Vicar swaps pulpit for pulling pints

Photo Credit: Richard Ward

25/01/10

In a job swap like no other, the Vicar of St Faith’s Church, Brentford, will work a Saturday night shift and the Landlord of the Lord Nelson, Lee Bartlett, will talk in the sermon slot in the Sunday service on 7 February.

This weekend will see the Revd Derath Durkin, working behind the bar at the Lord Nelson, a pub in Brentford. Lee will be talking about his role in the community at the Lord Nelson.

So what brings these diverse places in the heart of Brentford together? The Lord Nelson and St. Faith's are both at the heart of their community. Both are led by individuals who believe in community and the role that they play in bringing groups of local people together.
 
The Revd Derath Durkin said:

"I think for me, the realisation that our roles, though in many ways very diverse, and with very different unique selling points, actually have many similarities. For me as the Vicar, it is providing spiritual food, both for the congregation here at St Faith’s and for those in the community who are perhaps searching for “something”, whether that might be “religion” or the meaning of life in general. In short, I hope to share the love of Jesus amongst us. However our roles are incredibly similar, in that we both play our parts in the community, both having a pastoral and caring part to play."

 
Nelson landlord, Lee Bartlett added:

"The similarities between my job and Derath's have recently become very apparent.  Although the Nelly does offer the obvious refreshments, I would also like to think we offer a sympathetic ear, a rest from the road, sanctuary after a hard day’s work and a release from reality TV.