In a historic event, three members of the same family are being ordained together during the same service.
Mother Julie Wheeler, son Charles Wheeler and daughter-in-law Miriam Brandon-Wheeler will become deacons at a service at Exeter Cathedral on Saturday along with 13 others.
Charles, who took part in the Church of England’s Ministry Experience scheme before joining a monastic community where he met his wife, said: “It is a unique joy to prepare for ordination with members of my family.
“To be preparing with Miriam my wife and to have the opportunity to serve the people of Tiverton together as part of the same Church community is particularly special.
“I am glad too that I am preparing with Julie, my mother, who has encouraged me as I have encouraged her.
“All of this, I sense, is a sign that God doesn’t just call individuals to serve him, but families and households.”
Once they are ordained, Miriam and Charles will be serving as curates in the Tiverton St George and St Paul Mission Community. Julie will be serving at St Mark’s Church in Exeter.
