This new series from Lifecall and the Diocese of Liverpool highlights the unique and personal journeys of those called to ordained ministry. It features individuals ordained in June 2025 as well as others from previous years whose paths into ministry have taken unique and inspiring turns.

In June, we welcomed a new selection of deacons and priests at two inspiring services held at Liverpool Cathedral. 12 individuals were ordained as deacons and 8 as priests, each now embarking on their next chapter across the Diocese of Liverpool.

We spoke to a selection of recently ordained ministers to learn more about their lives before ordination, their calling, and the communities they now serve – from traditional parishes to church plants and those involved in our Fit for Mission programme. Whether they came to faith later in life or have been part of church communities since childhood, each story reflects a distinctive journey rooted in faith.

Those we sat down with spoke warmly of the support they received from the teams at St James’ House throughout their training and ministry, and they shared honest reflections and words of encouragement for anyone considering a similar path.

Meet Dave Cosslett

Curate, ordained to deacon in 2025

I realised that being a deacon would allow me to become a bridge between the church and the wider community,” said Dave Cosslett, who was ordained at Liverpool Cathedral in June and now serves in Church Wigan while continuing his IT career.

Click here to read Dave’s story in full.

Introducing Kirsty White

Deacon, ordained to priest in 2022

“You don’t have to fit a certain mould to be called.”
Kirsty White’s path to ordained ministry began with a youth group invite and a story that changed everything. Four years into ministry, she’s building a new church community at Springwood.

Click here to read Kirsty’s full story.

Say Hello to David Adah

Curate, ordained to deacon in 2025

“You’re never alone on this path,” says David Adah, who was recently ordained at Liverpool Cathedral. His story of loss, faith, and calling reveals the quiet strength that comes from trusting in God through life’s hardest moments.

Click here to read David’s story in full.

From Lecturer to Vicar, Meet Louis Johnson

Deacon ordained to priest in 2021

Ordained in the midst of the pandemic, Louis Johnson says, “We can’t control the time or circumstances in which we’re called – all we can do is respond.” Now vicar in Crosby and Waterloo, his journey shows how God calls people in every season of life.

Click here to read Louis’ story in full

As you’ll see from the stories of those recently ordained, they are ordinary people from all walks of life. Too often, ordained ministry is still associated with outdated stereotypes but that couldn’t be further from the reality here in the Diocese of Liverpool. Our clergy are diverse from all corners of life and rooted in throughout our communities.

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering whether ordained ministry might be part of your calling, we encourage you to get in touch with our LifeCall team for a short, informal conversation.

Visit our LifeCall website to explore a range of vocations, read personal stories, and learn more about the different ways you can serve within the Church.

If you’re looking for a curacy for summer 2026 and looking to move to somewhere new we have opportunities to continue your journey with us in our diocese ,you can find further information on our dedicated webpage.