Celebrating Mary Ball’s Ordination as Deacon
Yesterday, members of the Holy Trinity congregation gathered at Portsmouth Cathedral to support and celebrate Mary Ball as she was ordained Deacon by Bishop Jonathan. The service - filled with beautiful music, a powerful sermon, and moving liturgy - marked the beginning of Mary’s ministry as a curate at St Mary’s Church, Rowner. It was a joy to see so many familiar faces from Holy Trinity attending the service, offering their prayers and encouragement. You can spot them in the group photo below.
The occasion held special significance for Mary’s family as well. Her father-in-law, the Rev Alan Ball, attending with her husband Ed, was celebrating exactly 50 years since his own ordination on the 28th June 1975. At 99 years old, Alan is the oldest priest in the Diocese of Portsmouth, so they have written up a special story about him on their website which you can read here.
As Mary begins her ministry, it’s worth reflecting on the role of a Deacon in the Church. Deacons are called to a ministry of service, assisting at the Eucharist, proclaiming the Gospel, and offering pastoral care - distinct from priests, who also preside over the sacraments and lead congregations. Earlier this year, Mthr Margaret offered a sermon exploring these roles more deeply, which you can revisit here.
Please join us in praying for Mary as she embarks on this new chapter.
Below is a gallery of photos from the service on Saturday 28 June, taken by the Diocese of Portsmouth and shared with their kind permission.
