Hermitage rector made Honorary Canon

Team rector recently appointed as Honorary Canon of Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford

A TEAM rector in Hermitage, who is also an Area Dean of Newbury, was recently appointed as Honorary Canon of Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford.

The Rev. Rita Ball was among six new honorary canons installed in Christ Church at Evensong in Oxford.

Mrs Ball became team rector in Hermitage three years ago, overseeing churches in Cold Ash, Hermitage, Hampstead Norreys, Yattendon, Frilsham, Compton and East Ilsley, and leading a team of both ordained and lay ministers.

She is also an Area Dean of Newbury, with a deanery stretching from Hungerford to Thatcham, and from the Hampshire border, to the Ridgeway in the north.

Fortunately, she said, her new role did not involve an arduous workload, but enabled a stronger link between the cathedral and parishes of the diocese, promoting mutual support in mission and ministry.

“Those installed represented all areas of the diocese of Oxford and a variety of ministries and it was a great privilege to be part of that group," said Mrs Ball.

Married to Christopher Ball, a local solicitor and amateur golfer, their four children all attended St Bartholomew's School in Newbury and they have seven grandchildren. Ordained in 1997, Mrs Ball was a non-stipendiary minister at St. George the Martyr, Wash Common, for six years and then rector of the rural benefice of Wantage Downs for five years.

The Bishop of Oxford, the Rt Rev. John Pritchard, said he was “delighted” to acknowledge the ministry of the six people in this way.

“They all bring a great deal to the life and work of the church and it is good to have the opportunity to celebrate their gifts and service,” said the Bishop.