Ordinations 2022

It’s hard to believe that a year ago I was Ordained to the Diaconate. And I began my journey as a deacon. So many things have happened since then.

I guess the lowest time was during Covid; no singing, people wearing face masks, no eucharist. And the highest would be to seeing people’s faces once again, singing God’s praises and taking Eucharist, even though it is in ‘one kind’

I feel that the world has now come out of a ‘big sleep’ and we are all blossoming once again.

It has been a wonderful year working alongside my rector, Rev. Nick Perry, the churchwardens and the patient and kind congregation at St. Mary’s.

I have had the wonderful experience of two confirmations where I was Deacon to Bishop Cherry. Assisted at several weddings; taken six baptisms and numerous funerals. Giving me the opportunity to minister pastorally to all the families that I have met, and continue to keep them informed of what goes on at church.

As a congregation it was good to get back to coffee, tea and fellowship after the Sunday and midweek services.

We have had several fish and chip lunches too, after giving the church a clean and preparing it for our Christmas and Easter Festivals. This has been a wonderful form of fellowship.

This year has been a little bit hit the ground running, and I cannot believe that it has been a year since the ordination service in the Cathedral. It has been useful and challenging in many different ways. I have learnt so very much about my faith and my role within my Ministry Area and Church in Wales. With restrictions still being in place it was slightly frustrating not to be able to fulfil my role completely as a Deacon at the Eucharist, that said each service has been helpful, spiritual and eye-opening.

I look forward to continuing my learning and working within my Ministry Area, furthering the Healing Ministry which I am passionate about. Onwards and Upwards!

My first year of curacy has been a joy and a time of preparing for worship with our local churches. I think it is important to spend time reading, praying, and reflecting, so that when I have the opportunities, I am ready for the conversations between God, others, and myself. No two days are the same, during the busy times, I find enough time just to ‘be’ which is important for me. I have officiated at several funerals; it is a privilege to be with families at this time knowing that God is present even before we begin our conversations.

I am looking forward to stepping into those God given moments as a priest of prayer, word, and sacrament, and like us all ‘‘… to do all those good works which thou hast prepared for us to walk in;’’ to glorify God and serve others.