Our Minister

Reverend Vernon Broomfield-Payne has been at Haydock since September 2001. Vernon was born in Cosham, Porstmouth, and was the son of a Commander the Royal Navy, Cyril Payne who served with HMS Vernon during the 2nd World War, hence his Christian name Vernon. Some have said thank goodness his Dad didnt serve with HMS Hercules! Vernon spent most of his working life in farming.He did his theological training at Westminster College Cambridge, part of his training as a student took him to Addenbrooks Hospital, working alongside nurses in patient care and at Ecumenical Church in Banbury, Oxford, St Marys Parish/URC. He is married for the second time to Kate. Vernon has 3 children: Rebecca, Christopher and Georgina, who are all now married and between the them have given Vernon 8 grandchildren whom he adores. His interests include collecting antiques, especially oak furniture, and he is an avid collector of John Bunyans Pilgrims Progress. His favourite team is Manchester United; he enjoys Rugby Union, especially the 6 Nations, reading and his Collie dog Mitzie.

HOW DID YOU COME TO CHURCH?

I was brought up and baptised into the Anglican faith. I didnt become a Christian in the true sense of the word until the age of 39, when at a Full Gospel Business mens meeting listening to a testimony that the Lord spoke to me in such a profound way. That was 10th October at 10 minutes to 10 p.m., 1982. I then joined the local URC church in Marsh Gibbon, Oxford, and a very strong evangelical church at the time.

HOW DID YOU BECOME A MINISTER?

I was asked to write an article for the church magazine for the month January 1991. While writing, there was a very strong sense to get on my knees and pray. As I prayed I said Whatever you ask of me, I will do. Over the next ten days, three people contacted me without ether one knowing of each others contact, trying to convince me to candidate for the ministry. From that prayer and encounter I applied for the training and in January 1992 I was accepted into training for the following September.

WHAT ARE THE MOST ENJOYABLE PARTS OF THE MINISTRY?

Many things. Preaching from the word, Bible teaching, helping people to find their freedom in Christ, praying for people on a one to one, prayers for healing and pastoral care.

WHAT DO YOU DO OUTSIDE THE CHURCH?

This is a sore point at times; I am basically a workaholic and find it very difficult to switch off. My dog Mitzie takes me for a walk, my wife Kate and I like going to antique fairs, country walking, catching up with grandchildren and trying to keep on top of the garden which I find quite relaxing.