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Bishop

‘Bishop’ comes from the Greek word for ‘overseer’. So a bishop is a senior Christian minister authorised to have oversight for God’s people. As well as duties given to deacons and priests, bishops confirm and ordain.

Deacon

‘Deacon’ comes the Greek word for ‘servant’. Deacons in the Church in Wales have special roles within worship such as proclaiming the gospel. Traditionally, deacons have had responsibility for social care. Deacons often go on to be ordained priest.

Diocese

‘Diocese’ refers to the geographical territory in which a bishop exercises oversight. The Church in Wales is divided into six dioceses each with its own cathedral in which is housed the cathedra (the bishop’s ‘chair’ or ‘throne’).

Ordain

To be ordained is to be set apart, empowered by the Holy Spirit and authorised by the Church for a particular type of ministry. The Church in Wales has three ‘orders’ of ministry, namely deacon, priest and bishop.

Priest

‘Priest’ comes from the Greek word for ‘elder’. Priests in the Church in Wales are those authorised specifically to proclaim forgiveness of sins, preside at the Eucharist and bless God’s people, as well as other responsibilities.

Home News and events Ordinations 2021

Ordinations 2021

Monmouth news Posted: 26 June 2021

A wonderful service was held at Newport Cathedral today (Saturday 26 June) to ordain our new deacons and priests.

Despite current restrictions, limited numbers of friends and family were able to attend the joyous occasion and to celebrate with those who have been called into ministry in the Diocese of Monmouth.

Congregations were also allowed to sing (wearing masks) for the first time in more than a year!

The Rt Revd Cherry Vann, Bishop of Monmouth, said: "The ordination of deacons and priests is one of the highlights of diocesan life as we share the joy of those called by God to serve his Church as servants and shepherds. Last year, because of the necessary restrictions, our ordinations were smaller and much more modest events – though no less joyful for that. But it will be a particular joy this year to have a Cathedral full of family, friends and supporters, the choir leading the musical parts of the service and the congregation singing (yes!) – albeit with masks on.

"Our ordinations are also a sign of hope; that God continues to call women and men into ordained ministry for the building up of his church in its witness and service to the world.

"Please pray for those ordained and the people of the Ministry Areas in which they will serve."

Ordained as Deacon:

Mandy East - Magor Ministry Area

Andrew Nelmes - Upper Islwyn Ministry Area

Karin Pardoe - Cwmbran Ministry Area

Ordained as Priest:

The Revd Kay Denly - Wentwood Ministry Area

The Revd Elizabeth Houghton - Newport North Ministry Area

The Revd Mary Moore - Abergavenny Ministry Area

You can watch the full service here