Rev Mr Dennis Porter-Avis Ordained to Sub-Deacon by Bishop Adrian Glover in Old Catholic Apostolic Church

In a heartfelt ceremony filled with joy and purpose, the Old Catholic Apostolic Church (OCAC) has welcomed Rev Mr Dennis Porter-Avis as its new Sub-Deacon, officiated by Bishop Adrian Glover. This event is not just a milestone in Rev Mr Porter-Avis's life; it reinforces the vibrant community spirit of the Old Catholic Apostolic Church Parish of Swindon.

Rev Mr Dennis Porter-Avis (left) Rt Rev Dr Mark Paris Haines (right) was Officially ordained to the OCAC by Bishop Adrian Glover

Ordination is a sacred ceremony that signifies a person's commitment to serve both God and their congregation. For Rev Mr Dennis Porter-Avis, this journey into the role of Sub-Deacon is a crucial step in his spiritual development and showcases his unwavering dedication to serving his community.

The Sub-Deacon role is important within the church structure. Sub-Deacons not only assist in various functions during worship but also act as a bridge between lay members and clergy, fostering a deeper engagement with the church's mission.

Rev Mr Porter-Avis's new role reflects the growth of the Old Catholic Apostolic Church. His ordination emphasizes the welcoming nature of the church, encouraging others to join the community and participate in its mission.

The Role of a Sub-Deacon

The responsibilities of a Sub-Deacon are varied and crucial for effective worship. This position often serves as an entry point to higher ministries like Deacon or Priest. Key responsibilities include:

• Assisting in Liturgical Services: Sub-Deacons play a vital role in ensuring services run smoothly. For instance, during services that attract more than 200 attendees, their support helps maintain order and reverence.

  
  

• Reading the Gospel: By reading the Gospel during Mass, Sub-Deacons convey the essential teachings of Christ. This duty allows them to connect the message more directly with the congregation.

  
  

• Preparing the Altar: Sub-Deacons ensure all items needed for the Eucharist are ready. This role is critical since it directly affects the flow and atmosphere of the service.

  
  

• Supporting the Clergy: Their assistance allows clergy to concentrate on pastoral care. A report from the Pew Research Center found that engaged clergy lead to community growth, with an average increase in service attendance by over 25%.

  
  

By tackling these responsibilities, Rev Mr Porter-Avis and his peers contribute significantly to a vibrant worship atmosphere, enhancing the overall experience for all.

The ordination ceremony for Rev Mr Dennis Porter-Avis was an emotional event marked by a strong sense of community. Bishop Adrian Glover officiated the ceremony at the Old Catholic Apostolic Church Parish of Swindon.

During the ceremony, Rev Mr Porter-Avis took formal vows to dedicate his life to serving the church and its parishioners. These vows signify a serious personal commitment to living by Christ's teachings and meeting the community's spiritual needs.

The presence and support of loved ones highlighted the collective spirit of the congregation, setting the stage for Rev Mr Porter-Avis's journey in his new role.

Stepping into his position as Sub-Deacon, Rev Mr Dennis Porter-Avis embarks on a journey rich with opportunities for both personal and communal growth. This role offers him the chance to explore his faith more deeply and serve others effectively.

While there may be challenges ahead, the support of Bishop Adrian Glover and the parish community will be instrumental in helping him navigate his new responsibilities. His commitment to serving his community will be essential as he carries out his duties within the Old Catholic Apostolic Church.

Rev Mr Dennis Porter-Avis's ordination as Sub-Deacon by Bishop Adrian Glover represents a significant moment for him and the Old Catholic Apostolic Church Parish of Swindon. This milestone goes beyond Rev Mr Porter-Avis's personal growth, serving to strengthen the community as a whole.

By embracing his new responsibilities, Rev Mr Porter-Avis will help enhance worship experiences and cultivate a sense of belonging among parishioners. His journey has just begun, but the impact of his work will resonate for years.

In celebrating this ordination, we reflect on the values of commitment, service, and faith within our communities. The Old Catholic Apostolic Church continues to thrive, thanks to devoted individuals like Rev Mr Dennis Porter-Avis, who are eager to serve.

As the parish looks to the future, we invite everyone to draw inspiration from Rev Mr Porter-Avis's journey and consider how each of us can contribute to our communities and our church.