Matthew Gaw is ordained deacon
Congratulations to Revd Matthew Gaw who has been ordained deacon for the curacy of Donaghcloney and Waringstown. Bishop David ordained Matthew at a service in Holy Trinity Waringstown on Sunday 8 September 2025. The address was given by the Revd Canon Terence Cadden, Rector of Seagoe Parish.
Matthew’s journey to ordination
I'm 33 years old, married to Natalie and we have two young children. I grew up in Whiteabbey, just outside North Belfast and from an early age I was brought along to church and surrounded by the message of the good news of Jesus Christ. I vividly remember being in Primary 3 when someone asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, and I wrote, "I want to be a minister."
I left school at 16 and began an apprenticeship in engineering, which I pursued until I felt led to study Theology at Belfast Bible College (as it was then). In 2017, I began serving as the Youth and Children’s Coordinator at St John’s Parish, Moira. Throughout my journey, I’ve always sensed a calling to ministry and I’m deeply grateful for the leaders who have invested in me over the years.
My time at the Church of Ireland Theological Institute has been deeply formational. I’m especially thankful for the placement opportunities I've had, serving in Cyprus, Markethill, and Portadown. Each experience has offered valuable insight into both the beauty and the challenges of ministry. It has been a real joy to serve in Donaghcloney Parish over the past year, and I’m delighted to be continuing there for my curacy. I’ve loved becoming part of the community and working alongside Mark—it’s been filled with encouraging and enriching opportunities.
I’m excited for what lies ahead, while also mindful of the challenges that come with ministry. As I reflect on my journey toward ordination, I’m reminded of God’s goodness and faithfulness in my life. My prayer is that I remain in step with the Spirit—continually seeking His will and growing to reflect Jesus more and more as I serve Him and His people in Donaghcloney Parish.
