“Deacon” comes from the Greek “Diakonia,” meaning servant. Everyone remembers the part in Acts of the Apostles where the first deacons are appointed. Seven respected men “filled with the Holy Spirit and Wisdom” were to help the Apostles with tasks that meant they could continue to devote their time to preaching.
Deacons’ numbers flourished despite the persecutions of the Church. Many were martyred. The two most obvious were St Stephen, the Church’s first martyr, and St Lawrence, who was put on a grill and cooked to death!
I am not expecting anything so extreme, but this is the tradition I will be joining when Archbishop John ordains me as a deacon. We say ‘Permanent Deacon’ as there is no progression on to priest, as was the case for centuries in the West.
The ordination Mass, where one of my classmates, Peter, and I will be ordained, will be at Southwark Cathedral, presided over by Archbishop John. We will enter amidst great ceremony dressed only in white. Amongst many prayers, the intercession of all the saints ‘is sought. The prime moment is in silence, no hymns or even words as the Archbishop confers the ordination by the laying on of hands, which comes from the Apostles and all the subsequent bishops. Only then will we be dressed in diaconal vestments.
I would love as many people as possible to be there to witness and share the occasion. The details are Saturday 31st October at 12:30, at Southwark Cathedral. Travel is by train from Gravesend to Waterloo East, there is then a 15 min walk.
Or, we have booked a coach from St John’s church to the Cathedral, door to door. Leaving at 10am. Cost £15 per person. To register interest in the coach fill in the form below. To secure your coach place you must pay at least a £10 deposit to me or the parish office.
Many thanks to all who have already registered. Whether you are able to come or not, please remember me in your prayers.
James.
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I would like to register for seat(s) on the coach to the ordination