Priests and deacons embark on next chapter in religious journeys after being ordained

Members of the clergy from across the county are embarking on the next chapter in their religious journeys after being ordained.

Tom Mumford, from St Gregory’s Church in Sudbury, and Judith Offord, from the Chadbrook benefice, were ordained as priests during a service in St Edmundsbury Cathedral on Sunday.

Graham Naylor and Julia Perkins, who represent the benefices of Lavenham with Preston St Mary, and the Glem Valley, respectively, were ordained as deacons.

Reflecting on the significance of the milestones, the Rt Rev Martin Seeley, Bishop of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich, said: “We are delighted to welcome these devoted clergy, with a huge variety of experience from all walks of life, into these important roles.

“They will make a difference to the lives of many people undergoing many challenges during the impact of the current pandemic and beyond.’’