Two new deacons have been ordained by the Church of England in Suffolk. They were ordained by Bishop Martin Seeley at a service on 16 October in St Mary-le-Tower Church, Ipswich. The Revd Gregor Purdie will be a deacon at St Mary-le-Tower while the Revd Dr Antony Rich carries out deacon duties in the Sancroft benefice which covers Fressingfield, Mendham, Metfield, Stradbroke, Weybread, and Withersdale.
Deacons work alongside priests to support their communities, particularly addressing the needs of those struggling or who are sick.
Bishop Martin said: "We are delighted to welcome them as deacons and guide them as they set out on a new stage of their journey in Christian life in Suffolk. These devoted clergy will be at the heart of their communities, guiding, supporting and inspiring people in every day life." He added: "A deacon is sometimes referred to as the eyes and ears of the church in the local community where they bring the church to address the needs and hopes of all the people. "They help support those who are struggling with life’s challenges, the sick and lonely, reaching into the forgotten corners of the community. And they build a bridge with the community, bringing back to the church the needs of the communities they serve."
The latest ordinations follow more than 20 men and women of all ages and backgrounds who were ordained priests and deacons in June of this year at the Cathedral in Bury St Edmunds, to serve communities right across the county.