Revd David Parry becomes new Archdeacon of Bangor

Revd David Parry was born in Scotland, and grew up in Singapore and England. He worked in mental health and rural development before post-graduate Social Work study. Having become a Christian, David took a ‘year out’ from local authority Child Protection to volunteer as a parish evangelist with Derby City Mission and planted a Chinese church. The call to ordination meant that instead of resuming his Social Work career David moved to Bristol, training at Trinity College then as curate in a housing estate ecumenical partnership.

Whilst vicar in two Liverpool parishes, from 1997 to 2016, David undertook major church building projects, was an honorary Deaf chaplain and Cathedral Canon, Area Dean and (for 11 years) the Director of Ordinands. More lay and ordained vocations were encouraged by the team he developed, including young, disabled, ethnic minority and working-class candidates.

Appointed as incumbent for the creation of Bro Celynnin Ministry Area, David also became Conwy Town’s first new vicar in 30 years. Bro Celynnin sustained community life in the villages and towns during the Pandemic but also established a food poverty project and online ministry which have continued ever since. Creative use of ancient church buildings, Art, Music and the landscape has allowed ‘Fresh Expressions’ of worship, visitor welcome and parish ministry to flourish.

David is married to Eryl, a Pioneer Priest and ‘Welsh Scouser.’ They have two adult daughters, one of whom lives in Zambia. David is a runner and supports Everton FC (“through thick and thin – mostly thin!”)

David commented, “I was ‘gobsmacked’ by this invitation, after seven such happy years in the Conwy Valley. However, it will be a privilege to work more closely with and pray for the people of our Ministry Areas, diocesan colleagues and Archbishop Andy. I am confident that the redeeming love of Jesus Christ is the hope that can be shared in every community we serve and every season of our lives.”

David’s last Sunday in Bro Celynnin will be 13 August. He will be installed as Archdeacon in September.

The Archbishop of Wales, the Most Revd Andrew John, says “I am delighted that David is joining the Bishop’s Council and has accepted my invitation to serve as Archdeacon of Bangor. He brings a wealth of pastoral experience and extensive knowledge of this Diocese. I know he will serve with colleagues energetically and wisely”.