On Saturday 4 October, Birmingham Cathedral was filled with joy and celebration as the Diocese gathered for the ordination of a new Priest and five Deacons. Among those ordained was Diane Reeves, who will now begin her ministry as Assistant Curate here at St Hilda’s.

Surrounded by family, friends, and members of the wider Church, the newly ordained were commissioned to serve with courage, faithfulness, and deep joy.

We offer our heartfelt congratulations to all those ordained, especially Diane, whom we are thrilled to welcome into our church family.

Reflecting on the day, Diane said:

"It was such a joyous ordination service. I felt truly blessed with the Holy Spirit. It was such a delight to share it with my fellow ordinands, friends and family, Jenni and others who came from St Hilda's. Very much looking forward to being at St Hilda's going forward.”

A curate is a newly ordained minister who serves in a parish under the guidance of the parish priest. This period is a time of practical learning, spiritual growth, and pastoral development. Curates preach, lead services, offer pastoral care, and engage with the community, all while continuing to deepen their understanding of ministry and theology. Diane’s curacy at St Hilda’s will be an opportunity for her to grow into her calling and serve the church with the gifts and experience she brings.

Diane has long served the Church of England, most recently as a Licensed Lay Minister (Reader) at St Peter’s Church in Harborne. Her background in NHS management and diocesan mission work brings a rich depth of experience to her new role. Diane’s warmth, wisdom, and pastoral heart will be a blessing to our community.

Revd. Jenni shared:

“I am very excited to welcome Diane and look forward to working with her. Diane brings so many great gifts and will be such a blessing to our community. We will encourage and support Diane as a minister among us and pray she will flourish in ministry. I have been praying for a curate for a long time, and her ordination comes with much thanksgiving!”

As Diane begins her curacy, we invite everyone to hold her—and all the newly ordained—in your prayers. May they be strengthened in their calling, filled with joy in their service, and guided by the Spirit in all they do.

Welcome, Diane! We look forward to walking alongside you in this new chapter of ministry.