Who's Who

Verger

John Shearer was born in Edinburgh, but grew up in Bournemouth.  After leaving school, he worked with the Shaftesbury Society helping physically handicapped young adults suffering from Muscular Dystrophy.

After moving to London, John spent fourteen years as a Senior Manager with the NHS, for the most part at Great Ormond Street Hospital and two years at the Royal Free Hospital, Hampstead. 

During this period, he embarked on a course of study for eighteen months, completing a Masters Degree in Health and Social Care.

Having left the NHS, John pursued a career in verging, which took him to St Marylebone Parish Church, where he was appointed Verger and Parish Administrator. After three years, he was invited to become Head Verger at St Mary Redcliffe, Bristol, where he managed a team of vergers and also looked after volunteers within the Church.

John is also currently the Training Officer for the Church of England Guild of Vergers; a role he sees as a huge privilege and which keeps him in contact with fellow vergers around the country. 

For all enquiries ring 020 7353 3470 or email verger@templechurch.com.