Sandra Millar was the guest speaker for the December meeting and what an entertaining evening we had! She took us on her journey from marketing to ministry with entertaining anecdotes all interspersed with quizzes for the audience, which proved how very little we knew about advertisements and slogans.

Sandra had the retail industry in her genes and it was no surprise when, after getting her first degree, she went into marketing. After several varied jobs Sandra was made redundant. This proved to be a turning point. Having become disillusioned with marketing, she found herself being called to ministry. Being a Christian had always been an important part of her life and she had been closely involved with youth and children’s work. She had funding for a Masters degree followed by further funding for a PhD. During this time she travelled all over the world, working with Youth with a Mission.

By now Sandra was worshipping at St Alban’s Cathedral and felt she was being called to be ordained. Within a year she found herself at theological college! Having worked in Barnet and Oxford, all her skills and experience have come together in her work here in Gloucester. She believes passionately in the importance of work with children which she feels is overlooked in the Church of England, where more resources are given to youth work rather than children. With her energy, skills and big personality I feel that the future of children’s work in this diocese is in safe hands with Sandra.