The Rev Jon Swales MBE is the mission priest for the Lighthouse project in Leeds (placements for deacons are offered there!). In Lent this year I published here a series of his meditations on diaconal ministry https://cofedeacons.org/2025/03/11/herald-of-christs-kingdom/ Jon has now created a series of verse/prayers, continuing his reflections on the ministry of the deacon. I’ll share them week by week.
East of Eden: Deacons
The First Word — Heralds
Two days before ordination,
six wait in cassocks
that itch against the skin.
They gather in the retreat house chapel
on the edge of Elmet and Aire.
The preacher has fallen ill.
So a retired priest—
grey-haired, shoulders rounded
by decades of ministry—
is asked to take his place.
He does not stride but shuffle.
Does not perform but simply stand.
The weight of years hangs on him,
yet his eyes carry gentleness,
as if sorrow has taught him
not to be harsh.
His voice is gravel,
weathered by funerals,
softened by baptisms,
tempered in hospice corridors
and at the bedside of the dying.
“Deacons are heralds of Christ’s kingdom,”
he begins, almost whispering.
“Not masters.
Not architects.
Heralds.
CofE Network of Distinctive Deacons 