Revd James Crockett is ordained (OLM) presbyter
Congratulations to Revd James Crockett who has been ordained presbyter (OLM) for his continuing ministry in Braniel Church Plant, Belfast.
Bishop David ordained James along with Ross Munro at a service in St Saviour’s, Dollingstown, on Sunday 3 September. The preacher was Revd Greg Downes, director of Kingfisher Ministries and Theologian & Missioner of St Mary’s Cogges near Oxford. Greg spoke on John 20: 19–23, Called to an Apostolic Ministry.
James reflects on his deacon year
Once I had become used to the fact that all the studies for OLM were over, I was struck by the enormity of what it is to be ordained. I mean how could the Lord take someone like me, and get me to this point, and take me further. I am yet to be convinced that feeling of unworthiness will ever leave. Perhaps it is because none of us are worthy, it is all His grace.
Reflecting on this year as a deacon leading a church plant I have been overwhelmed at times, at the sheer brilliance of the God we serve. How He and only He could continue to heal people as they enter our building or as we enter theirs. How ordination has changed me and helped me to see God’s glory, even in the little. It has been a challenging year, one that has seemed at times more like a sowing year than a reaping one. However, the good thing about sowing is the promise of things to come, a harvest to be cultivated, lives to be transformed and disciples realising their call to multiply.
I am thankful as always for a Father who planned all this from before the foundation of the world, a Saviour who made it possible and a great friend in the Holy Spirit who so humbly walks beside us as I go, cheering us on and making a way possible.
James
