Members of the five churches within St. Mary's Benefice are eagerly anticipating the arrival of their new curate in the coming weeks.

They look forward to welcoming the Rev. Alex Grace to serve amongst them and wish every blessing on her and her family as they make this very significant step in their lives.

Rev. Grace is about to leave theological college and will soon move into the clergy house in Lamack Vale.

Her ordination will take place in St. David's Cathedral on June 30 and there will be a special service of welcome for her and her family in St. Mary's Church on Sunday, July 1, at 10 am.

In her own words, Rev. Grace offers some background into her journey of faith leading to her new post in Tenby. She will be joined in her ministry in the area by her two young daughters, Hannah and Elizabeth.

"I am just about to complete three years of training at St Michael's College, Llandaff, Cardiff," she said. "I have felt called to ministry for many years - most of my adult life, in fact - and finally worked up the courage to say 'yes' to God's call around five years ago.

"Before coming to Cardiff to train I was a 'stay-at-home' mum, so it was a huge change for all of us coming to Cardiff, a giant leap of faith, and has taken lots of adjustment for all of us. But this has been a really wonderful time and God has provided for us every step of the way.

"My hobbies (when I find time for any of them) include reading, singing (not brilliantly, but with gusto!), socialising and spending time with friends, watching films, and cross-stitching; Elizabeth, Hannah and I also love camping, when we get the chance.

"We have a small and quite old dog called Sox (a 13-year-old Staffordshire Bull terrier), who used to require long walks, but nowadays just enjoys sleeping and pottering around, as well as the odd camping trip!

"I am so excited that we are coming to Tenby, to serve and worship God there with and among you. I look forward very much to meeting you, and getting to know you, as together we learn more about Jesus and His will for our lives."

Rev. Grace's arrival in Tenby will be especially valued and appreciated by the Rector, Rev. Andrew Davies as he has been an extremely busy 'one man band' in the benefice since the departure of Team Vicar, Michael John, in April.

The full complement of clergy is due to be restored by early September with the arrival of the newly-appointed Team Vicar, who will be taking up residence in Penally Vicarage.