THE BISHOP of Dudley, Martin Gorick led a special service at Holy Trinity Church, Eckington on Sunday (January 18) to ordain a new priest for the Bredon Hill group of churches.
Rev Sooz Magee has completed the first stage of her training in the parish and will now be able to preside at holy communion, offer blessings and conduct weddings.
She will continue to serve as a curate in the churches of Eckington, Defford-cum-Besford and Bredon with Bredon’s Norton.
Reflecting on becoming a priest, Rev Sooz said: “My curacy has had its challenges and at times has been bumpy.
“This has brought about opportunity for deep growth, rootedness and a deeper sense of calling, for which I am so grateful. It has certainly been an adventure.
“Remembering God is our ever-present help has sustained me through the challenging times.
“I have so enjoyed my time in the Bredon Hill group so far, serving in five churches all unique and special.
“I have been blown away by people’s warmth and their faithfulness.
“I am looking forward to continuing to live out the calling that has so deeply empowered me.
“Not just for myself and the blessing that is for me, but also for the blessing and flourishing of others in the churches and in the communities I serve.”
Bishop of Dudley, Martin Gorick, who preached on being a child of God.
“We are all called to be kingdom people, part of God’s kingdom. Sooz, you have responded to that call to be a servant of God and to bring others to him.
“God calls all of us as Christians to follow him as Lord and live as his children. The world needs people of grace and peace who give their lives for others as Jesus did.
“Whatever your own call, know yourself to be first and foremost a child of God, known and loved by him,” he said.
