A special church service was held in Peasedown St John to mark and celebrate the 20 years of dedication to the community by the village’s local vicar.

Revd Matthew Street, along with his wife, Jane, moved to Peasedown around two decades ago to take up the post of rector or priest-in-charge at St John’s Anglican Church.

And 20 years later, he continues to serve in this role. In addition to his responsibilities at St John’s in Peasedown, he also serves as the vicar of St Julian’s in Wellow, St James’ in Foxcote, and St Julian’s in Shoscombe.

On Sunday, January 12, parishioners, local residents and civic leaders gathered together to give thanks for Matthew and Jane’s 20 years of devotion to the community.

Nigel Vening is one of the church wardens at St John’s Church in Peasedown. He said: “We’re incredibly grateful for Matthew and Jane’s 20 years of support, encouragement, leadership and friendship. We couldn’t let this milestone pass without saying a special thank you and coming together, in prayer, to mark their years of service.”

Since Revd Matthew Street took up the post in January 2005, St John’s Church has expanded its activities and contributed to various community initiatives. These include the introduction of ‘Soul Food,’ a Sunday afternoon worship service aimed at providing a contemporary space for spiritual engagement.

The church has supported projects such as ‘Movement Worship Nights’ and ‘The Filling Station,’ which focus on modern styles of Christian worship and have gained recognition both nationally and internationally.

St John’s has also established The Hive Community Centre and manages the Somer Valley Foodbank, offering resources and support to the local area.

Further initiatives include the development of a pre-school, toy library, and after-school club for children and families, as well as providing a base for Peasedown’s Learning Tree Day Nursery Pre-School.

Support for wider civic projects such as the Party in the Park festival and the Dementia Friendly Peasedown initiative

Matthew Street’s 20 years as priest-in-charge means he is currently the fourth longest service Anglican vicar in the whole of the Diocese of Bath and Wells (which comprises some 400 churches) and is also the fourth longest serving vicar in Peasedown’s history. The record is currently held by Revd Gamlen, who served for 26 years from 1883 to 1908.

He is also currently serving in his second term as Area Dean for the Midsomer Norton Deanery, which involves supporting other vicars across the area and liaising with the Diocese of their behalf.

Revd Matthew Street said: “When Jane and I moved into the community all those years ago we never dreamt that we’d still be here 20 years later. What an incredible 20 years it’s been – full of sharing the Christian message with others and providing support and care for those in need.”

For details about the St J’s Group, visit the benefice website: www.stjsgroup.church, or contact the operations manager Rob Bubyer by emailing [email protected] or calling 07973 972018.