The Diocese of Southwark has appointed a Wimbledon vicar to a new role as Dean of Revitalisation. It says the new position will sit in the Mission and Ministry team and will play a key role in helping parishes across the Diocese to grow and innovate.

Rev Charlie Lamont who is currently vicar of St Andrew's Church in Wimbledon, will take up the post, which has a fixed five-year term, after Easter.

Speaking about the appointment, the Bishop of Southwark Rt Rev Christopher Chessun said:

“Charlie brings great energy and a wealth of experience to this post as well as a deep commitment to the flourishing of all of our parishes. At the heart of our vision for the future is the growth and vitality of our local churches and I am delighted that Charlie will be joining the team in supporting this work.”

Working together with the Archdeacons, Rev Charlie will focus mainly on the growth, vitality and wellbeing of churches that have smaller regular attendance figures. He will play a key role in the creation and delivery of a two-year transformation programme that is focused on helping to revitalise parishes.

“We know that there is a huge amount of creativity to be found amongst our smaller churches,” said Rev Charlie. “I’m looking forward to working with parishes from a wide range of traditions to help focus on Gospel ministry, unlock the potential that the local church has in building the kingdom of God, and help them to discover new life and possibilities in growing deeper and wider in Jesus.”

In welcoming the new appointment, the Archdeacon of Lambeth, Simon Gates said :

“He has revitalised St Andrew’s Wimbledon and he will now use his expertise to work alongside parishes in their own renewal.”

The role is to be initially funded by the Southwark Vision Development Fund.