The Rt Revd Dr Michael Ipgrave, Bishop of Lichfield, has announced his intention to appoint The Revd Laura Lenander as Leader of Telford Minister. This is an announcement of his intention as there are necessary legal steps before the next stage of the Bishop’s Mission Order, which is the legal basis of Telford Minster, can be made. 
Since January 2025, Revd Laura has been Interim Leader of Telford Minster. She was curate in training at the Minster from September 2021 when she was ordained. The Bishop’s announcement of his intention to appoint is being made now for transparency as Laura and her family move into the accommodation provided for the leader while continuing as Interim Leader.
Speaking about his announcement, Bishop Michael said: “Laura is committed to the future of Telford Minster, to the people of Telford and to colleagues in the diverse local church community across the area. I have every confidence that under her leadership the Minster will bring more people of all ages and all circumstances to join its life and worship as they encounter the love of God and the people at the Minster.”
Laura has moved into leadership at Telford Minster as it moves into a new phase of its life. Established as a groundbreaking long-term project in a growing new town, Telford Minster has established itself as a place of welcome and encounter where 150 regular worshippers come to celebrate and share God’s love in Jesus Christ. It is also a place which is open to visiting groups and to one-off events.
Laura describes Telford Minster as one in which “God has done more than we could ever have imagined.” We’ve seen new people arriving, including many young adults, drawn by a sense of God stirring something in them. New communities have formed with a real hunger to grow as disciples of Christ, children’s and youth groups are flourishing, and people are coming to faith, through many baptisms, confirmations, and experiences of God’s wholeness and healing.”
Laura has been instrumental in growing Telford Minster’s partnerships with neighbouring churches: she says: “What began as simply covering Sunday services in various churches has grown into deeper, more meaningful partnerships. We’ve sent speakers to events, supported the growth of new worshipping communities, shared our skills in leading creative worship, and encouraged others by bringing God’s message to different congregations. We’ve also gained much by sending people on placements to local churches, giving them the chance to broaden their understanding of the richness and diversity within the Church of England and to experience different expressions of church life.”
Revd Tim Carter, Vicar of nearby church, All Saints Wellington, Telford, said: "Having worked with Laura over the last few years, I'm delighted that she will be staying in Telford as leader of Telford Minster. I look forward to seeing the church across the Telford area continue to grow and flourish as the different ministries work together in partnership."
Revd Laura said: “It’s a privilege to minister and serve the people of Telford, and I’m delighted to continue as leader of Telford Minster. Through the life and work of the Minster, our desire is to see lives renewed, communities restored, and the church across Telford vibrant and alive. We are committed to being a blessing to this town, building partnerships and relationships that bring hope and make Jesus known.”
The Rt Revd Sarah Bullock, Bishop of Shrewsbury (Area Bishop) said: “Laura’s leadership has already enriched Telford Minster immeasurably, strengthening relationships across the churches and community and inspiring new life and faith. Her genuine warmth and clear commitment to sharing God’s love makes her a wonderful blessing for Telford.'
The Venerable Nick Watson, Archdeacon of Salop, added: “In the months I've been here, I've seen the quality of Laura's leadership and ministry. I'm delighted that she'll be continuing to lead the Minster as a key part of our churches' Seeking the Kingdom in Telford.”
The appointment will formally take place once legal preparations for the next phase of a Bishop’s Mission Order have been completed.