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Bishop Cherry is pleased to announce that Revd Philip Godsell has been appointed Ministry Area Leader for the Mid-Torfaen Ministry Area.Philip is currently serving as a vicar in the ministry area, so is already a familiar face!He says: "Ministry in the Welsh valleys poses several unique challenges but I have found it to be an incredibly rewarding experience so far, learning to adapt and diversify to ensure we remember the rich cultural and religious history, whilst appreciating we also face various contemporary issues impacted by the Post-Industrial decline and the rapid changes in our society. Resilience and a deep commitment to the well-being of all means being creative when persevering to overcome these challenges, heavily focused on community outreach with a strong focus on social and economic issues, in addition to spiritual matters. All these talents are already imbued within the congregations of the Mid Torfaen Ministry Area and I am excited to have the opportunity to lead our group of churches to further serve our communities, encapsulating the vision of our Diocese."Born in South Wales, Philip was brought up within a Catholic Christian family where he was involved in church life from a very early age.After University he worked in the Engineering sector throughout Europe and beyond, before attending theological college and being ordained to serve within Monmouth.He adds: "Living in the spirit of the Benedictine tradition of prayer and work whilst continuing my academic study beyond the walls of a theological college, has proven to provide me with a more rounded approach to God which has served me well, understanding how He is at work in the Valleys. "Having served in an inner-city environment, God eventually called me to the South Wales Valleys and I would consider myself deeply pastorally minded and confident in faith with the abilities required for the further ministry that lies ahead of me."Philip has a passion for a decent coffee bean and the love of an adorable Spanish Water Dog and considers himself deeply pastorally minded and confident in faith with the abilities required for the further ministry that lies ahead of him.Once the necessary DBS checks have been completed a date for the licensing service will be confirmed.Please pray for Philip has he prepares to take on this significant role and the additional responsibilities that go with it.