Announcement – Rev. Mike Firbank

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“The Bishop of Repton is delighted to announce that the Revd Dr Michael (Mike) Firbank, Vicar of the benefice of Gresley, Assistant Curate (Associate Priest) of the benefice of Swadlincote and Hartshorne, and Assistant Curate (Associate Priest) of the benefice of Newhall, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Vicar of the benefice of Long Eaton St John in the same diocese, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.” – Derby Diocese Website 9th April 2026

“We are saddened to announce that Dr. Rev’d Mike Firbank will be leaving for a position at Long Eaton.” – Swadlincote Minster Facebook Page

Exciting news! Many of you will know that we have been recruiting a new vicar for St John’s.

We’re really pleased to share this official message from the Diocese of Derby with you all. ??

“The Bishop of Repton is delighted to announce that the Revd Dr Michael Firbank, Vicar of the benefice of Gresley, Assistant Curate of the benefice of Swadlincote and Hartshorne, and Assistant Curate of the benefice of Newhall, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Vicar of the benefice of Long Eaton St John in the same diocese, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.”

Mike has sent us all the message below:

“Mike and all the family are looking forward to joining the church family at St John’s and getting to know Long Eaton and the wider community.

Please pray for all the practicalities of moving. We are looking forward to exploring, together with you, all that God has in store.”

We’re really looking forward to welcoming Mike and the whole family to St John’s. ?

And we’re so grateful for everyone’s support during the vacancy. So many people have stepped up this past year and everyone has played their part in some way. ???? – St John’s Long Eaton Facebook Page

Message from Mike –

We’ve been in Swad for almost 12 years now and have thoroughly enjoyed being rooted in the local community and getting to know so many lovely people both inside and outside of the churches.

Stop – Please pray for all of the preparations as we get ready to leave and for all of those who will need to get ready for the vacancy.

Blessings Mike

Details of final services and celebrations here in Gresley, as well as Date & Time of licensing at St John’s Long Eaton, are to follow in due course.