Tom Thomas – Vicar
Hello, I am Tom and I have been at St Christopher’s since 2010. I arrived first to be associate vicar to my predecessor Toby Howarth, was then made priest in charge in 2011 and subsequently vicar. It’s a privilege to be here in the rich mix of cultures and backgrounds which make up Sparkhill and Springfield and to be a part of the dynamic life of St Christopher’s and The Springfield Project. I enjoy watching football, Star Wars and coffee with cake.
Lucy Emo – Parish Administrator
Hi, I’m Lucy and I’ve been working at St Christopher’s since 2004. My role has changed somewhat over the years. I started as the secretary, which gradually morphed into financial administrator and now parish administrator. I look after the day-to-day finances of St Christopher’s, maintain records and files, support the staff team with administration and generally help where needed. I enjoy music and dancing, being with family and reading.
Debbie Gurling – Anna Chaplain
Hello, I am Debbie Gurling working as an Anna Chaplain for the Emmanuel group of churches - St John's Sparkhill; Christchurch Sparkbrook; St Christopher's Springfield; and St Edmunds Tyseley. In this role, I aim to focus on the spiritual care of all older people (mainly over 70). Although I am the first Anna Chaplain in Birmingham, I am part of a wider network of Anna Chaplains, all championing the spiritual needs of older people, which is developing throughout the U.K. I began this work in the summer 2019, and have 2 other volunteers from one of the other churches, who do this work with me.
Kam Kaur – Parish Missioner
Hello, I am Kam and I work at St Christopher’s as Parish Missioner. I am passionate about people finding freedom in Christ in the way I have, especially if they are women from the Asian community. I believe we can all experience God’s love for us, setting us free to know Jesus and live in the power of the Holy Spirit. I enjoy being busy and have three lovely daughters.
Rebecca Slater– Under 18s Ministry Facilitator
Hi I’m Rebecca Slater, Under-18s Ministry Facilitator. I’ve been part of St Christopher’s since 1998, have had 3 children grow up here and value being able to watch our church families grow and worship together.
I love encouraging children and young people to develop in their Christian faith and become fully integrated members of our church community. It is great to be able to support so many dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers in teaching, praying, laughing and living a life of faith alongside our children!
As well as this staff team, we’re also delighted to ‘share’ with The Springfield Project our wonderful site manager Curt Ryder, who looks after everything to do with the facilities at St Christopher’s and The Springfield Centre.