My Thoughts 08/09/2022

On the 8th September feast of the Birthday of Our Lady, 47 years ago I was ordained a deacon at St John’s Seminary, Wonersh. A couple of days before I had written out my solemn promise of celibacy.

Only after ordination did we wear clerical dress, an outward sign that our life of service and commitment. I was now in Holy Orders, which comprised of those who are ordained Deacon, Priest and Bishop.

In January of 1975, I was assigned to work as a deacon at the Parish of St Jospeh, Colliers Wood. Fr Edgar Dunn was parish priest. For me, it was a very happy six months of parish visiting and preaching and catechesis.

Today as I reflect on the Nativity of Mary, the mother of our Lord and Saviour I give thanks for her content presence in my life as deacon and priest. Mary said yes and endured hardship, sorrow and joy. May she continue to guide me in pondering the word of God in my heart and be a mother to me who nurtures and strengthens my love of her son Jesus as I share in his priesthood.

Canon Father Anthony Charlton
Canon Father Anthony CharltonParish Priest