Father Jim

It was my colleague, Father Jim Minchin's, 50 year anniversary of his ordination on Sunday.
It's a rather curious thought that I was "in utero" when he was sweltering in a hot and stuffy cathedral waiting for his turn in front of the Archbishop, waiting to have hands laid on his head. Jim reminisced that he hadn't noticed the heat, as he was in cloud 9! A common experience amongst those being ordained, I have observed.

Fr Jim is a fine team member, offering his wide knowledge of hymns, biblical study and liturgical experience for the parish (and myself) to benefit from.

Jim was keen to wear his batik shirt to mark his long association with Malaysia and Singapore. Whilst working as a member of clergy in SE Asia, he infamously wrote a book about the political leadership of Singapore and found himself barred from the country. The batik cotton was presented to him by some ex-parishoners who were from Singapore, so it conjures up good and strong memories.

Although officially retired from full time ministry, I am glad that he still finds joy and energy in presiding at 2 of our 4 Sunday services.
Thanks Jim, and congratulations!

Oh, and yes he IS a distant relative of the West Australian "Matilda" composer , TIM Minchin