Rev Maureen Robbins has scooted into Maldon town to take over as minister at the Baptist Church in Butt Lane.
Rev Robbins has been a minister for 27 years and has worked mainly in the West Country. Her last post was at Radstock for nine years.
She said: "I'm particularly happy to be in this part of the country as my parents both came from Essex so I feel an affinity."
There's a small congregation at Maldon but Rev Robbins is keen to build it up. She said: "I hope we can encourage familes and young people to come along. I have worked in the past with children and run holiday clubs.
"Being new, I am tending to listen and learn rather than coming with lots of plans but I'm looking at ways I can make a contribution to the community and also I believe, in sharing the Christian message."
The morning service starts at 10.30am, followed by a joint service with the United Reformed Church, and Methodists in the evening.
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