Mark Townsend Ministry

Mark’s ministry as a Priest is inclusive and ecumenical. He was ordained through the Church of England in 1996. For the last four years he has worked outside the officialdom of the Church’s ministry as an illusionist, using stage magic to teach and lead people into faith, mystery and enchantment. Over that period Mark’s searching spirit brought him into contact with many whose beliefs were different to his own which gave him an appreciation of the diversity of faith beyond Christianity, especially the nature based traditions of the British Celtic culture.

Mark sees a spark of the Divine in all people, no matter what faith, culture, sexuality or background. He remains a Christian and the C of E will always hold a special place in Mark's heart; however, he now feels it does not allow him the freedom to be the open and eclectic priest he naturally is. In July 2010 he decided to hand in his 'Permission to Officiate' and resign his membership of the Church of England. It was a huge decision for Mark, but he feels more able to be a good friend of the C of E on the outside than an unhappy Cleric within.

Mark has been an Independent Priest since June 2011. His ‘Parish’ has no geographical boundaries, leaving him free to offer his services and ceremonies to all.