Another category with a small number of finalists this year, it appears that clergy are reluctant to put themselves forward for an award, and that their colleagues forget to nominate them..
The two runners up in this category are both dedicated to their work, to the mysticism of their beliefs and to supporting the bereaved families they serve. They both adapt their work and their personal beliefs to take funeral services for people of any faith at any time, which is thoroughly applauded.
The winner was chosen because of the powerful description of his approach to his ministry by the person who nominated him:
“He is a young minister who enjoys funeral work, and unfortunately that is very rare. He has a performance arts background which allows him to be much more flexible with running order and ‘set scripts’. Whilst many other ministers may frown at his methods he is by far the best minister at caring for a family, preparing a fun lighthearted service but also providing serious pastoral care when needed.’
Winner – Fr. Christyan James
Runners up – Emma Curtis and The Right Revd. Charles Muglestone
The 2017 Good Funeral Awards were generously sponsored by Greenfield Creations
