15 new Church of England ministers have become the first ordinands in history to swear a vow of allegiance to King Charles III.
The historic ordination service took place at Exeter Cathedral just hours after the Royal Proclamation of the new monarch following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
The new Deacons, who will now be taking-up posts in churches across Devon were ordained by the Bishop of Exeter, Rt Rev Robert Atwell.
Speaking afterwards, Robin Smith, from Holy Trinity church, Barnstaple, said:
"What a momentous day.
"It was a privilege to be part of this amazing Church and serve the King and serve the country.
"The last few days have been a lot to get my head around but it's great to be here."
Joanne Parker, from Plymstock and Hooe in Plymouth, said: "Obviously the events of this week have been weighing on all of us, but it felt like a real historic moment to actually swear allegiance to the King today."
Ruth Beckett, from Torquay, was the very first person to make her vow. She said: "I am beyond excited.
"To be the first to affirm my oath to the new King was amazing but in ministry we affirm our allegiance to Jesus who is the same yesterday, today and always.
"It has been a good reminder that people come and go but Christ is constant."
The Bishop of Exeter has said the Queen's death is an "extraordinary, watershed moment for our nation".