A HARLOW man has taken his devotion and service to the Catholic Church to the next level by being ordained a Deacon.

Tony Rowley was ordained at a special ceremony at Holy Cross Church on Saturday.

Tony has been a member of the church for decades and has a number of academic/theological qualifications to his name.

YH asked Tony why he left it until now?

Tony said: “Even though a number of priests had recommended me to become a Deacon, I just felt that 65 was too old.

“But Holy Cross Parish Priest, Father Bernard and many others said that was nonsense.

“I am overjoyed to be ordained a Deacon and carry on serving the church in any way I can.”

Tony was ordained in a ceremony at Holy Cross that involved a Bishop, six priests and seven deacons.

Tony may now officiate at weddings, baptisms and funerals as well as his role in services at the church in Tracyes Road, Harlow.