General News
10 July, 2026
Fiona becomes a Deacon
Teacher and Anglican Parish of Warracknabeal parishioner, Fiona Holland, was ordained a local Deacon in June by the Anglican Bishop of Ballarat, Bishop Gary Wetherall.
Several clergy from Ballarat and surrounding towns also attended the ordination.
Anglican Reverend James Wood described Fiona’s ordination as ‘an exciting event in the faith life of the church community, as ordination continues a tradition that has lasted over 2000 years.
Since the resurrection of Christ, women and men of faith over the years have been raised from their local community to serve as spiritual leaders and pastoral carers.’
Fiona’s discernment has included several years of ‘testing’ this calling through the Diocese of Ballarat Seeker sessions with experienced clergy and lay people, completing a Clinical Pastoral Education course in 2024, and conducting liturgical leadership and preaching in ‘Christ’s Church, Warracknabeal when needed from 2018.
It has also included professional development, including ‘Seasons for Growth’ and ‘Catholic Education Accreditation courses’, as well as facilitating pastoral care and regular visits to the aged care facilities in Warracknabeal and Minyip.
Jill Bibby, Rector’s Warden at the Anglican Church, described Fiona’s energy, intellect and thoughtful insights as qualities that make her the perfect candidate for the role of a local Deacon.
Father Michael Boyle, local Anglican Priest and member of the local Historical Society, believed it was the first ordination at Warracknabeal’s Anglican Church since the 1940s, brought about by rationing during the war.
“I’ve always had a heart for God and have sought to exercise my faith in the places that I have lived,” Fiona said.
“My experiences in ISCF during secondary school, University Fellowship at Monash and ‘All Saints Anglican Church’, Clayton, have had a huge influence on my growth and development as a young person.
“In more recent times at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Warracknabeal, it is the people I work with and the children that I teach who inspire me to be the best version of myself.”
A cake was made to mark the occasion and was part of a light luncheon that followed Fiona's ordination as the new Deacon of the Warracknabeal Anglican Church.