Photo: Our nine new deacons join Bishop Simon Burton-Jones (far left) and Bishop Jonathan Gibbs (centre) outside Rochester Cathedral.
Saturday 30 September marked a joyous day for the Diocese, as we celebrated the ordination of our priests and deacons at Rochester Cathedral.
For the nine deacons, it was the fruition of many years of exploration, discernment, and training.
From a qualified rugby referee and a professional musician to a former journalist and mental health care professional, each of our deacons brings with them a diverse range of skills and experiences.
The Rev Ray Shergill, who will serve as a curate in the parish of Holy Trinity with St John's Penge, said that his own sense of calling had been in progress from an early age.
He wanted to encourage others however to consider how God may be calling them in their daily lives.
"I want to say, if you feel called by God into ministry but are unsure, please explore your call and speak to your vicar or someone you trust to discern your call,and they would be more than happy to help you."
Watch his full message below (captions available).
The deacons now begin a period of three or four years working as curates in a church with an experienced priest.
Photo: The newly ordained priests are applauded by the congregation
Seventeen men and women in total were ordained priest or deacon across the two services, which were led by Bishop Jonathan Gibbs, the Bishop of Rochester.
Both services were livestreamed and are available on the diocese's YouTube Channel
Watch the ordination service of deacons
Watch the service of ordination of priests
The day also marked a double celebration for newly ordained deacon the Rev Anna Drew, as her ordination took place on the same day as the 50th anniversary of her father, the Rev Canon Gordon Oliver's, own ordination as a priest (Anna and Gordon are pictured below).
Commenting on this year's cohort of priests and deacons, the Rev Canon Pamela Ive, Diocesan Director of Ordinands, said:
“This is a wonderful group of people who give great hope for the future of the church. As Director of Ordinands along with Assistant DDOs and Vocation Advisers it has been a privilege to accompany them through this part of the journey.
“The journey has not always been easy but God has been there in every step and continues with them as they continue into the next stage of their walk with him.”
Explore how God may be calling you. Visit www.rochester.anglican.org/everyday-faith/gods-plan-for-you/