'The love of God leaves us no choice'. These are the words, from Paul's second letter to the Corinthians, which inspired the Rev. Alexandra Grace to commit her life to the love and service of God within the community, for the rest of her life.

At a magnificent service, which took place in St. David's Cathedral on Saturday, June 29, our much-loved curate, Alex, was ordained priest by the bishop, the Right Rev. J. Wyn Evans. Alex's family, close friends and many benefice members were present to witness this very special rite of passage into full priesthood, on a beautifully sunny day, in the towering cathedral of our county's tiny city.

Along with three other deacons, Alex made the momentous promise to serve as priest and to willingly undertake the many responsibilities associated with that role.

Glorious music and singing, inspirational words and a moving ordination ceremony made the event so very special for all present and Rev. Grace expressed her sincere thanks for the love and support shown to her by so many.

The following day, Sunday June 30, was another unique event for our new priest, as she conducted her first Holy Eucharist at the benefice service at St. Mary's Church.

The music, hymns and readings reflected the joyous mood of the day and all were selected by Alex because of their special significance and importance to her. Prayers were beautifully led by Hannah and Elizabeth, Alex's daughters, and Psalm 139, 'You have searched me, Lord, and You know me', was read by her sister, Kathryn. The first verse of the gradual hymn, 'Be Thou my Vision' was sung as a solo by Alex, accompanied by Melanie Walker.

Two special individuals who have played very important roles in Alex's spiritual journey also contributed to the service. Rev. Vivian Roberts, former Vicar of St. Illtyd's Church, Pembrey, where Alex grew up, read from Paul's Epistle to the Ephesians. An inspirational address was given by Rev. Jan Gould, Vicar of the Church of the Resurrection, Glan Ely, Cardiff, and a member of staff at St. Michael's College, where Alex trained for the ministry.

The offertory hymn, 'Take my life and let it be, consecrated Lord, to Thee' put into words the dedication and commitment of which the Rev. Grace has given us her assurance.

The junior choir performed Graham Kendrick's wonderful song of praise 'Knowing You, Jesus' and the church choir delighted the congregation with 'Spirit of the Living God'.

During the service, Dr. John Harrison was delighted to announce that Hannah Grace, Alex's younger daughter, had recently been successful in gaining the medal and light blue ribbon for choral work from the Royal School of Church Music. Hannah is taught by Mrs. Judy Davies and was presented with her medal and ribbon by our Rector, Rev. Canon Andrew Davies.

The local representative of The Alzheimer's Society, Mrs. Beryl Noyce, was presented with a donation for the society as part of the charitable giving of the benefice. She gratefully received the donation from the Rector.

Following the service, church members and friends greatly enjoyed refreshments in the form of wine and magnificent first communion cakes, expertly made and decorated by Lindy Wainwright. This happy time of fellowship brought to a close this exceptionally significant weekend in the ongoing journey of faith of our dear curate, Alex, and enabled her to greet and thank her many supporters.