27 men and 20 women have joined the family of clergy serving churches across the Diocese of London after being ordained to the office of Deacon this week.

The office of Deacon is often a step on the path towards priesthood and follows two to three years of training. The new Deacons will be working in churches across London, serving their local communities and undertaking public worship, teaching and pastoral work. After a period of normally a year, a Deacon is often ordained to the priesthood.

The Bishop of London, The Rt Revd and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally DBE, said:

“London is so fortunate to be welcoming 47 new clergy to our family of churches this year. After a uniquely challenging year for the capital, each one of these new Deacons will be an immensely valuable addition to their parishes and the communities they serve. They are a remarkable group of people, and their wide range of backgrounds and interests is testament to the strength and diversity of the Church in London. Let us all celebrate their ordination, and work together to share Jesus’s love and further God’s mission in the Diocese.”

This marks the third successive year the Diocese has welcomed over 40 new Deacons to its churches. The Deacons come from diverse backgrounds and will serve churches and communities across the Diocese of London.