Meet the team at Harling United Benefice

The Reverend Sarah Oakland: The Rector

I was born in North Norfolk (both parents local people), went to school in Norwich and trained as a teacher in London. On returning to Norfolk I taught in three Norfolk High Schools over a period of about eighteen years. I am married to Mark, a Yorkshireman, we have two daughters, Holly and Vita. Holly, and her daughter Maddy, live with us: Vita will remain living and working in London. My elderly father still lives in Norwich.

We lived in Ditchingham as the girls grew up and worshipped at our local church, St Mary’s. I trained first as a Lay Reader in the Church of England, then in ordained ministry for the priesthood. I served my curacy further along the Waveney Valley at St Mary’s, Diss - where the girls attended Diss High School. Five years ago I became the Vicar of St Mary’s, Chessington, so we all moved to the edge of Greater London where we’ve spent five very full years.

I don’t much like attaching labels to people – but for those who would like a sense of my churchmanship
– I hold a central position in the Anglican tradition, but have enjoyed, over the years, quite a wide range of worship styles. I’m not given to extremes but I am looking forward to worshipping with you in ways both ancient and modern.

The Reverend Lynn Fry: Local Priest

I am a girl from the suburbs and growing into a village community has been one of the best parts of my life. I was ordained 5 years ago with Varlie and clebrating together with our church communities, I knew I had arrived home.

Being part of the church, I am surrounded by brothers and sisters. It is a family like any other, we fall out and, hopefully, make up , we celebrate together and cry together.

My mission?   I'd like everyone to know that God has a place for them too!

The Reverend Varlie Sheldrake: Local Priest

I'm one of the Ordained Local Ministers in the benefice.I've lived in Harling since 1972 and over the years have been involved in most aspects of village and church life - from cleaning and flower arranging to PCC member and secretary.

After retiring from secular employment - I was a nurse - I trained and was ordained to serve as Assistant Curate in this United Benefice.

I have two adult children who are both married and live not too far away. Not much time for hobbies but in recent years I've been indulging myself by traveling to parts of the world I've always wanted to visit but not had the opportunity to do so before.

George Sharpe: Reader

Before retiring, I worked for Lotus cars as an engineer. I was licensed as a reader on 18th May 2002 at Norwich Cathedral.

I am a resident of Bridgham, and when not running an Alpha Course, home groups, or helping with the village hall, I love caravanning with my wife Marion.

Captain A M Poulter OBE, Royal Navy: Churchwarden, Rushford Church

A Benefice Representative on the Thetford and Rockland Deanery Synod.

The Thetford and Rockland Deanery Synod Representative on Norwich Diocesan Synod, and sits on Executive Committee of Diocesan Board of Finance.

Telephone: 01842 753634