Today was quite a special and emotional day at St Marks. I popped into the end of the service, which was John’s last service, to share in the good will celebrations.

It will be strange to think that John is no longer at St marks. This is a man I have respected, been infuriated by, been loved by, loved, encouraged by and been a friend of. I have learnt from him many things – in partiular how to take things with grace. We have many different views, which possibly goes with being from different eras, but we have always maintained a care and respect for each other.

I will miss this encouraging man being around the place. The amount of tears running around the place this morning showed how much of a difference this man has made in peoples lives – as did the massive collection that wa staken up for his gifts over the last few weeks.

After the service we joined others at our local curry house for a goodbye meal.

During the service John was called St John, married to St. Judith. Enjoy retirement together – you deserve it.