Based in the village of Mellor Brook in the North-West, Kirsty had studied at the UCLAN (University of Central Lancashire) law school, and worked at a local firm during this time.
Kirsty brings with her plenty of experience in diocesan matters, having spent the last ten years in ecclesiastical law, including being appointed deputy registrar of the Diocese of Blackburn and diocesan registrar of the Diocese of Worcester, Kirsty will continue in both these roles.
Kirsty is based at Anthony Collins Solicitors, a firm well known for its vast expertise within the UK’s charities and faith sectors.
A licensing ceremony was recently held at Bishopscroft, with Bishop Pete Wilcox officially welcoming Kirsty into her new role as registrar.
Kirsty says she can’t wait to get started:
“I’m really excited and keen to get to know the diocese. It’s always an honour to serve the diocese and assist with the needs of parishes during what are some difficult times for parishes, but also exciting times looking at new innovative ways of working.
“I am here to support the diocese, working with parishes on how to best serve the community and how to help congregations flourish after lockdowns and the unprecedented times faced during the pandemic.
“I’ve spent the last ten years working within ecclesiastical law. I really enjoy my work and the relationships built with the senior diocesan teams, the DBF (Diocesan Board of Finance), clergy and parishes. There’s such a variety of work and there’s never a dull day!
“I enjoy the niche area of law, and although there aren’t many ecclesiastical lawyers it’s a great community and we speak with each other across different dioceses to help navigate legislation and develop working processes fit for today’s times. When I was made aware that the Diocese of Sheffield were seeking a new diocesan Registrar it was an opportunity I was keen to follow. I share in the diocese values and vision ‘to grow a sustainable network of Christ-like, lively and diverse Christian communities in every place which are effective in making disciples and in seeking to transform our society and God’s world'”.
The registrar role is a varied role, with Kirsty assisting and supporting the diocese and different parishes with legal advice and support:
“I provide advice and support to Bishop Pete and his team on various legal matters. I also support clergy, PCCs and churchwardens within the diocese. I advise on a range of matters including clergy appointments, ordinations, faculties, pastoral reorganisation, safeguarding, clergy discipline and marriage law.
“The registry also keeps all of the diocesan registry records, which is a big task as there are many records to maintain and these need to be accessible. The Registry is here as a first port of call for the diocese where any legal queries or issues arise.”