Former Evangelical Pastor Ordained to Holy Priesthood in Halifax

HALIFAX, ENGLAND — The Orthodox community of St. Hilda in Halifax celebrated a historic milestone on July 26 as Dn. Caedmon was ordained to the holy priesthood during a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy led by Metr. Silouan of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of the British Isles and Ireland.

Fr. Caedmon had previously served as an evangelical pastor, with his parish choosing to embrace Orthodox Christianity last year. The community of St. Hilda celebrated its inaugural Divine Liturgy on August 17, 2025, with Douglas Clark taking the name Caedmon when he was ordained to the diaconate the following month. St. Caedmon was the spiritual son of St. Hilda of Whitby, the renowned early English hymnographer.

Held at St. Malachy's Catholic Church with the permission of the local parish, the recent celebration brought together clergy, faithful, and visitors for the feast of the Holy Martyr Paraskevi of Rome. During the service, Metr. Silouan also awarded the epigonation to Fr. Stavros, authorizing him to serve as a confessor alongside Fr. Gregory. As the ordination concluded, the congregation proclaimed, "Axios! He is worthy!" in recognition of the Church's affirmation of the new priest.

In his homily, Metr. Silouan emphasized the sacrificial nature of the priesthood, telling the newly ordained priest Caedmon, "You are not ordained to make disciples for yourself. You are ordained to lead every soul to Jesus Christ." He urged Fr. Caedmon to model his ministry after Christ the Good Shepherd through prayer, humility, and faithful pastoral care.

The Archbishop also announced that the community had advanced from mission status to become the Parish of St. Hilda, citing its remarkable growth in less than a year. Fr. Caedmon will serve as priest in charge while continuing to receive guidance from Fr. Gregory and Fr. Stavros, with Fr. Gregory remaining as parish priest for another year. A festive Agape meal and reception at Halifax Golf Club concluded the day's celebrations.

Previously, the UOJ reported that a former rabbi’s son was ordained an Orthodox deacon.