I grew up in Rancho Cucamonga in Southern California and did a degree in business communications and theology in San Diego before moving to Nottingham in my mid twenties to do a Masters.

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My 'short' trip abroad turned into something rather different when I met my wife, Jo.

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I went on to study for a PhD in Durham and worked as an academic researcher.

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Just when I thought I had my life all planned out, I felt God's call to pursue ordination in the Church of England.

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All the scattered bits of my life's journey began to point to this one vocation and I have never looked back!

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I trained for ministry at Ripon College, Cuddesdon, and for the last four years I served my curacy at Earley St Nicolas in east Reading.

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During this time, I also served as a part-time chaplain to the Bishop of Reading and taught as a theological educator for the Diocese of Oxford.

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Along the way, Jo and I have been blessed with two beautiful boys, Ted and Gregory.

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I enjoy time with friends and family, adventures with our boys, reading fiction, politics and theology and relaxing with a good boxset.

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We are delighted to call Oakley our new home.

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It is such a joy to be with you.

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Thank you for your prayers, encouragement and welcome

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ben@oww.church