The Revd Oliver Blease
Vicar of Christ Church, Radlett
Oliver’s formative years were spent exploring the scenic farms of Cheshire and playing rugby sevens for his school. He earned a degree in Law, which led him to Melbourne, Australia. Hs tenure in a barristers’ chambers involved providing research to counsel on cases related to anti-corruption and other criminal defence matters. Subsequently, he worked with a cabinet minister focusing on prison reform, crime prevention, and anti-corruption.
Throughout this period, Oliver felt a subtle but persistent calling towards ministry. His journey began at St. James’ Old Cathedral in Melbourne where his faith was nurtured by the vicar and congregation. Gradually this included reading the lessons, leading prayers, and studying preaching. As his vocation grew, he returned to the UK and continued to explore and test his calling with the Church. This path led him to earn a degree in Theology from Oxford and a Master’s degree from Durham while training for the priesthood at Ripon College Cuddesdon. His academic interests include eucharistic theology and ethics.
After a fulfilling curacy in Royal Wootton Bassett, Oliver moved to Radlett to become the vicar of Christ Church & St. John’s. He is a keen hiker and enjoys getting good use out of his hiking boots by exploring the surrounding Hertfordshire countryside. Oliver is married to Mariama, an educationalist, author, and priest in the diocese of London.
