On a very warm Saturday 28th June, we celebrated the Ordination of our Curate Revd Alison Roberts as Priest at St Edmundsbury Cathedral along with Revd Carole Jones of Bacton Benefice and 10 others from across the Diocese, together with members of their families, friends and parishioners. The service was conducted by the Rt Revd Graeme Knowles, Acting Bishop of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich.

Bishop Graeme said: ‘‘The high number of people being ordained by the Church of England in Suffolk reflects a growing interest in people across the county seeking to serve in this demanding and rewarding ministry, making a difference to others’ lives. They come from a wide range of backgrounds and this means that their experiences and skill set will appeal to people of different ages and different backgrounds. They bring with them an exciting mixture of varying outlooks on life supported by a strong foundation in the church, a blend of youth and experience, and I look forward to seeing them settle in their new roles.’’ On Sunday 29th June, Revd Alison together with her training supervisor Revd Tracey James from Needham Market celebrated Alison's 1st presiding over Holy Communion service at a special Benefice service in St Mary's church, Haughley together with a combined congregation from the Benefice of 3 Parishes of Haughley, Wetherden and Stowupland followed by a 'bring and share meal'. Message from Alison - "I wish to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart, all those in the Benefice and beyond for coming to my Ordination service and supporting me - and the many gifts and congratulations given, help, guidance and assistance received. I am truly overwhelmed and humbled by peoples generosity. Thank you and God Bless". As Alison starts on the next leg of her faith journey, we send our heartfelt good wishes and God's Blessings with her.

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