Hilary has been our much loved Rector for the last few years, and she will be greatly missed when she moves to Gloucester in January. There will be a leaving service for her here on 4th January at 7.30 pm in St Andrew’s Colyton.
From the Exeter Diocesan website:
An “outstanding vicar” from the Diocese of Exeter has been appointed as the next Archdeacon of Gloucester.
The Revd Preb Hilary Dawson, Rector of Holyford Mission Community based in Colyford, is to take up the role made vacant when the former archdeacon, Jackie Searle, was made Bishop of Crediton. Hilary has also been appointed a residentiary canon of Gloucester Cathedral.
The news was announced by the Bishop of Gloucester, the Rt Revd Rachel Treweek. Hilary will work closely with Bishop Rachel and her senior staff team, and the Dean of Gloucester in the leadership of the diocese.
The Bishop of Exeter, the Rt Revd Robert Atwell, said: “I am delighted for Hilary and the Diocese of Gloucester by her appointment as Archdeacon of Gloucester. She will be sorely missed by her many friends in Devon. She has been an outstanding vicar in the diocese and is greatly loved.”
Hilary will commence her new role in January 2019 and is looking forward to getting started. She said, “I am delighted to be going to the Diocese of Gloucester and getting to know all the people and places of the diocese.”
Bishop Rachel said: “I am delighted that Hilary is coming to the cathedral as a residentiary canon as well as being the new archdeacon. It is a rare and wonderful post and I know Hilary will bring new gifts and blessings to the role and, in particular, the joyous partnership here between diocese and cathedral. Welcome Hilary!”
Hilary is married to Richard and they have two grown up children, Michael and Eleanor.
Hilary was born and brought up in Devon and was a teacher for 18 years. She trained for ministry with South West Ministry Training Course and was awarded an MA in Biblical Studies from Exeter University.
Hilary will be licensed and installed in Gloucester Cathedral on Sunday 27 January.
Dear Hilary
I haven’t known you for very long but your warm, caring manner made an immediate impact on me and I have really valued sharing with you.
We will miss you so much in our community but you will be a true blessing to Gloucester. I wish you every success and happiness as the new Archdeacon of Gloucester!
Lovely and special prayers to you and Richard Sue McCoulough