Ruth Crosland

Ruth Crosland was licensed as a Lay Reader in 2007 and has been at the same church in Bournemouth for a very long time! She was fortunate to retire recently from a full-time long career as a Social Worker, working mainly in hospitals where she spent time trying to help people ‘escape’!

On her retirement wish list was to travel more, which she has been able to do in a lovely VW camper van, spend more time with Mollie, her little cross breed terrier, and have more fun!

Following serving as a Licensed Lay Minister for just over 16 years, Ruth felt the call to be ordained; after navigating the discernment process and additional training, Ruth was ordained Deacon in Winchester Cathedral in June 2024. ‘It was the most amazing day of my life’, says Ruth, ‘in the presence of God and so many friends and colleagues who have supported me on my journey.’ Ruth is now an Assistant Curate within the AVC Benefice, and Focal Minister for the churches of St Boniface, Woodgreen and St Mary’s, Hale.