‘The love of God leaves us no choice.’ These are the words from Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians, which inspired the Rev. John Morgan to commit himself to the love and service of God within the community for the rest of his life.

At a magnificent service, which took place in St. David’s Cathedral on Saturday, June 25, our much-loved Curate, John, was ordained Priest by the Bishop, the Right Rev. J. Wyn Evans. John’s family, close friends and benefice members were present to witness this very special rite of passage into full Priesthood, on a beautifully sunny day, in the towering cathedral of our county’s tiny city. Along with other deacons, John made the momentous promise to serve as Priest and to willingly undertake the many responsibilities associated with that role. Glorious music and singing, inspirational words and a moving ordination ceremony made the event so very special for all present and Rev. Morgan expressed his sincere thanks for the love and support shown to him by so many.

The following day, the new Assistant Curate at St. Mary’s, Joel Barder, was ordained Deacon by the Bishop. Joel and his family have recently moved into Lamack Vale from their previous home in Bristol. Joel will serve for at least the next three years as Assistant Curate, under the guidance of our Rector, Rev. Canon Andrew Grace and the other members of the Ministry Team. We anticipate with great pleasure Joel’s Ordination as Priest this time next year.

Sunday, July 3, was another unique event for our new priest, John, as he conducted his first Holy Eucharist at the benefice service at St. Mary’s Church. Both John and Joel made public declarations of their faith and dedication to their new roles in the community. The music, hymns and readings reflected the joyous mood of the day and were select because of their special personal significance and importance. Psalm 139, ‘You have searched me, Lord, and You know me,’ was read by Rector’s Warden, Nicole Evans, and a passage from Paul’s Epistle to the Romans by John’s wife, Judy. Rev. Barder read from St. John’s Gospel. In his sermon, Rector Andrew expressed the delight of us all that John’s long and sometimes difficult journey to full ordination had reached its culmination. He spoke amusingly about John’s well-known nickname of Morgs, harking back to those blissful days of teaching Religious Education at Greenhill School. He pointed out, however, that now the letters M, O, R, G and S had taken on greater significance. Rector Andrew expanded on his theme that after a few false starts, some inspirational encouragement and huge personal commitment by John, those letter now represented Ministry, Ordination, Redeemer, God and Saviour.

Throughout the Eucharist service, magnificent music and singing was provided by St. Mary’s Church Choir, Dr. John Harrison, Judy Davies, Corey Morris and Mark Thompson.

Following the service, church members and friends greatly enjoyed refreshments in the form of wine and magnificent first communion cake, expertly made and decorated by Lindy Wainwright. Rev. Morgan addressed his family and friends and showed particular appreciation for the encouragement initially given to him by former Rector, Canon John Harvey. We heard that many years ago, when John first felt called to the ministry, Canon Harvey pointed out: “If you can stand up in a classroom and teach, you can certainly present a sermon and preach!” This happy time of fellowship brought to a close this exceptionally significant event in the ongoing journey of faith of our dear Curate, John, and enabled him to greet and thank his many supporters.