A new priest from Australia was welcomed at a special service led by the Bishop of St Asaph in Flintshire yesterday (March 3).

The Rev’d. Andrea de Vaal Horciu will be joining the ministry team of the Anglican churches in Holywell and will be focussing her ministry, especially on the Holway Estate in the town.

Andrea was born in Liverpool, and ministry to children, youth and families has taken her to various places in England, Switzerland, Romania, Wales, and Australia.

This has included working with Romanian street children and in a hospital for children with HIV and AIDS.

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In Canberra, she worked as a school chaplain and a disability chaplain.  It was through her work in specialist schools that Andrea recognised the calling to journey more deeply with families affected by disability, realising that all people need the opportunity to experience the love of God and hear the gospel message.

Andrea is excited to move back to north Wales after 16 years living in Canberra, and looks forward to settling into life in Holywell and getting to know the local area and people.

Bishop Gregory Cameron said: "I am delighted to welcome Andrea back to the area in which she has been rooted in the past. 

"As she returns from her ministry in Australia, Andrea will have much to offer us in living out the Gospel in north Wales today."