Hear
the voice of Peter Goodrich
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A history graduate of Durham University who trained for the
Ministry
at Cuddesdon Theological College, Oxford, (during the Principalship of
Robert Runcie), Fr Peter Goodrich became vicar in November 1972, moving
to St Faith`s from St Margaret`s, Anfield. After the innovative and
liturgical
reforms witnessed during the incumbency of his predecessor, Fr Peter
exercised
an effective and valuable ministry of steady consolidation. An
enthusiastic
believer in committees and groups, he saw during his ministry PCC
members
and others assuming responsibility in caring for various aspects of
parish
concern, such as Missionary and Pastoral, Education, Finance,
Buildings,
Worship and Social Events. During his eleven years at St Faith`s
membership
of the uniformed organisations (Guides, Scouts, Cubs and Brownies)
flourished,
as did other church groups: Horsfall ladies (named after the founder),
the choir, servers and newly-formed men`s group. Paris retreats were
held
each year, at Foxhill or Chester Retreat House, and Quiet Afternoons,
preparing
for the approaching seasons of Advent and Lent, proved popular and were
well supported. The moving and inspirational Advent Carol Service
became
an annual event and, to strengthen the bonds of parish life, “Parish
Centres”
were created (and sustained in smaller measure to the present day). In
1978 Fr Peter was appointed Area Dean of Bootle - a position he held
until
his departure in 1983 to pastures new, in the fields and farmlands of
Upholland.
Throughout his time at St Faith`s Peter Goodrich enjoyed the strong and
faithful support and encouragement of his wife, Margaret, and their two
sons, Nigel and Julian. In 1989 he was made an Honorary Canon of
Liverpool
Cathedral and in 1994 was appointed Diocesan Director for Local
Non-Stipendiary
Ministry, and Rector of Halsall.
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