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First, I’d like to thank each and every one of you, for your support and prayers that I have continued to receive since my ordination on 16 July 2022, three years ago! How time has travelled fast! It was
certainly a humbling, prayerful, joyful experience that you all shared with me on that very hot July day.
The threefold ministry of Deacon of the Altar, Deacon of the Word and Deacon of Charity reflects my
calling to serve the people of God through these ministries. The ministries of Deacon of the Altar and
Deacon of the Word are where I am most visible to you all. A typical week of service will involve,
visiting bereaved families, visiting sick and housebound parishioners. Preparing liturgies for funeral
services, burial of ashes, baptisms. Preparing the Universal prayer intentions, preparing for preaching
a homily or reflection at Mass, in the hospital, or for the SVP. Celebrating funeral services, either in
Church or at the crematorium. Assisting at mass and at requiem masses. Celebrating the baptism of
children and each Thursday I minister in the Countess of Chester hospital, having been asked by
Bishop Mark to become the Catholic chaplain for the Countess of Chester hospital, Ellesmere Port
hospital and Bowmere. Co-ordinating with extra ordinary ministers of the Eucharist from our parishes
in Chester, Ellesmere Port and Hooton, I lead a service in the hospital ever Thursday at 10am for
volunteers, patients and staff. Every Catholic who is in our hospitals in Chester and Ellesmere Port
receives a visit from one of the team. The visit may involve just a chat, it may involve praying with the
person, and it the patient wishes and is able to receive Holy Communion, the patient is able to receive
Christ’s Body, Blood. Soul and Divinity, truly Present in the Eucharist at the bedside. I record our visits
on the hospital computer system and in the afternoon attend Bowmere Mental Health Hospital, visiting
all the wards, talking to residents and staff and ministering to many of those struggling a little at this
time. At times, I will be called to pray with the dying and after a person has passed away. Being with
the families of those dying or who have died. Praying with them. All very humbling and a privilege and
an honour to carry out God’s work imitating Christ the Servant in my diaconate ministry. Of course,
none of this would be possible without prayer, prayer offered at the start and end of the day, the prayer
of the Divine Office, the prayer of the Holy Rosary, the praying of Lectio Divina, prayers offered for you
all each day. I feel blessed every day to have received the grace of God through the Sacrament of Holy
Orders and with the Sacrament of Marriage, being joined together with Sandra 40 years ago, and with
our children and grandchildren, the love and support I receive and also from you all, parishioners,
friends, fellow clergy is something I never take for granted, it is a gift from God. May the Lord watch
over, guide and protect you all.