Cathedral hosts 30th Anniversary celebration service
A wonderful and moving Eucharist service took place this week in celebration of the 30th anniversary of the ordination of women to the priesthood at which Bishop Ruth presided and Revd Canon Helen Garratt, Dean of Women's Ministry gave a moving sermon.
Canon Helen thanked the clergy for their partnership in the gospel, for encouragement and for ‘championing ' the ministry of women, "We are in good company," she said.
She added: "The first witnesses of the resurrection were women. The right people at that time - entrusted with the news of that vital moment in history. Certainly not what was expected at the time, but just the right people at that particular time.
“Of course, the diverse communities that make up this Diocese need different people for them - so be encouraged. God is calling us with all our differences of backgrounds, gifts, race and age for those very diverse communities. Because the mission of God needs a diverse people of God in order to reach the people that he loves. And in fact, even greater diversity is still needed in the ministry of men and women in the church.”
The Bishop of Chichester, Dr Martin Warner, thanked all the women clergy for their ministry: “On behalf of the three bishops – we love you and we are grateful to you for all that you bring to enrich the life of this diocese. For all that you bring to the people that you serve, and all that you teach us about knowing, loving and following Jesus Christ in the 21st Century.”
You can read the full sermon here
More photos here
Five women who were ordained back in 1994, formed a key part of the service. The first ordination of women in Chichester took place in East Grinstead. All five were applauded by all the clergy who attended the service.