Michael Darkins St Leonards New Priest in Charge

Michael Darkins

Hello Hythe! It’s a delight to be writing in Hythe Life to introduce myself. My name is Michael Darkins and I’m the new Priest in Charge for St Leonard’s Church.

I was born and brought up in Chislehurst, so I’ll leave it to you to decide whether I’m from North Kent or South London – although it’s certain that I’m a Kentish Man. I studied English Literature and Creative Writing at Royal Holloway University in Surrey, where I developed a particular interest in playwriting. Growing up in church probably had quite a lot to do with this actually, subconsciously anyway. There’s a strong link between the narratives we see on stage and screen and church worshipboth are telling stories that resonate with our lives, and both invite those watching to become wrapped up in the drama – becoming emotionally invested in the events and characters we hear about. But lest this descends into an essay, I’d best get back on track telling you about me! After university and a year spent working in London, I moved to Cambridge where I trained for ministry.

Previous to Hythe, I was living in Herne Bay and ministering in Thanet, primarily around the villages of Minster and St Nicholas at Wade. I’ve been living in Hythe for just over a month now, so the town is very much starting to feel like home. One of the things that I’ve enjoyed most about living here so far is just how walkable the town is. Virtually everything seems within walking distance and what stunning walks there are to be had – along the canal and the beach being two obvious highlights for me so far! But I didn’t come here alone, joining me for these walks are my wife, Cat, and our puppy, Basil. Together we’ve enjoyed strolling the High Street, getting to know where everything is and sampling some of the local cafes.

It’s an immense privilege for me to be ministering in Hythe, looking after the buildings, and serving the whole community here. What I find almost difficult to express is the sense of joy and contentment in being where I believe that God has called me to, and amongst the people I feel called to serve.

Outside of Church though, as anyone who steps into my study will quickly realise, my other big interest in life is virtually anything related to Sci-Fi or Fantasy. This covers everything, from

films, TV, books, games, models – the lot. It means that the shelves of The Vicarage are lined with theology books stacked up next to pop-vinyl figures and much more. So, if you see me around town, please do say hello – I’m always happy to chat about anything, be it faith, fantasy, or just the weather. I look forward to getting to know Hythe better and ministering among you. Photo credits: © James Willmott