St Andrew's Islington

St Andrew’s Church is a place where people from all sorts of different backgrounds, age groups and cultures meet to worship. Some people have been Christians for many years, others are starting their journey of faith, everybody is welcome in our Church. We expect to see the transforming power of God at work in people’s lives and this is the basis of our preaching. We try to keep things fairly relaxed at St Andrew’s but not forgetting that we come into the presence of almighty God. We see St Andrew’s as “an accepting community through the grace of God”.

It is very important to us that children and young people feel welcome in St Andrew’s and so we try and provide different opportunities for them to grow in their faith too.  We have Starchasers, our children’s church that meets in St Andrew’s Primary School twice a month, Sunday school,  and All Age services – these are a great opportunity for our young people to take part in our worship.

Our parish straddles the Caledonian Road and is home to all different kinds of communities. We love the diversity of our parish and that people from every area of the local community join together for worship at St Andrew’s. There is a lot of mobility and we are used to a situation where people come to our church for a fairly short period of time before moving to another part of London. Those who have made their permanent home in our church family see their role as ministering and supporting people who are here for a short time. So whether you have taken up residence in our neighbourhood, or are just here for a short while, then you would be most welcome to join us for worship on Sundays.

Team Rector: Revd Michael Learmouth

Michael became a Christian as a teenager when he was a member of the Boy’s Brigade. He worked initially as a Chartered Accountant until he was called to the ministry in 1992. Although Michael grew up in London his current appointment is the first time he has worked in London, having previously worked in parishes in Essex.  Michael has been Area Dean of Islington for three years and is currently acting Archdeacon for Stepney.

Associate Vicar: Revd Jessica Swift

Jess joined St Andrew’s in 2009 having begun her ministry in Islington eight years ago.  Jess joined the Barnsbury team to help provide some continuity in the parish while Michael attends to his responsibilities in the Area.  She has particularly enjoyed helping to develop the children’s and youth ministry (most notably ‘the action song’!)

Church Administrator: Sarah Wall

Sarah lives locally and is married with a daughter. She has lived in the Caledonian Road area for 14 years.  She has been working at St Andrew’s Church for seven years. Sarah works/lives in the Church Office at St Andrew’s Church on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays (9 – 5) – if you have any questions she is the first person to ask!

Church Wardens:

Richard Parker comes originally from Nottinghamshire but has been in the London area for over forty years and now lives in Barnsbury Road. He is married to Lis Howell, who organises our team of flower arrangers at the church. Richard works as an independent training consultant, running courses in management and communication skills.  He is lovely and has a great sense of humour!

Stephanie O’Donnell has lived off the Caledonian Road for 26 years.  She is married with one daughter (but her family also includes their well-loved dog).  She has been attending St Andrew’s for over twenty years.   She works as a phlebotomist for the UCHL Trust.  Stephanie is thoughtful, caring, and loved by everyone.