St Mary’s Church Welcomes New Associate Vicar

On Tuesday 14 July, St Mary’s Church, Upper Street welcomed a new Associate Vicar. Reverend Heather Valletta was formally licensed as Associate Vicar by the Right Reverend Rod Green, Bishop of Stepney.

The Licensing Service was attended by over 200 people including Islington Council’s Deputy Mayor, Councillor Jilani Chowdhury, local Councillor Saiqa Pandor and representatives from St Mary’s Primary School, Cloudesley and Islington Faith Forum. Following the ceremony, attendees gathered for a celebratory drink and light refreshments to welcome Rev. Heather to Islington.

Rev Heather joins St Mary’s from Heatherside Church in Guildford where she served as a Curate. She will be working closely with the clergy team to meet the expanding needs, makeup and size of the congregation at St Mary’s and its partner church, Hope Church Islington.

Rev Heather said: “I am over the moon to have joined St Mary's as Associate Vicar. I am excited for this new season and looking forward to getting to know and be part of the community of St Mary's. Thank you for such a wonderful welcome.”

Rev. James Hughesdon, Vicar of St Mary Islington and Hope Church, said: "We are delighted to welcome Heather to St Mary’s. Heather brings good experience and will play a key role in helping us to keep calling Islington home.”