DROITWICH has a new priest after Jon Turner was one of 12 across the Diocese of Worcester who were ordained over the weekend.
Of the 12 candidates, five were ordained as Priests in Worcester Cathedral on Saturday, with Rev Turner now joining the Saltway team.
The ordination services in the Cathedral were led by the Bishop of Worcester, Hugh Nelson. Bishop Olivia Graham, former Bishop of Reading, preached at the service, having led a pre-ordination retreat for all candidates.
Rev Turner said he was looking forward to Priesthood and the new opportunities this next season of ministry will afford.
He added: “I’ve had significant exposure to the occasional offices and seen how the Church is there for people at times of both need and celebration.
“It’s been fun to navigate different seasons of the year, each with its own particular demands and joys – Christmas was particularly memorable because of the interaction with so many different people at various events.
“In the last year, I’ve also had the privilege of serving as a Trustee for a local almshouse association, and I’ve been able to lead numerous services in local care and residential homes.
“I’ve witnessed how the Church connects to the wider civil society, and it’s been a pleasure to work alongside community organisations and other churches to serve the local community.
“The main highlight of my diaconal year has been the blessing of meeting so many new people.
“I’m thankful for everyone who has helped support me along the way, with particular thanks going to my wife Heidi and our children, who have had to sacrifice me not being around as much as before.”
Bishop Hugh said: “The newly ordained men and women, each of them very different in background and gifts, will be a blessing to their churches and the wider community they are called to serve.
“I hope their ordination will inspire others to consider what God might be calling them to.”
