Deacons can be Ground Breakers, Angels, or Icons of Christ, said keynote speaker Canon David Kennedy, Vice Dean of Durham University and Canon Precentor of Durham Cathedral at the recent conference, ‘Deacons Matter’, at Wydale Hall.

With Bishops and Priests, Deacons are one of the three ordained ministries in the Church of England; many Deacons are later ordained Priests, but a growing number of Deacons recognise that their calling - or vocation - is to a permanent ministry of practical service and outreach.

Many of the 26 women and men attending ‘Deacons Matter’ were exploring, or already the discernment process, learning more about what the Vocational Deacon ministry looks and feels like.

Six of the eight ordained Vocational Deacons currently ministering in the Diocese of York were present, helping to facilitate the weekend and sharing their stories about how their individual ministries are working out in each different context.

Deacon the Revd Lottie Cranfield, Curate in the Parish of Easingwold with Raskelf, said, “We had an inspiring, informative and encouraging time, with everyone taking home ideas which had really blessed them - having something new and encouraging to take on into their own ministries.”