A new deacon has been ordained at a Wick church in a historic first for the parish.
Penny Gordon was ordained Deacon by the Bishop of Dudley, Martin Gorick, in a special service.
The ordination marks the first time such a ceremony has taken place at the church near Pershore.
Martin Gorick, Bishop of Dudley, said: “Christ is the pattern for our calling as deacons – it says in Philippians that ‘he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave.’
“As deacons, we are servants of God, and I know Penny will see moments of God’s glory throughout her work.
“We open our hands and receive God’s love through word, sacrament and prayer and then go out and love others in his name.
“I’m delighted to ordain Penny to this calling and pray that God will bless her and this church as you work together to be Kingdom People in this place.”
Penny Gordon is ordained deacon by the Bishop of Dudley, Martin Gorick in a special service at St Mary’s Church in Wick (Image: Diocese of Worcester)
Ms Gordon is currently training as a non-stipendiary (voluntary) minister through the Auxiliary Pathway scheme.
She will continue her studies while serving in her parish as a curate.
She said: “I am overwhelmed with excitement and gratitude to be ordained at my home church of St Mary’s in Wick near Pershore.
“The congregation has been so supportive and it is wonderful that this service was at their own parish church, with Bishop Martin, the Abbey choir and organist, and so many family and friends.
“My faith journey started as a child, but my parents were not religious and attendance at church by was for high days and holy days.
“My calling from God started with the soul-igniting confirmation course run by our wonderful incumbent Claire Lording in 2018, followed by being appointed as a churchwarden.
“I will give of my best in the knowledge that I am supported by the Holy Spirit and rejoice in my new role as God’s servant.”
Ms Gordon said her journey toward ordination began after she was called upon to lead a couple of services at short notice when the rota preacher was not available.
She later qualified as an Authorised Lay Minister (worship leader) and took the Bishop’s Certificate course.