The Reverend Canon Dr James Theodosius has just been appointed the Rector of Holy Trinity Church, Skipton and St Augustine’s Draughton, we catch up with him as he starts his new role.

* James, tell us a bit about yourself.

Well, I’ve been a priest in the Church of England for 15 years, most recently as Vicar of Upper Wharfedale and Littondale, and as many of your readers will know a stunningly beautiful and unique parish in the heart of the Dales. Before that we moved from Exeter where I was the Chaplain to the University, overseeing the Christian community as well as the Multi Faith Chaplaincy Team. I am married to Mo and we have three teenage children and an ageing Welsh Springer Spaniel.

* Have you always been a vicar?

No, I have done a variety of different jobs including being a teacher of English and Drama as well as academic work at universities.

* Is that why your title is so long?

Yes, stupidly long, I agree! But that’s partly because of our surname which, whilst sounding Greek, we’ve so far traced back to the 1600s in Wales. The ‘Dr’ bit is because I have a Phd in Philosophy and the Canon bit is because I am also attached to Ripon Cathedral as an Honourary Canon. Part of that role means that I am a member of the Ripon Cathedral Rural Forum which seeks to facilitate debate and conversation between different organisations and be an advocate for rural issues. In the current climate it is particularly important.

* It’s a strange time to start as Rector of Holy Trinity, are you looking forward to it?

Absolutely! Holy Trinity Skipton has a great history and Skipton is a fabulous town with significant and important connections with the surrounding Dales and countryside - the fact that Draughton and other villages are part of the parish symbolises the vital role we have in being able to uniquely bring together urban and rural issues. This is something our country desperately needs at present.

Yes, it is a challenging time and a significant struggle for a good many people, and we shouldn’t underestimate the difficulties ahead. But if people work together across boundaries and celebrate our common humanity and dignity, then we will notice the hardship of our neighbour and look to bring hope and transformation as we rebuild the future.

* What are your hopes for Holy Trinity church?

That we can serve the community well; that we will build upon an utterly inclusive welcome to all who enter our doors irrespective of background and identity and divisive social stigmas; that we will not shy away from the still very radical message of Jesus: peace, mercy, forgiveness and unconditional love; and that we will be open to and continually encourage a robust, open, non-judgmental and vibrant conversation about the truth and reality of God, especially amongst the young. That care for the environment and the beauty of God’s creation will be foremost in our hearts.

* And when you’re relaxing?

I like to keep up with the highs and lows of Nottingham Forest and at present the highs of the Exeter Chiefs. I love most sports, especially rugby and cricket. I love walking and when I get into a rhythm I enjoy running ( the ‘when’ being the significant word). Music of every genre and variety - I love singing and writing, it’s very important to me, and I torment the guitar. All the arts, but theatre is brilliant.

During the Covid restrictions, Holy Trinity is open for everyone on Sunday Mornings for the 9.45am service and also Wednesdays from 8.30 to 1.00pm with a service at 10.45am.