TEACHER Joy Windsor has become the new curate for Alton parish.

Joy was ordained at Winchester Cathedral by the Right Reverend Tim Dakin, Bishop of Winchester, on July 2.

She was one of a group of 11 to be ordained as curates, ranging in age from 26 to 54, who bring a huge breadth of background and experience to the Diocese of Winchester. Before responding to God’s call to serve her local community as a church leader, Joy was an English teacher and will continue to teach alongside her new role.

Deacons have a special role within the Church, often understood as the role of a servant as they take on a particular responsibility to serve the community and reach out to those in need. They undertake two or three years of training prior to ordination and normally go on to be ordained as priests a year later.

Joy will be working in Alton, leading public worship and serving in schools, hospitals and prisons and working in partnership with community groups to bring about social renewal and transformation. Working with her fellow curates, Joy she take responsibility for contributing toward the mission of the Church in the Diocese of Winchester.

Bishop Tim said of the ordination: “I am delighted to have ordained Joy this weekend. Deacons lead by example, expressing Jesus’ love for the world through their prophetic service. I look forward to working closely with Joy over the coming years.”

Joy said of her decision to become a curate: “I didn’t decide to be ordained – God called me. I have to say I was not easily convinced and, looking back, I realise that I have been moving toward this for a very long time. When I finally answered the call, though, I know it has transformed my whole life.

“I am really looking forward to the next stage of ministry and the chance to serve the community that I have grown up in.

“I particularly look forward to sharing the Christian journey with the Covenant Youth Choir, which is close to my heart.”