Rev Dennis Cousens was given a warm welcome to the Midlands Patrol last week at his induction service in Oatlands.

A stirring worship service was held at the historic Oatlands Uniting Church to mark the beginning of Dennis’ ministry in the region.

Led by Presbytery Minister Rev Brian Cole, the service included a message shared by Rev Colleen Grieve who played a leading role in establishing Patrol Ministry in Tasmania. Colleen encouraged Dennis to share the love and gospel of Christ with the people of the Patrol.

Representatives of the congregation and Patrol presented Dennis with the symbols of the region, along with water, bread and wine.

Frontier Services Associate Director – Pastoral Rev Colin Batt led the induction part of the service while fellow Tasmanian Patrol Minister Rev Gay Loftus (West Coast Patrol/Circular Head Ministry) presented Dennis with the Frontier Services stole.

Top: Fellow Patrol Minister Gay Loftus presents the Frontier Services stole to Dennis. Middle: Dennis with the symbols of the Patrol. Bottom: Daughter Bridget Sweet singing at the induction.Fervently supported by his family, Dennis’ daughter Bridget Sweet sang a song with the assistance of his’ granddaughter.

The Midlands Patrol is an ongoing partnership with the Presbytery of Tasmania. Dennis will serve the Uniting Church congregations Campbell Town/Ross and Oatlands/Bothwell and provide ministry to the wider communities in the Midlands, Central Highlands and Great Lakes.