FIFTEEN deacons were ordained at York Minster by the Archbishop of York.

Dr John Sentamu carried out the ceremonies for candidates from across the north of England.

They have all completed their training at theological college and are entering parish ministry. They will serve as curates and, while most will be ordained priest after a period of time, some may chose to remain as deacons. Deacons can preach sermons, perform baptisms and conduct funerals, but, unlike priests, cannot conduct marriages or celebrate the Eucharist.

The 15 people ordained were Graham Bowkett, Elizabeth Carrington, Marie Edwards, Margaret Ellison, Michael Grandey, Elizabeth Hassall, Paul Johnson, Daphne Kitching, Trevor Lewis, Anna Lindley, Matthew Martinson, Alistair Rycroft, Andrew Simpson, Carol Tetley and Rachel Young.