Priest celebrates 50 years in the role with service in Uppingham

The Revd Canon John Rankin celebrated 50 years as a priest yesterday (June 29).

John, who retired to Uppingham in 2010, was made a priest in 1975.

John, with his wife Liz, served parishes in London, Oxford and Suffolk during his career as well as being the School Chaplain of Clifton College, Bristol for eight years.

He is now one of two retired priests supporting the Uppingham’s Parish Church as its looks for a new rector.

“We are so blessed to have John and our other retired priest to support us as a church as we seek a new full-time incumbent,” said Richard Cole, church warden of St Peter and St Paul’s Church.

“His continuing dedication is a real inspiration."

John celebrated his anniversary by taking the main service in Uppingham. Members of his wider family were in the congregation and after the service the congregation toasted John and Liz with ‘bubbles’ and a celebratory cake.