Ian was appointed Vicar and senior minister in 2009 with overall responsibility for the worship, ministry and mission of St Mark’s. A graduate of both Sheffield University and Cambridge, he is a naturally modest, friendly and essentially committed leader and mentor.
In addition to the regular programme of activities and responsibilities, Ian strives to help St Mark’s flourish and bear witness to an alternative embodiment of Christian faith – one rooted in the vision and vocation of Jesus whilst acknowledging differing insights and learning acquired through the centuries.
He works full-time at St Mark’s, but also chairs an IT consultancy, is involved in teaching theology and ministerial formation and contributes to various theological seminars, think-tanks and writing groups. These are some of his ‘conversation partners’ who help ground his ministry. Church members really appreciate this ‘know-how’ which he uses to good effect; to reflect, to debate, to inform and to challenge when necessary. He uses his expertise to push forward plans for growth and to set up open discussions on various questions of faith.
Ian is married to Liz and they share their home with Tess, a Golden Retriever and contributor to our Church magazine! Tess has an uncanny knack of knowing ‘what’s what’ and has, rightly, earned the affection of all those who meet her.
Ian loves reading, listening to classical music and walking in the Scottish islands, Edinburgh, Northumberland and Holy Island – with Tess leading the way!