Canterbury Cathedral: Former wrestler ordained as deacon

A former wrestler has swapped headlocks and takedowns for weddings and baptisms after being ordained as a priest at Canterbury Cathedral.

Steven Horne, 43, from Ashford, is among a new generation of deacons and priests ordained last month by the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Bishop of Dover.

He told BBC Radio Kent he was drawn to the sport as “escapism” after growing up “in quite a tough environment”.

But he said he decided to trade in his wrestling suit for a Dalmatian outfit after receiving a “calling” from God in 2022.

“I have always had a strong connection with God, ever since I was a little child,” said Reverend Dr. Horne.

He previously worked as a police officer before earning a doctorate in theology, during which time he joined local club South East Professional Wrestling.

He told the BBC that he first competed in an event as an amateur in 2016 and went on to compete hundreds of times.

He said there was a “parallel” between the alleged rigged wrestling matches, where the “centerpiece” was “put together by the wrestlers” and his faith.

“Life can be difficult and unpredictable at times, but I can rest assured that even though life is full of setbacks and suplexes, God is watching and knows how it will all turn out,” he added.

But Reverend Horne added that he was “waiting for the green light from God” to be ordained as a minister.

“I heard that particular call very clearly… on December 30, 2022 and the next day I sent an email and two months later the review process started,” he said.