The first service will be held at the newly revamped Minster at 11am on Sunday.

The service marks the start of a new era for the Anglican community in Preston following the launch of the Resourcing Parish, which brings together the parishes of St George’s and the Minster in the city centre.

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In January, the Church of England’s National Strategic Investment Board announced it would invest £1.5m into creating the new resourcing parish.

Over summer, work has been carried out to improve the facilities in the Minster in Church Street, to include catering facilities and multi-purpose space.

Two new vicars, Rev Sam Haigh and Father David Craven have been appointed to serve the congregations – Rev Sam in the Evangelical tradition and Fr David in the Anglo-Catholic tradition.

New Assistant Vicars, Rev. Tim Roberts and Rev. Jason Gardner, are also now in place and support staff such as a worship leader; children and family worker as well as operational and administrative support have all been appointed since the initial investment announcement.

Read more: A warm welcome to new clergymen Sam and David

On Wednesday, the two new vicars welcomed the city’s dignitaries into the Minster to launch the Resourcing Parish, which aims to transform the church community in Preston and the surrounding area.

As the Minster filled up for the Civic Service, Rev. Sam said: “Preston Minster holds a special place in the life of Preston and we are delighted to be able to open the doors to our partners from the city and around the County on this historic occasion.

“As a church we are passionate about seeing Preston continue to develop and prosper.

“We believe that Jesus is good news for every person in Preston and we are also looking forward to throwing open the doors to the people of Preston this Sunday, September 29, and every Sunday after that, to welcome them.”

Father David added: “I’m really excited about the launch of Preston Resourcing Parish.

“A lot of hard work has gone into making this a reality and it’s fantastic to see something new being birthed in the city centre.

“It’s my prayer that, with the Minster in partnership with St George’s, we may be able to reach out with the love of Christ and see lives changed and the Preston transformed.”

The first service will be held at Preston Minster at 11am on Sunday. Services will continue as usual at St George’s.

What do you think of the plans for Preston? Leave your comments below.