A nurse, a British Sign Language Interpreter, a flying enthusiast and a biochemist, were among the 23 men and women ordained as deacons and priests into the Diocese of Rochester on Saturday 25 September.
Two joyful services took place in Rochester Cathedral, which were presided over by the Bishop of Tonbridge, the Rt Rev Simon Burton-Jones, and live streamed on social media.
View pictures from the service
A person is ordained a deacon once they have completed their initial ordination training. Following ordination as a deacon, they begin a period of 3 years within a parish – known as a curacy – during which they work alongside an experienced priest to gain a wide experience of ministry in church and community.
After a year of curacy, some continue in ministry as distinctive deacons, while for most, the next step is ordination as a priest.
At the ordination of priests service, the Bishop of Dover, the Rt Rev Rose Hudson-Wilkin spoke of what being called to the priesthood is all about:
"If my three year old grandson were here today, he would be saying, 'Grandma. Wow!'. Today is a 'wow' day. It is a day of celebration. It is also day of taking stock of what we are about to do. So the question is, how will that 'wow' not just be a moment, but becomes a lifetime experience of 'wow'.
"The question and challenge for all of us is, why are we here and what is this is all about? It is is about being a servant. We're told in the introduction to the service that priests are called to be an example of the Good Shepherd always."
Watch the priest's service Download a service sheet
Watch the deacon's service Download a service sheet
Speaking ahead of her ordination as Deacon, Eucharia Asiegbu, who will serve at St John, Sidcup with Footscray said:
"I am immensely grateful to God for calling me to serve God and humanity. Although ministry could sometimes come with challenges, I trust God to see me through every step of the way because God is limitless in my limitations.
"God calls us as we are. I would encourage anyone who feels called in any way to shed the fears and anxieties that inhibit us from fulfilling our vocation and step up and let our ‘little lights’ shine for God."
Mark Edwards, who will serve in the parish of St George's, Gravesend said:
"The past 18 months has been difficult for many people due to COVID-19 and there still remains much uncertainty. My prayer is to show that in these uncertain times there is stability and hope in knowing Jesus."
Anyone interested in exploring what God's plan might be for them can find more information here