baptist,disability,ecumenical,equality,finance,gender identity,justice,mental health,neurodiversity,ordination,sexuality

THE REVD CANON SARAH GOWER

PROPOSER: The Revd Canon James Blandford-Baker

SECONDER: The Revd Canon Lynda Davies

GENERAL SYNOD CALLING
Whilst I have pondered, in the past, whether I am being called to General Synod, it is
this year that I have particularly felt that pull. This year, it’s something I cannot ignore.
It feels like now is the time for coming together, for working out how we become a
prophetic voice in our world – not one of division, but one that works through
difference and diversity to bring unity and peace. God has made us all so wonderfully
and amazingly different, yet he calls us to be one through his Son, Jesus Christ. I am
not underestimating or ignoring the complexities involved but I am embracing the
opportunity to be part of this new General Synod and what we may be able to do
together and how we do it.

WHO I AM
I grew up in England, Wales briefly and Scotland, and with an Irish grandfather, I like
to think of myself as part of the whole of the UK. My moves and my upbringing have
helped me to be more tolerant of change, perhaps, although it does not always work
that way, and of being able to meet others where we are. I am married to David, now
retired from teaching. I have had the privilege of working in different jobs – as an
insurance broker, especially in mortgage and pensions, and as part of the Investors in
People programme. In an independent school on the edges of London and Essex, I was
the librarian with responsibility for the libraries across the junior and secondary school,
teaching some history (and Latin!); and as deputy head of one of the four day houses.
Then, I felt God calling me to be ordained. It was a call I explored and followed,
resulting in my ordination as deacon in 2009.

FAITH
Growing up in a Christian family, I encountered God at a young age; and gave my life
to God when I was 10, determining that I would like to be a missionary. Whilst my

young thoughts have not materialised, nine months in Senegal with a missionary
organisation brought huge learning, challenge and blessing. This is how I see our
journeys with God – in encounters with God and with one another.

ELY
In my time since ordination, I have been Curate, Priest, Incumbent, Rural Dean,
Ecumenical Adviser and the Chair of Clergy, all in this diocese. Ely has been at the
heart of my Church of England life. Prior to that I have been a part of other
denominations, having grown up in the Baptist Church and Church of Scotland. This
experience has given me an appreciation for difference and the gift we find in one
another, and what we can learn.

WHAT I CAN OFFER
• A heart for God, a heart for people and a heart for the Church of England.
• I have seen, participated in, guided, led and been led in and through the different
local and diocesan synodical procedures and find myself enjoying them.
• I also enjoy being at the heart of the communities we serve whether in conversation
with one person or in a community gathering which I may or not be leading.
• I am a member of the Finance Committee for the diocese, and of Bishop’s Council,
with experience as a church treasurer.
• I have a deep longing to see how we can move forward as the Church of England;
I am someone who brings people together, who seeks to see what is possible, and
to build on that; and even to see how we can build on what seems impossible.
• I care about us as a church being visible in our communities, as somewhere for
people to find welcome, peace, healing, reconciliation, love and acceptance.
• I would like to see us working together, not only within ourselves but with other
denominations and agencies to bring justice and peace for those who most need it
across our communities and our country.
• I am committed to equality for everyone, at all levels and roles within the church,
regardless of disability, economic power, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, learning
disability, mental health, neurodiversity, or sexuality.
• I am a good listener and I have a great sense of humour, well I think so!

DO BE IN TOUCH
Do be in touch with me if you have any further questions. I would love to hear from
you – [email protected] or 01733 394411.

THANK YOU
Thank you so much for reading my statement and if you felt able to make me your first
preference or high on the list, I would be thrilled.

Thank you so much.
Sarah