CAPTION: The Bishop of Exeter said the 16 people ordained deacon at Exeter Cathedral on July 1 were a "terrific bunch of people"
16 New Reverends Ordained to Serve at Parishes Across Devon
16 new members of the clergy are beginning their new roles at parishes across Devon after being ordained at Exeter Cathedral on Saturday 1 July.
They include three members of the same family: Rev’d Julie Wheeler, her son, Rev’d Charles Wheeler and his wife, Rev’d Miriam Brandon-Wheeler.
It is unusual for three members of the same family to enter the priesthood at the same time.
Julie, Charles and Miriam say that being ordained together was a special experience
Miriam said after the service: “It’s been great to walk with people that I’m close with on a journey that has been important to me over the last few years, just to have their support and prayers. It’s been great.
Miriam is also expecting a baby. She added “There is lots to be excited about at the moment.”
Julie said: “That my ordination itself should now coincide with Charles and Miriam, for me, has an extraordinary sense of the providence of God. It intertwines varying vocations: to serve the church, to be a parent and to be a trusting child of God.
The ordination service takes place in Exeter Cathedral
The theme of the service was Heralds of the Kingdom.
The preacher was Rev’d Preb Samantha Stayte, who is the Dean of Women in Ministry.
In her sermon, she said “Deacons are called to be the servant ministers of Jesus, the hands and feet of Christ, proclaiming the way to life.
“They are called to serve with joy.”
This was Bishop Robert’s last ordination service before he retires
It is the first time in two decades that the ordination service in Devon has taken place in July rather than September.
Saturday’s service also marks the end of an era as it was the last time new clergy were ordained by the Bishop of Exeter, the Rt. Rev’d Robert Atwell, as he is due to retire in September.
He said “Every ordination is special and this was no different. The 16 people who ordained are a terrific bunch of people. I’ve got every confidence they are going to serve the church in Devon well.
“It was very emotional for me as my last ordination as Bishop of Exeter, it was very special.”
To find out about training to be ordained click here.
