It’s a momentous occasion for the Diocese of Norwich, as 14 individuals have taken a significant step in their spiritual journey. Six new priests and eight new deacons were ordained at Norwich Cathedral over the weekend, and they are now serving as assistant curates in parishes across Norfolk and Waveney. This is a time of great joy and celebration, not just for the newly ordained, but for their families, friends, and the entire community. The ordinations were a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and faith, and it’s a testament to the commitment of these individuals to serve others and spread the message of love and compassion.
The ordination services, which took place on Saturday and Sunday, were a beautiful blend of solemnity and joy. The Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Revd Graham Usher, led the services, which were attended by a plethora of dignitaries, including the bishops of Thetford and Lynn, archdeacons, canons, and other members of the clergy. The services were also attended by the families and friends of the newly ordained, who were beaming with pride as they watched their loved ones take this significant step. The Revd Canon Madeline Light, who retired last year as Vicar of St Stephen’s, Norwich, preached at both services, adding her own brand of wisdom and inspiration to the proceedings. The atmosphere was electric, with a sense of anticipation and excitement palpable in the air.
The six new priests, who have just completed their first year as curates, were ordained on Saturday. They are Revd Charlotte Eagles, who will be serving in the Cringleford and Colney; Revd Iain Grant, who will be serving in Sheringham; Revd Rachel Hayden, who will be serving in the Upper Tas Valley and Tas Valley; Revd Jonathan Richardson, who will be serving in Thetford; Revd Melissa Snell, who will be serving in St George Colegate, St George Tombland, and St Giles, Norwich; and Revd Jamie Wylie, who will be serving in Oulton Broad. Each of these individuals has a unique story to tell, and they bring their own brand of passion and dedication to their new roles. They are eager to serve their communities, to listen, to learn, and to grow, and they are excited to embark on this new chapter in their spiritual journey.
The eight new deacons, who were ordained on Sunday, are equally enthusiastic and committed to their new roles. They are Revd Ben Almond, who will serve in South and West Lynn; Revd Karen Gower, who will serve in Dersingham; Revd Dan Krawczyk, who will serve in North Walsham; Revd Hannah Morris, who will serve in Flegg; Revd Michael Newey, who will serve in Dereham; Revd Carolyn Sexton, who will serve in Briston and Briningham; Revd Lucy Stone, who will serve in the Mitre Benefice, Norwich; and Revd Gaynor Sutton, who will serve in Caister. These individuals have also undergone a journey of discovery and growth, and they are now ready to serve others, to preach, to teach, and to spread the message of love and compassion. They are the future of the church, and they are eager to make a positive impact in their communities.
As these 14 individuals begin their new roles, they are filled with a sense of hope and optimism. They know that the road ahead will not be easy, that there will be challenges and obstacles to overcome, but they are ready to face them head-on. They are committed to serving others, to listening, to learning, and to growing, and they are eager to make a positive difference in the world. They are the embodiment of the values of the church, and they are a shining example of what it means to live a life of faith, hope, and love. As they embark on this new chapter in their spiritual journey, they are surrounded by the love and support of their families, friends, and community, and they are ready to take on whatever comes their way.
The ordination of these 14 individuals is a significant moment for the Diocese of Norwich, and it’s a testament to the power of faith and community. It’s a reminder that the church is alive and well, that it’s a vibrant and dynamic institution that is committed to serving others and spreading the message of love and compassion. As these new priests and deacons begin their new roles, they are filled with a sense of purpose and passion, and they are eager to make a positive impact in their communities. They are the future of the church, and they are a shining example of what it means to live a life of faith, hope, and love. The Diocese of Norwich is blessed to have these individuals as part of its community, and it’s excited to see the positive difference they will make in the years to come.
