Jackie Martin was commissioned as an Anna Chaplain on 19 June 2024 at St Lalluwy Church, Menheniot in Cornwall by the Revd Graham James. Jackie writes:
I had attended a ‘training day’, in February, offering exploration of different aspects of our Christian faith and avenues giving us opportunities for our own growth and worship, as well as helping others in different ways and at different times or places in their lives and ours.
I came away with an incredibly strong pull towards Anna Chaplaincy. I was aware of what this was because John Tootell is in our St Cleer Parish Church and I was aware of his steely determination to introduce this to the South West.
The moment I heard there was training available, I plunged in with both feet, and thankfully all the ladies I spoke to, accommodated my ‘bull in a china shop’ approach. They all very graciously guided me, and allowed the process to get underway quickly.
My commissioning was a little overwhelming. Alongside eight others being confirmed, I found myself very much in the spotlight. I’m not keen on such focus and would far rather be ‘back-up and support’. But, I was also so blessed with friends and my grandson coming to support me, and of course most of all, John was able to attend too. That was indeed a great delight.
At the end of the ceremony when the confirmands were presented with their candles; I was overawed, as I too received one. They were very special as the tea-light candle was fitted into an image of a ‘dove’.
My journey with God began when I was a teenager and I have always had a ‘God shaped hole’ in my life. I was always very aware and conscious of His presence. However, ‘baby’ Christian doesn’t even begin to describe it. What I knew and understood then compared what I now understand in a relationship with God is poles apart. The last 16 years have been monumental in my experience with God; and the blessings and learning has been phenomenal. I know He answers prayer. I know I am a child of God. I know I am forgiven. I know that I am loved. I know that If I can in any way bring a spiritual blessing to anyone I encounter or visit, then I am blessed and richly rewarded.
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