Priest talks on local radio to promote church's activities

Father Mike Sheffield, the parish priest at St George's Church, Waterlooville appeared as a special guest on Portsmouth radio station Express FM as part of a concerted attempt to raise the church's profile.
Father Mike Sheffield during his interview at Express FM with presenter Terry Powell.Father Mike Sheffield during his interview at Express FM with presenter Terry Powell.
Father Mike Sheffield during his interview at Express FM with presenter Terry Powell.

Presenter Terry Powell asked Father Mike questions about his faith, how he had been called to be ordained, and his many trips to Israel.

Father Mike also had the opportunity to discuss his favourite hymns and explain their significance to him, opting for Dear Lord and Father of Mankind, Be still for the Presence of the Lord, and Oh Praise Ye the Lord.

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Father Mike, said: ‘Appearing on Express FM was a great opportunity to be able to talk about St George’s Church to a much wider audience.

‘It is all part of the communications team’s plan to reach out to the community of Waterlooville and beyond and talk about all the wonderful stuff we do at church.

‘We would love the community to come and find out more about what we do and many will be surprised.’

Listener and member of the congregation Sandra Hewett, said: ‘It was brilliant! Very interesting and great listening.’

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Andy Graham, another listener, said: ‘It was a great interview with Father Mike. He spoke with real passion.’

Chris Gadd, the leader of the communications team at the church, said: ‘St George’s is the only church in the centre of the town. It’s open every day and it is an oasis of calm in our otherwise very busy lives.

‘We also want to communicate that what we do at the church may surprise people and challenge their conceptions of what church is all about.

‘All age groups attend and there are loads of social clubs and events. We would love people to come and visit us at a service, at one of our social events, or even just to come to sit in the church during the day for some peace and quiet. Whatever you choose we will make you feel welcome.’

The church’s website is due to relaunch later this month. For more details go to stgeorgesnews.org.