Reverend Dr Kim Benton

I was ordained Priest in Auckland and have exercised Parish Ministry most recently as Priest-in-Charge of St Mark’s Remuera and prior to that St Andrew’s, Epsom. I was Priest-in-Charge at Whangarei Anglican and have been an LSM Enabler in Northland and a member of Diocesan Council. I have also ministered to two parishes in the Wangaratta Diocese, Victoria, Australia.

I am also a registered psychologist with a breadth of training and experience working in a range of psychology and therapy environments, especially health psychology, based in Australia, and I have a PhD in Public Health from Deakin University in Melbourne. As a priest/psychologist, I have worked in international development as a health educator and trainer with NGOs and faith-based organisations in the Asia-Pacific region for over 20 years.

I understand the importance of worship in sustaining communities and as a basis of engagement with the wider community. I have a passion for liturgy, music, preaching and education, which form the basis for pastoral care and Christian life. Most of all, the wonder of the Gospel is proclaimed in the community of the faithful by everyone seeking to respond to God’s call to love and life in the name of Jesus Christ, to participate in the breaking in of the Kingdom of God for all and in so doing, all are blessed and enriched.

I have three adult children, one in Auckland and two living and working overseas, and one grandson working in Paris. I live in West Auckland with my partner, enjoy cooking and wine, music, movies and theatre, travel and keeping fit.