CAPTION: 15 new Church of England ministers became the first ordinands in history to swear a vow of allegiance to King Charles III
New Church Ministers Become First To Swear Vow of Allegiance to King Charles III
An historic ordination service has taken place at Exeter Cathedral in which 15 new Church of England ministers became the first ordinands in history to swear a vow of allegiance to King Charles III.
The service took place just hours after the Royal Proclamation of the new monarch following the death of Queen Elizabeth.
15 women and men from across Devon were ordained Deacons in a service led by the Bishop of Exeter.
Speaking afterwards, Robin Smith, from Holy Trinity church, Barnstaple, said “What a momentous day.
“It was a privilege to be part of this amazing Church and serve the King and serve the country.
“The last few days have been a lot to get my head around but it’s great to be here.”
Joanne Parker, from Plymstock and Hooe in Plymouth, said “Obviously the events of this week have been weighing on all of us, but it felt like a real historic moment to actually swear allegiance to the King today.”
Ruth Beckett, from Torquay, was the very first person to make her vow. She said “I am beyond excited.
“To be the first to affirm my oath to the new King was amazing but in ministry we affirm our allegiance to Jesus who is the same yesterday, today and always.
“It has been a good reminder that people come and go but Christ is constant.”
The new Deacons will now be taking-up posts in churches across Devon.