There are three new deacons and two new priests in the Diocese of Truro after Petertide services at the city’s cathedral.

Bishop of Truro, the Rt Revd David Williams, says they are ‘remarkable’ and calls for people to pray regularly for them.

On Friday, June 27, Ian Dawes, Deborah (Debbie) Jane Harris and Erica Payne were ordained and are now in their new posts as deacons.

Revd Ian is now serving as Stipendiary Assistant Curate in the North Cornwall Cluster of Churches. Revd Debbie is now serving as Self Supporting Assistant Curate in the Benefice of Godrevy and Revd Erica, is serving as Stipendiary Assistant Curate in the Benefice of St Kea.

Revd Erica says: “I personally found it a very joyful experience. I felt humbled to be in this position, making vows to serve God and His church for a lifetime. Everyone was so encouraging, and many said they found it to be a moving service. Friends and family joined online, locally and across the world to watch.”

On Saturday June 28, Revd Grace Hannah Kanungha and Revd Oliver Myles were ordained as priests by the Bishop of Truro.

Revd Grace is now Stipendiary Assistant Curate in the Bodmin Team Benefice and Oliver will be Stipendiary Curate in the Benefice of Padstow.

Revd Grace says: “I didn’t know what ordination as a priest would feel like, anyone who participated in the service saw that it was an emotional moment for me and that is because the presence of God through his Holy Spirit was so overwhelmingly tangible, the Holiness of God so very real.

“Receiving Ordination to be a priest was overwhelming, holy and surrounded by love, and as I presided over the Eucharist the next morning at St Petroc’s church like the most wonderfully natural thing in the world.”

 “What a joy to ordain five remarkable men and women over the weekend.” – Bishop David

Bishop David says: “Ian, Olly, Debbie, Grace and Erica have all got a story that is rooted in Jesus Christ.

“Do join me in praying regularly for them – it is only by depending on God strength that we can be the men and women God means us to be.

“Pray too for more men and women, lay and ordained to her Gods call to serve.”