Raised in the Huon Valley in an orcharding family, I thank my mother for my early Christian experience. High School years boarding with my grandparents in Hobart opened up the world of learning and the joys of music.

Early adulthood passed in a blur of university study, early marriage, secondary teaching, the birth of Lysanne and a move out of Hobart in 1970 to the far North West where Karen and Chris were born. At this time I became involved in the setting up of one of the earliest playgroups in the state and, together with another counsellor, founded the Tasmanian Branch of the Nursing Mothers' Association of Australia (now ABA). Through this time God was very much part of my life.

Testing times followed as we moved after five years to the Derwent Valley and then back to Hobart. With the children in school, a return to study and teaching was possible. English as a Second Language teaching from 1982 until 1998 was followed by management of the ESL program (Tas Dept of Education) until my retirement two years ago.

Ordination wasn't part of my retirement plan. This calling by God caught me unawares at Women's 15 Cursillo last year. It became apparent later that the seeds were sown when I began lay reading, 12 years ago, at St John the Baptist Church, West Hobart. I'm grateful to Paul Cavanough, Geoff Bransgrove and the Diocesan Vocational Advisors for wise counsel and encouragement through the discernment process as I've come to accept this new vocation.

God has placed me in a vibrant parish with exceptional, godly leadership. Thank you, Neil and all at St James'/St Andrew's for your care and encouragement.

As a member of the St James'/St Andrew's ministry group, I'm one of many who preach, lead worship and serve in the local community. Calvary Hospital visiting, four Families outreach and Ogilvie High Chaplaincy committee involvement will continue. I welcome new challenges including theological study next year.

I'm blessed with a large, diverse, loving family. Where would I be without them? Tom's love and support have made this step possible.

God is good, ever gracious and ever faithful.