2010:365:171 Rev....

Down Cathedral this afternoon was the beautiful setting for the ordination of three new deacons: Jack, Lynne and Noel.  

The sun shone brightly all day and the crowds began to gather early for the service.  Attending clergy robed in the organ loft so we had a good view of the people below.  Jack and Lynne can be seen in the back right of the photograph.  They're sitting with their sponsors in preparation for the presentation early in the service.  

"Come, let us praise the Lord, with joy our God acclaim...." was the opening hymn and the singing was magnificent.  

As we approached the time of ordination, just after The Litany, the hymn of invocation was "O thou who camest from above, the pure celestial fire to impart, kindle a flame of sacred love on the mean altar of my heart."  

At the end of the service we came out into the lovely sunny area in front of the great west door and dozens of cameras appeared!  It was a bit rough asking the bishop and deacons to smile into the light - it was perhaps just a wee bit bright for comfort!  

I'll restrict myself to these few pictures... just a sample from nearly a hundred that I snapped as deacons mingled with their family and guests.  It was a privilege to be there and to see our student ordained.  She will serve as Curate Assistant in Saint Mark's, Dundela.

Maybe one final photograph... a great pair of shoes that made me smile.  The owner doesn't often have an opportunity to wear them and she was enjoying the chance today!

Jesu, what didst thou find in me, that thou hast dealt so lovingly?

How great the joy that thou hast brought, so far exceeding hope or thought.

          Jesu, my Lord, I thee adore, O make me love thee more and more!

Jesu, of thee shall be my song, to thee my heart and soul belong;

all that I am or have is thine, and thou, blessed Saviour, thou art mine.

          Jesu, my Lord, I thee adore, O make me love thee more and more!

Church Hymnal number 583

"Jesu, my Lord, my God, my all..." by Henry Collins

sung at the ordination service.