It’s the end of an era in Long Sutton this Sunday (March 23) as Father Jonathan Sibley steps down as vicar of St Mary’s on his 70th birthday.
It marks the end of 23 years at the church and 38 as a minister.
He’ll share his final service with a host of guests and he will also receive The Order of St George at the 10.30am service.
“It’s really been a privilege to be the vicar here in Long Sutton and in this county for so long,” said Fr Sibley. “It’s been wonderful being here and it feels like home, which is part of the reason we’re staying in Long Sutton.
“It’s a fantastic community and very appreciative.
“Many thanks go to everyone who has been involved here during my time in the role.”
Fr Sibley, who is married to Jeanne, grew up in Bushey, Hertfordshire, and after training for the priesthood in Cambridgeshire and Oxfordshire, he was a vicar in Reading.
During that time he was also chaplain of Thames Valley Police and been involved with vocational work within the church. In his 23 years in Long Sutton, Fr Sibley has formed the Social Issues in South Lincolnshire Group, something he’ll continue to work with after retirement alongside the University of Lincoln.
He’s also been involved with a host of local groups including the Lincolnshire Resilience Forum, the YMCA and Primary Care Network.
For his community work he’s been invited to join the Order of St George, which he was nominated for by Richard Parish. He and South Holland and the Deepings MP Sir John Hayes will be among those in attendance on Sunday.
There will also be a quarter peal of bells before the service for Fr Sibley and a full three-hour peal after.
“It’s a real honour,” he continued. “It’s all quite daunting and exciting but also very humbling.
“My time in Long Sutton has been incredible thanks to all the wonderful people here.”
