Peter Stannard has been an Associate Minister here at St Michael’s for 2 years. Peter has previously served in many different parishes throughout England as well as time as a Theological College Principal in Ghana.  We at Houghton have benefited greatly from his preaching, teaching, friendship and kindness. The congregation gathered on Sunday 7 April to thank him for his ministry and friendship and to wish him much joy and happiness in his retirement. The Rector thanked Peter for all his commitment, fellowship and hard work not only in Houghton, but also to The Church of England and the Anglican Communion. She then presented him with a gift from the congregation.  Peter then thanked the Rector, Margaret Lee and all the congregation for their warm welcome, support and friendship.  He said he was very pleased to be planning to settle in Houghton and to worship at St Michael’s, because everyone was so lovely! Peter then cut a very splendid Retirement Cake which everyone helped him eat!                                            But it was a bit like saying good bye and then hello, as Peter is planning to live in Houghton and to continue worshiping at St Michael’s.  So we look forward to sharing our Christian Pilgrimage with him in the years to come.