Meet our team
Fr. Leslie S. Drake
Parish Priest – Fr. Leslie S. Drake
Fr Leslie is a dual citizen, born in New England but has lived longer in the original England with his wife Yolanda. He says: “I have been a Priest in the Church of England for over 30 years – so it’s early days, yet – and I have learned something new and important everywhere I’ve been.”
His message to everyone is; “At St Mary’s our Anglo-Catholic witness arises from a joyful acceptance of Christ our Saviour, a faith to be shared with everyone we meet. Our role in today’s society is to model and preach the love of Christ. We invite you to join in our fellowship and ministry. At the intercession of Our Lady and all the Saints, let us proceed as faithful witnesses and make our beloved Church of England the best it can be.”
If you wish to contact Fr Leslie please see the Contact Us page.
Marian Howe
Reader – Marian Howe
Marian is married to Norman and together they have six children and fifteen grandchildren. Marian has retired now, but worked as PA to a head teacher of one of the local Comprehensive schools. She is a Governor of a local primary school.
Marian is specifically responsible for the Healing and Prayer Ministry team. She visits local care homes regularly, so if you have a relative or friend in one of these please let us know and Marian will arrange a visit.
Terry Babbage
Church Warden – Terry Babbage
Terry is a Cornish man and still retains his Cornish connections despite living in Benfleet for 30years. He was a choirboy and server in his earlier life. He has retired from his full time work since August 2006. He has one daughter, one son, and two granddaughters.
Terry loves St Mary’s and the people here, and has found friendship in the 14+ years since he divorced after 27 years of marriage. He is an enthusiastic gardener, and flower arranger. One of his hobbies is the British Monarchy, he visits many Palaces and Royal Churches. He is also a member of Leigh Orpheus Male Voice Choir and Chairman of Benfleet Horticultural Society
Terry is the main organiser of the Summer Fayre and Christmas Bazaar and other fundraising events. He is also currently acting as PCC Secretary.
His phone number is 01268 752997.
Norman Howe
Church Warden / Treasurer – Norman G Howe
Norman is married to Marian and together they have six children and fifteen grandchildren. He is a very busy man undertaking the Treasurer’s functions as well as Church Warden.
Norman is also a member of the Pastoral Committee, Church Hall Committee and assists with the Healing and Prayer ministry works. He is always willing take up any concerns on the Church or services on behalf of anyone in the congregation. Together with Marian he is much involved in the parish work with the elderly.
Norman is very happy to discuss the Church Finances and to advise on the best ways of giving to the Church.
His phone number is 01268 754046.