60 years as a self-supporting minister

John’s  journey into ordained ministry began when he moved to Chester in 1963 to join the staff of Chester Teacher Training College. 

Being a full-time ordained minister wasn’t John’s calling but he still felt called to minister in some capacity and was encouraged to become what were then called supplementary ministers. He went on to be ordained deacon in 1965 and priested in 1966. What began as a temporary move became a ministry lasting  60 years.

Although the demands of ministry have changed, John continues to participate actively, particularly through the Thursday morning Book of Common Prayer service.

He stresses that such ministry depends not only on personal commitment but also on the support of family. 

At St Mary’s, Chester,  John has seen several self-supporting ministers become part of the life of the congregation. Rather than standing apart from the wider ministry of the Church, they have contributed naturally to its work and have been appreciated by parishioners.

Looking back, John acknowledges that ministry has not always been easy, but he describes it as deeply fulfilling and feels privileged to have served for so many years and is particularly grateful that he is still able to contribute despite his age. 

As he marks 60 years as a self-supporting minister, John’s story is one of enduring faithfulness. His experience demonstrates the valuable contribution of self-supporting ministers and the importance of family, parish and diocesan support.

Rev Antony Dutton, Rector at St Mary’s says:

“It is a great joy to celebrate John's Diamond Jubilee of his priesthood. Sixty years of ministry is a wonderful testament to the faithfulness of John - and to the faithfulness of God. That John has done this whilst holding down a 'proper job' and serving the Higher Education sector is remarkable. St Mary's has been particularly blessed by John, who has been an incredible servant here for over fifty years. Through his priestly ministry he shown wisdom and holiness, and nurtured and fed the people of God.

Julie Conalty, Bishop or Birkenhead and national Lead Bishop for Self Supporting Ordained Ministry: “John has been a pioneer in self-supporting ordained ministry in Chester Diocese and it is a joy to celebrate his distinctive calling and all that he has contributed, and continues to contribute.”