What’s the song, a long and winding road? A perfect metaphor for Laurina’s journey thus far. Thankfully, it now seems like the road has straightened a little, and she excited to see what ordained ministry and life as a curate will hold.
It all started with her dressing in choir robes at five and now look – more robes! Laurina is Welsh but has lived in Shropshire for over 30 years. Before that she has lived all over the world and attended boarding school – spot the army brat. Laurina and her husband Mike have two adult children and they are looking forward to the novelty of inside stairs and a garden having lived in a flat since they married over 30 years ago.
Laurina has been blessed with a variety of work roles including working in Kuwait and Oman, at a sixth form college which led to her supporting the chaplaincy team and staff as a faith ambassador. Latterly, Laurina has been Director of Faith and Religious Groups for The Venues Collection, Yarnfield Park near Stone in the centre of our diocese. A role created just for her (that’s almost scriptural?), it has led to many denominational and different faith group rabbit holes and a deep appreciation for the diversity of God’s presence and purpose.
The fact that she is a member of our Community of Evangelists might give you a clue as to where her heart lies: she sees evangelism as making connections, building community and showing those who don’t know the love Jesus has for them and seeking new (and reminding ourselves of old) ways to share what has been a life changing connection for her.
A word for those feeling that nudge that won’t go away: she says "lean into the first step, don’t leap to the last was a great piece of advice for her. It’s right to be wary, it’s a big thing and not something to embark on lightly but hold it lightly – God is good and faithful and will be with you. As the slogan says …. Just do it!"