My Local Life… Paul Dutton, Pastor at Therfield Chapel 
The Listing spoke to Paul, who is part of the leadership team as the pastor at Therfield Chapel. He’s lived in Therfield with his wife and two children for the past year. Previously they were in Little Paxton near St Neots and also lived in Baldock for a number of years. They’re now hoping to put down roots in Therfield. Paul seeks to share and serve the community with the love of Jesus.
Tell us about your work as Pastor in Therfield
At Therfield Chapel we believe the message about Jesus is the best news anyone can hear and we seek to make sure that our Bible teaching is both faithful and accessible. A good amount of my time is devoted to this work of teaching and a lot of preparation is involved. Throughout the week I will meet up with people from the chapel and community, offering pastoral support and seeking to build friendships. When it comes to time in prayer I like to get outside and make the most of the various picturesque walks around Therfield.
What do you particularly enjoy about life here in North Herts/Royston area?
I love the open space, being out in the countryside but also close enough to amenities and easy access to London and Cambridge. Everyone we have met has been friendly, and the congregation of Therfield Chapel have been very warm and welcoming.
What’s your favourite local place to eat?
We’re not big eaters out but we have been treated to the Fox and Duck in Therfield on a few occasions. Recently we went to the Glass House taking advantage of their lunchtime deal. It came highly recommended by a couple at Therfield Chapel who had lived in Thailand, and it certainly did not disappoint.
What is the last book you read?
I tend to read non-fictional works in my studies and I regularly listen to a number of podcasts, though I do enjoy a good mystery novel and devoured Richard Osman’s Thursday Murder Club series. However, the last book I finished is called ‘Deeper: Real Change for Real Sinners’. For those who feel Christianity is all about ‘thou shalts’ and ‘thou shalt nots’ it is a really refreshing read. The book highlights what Jesus has done for us and how God calls us, and enables us, to share in the life of Jesus.
What amazes you?
The kindness and patience of God. Culturally, for many reasons, we have a distorted view of God but as we see God for who He is, as revealed in Jesus Christ, He is overwhelmingly good.
What are you looking forward to most this month?
I turn 40 this month. There are no plans, or hopes, for anything big but it will be nice to mark the occasion with my family by having a special meal. I’ve also let my family know that the next book in The Thursday Murder Club series comes out just before my birthday!
What is your favourite view?
I love the views from the top of Therfield looking across toward Wimpole. As a child, I often dreamt of being surrounded by fields and open space. The first time I walked from Therfield to the Heath I just stopped to breathe in the view – I don’t think it will ever get old.
Which four people you would invite to dinner and why?
We’re often inviting people round for dinner as a way to get to know them a little better. We really enjoy those times – my children often ask who is coming to dinner next. I’d rather develop a friendship with four local people, than host four celebrities that I’d never meet again.
