New Deacons and Priests 2022

The joyful atmosphere that has been prevalent as we have welcomed our new bishop continued, as 12 candidates were deaconed, and nine were priested. In keeping with true British weather, the rain threatened, but held off, enabling the candidates to take celebratory photos after their services, including an all important selfie with Bishop Stephen. 

Ahead of the services themselves, the candidates spent a special time together on an ordination retreat, entitled Finding Ourselves in God, and led by the Ven. Rosemary Lain-Priestly. The programme included talks, a rhythm of prayer, time for reflection, and even a pilgrimage to Old Sarum, led by Bishop Stephen. 

Pictured below is the group in the ruins of the old cathedral, after their pilgrimage and a special Eucharist. 

Toby E Carson, who was ordained Deacon, said:

"Splendid pilgrimage walk and a poignant Eucharist in the remains of the old cathedral. We even got ice-cream! Feeding soul and body." 

Speaking of the ordination weekend, Nigel Done, Ministry Formation Team Leader,  DDO and IME Coordinator, said: 

"In her excellent sermon at the ordination of new priests on Sunday, the Ven Rosemary Lain- Priestly quoted Simon Cuff who wrote that being a priest ‘means helping those to whom we are sent and whom we are called to serve to get rid of the obstacles that get in the way of their relationship with Christ, and then to get out of the way ourselves.’ 

"Before a deacon and priest can begin the work of clearing the clutter between our lives and Christ, (and then getting out of the way), we have to put them centre stage so that they can hear the whole church say ‘this is what we want from you’.  They heard this affirmation loud and clear at the ordination services this weekend.  Now these deacons and new priests dissolve into their communities and will become agents of change. 

"When you come across them, encourage them and join in with them in being as Jesus said, like yeast and salt slowly affecting the whole of society with the leaven and flavour of his Grace." 

You can still catch the ordination services online here.