From on–going formation of Clergy to caring for sick-and-retired priests, the Vicariate for Care of the Clergy supports those exercising ministry in the Diocese with systems of support and growth.

Looking for a new vocation? Explore how you can join the Priesthood or Diaconate via our pages below.

And remember, you can make a donation to support our Sick and Retired Priests Fund and support our work. Whether you want to mark the retirement of a priest with a small gift, or to give back to those who have supported you in your own faith journey. Your donations will be greatly received to help our Clergy not simply survive, but to thrive and grow as faith leaders in the Diocese.

"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith."

Galatians 6:9-10

On-going formation of Clergy

On-going formation is the ministerial development of priests and deacons in the Diocese through a programme of training and spiritual reflection.

Permanent Diaconate

Through ordination, the deacon receives the Gospel of Christ, whose herald the deacon is, to believe what he reads, to teach what he believes, and to practice what he teaches.

Priesthood

Discover priestly vocations and work together with individuals who have declared an interest to train as a priest, helping and supporting them through the process of application and interviews. He will continue to support the candidate through seminary and to the point of Ordination.

Supporting Sick and Retired Clergy

Our Sick and Retired Clergy Support Service provides care and support for clergy in times of ill health and in their retirement and old age, after their lifetime of service and devotion to Christ, His Church and His People.

We also provide emotional and practical support to those considering or planning for retirement.

They’ve been there for us. Let us be there for them.

For more information or to make a referral, please contact:

Naomi Rooke – Responsible Social Worker

Telephone: 0191 243 3300
Mobile: 07833 169755
Email: naomi.rooke@diocesehn.org.uk

Fr David Smith – Responsible Priest

Telephone: 0191 262 3882
Email: clergycare@diocesehn.org.uk

Fr Jeff Dodds – Episcopal Vicar for Care of Clergy

Telephone: 01434 603119
Email: evclergy@diocesehn.org.uk

Care of the Clergy News

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