13th Sep 2026 – At Newland United Reformed Church (URC), Luton, the induction and welcome of its new minister, Rev Naomi Young-Rodas, was a joyful service attended by church members, civic representatives, ecumenical partners and leaders from Luton’s diverse faith communities.
The service reflected on themes of hope, wisdom, compassion and shared humanity, drawing inspiration from the Bibles readings in the books of Isaiah and James. Worshippers were encouraged to recognise the dignity and value of every person, to learn from the wisdom of those who have gone before, and to embrace the church's calling to live out faith through justice, service and love.
In an inspiring address, Rev James Fields invited the congregation to reflect on the image of a mirror, considering how faith helps individuals and communities see themselves more clearly. His reflection celebrated the richness of life experiences, and the importance of collective wisdom in our churches. Congregants were reminded that the Gospel calls Christians not merely to survive but to flourish, seeking to build God's kingdom through active service, compassion and hope.
Rev Naomi was warmly commended to the congregation as a gifted and thoughtful leader whose ministry is characterised by compassion, intellectual insight, cultural awareness and a deep commitment to justice and community engagement. Rev James Fields spoke of her ability to listen carefully, build relationships across communities and inspire others through her faith and leadership.
The service also included a covenant between minister and congregation, affirming their commitment to journey together in faith, to welcome friends and strangers alike, to stand alongside refugees and those in need, and to work for peace while challenging injustice, violence and all forms of abuse.
A highlight of the occasion was the strong ecumenical and interfaith representation, reflecting the rich diversity and partnership that exists across Luton. At the conclusion of the service, they not only shared words of welcome and encouragement to Rev Naomi, but each of them offered blessings, encouragement and assurances of support to Rev Naomi as she begins her ministry at Newland URC, highlighting the importance of friendship, collaboration and mutual understanding between faith communities.
The service concluded with prayers of thanksgiving and dedication, committing both minister and congregation to a shared future of worship, service and community engagement.
Speaking after the service, members expressed optimism for the future, noting that Rev Naomi's appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Newland URC as it continues its mission to be a welcoming, inclusive and compassionate presence in the heart of Luton.
Ecumenical and interfaith representatives joined at Newland URC Luton in welcoming Rev Naomi Young-Rodas (in the centre) as newly appointed Minister
Rev Naomi Young-Rodas (centre) the newly appointed Minister at Newland URC Luton with Fr Allan Jones (R) of Sacred Heart RC Parish Church in Stopsley and Yogesh Mistry (L), Trustee of Shree Sanatan Sewa Samaj Hindu Mandir, Lewsey Farm
Rev Naomi Young-Rodas (R) the newly appointed Minister at Newland URC Luton with Rev David Alexandar, C of E Vicar of St Thomas, Stopsley Parish Church
Rev James Fields (L) led the Welcome Service for Rev Naomi Young-Rodas at the Newland URC Luton.
Ecumenical and interfaith representatives joined at Newland URC Luton in welcoming Rev Naomi Young-Rodas (in the centre) as newly appointed Minister
Ecumenical and interfaith representatives joined at Newland URC Luton in welcoming Rev Naomi Young-Rodas (in the centre) as newly appointed Minister