSEY ABBEY PARISH PROFILE Page 38

Romsey Abbey St Swithun Total

Total number attending worship at services on Easter Day/Easter Eve

694 32 726

Total number of people attending special services held for the congregation and local community during Advent

2163 0 2163

Total number of people attending special services held specifically for civic and school organisations during Advent

4190 0 4190

Total number attending worship at services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

2154 50 2204

Number of people baptised 80 3 83

Number of couples married 34 0 34

Number of funerals held in church 43 3 46

Number of funerals conducted at a crematorium 15 0 15

Number of visitors in a typical week 900 0 900

SECTION T 10. GROUPS & SOCIAL ACTIVITIES

ROMSEY ABBEY PARISH PROFILE Page 39

PARISH GROUPS

Within the parish there is a wide range of groups that meet on a regular basis to socialise, share their interests and

experiences, and explore their faith outside regular services. Needless to say, tea and cake are generally involved! In

addition to the Home Groups referred to elsewhere, well-established groups include the Mother’s Union which does

wonderful work in fundraising to support families at home and overseas, the Knitting Group whose members make

garments for charities around the world, the Children’s Society which plans many fundraising events including our

annual Christingle Service, and the Romsey Abbey and St Swithun’s Women’s Group, an informal and friendly group

that meets twice a month to enjoy a variety of guest speakers, outings and other activities.

The Mother’s Union preparing posies for Mothering Sunday

SOCIAL ACTIVITIES

As well as the regular group meetings we seek to offer a wide range of social activities to cater for all ages, interests

and budgets, enabling members of the congregation and the wider community to mix, have some fun and get to

know each other in an informal environment as well as raising funds to support the Abbey’s mission.

For a number of years the Friends of Romsey Abbey has held regular coffee mornings, an annual Friends dinner,

theatre trips and excursions to a variety of interesting locations including visits to the RNLI College at Poole and the

Didcot Railway Centre and a trip on a narrow boat on the Kennet and Avon Canal. These have been a great way of

engaging people beyond our immediate congregation as well as those who are regular worshippers.

SECTION T 10. GROUPS & SOCIAL ACTIVITIES

ROMSEY ABBEY PARISH PROFILE Page 40

Further activities have been organised in-house by our Fellowship and Fundraising (2Fs) committee. These have

included quiz evenings, talks by local speakers (often accompanied by a selection of delicious desserts), wine, beer

and ice-cream tours and open days to celebrate the work of the Abbey and local charities.

An ice-cream tour of the Abbey

SECTION T 11. PASTORAL REORGANISATION

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ROMSEY DEANERY

Romsey Deanery has a total population of around 45,000 with 18,000 in the town of Romsey. The population of the

town continues to grow with over 1,500 new homes either being built or subject to planning discussions. Romsey

represents the most significant centre of population and missional opportunity in the Deanery, and the Abbey is one

of the Deanery’s greatest missional assets. Growth and Christian impact in Romsey reverberate into the Deanery

well beyond the parish itself.

It is widely recognised that with eight stipendiary clergy in the Deanery, only one of whom currently serves in

Romsey, the distribution of clergy does not reflect the scale of opportunity nor distribution of population.

Nevertheless, addressing this is no easy matter.

A year ago, the Diocese moved to create a vacancy in the Deanery in part to open up a space in which changes could

be made. This has been added to by a further vacancy in an adjoining benefice, and an outstanding opportunity has

arisen to address questions of resource and deployment.

PROPOSED CHANGES

After extensive consultation the Deanery leadership team are close to submitting recommendations for pastoral

changes. These will bring to the ministry team in Romsey one stipendiary post from the rural parishes to the north

and west. Final local consultation is in hand. To progress to a final proposal we will need:

• Flexibility from our Deanery family in adjusting their local patterns of life and mission

• A modest amount of collective additional funding (£15k) from the benefices of the Deanery, including the Parish

of Romsey

• Continuing growth within our own parish of our service and support to life and mission in the wider Deanery.

This we already do, but something as large in its context as the Abbey Church, inevitably occupies significance on

a broader canvas

Various approaches to pastoral change have been considered and with this in mind, the Presentation to the living in

Romsey has been suspended. The proposal that is finally emerging would not however require any change

specifically to the Parish of Romsey, yet would bring us the additional clergy post. Once the scheme is implemented

there will be no need for the suspension to continue.

The person appointed to this role can consequently expect not to be Priest in Charge of Romsey for very long before

they become Vicar of Romsey, and there is even a chance that the suspension can be lifted before they arrive in

Romsey.