A woman who has been preaching in chapels in the Fens for half a century was thanked in a celebration service in Wisbech.
Janet Killingback has been a Methodist local preacher since 1968.
In a service at Trinity Methodist Church in Wisbech, Janet was given a long service certificate, signed by the president and vice president of the Methodist Conference.
Rev Stevenson said: “It’s wonderful to be part of today’s service recognising Janet’s faithfulness to God’s calling on her life as a methodist local preacher over the last 50 years.
“Methodist workshop across our churches would not be possible without the thousands of people like Janet who serve God in this way.”
The congregation sang one of Janet’s favourite hymns by Charles Wesley, O Thou Who Camest From Above.
Throughout its history, the Methodist Church has recognised that people other than ordained ministers can lead worship and preach.
The Rev Julian Pursehouse, chair of the East Anglia Methodist District, said: “The Methodist Church is at its best when it enables the faithful and dedicated ministry of lay people.
“Janet is a fine example of this through her long service as a local preacher. I am delighted that I come across so many examples of this across the East Anglia District of the Methodist Church.”
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