I studied at Wonersh Seminary in the 1980s to discern whether I might have a vocation to the Priesthood. I loved my time there but came to realise that family life was my vocation. I have a wonderful wife and three adult sons, but I always had a sense of unfinished business.

When my Parish Priest approached me to consider the Permanent Diaconate it didn't take me long to accept that the Lord was calling me to service. I thoroughly enjoyed the four years of training, I felt that I grew as a person, made friends and learnt a lot.

As well as parish duties as a deacon, I was asked to join the Chaplaincy team at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton. I had no idea what to expect, other than I was to visit patients and take them the Blessed Sacrament.  

Every time I opened a door to a ward or side-room I wouldn't know what to expect. I had a book "Pastoral Care of the Sick", the Blessed Sacrament close to my heart and faith that I would be guided by the Holy Spirit.

In the first few months I made plenty of mistakes - I had a lovely long chat with a man and it was only when I offered him communion that it became apparent that I had visited the wrong person! He enjoyed the visit though. I soon felt comfortable in my role and though I sometimes thought I hadn't done been very helpful I was encouraged by patients, relatives and friends who told me that my visits had been welcomed.

I've been in the role for about three years now.  In that time, I've met so many inspiring and interesting people. Some had minor illnesses but wanted a chat and communion, others more seriously ill and feared their future, while others were at the end of their lives.

Sometimes I pray with patients, sometimes laugh, other times I might sit and hold someone's hand while they cry.

I have found a great spiritual richness in the ministry.  Each time I have visited I learn something new. I'm sure I've received more from patients than they have gained from me. I thank God for the privilege of being part of the pastoral care of the sick.