Heike leads Norwich church with community heart
Rev Heike Prentice joined St Stephen’s church two months ago and already has a heart for the community and the people who serve there. Helen Baldry reports.
Originally from Germany, Heike has lived in the UK for 39 years. She and her husband Alistair moved to Norwich in the summer and have already settled in. Heike said, “We've completely and utterly fallen in love with the city. I cannot think of a better place to live. There’s something for everybody; there's a vibe, a friendliness. Thank you Lord for bringing us here!”
Heike takes over from Madeline Light, who retired in 2024 and led the church for 15 years. Madeline was the first female vicar in a city centre church in Norwich and Heike is pleased that the church appointed another woman at the helm. She said, “I'm delighted to be here. It was an easy chemistry and it feels like I've been here a long time. On the one hand I've got this gift of a legacy that I am stepping into. And another is a real responsibility as well, not just to carry it on, but to reimagine it.”
Heike has spent time getting to know the church community, which she describes as diverse yet united. A major strength is the ability to live together with diverse and conflicting views, yet with a commitment to journey together. She said, “What connects us are the passions and gifts that we have. As a church community we are quite multicultural and we're going to look at how we can develop this further.” The fact that people can openly disagree on topics whilst still get on very well with each other is an asset Heike values at St Stephens that she feels is very important in our wider community.
As she starts her ministry at St Stephen’s, Heike’s priority is to invest in church life, which in some ways is quite separate from the cafe that runs at the church throughout the week. Many people with various challenges come to St Stephen’s cafe for food and friendship, or to simply spend time in a safe space. Heike said that while the challenges are constant and there are quite high numbers of people coming through the door, the team responds with prayer and sees amazing outcomes. Heike said, “We have an absolute love of Jesus which you will find permeating everything that we do.”
Previously responsible a multi parish benefice in the Chelmsford diocese, Heike’s new role is different and she appreciates the many facets of St Stephens and relishes the challenge to carry it forward.
Pictured: Revd Heike Prentice at St Steohen's Church