A Fond Farewell to Steve and Amanda:
A Message from Your Holy Trinity Family 

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:21

This past Sunday was a deeply moving day for our church family. As a congregation, we gathered at Holy Trinity to say a heartfelt, emotional, and grateful farewell to our vicar, Revd Steve Daughtery, and his wonderful wife, Amanda, as Steve enters a well-deserved retirement.
 

A Gathering of Gratitude

It was a privilege to welcome so many guests to honour Steve’s ministry. We were delighted to be joined by the Bishop of Portsmouth, the Rt Revd Jonathan Frost, alongside HM Lord-Lieutenant of the Isle of Wight and the High Sheriff. Having such distinguished visitors in our pews was a testament to the wide reach of Steve’s leadership—not just here in our parish, but across the Island through his work as Area Dean, Archdeacon, and Diocesan Lead for Strategy and Mission.

During the service, Bishop Jonathan spoke with great warmth about Steve’s dedicated service and gentle pastoral heart—qualities every one of us at Holy Trinity and St Luke’s has come to know and cherish.
 

What Steve and Amanda Have Meant to Us

When Steve arrived in Bembridge in 2021—bringing with him a unique blend of corporate wisdom from his former IT career and decades of ministry experience—none of us could have predicted just how quickly he and Amanda would embed themselves in the heart of our community.

Whether through his thoughtful, inspiring sermons, his quiet presence in times of trial, or his passionate drive to see Holy Trinity thrive as a vibrant, multi-generational home for everyone, Steve has led us with humility, energy, and unwavering faith.

And, of course, where would we be without Amanda? Her warmth, steadfast support, and hospitality have been a blessing to so many of us. Together, they have been a true team, opening their hearts to our village in a way we will never forget.
 

Laughter, Gifts, and Blessings

Following the service, we gathered as a community to share coffee, cake, and a few favourite memories. On behalf of the entire congregation, our Churchwardens and PCC presented Steve and Amanda with retirement gifts—a small token of the huge appreciation we all hold for them.

There were plenty of smiles as we looked back on the laughter, the challenges, and the milestones we’ve shared over the years.
 

Looking Ahead

As Steve hangs up his clerical collar for a more restful rhythm of life, we send him and Amanda into this next chapter with our love, our prayers, and our deepest thanks.
Steve, thank you for guiding us, encouraging us, and pointing us toward Christ. You leave behind a stronger, more united congregation that is deeply grateful for your ministry.

May God bless you both abundantly in your retirement!

Photos from the day can be found here: