Dean Sempell’s last official Sunday in Bathurst will be June 20, when he will celebrate and preach at both the morning service and at Choral Evensong. He will start work at St James’ on July1, which is also the day of his induction service.

“Our time in Bathurst has provided much joy for us as a family because of the many wonderful friendships and experiences we have had during our time here. It is therefore not easy to leave,” Dean Sempell said.

“Yet, I also look forward to doing something new in a parish that has been, and continues to be, so formative in the life of the Anglican Church of Australia.”

St James’ Church is the oldest church building in Sydney, and was consecrated in 1824. The building was designed by colonial architect Francis Greenway as part of the massive development program ordered by Governor Lachlan Macquarie.

The parish is made up of a diverse group of people coming from across the Sydney region, and it has built up a most significant ministry through the conduct of its worship and music programs over its 186-year history.

The parish is also a centre of Christian education and spiritual nurture through the work of the St James’ Institute and its many other parish activities.

The Sister Freda Mission, based at St James’, provides for the welfare of many needy people who are drawn to the church.

Because of its location, St James’ has a special relationship with the City of Sydney and to those who work in the legal, financial and medical professions, Sydney Hospital, the NSW Parliament and in the many retail stores nearby.

“All of this will certainly provide a great challenge for me – especially as I adapt to a busy inner-city ministry that has a rigorous approach to its missional, pastoral, educational and liturgical activities,” Dean Sempell said.