The Priesting

In June 2003 our eldest daughter, Paulette, was ordained a deacon in the Anglican Communion at Litchfield Cathedral. Last Saturday, a year later, she was ordained a priest, with three other deacons, at Christ Church, Bayston Hill, near Shrewsbury. Unlike the majesty of ancient Litchfield, Christ Church is a very modern church, however, the service was dignified, yet friendly and inclusive.

One of Paulette’s first duties, when fully priested, was to serve her family with Holy Communion, which her new office entitled her to do. After we had the privilege of being served first, she then gave Communion to the members of her congregation who had come to support her. We noted, with pride, that the line of communicants partaking of the Sacrament from Paulette’s hands seemed very long indeed!

After the ceremony many people told us how well liked our daughter is, and how much she has done for her parish in Shrewsbury, St George of Cappadocia with Greenfields United Church, since becoming a curate. Naturally, as parents, we were thrilled to bask in the reflected glory, and gave ourselves several pats on the back!

After a photo call with the Bishop, Paulette and the family, went to her own church of St George in Shrewsbury for a delicious buffet supper provided by her church. Everyone was in high spirits and there was much gentle teasing of our girl. When told that Paulette was the first prize in the raffle, my husband, David, said he would not have bothered buying the tickets if he thought there was a chance of getting her back so soon!!!

Paulette has dedicated herself to God and the work of the church; we know that her continuing commitment and dedication will be a blessing to her parish and the wider community.