WHEN Matt Martinson is ordained to the priesthood at York Minster this weekend, it will mark the climax of an extraordinary transformation of his life.

For the Rev Martinson used to sleep rough in York, took drugs and became involved in armed robbery as matters spiralled violently out of control.

The 35-year-old married father of one, who is currently curate at St Nicholas Church in Beverley and is one of 14 people being ordained by the Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, on Sunday, told today how he changed after he “made a deal with God”.

He said he told God: “‘If you get me caught alive, I will bow my knee to you’, because at that time I was getting involved in armed robbery, and with the firearms issues the violence was growing, and it was a very dangerous world.

“I’d come to the point in my life when I’d had enough, I couldn’t take any more. I tried to commit suicide, but it didn’t work.

“God got me caught alive. When I was caught, I was put in a police cell up in Carlisle, and instead of being interviewed straight away, I was left in the cell.

“I heard God speak to me – not audibly – and say ‘make a choice’. And I knew then that that was one of those eternity moments, and I had to choose whether I was going to accept God or not. And I just said ‘yes’.”

He said he went to the Wolds prison, which had a “fantastic” chaplaincy team, led at that time by the Rev Dave Casswell.

“He’s an amazing guy, and he helped nurture my faith, and helped me to grow as a Christian.” He said he felt really excited about his ordination.

“When I come to York, I’ll cross over Lendal Bridge on my way from the train station – I used to live in a boat under that bridge. “To look back where I’ve come from, to where I’ve come, is to see God’s grace at work.

“It wasn’t anything fancy, just a boat, but it was a roof over my head. But eventually that went, and I ended up sleeping rough in York.”

The Rev David Mann, diocesan adviser on vocations, said: “Matt’s story shows how God can change a person’s life. “He’s been helped by some great priests in his journey, and I’m sure he will be just as inspirational in his ministry.”