Introducing Reverend Tom Darwent
There will be much joy and shouts of celebration in the parish of Ashtead as we welcome Revd Tom Darwent, our newly appointed Rector, at his Collation Service later this year. After what seems like a long period of vacancy we are excited for what the future holds.
Born in Edmonton in North London, Tom grew up in a Christian family, making a firm commitment to Christ at 15. Leaving home in 1993, Tom attended Robinson College, Cambridge, studying Social and Political Sciences.
“I really benefited from the vibrant Christian community in Cambridge.” says Tom. “After graduation I returned to London to work. I got involved in my local church, St Mark’s Battersea Rise, moving from helping with youth work and Life Group leading, to preaching, to PCC membership, to Church Warden.”
In 2004 Tom made a bold decision to leave his job to study full-time on the Cornhill Training Course, a preaching and theology course based in London, whilst also still serving at St Mark’s and exploring the possibility of ordination. He was accepted for ordination training later that year. After completing a BA in Theology which incorporated a number of placements, including a Summer in Australia, Tom moved to Guildford Diocese for his curacy at Holy Trinity, Claygate.
“This was a really fruitful time, as the church grew significantly and I played my part in developing a large young adults’ ministry there. This is where I met my wife Kate.”
Tom took up the post of Associate Rector at St Saviour’s, Guildford in 2011, soon after which he and Kate married, welcoming two children (Clara and Harry) in the years that followed. The family have been based in Camberley since 2016, and though they are sad to leave, they are excited about helping SGSG fulfil its potential.
“It is a privilege and a joy to have been appointed to this role” says Tom, “I first felt God laying Ashtead on my heart some time ago. It is a church with wonderful people, a rich heritage and incredible resources.”
Andy & Malcolm, (your Churchwardens)