Realising an unattainable dream - An Open Table volunteer becomes a priest
Nick Birnie-Campbell [right] with his civil partner Colin at Manchester Cathedral on the day of Nick’s ordination.
IN MAY 2021 we shared the news that a long-term supporter of Open Table had been recommended for ordination training in The Church of England.
Nick Birnie-Campbell, who has supported several Open Table communities in the north-west for many years, was ordained as a priest at Manchester Cathedral on Saturday 29th June 2024. Here Nick shares an update on his journey:
As a child, I often wondered what I would become as an adult. Now, looking at where I am today, I must say I am quite pleased with how my life has turned out. There have been ups and downs, certainly, but I wouldn't change much.
For many years, I feared that my identity as a gay man would make ordination in the church as a priest an unattainable dream. Thankfully, society has evolved somewhat, and so has the Church of England. Though things are not perfect, I am encouraged by the growing number of churches embracing an inclusive and affirming mission.
I want to express my gratitude to the countless people who have guided, prayed for, and supported me over the last 13 years - my family, colleagues, church members, and the wonderful Open Table Network. Your support has meant the world to me.
Of course, you don't need to be a priest to serve God. We are all called to be disciples, and our ministry as members of the LGBTQIA+ community is just as vital as any other, if not more so.