A Hitchin man is celebrating after being ordained following years of study – and is now looking forward to working at St Mary’s Church.

Dan Drew, from Common Rise, was officially ordained in a ceremony at St Albans Cathedral on Sunday as he is now nearing the end of his Masters in Theology and Leadership from St Mellitus College in West London – the largest theological college in the UK.

Dynamic Dan – who also oversees The Hub Church, which he helped to set up in 2011 as an informal forum for open debate and discussion – already has a BA in Youth Work and Theology, and a different BA in Contextual Theology.

The 30-year-old said: “I’m really pleased to be working part time at St Mary’s and under the supervision of Michael Roden. Michael is an energetic and incredibly gifted leader. I also look forward to meeting the members of the congregation in this amazing church.

“Even this morning during a brief meeting I’ve learned so much from him – I’m really looking forward to learning more about a different part of the Church of England.

“My friends and family are really pleased and proud. The feedback I’ve had from everyone has been really positive and supportive.

“What has also been nice is that lots of people who aren’t involved in the church have been really interested in my ordination.”

Dan also plays hockey for Blueharts Hockey Club – he confesses he is known by his teammates for not passing the ball – and he can’t wait to get involved with St Mary’s on an official basis.

Canon Michael Roden said: “We’re absolutely delighted Dan is going to join us at St Mary’s. He’s a very lively, interesting person – exactly the sort of addition we need.

“He’ll help with church services, lead prayers, visit people and become the public face of St Mary’s.

“He’s an apprentice, known as a curate, but in a year’s time he will be a priest.”

Dan’s also been busy helping his boss with social media.

Canon Michael said: “St Mary’s is a traditional church but we’re very keen to be accessible to all.

“Dan’s already teaching me the delights of the wonderful, mysterious world of social media.”