24th March 2026

Former senior police officer - now priest - tells story at sold-out event

Around 85 people gathered at a Lancashire golf club recently for a special sold‑out lunchtime event featuring a compelling talk by a local priest who previously served for many years as a police officer.

The audience – made up largely of golfers, some of faith and many with no Christian background – heard a memorable and deeply personal account of Rev Claire McEnery’s journey from policing to ordination and her current ministry as a priest and police chaplain.

The guests - at Clitheroe Golf Club - enjoyed a two‑course lunch before listening to the hour‑and‑a‑quarter presentation. Claire combined stories from her early life and policing career – she rose to the rank of Detective Superintendent – with reflections on the moments that shaped her path towards priesthood.

She shared openly about her faith journey, offering a powerful witness to the saving grace of Jesus and the hope she has found in Him.

Towards the end of the event she gave a short evangelistic message, inviting those present to consider the possibility of God at work in their own lives.

A four‑person prayer team who supported the event, from Rev Claire’s parishes of Read St John and Simonstone St Peter, had prepared thoughtful gift bags for every attendee containing holding crosses, chocolates, Christian bookmarks and pens printed with Bible verses. Many attendees also took home a ‘How to Pray’ booklet.

Amongst the most impactful resources people left with was Stuart’s Story – a moving written reflection about a boy the speaker had known through her policing work who later took his own life. The story, which is given to every new police recruit to help them reflect on privilege and the challenges many young people face, was offered as a take‑home item for personal reflection.

The audience provided a wonderful welcome to their Club and responded with heartfelt interest in the unexpected direction Claire’s life had taken. Several attendees have reached out to talk further with Claire about faith, and many have now chosen to follow Claire's Facebook page, where she regularly posts reflections.

The event also raised £400 through a raffle and other contributions, helping support ongoing ministry and outreach. As it was oversubscribed, with people being turned away due to limited space, Claire anticipates further talks may be arranged locally.

This talk is one of many Claire delivers throughout the year to both faith‑based and secular groups, including Mothers’ Union gatherings and community organisations. The Clitheroe Golf Club event, however, marked one of the largest and most warmly received sessions to date.

It was meaningful encounter for many who rarely step into church, yet found themselves deeply moved by a story of service, hope, and faith.

Rev Claire commented: “It was an absolute  privilege to see how willing people were to listen to my life’s journey, and how my faith has enhanced it. Personal testimony can be powerful whether you are ordained or not.

“I have found that people of faith or no faith can be touched by an honest account of subjects that are close to your heart … and policing and my faith are certainly that . The Spirit of God is at work long before I ever arrive at a venue.”

Commenting on the event, Director of Mission for the Diocese of Blackburn, Rev Steve Haskett added: “I’m delighted to hear about this excellent work Claire is doing, sharing stories from her policing career and her faith journey to ordination with people who may not have heard anything quite like it before.

“All across the Diocese there are people with often fascinating faith stories to share. Our Diocese is celebrating its centenary this year and part of the celebrations will be a centenary mission weekend taking place in villages, towns and cities across Lancashire, from September 11-13.

“If they haven’t done so already, I would encourage all our parishes to find people locally who have their own stories to tell in this way – it’s an excellent opportunity for outreach.”

Captions for the above pictures, top to bottom:

1. Rev Claire McEnery pictured during the event
2. The gift bag given to all who hear Rev Claire McEnery speak
3. Rev Claire McEnery speaking to a packed room at the golf club