Joanna’s Church Story

• 

• 

• 

👥Start                                                                                                                                                     Joanna joined St Petroc’s Church in 2014 and quickly came to value both the friendships she found there and the social side of weekly church life. She also has a deep appreciation for the building itself and describes the worship as “just wonderful”.

Calling

When Joanna was asked to become a churchwarden, her initial reaction was one of hesitation. However, after prayer and careful reflection, her uncertainty turned into clarity. She recalls arriving at a firm and confident conclusion: “Yes, this is what I should do.”

Covid

Joanna took on the role six years ago, just before the Covid pandemic forced churches to close for several months. When St Petroc’s was able to reopen, Joanna and her fellow churchwarden carried the responsibility of ensuring social distancing measures were safely put in place.

Learning Curve

Stepping into the role proved to be a steep learning curve. Joanna had to quickly develop new skills, including managing sound systems and microphones—something entirely new to her.

Her confidence and resilience grew further when her fellow churchwarden, Andrew, was absent for several months due to serious illness. During this time, Joanna took on additional responsibilities, strengthening both her skills and her sense of calling.

When Andrew returned, they were able to divide responsibilities according to their strengths—Andrew focusing on technical and maintenance tasks, while Joanna took on pastoral care and events, alongside shared duties.

Joanna emphasises that the role requires real commitment. Weekly responsibilities include Sunday services, numerous emails, meetings, and keeping up with the busy and ever-changing life of the church.

A Volunteer with Many Roles

Beyond her duties as churchwarden, Joanna is involved in other aspects of church life. She volunteers at the Time Together, serving guests at tables. She has managed the market stall at St Petroc’s Christmas Tree Festival for nearly a decade and, for five to six years, has overseen the volunteer team preparing and serving the Maundy Thursday Agape meal.

Each November, Joanna also helps escort ministers during the town and church Remembrance services.

Reflection

Joanna speaks warmly and sincerely about her role:

“Being a churchwarden at St Petroc’s Church is a huge privilege. I’m aware it’s the largest parish church in Cornwall, with all that comes with this. I never take it for granted.”