In this issue:
- Bayside Blokes
- E M Tooth Developments
- Vale the Vicar
- AGM details
- Archbishop of Canterbury
We say goodbye to Reverend Andrew
“So long, farewell, auf weder sien, adieu”.
We challenge you not to have the famous tune of the Von Trapp children as an ear worm…
…but an apt reflection of what has to happen this weekend.
Rev Andrew is packing the house, loading the little red car and heading south to pastures new this weekend.
Not the bingo card item many of us had for 2026, including him… but the Holy Spirit has had her wilful and somewhat opaque way and new beginnings are ahead for us all.
There are many memories, smiles and poignant moments that are now part of our shared story as God’s faithful people here at the edge of the sea.
Download the full newsletter below:
Manly Parish Newletter 1st Feb 2026
And this week, the Wardens have a say
This Sunday marks Fr Andrew’s last week with us before he leaves to take up his new role in the Diocese of Newcastle. Andrew has been deeply loved in this parish and has offered faithful, generous and thoughtful leadership during his time at Manly.
We give thanks for Andrew’s ministry among us and pray God’s blessing on him as he begins this next chapter.
As we look ahead, it is important to be open about where we are as a parish. Since the sale of 99 Ernest Street and our move to Lota House, our financial position has continued to tighten, with costs exceeding income. While The Village development at Lota House is now well underway, with the first stage expected to be completed in late 2026, its benefits are still some time away. In the meantime, the parish is only able to sustain part time paid ministry.
The Wardens and Parish Council have been in active conversation with Bishop John about Manly’s future. There is strong agreement that Manly should continue as a separate parish and that closure is not an option. We are therefore pursuing models of shared and part time ministry, as encouraged by the Bishop, while recognising the current shortage of available clergy.
In the short term, the wardens and parish council are putting interim arrangements in place to ensure Sunday worship, pastoral care and essential parish life continue smoothly through to Easter. We ask for your prayers, patience and support as we navigate this transition together, trusting that God continues to call and sustain this community.