THE Archdeacon of Portsdown, the Ven Jenny Rowley, has announced that she will step down from her post at the end of January.

“It has been a huge privilege to serve as Archdeacon of Portsdown in this beautiful diocese for nearly four years,” said Jenny.

“Bishop Jonathan and I have, together, discerned that this is the right moment to step away from those responsibilities and enable the diocese to continue to flourish as we move into the next phase of life for these deaneries, and the diocese as a whole. I will therefore be resigning from the post of Archdeacon of Portsdown with effect from 31 January 2024.

“I am grateful to colleagues past and present for friendship and encouragement in amongst the joys and challenges of my time here. I move into the position of chief cheerleader for Bishop Jonathan and those I have shared the last four years with, as you seek and shape the Kingdom in this very special part of God’s world.”

And the Bishop of Portsmouth, the Rt Rev Jonathan Frost, said: “Archdeacon Jenny has made many friends during her four years as Archdeacon of Portsdown. I value Jenny’s pastoral gifts, wonderful sense of humour, and her readiness to encourage ministry in every situation she encounters.

“On a personal level I will always be grateful for the support Jenny offered me in the early stages of my ministry in the diocese. She leaves with my blessing and the love of many friends in the diocese.”

Arrangements for interim cover will be made in the New Year.