Hundreds gathered to celebrate as nine special men and women were ordained into the Church of England at Guildford Cathedral on Sunday afternoon.
Filled with celebration and prayer, the Cathedral played host to friends, family and members of the wider diocesan community as the nine candidates were ordained as deacons. The service marked a significant milestone in their journey of faith and ministry, as they prepare to serve in parishes across the diocese.
The new deacons — Tony Andrews, Andy Beattie, Jan Durrant, Ros Fox, Sue Langwade, Kelly Morris, Sarah Murphy, Sue Tresman, and Simon Ward — have all completed the Diocese’s inaugural Caleb Stream programme, an initiative designed to support those called to ministry later in life, through an intensive year of discernment and training.
The Caleb Stream offers a tailored pathway into ordained ministry for older candidates, recognising the wealth of life and professional experience they bring to their vocation, most, if not all, having already served in their parishes for many years. Each of the nine ordinands has a unique and remarkable story of calling, shaped by their personal journeys and deep commitment to serving God and their communities.
The ordination service was presided over by Rt Revd Andrew Watson, Bishop of Guildford, with assistance from Rt Revd Pauls Davies, Bishop of Dorking, and Revd Delia Orme, who knows the new deacons well, having taught them on the Caleb Stream.
The service was filled with music, prayer, and liturgy reflecting the joy and solemnity of the occasion. A reading from 11-year-old Charlotte, a granddaughter of one of the new deacons, wonderfully highlighted the breadth of people and ages present, cheering on those being ordained.
The sermon was given by Revd Canon Frank Scammell, who got to know the candidates while leading their retreat in the days leading up to the ordination service.
In the sermon, Revd Frank spoke on Hebrews 12, a well-known passage to many, which is an encouragement to stand with other believers and persevere by “fixing our eyes on Jesus.” Revd Frank went on to share the wealth of experience he gleaned from the nine candidates while getting to know them and leading their retreat.
The afternoon started wet and rainy, but the weather turned towards the end of the service, meaning the brand-new Reverends were able to gather to celebrate with family and friends in glorious sunshine.
Following their ordination, the new deacons will begin serving in their respective parishes, bringing with them a deep sense of vocation, compassion, and readiness to minister in a variety of contexts.
Join us in praying for each of the deacons as they step into this next exciting season.
View a selection of photos from the ordination service below.
