The family man is a long-term Bathurst resident and has been part of the Cathedral Parish for most of his life. 

In speaking with him, it is obvious one of his proudest achievements is his large family, comprising of himself, wife Anna and four children aged between three and 10 years old. 

Mr Clayton has been married for 16 years, a marriage that never would have happened without the couple’s long association with church and religion.

“We went to school together in primary school and we met up later in the cathedral group,” he said.

Over the course of their relationship, they maintained their close relationship with the church.

“We’ve been part of the Cathedral Parish here for most of our lives,” Mr Clayton said.

“We’ve had a bit of time spent in religious houses in France and travelled overseas, but most of our time has been in Bathurst.”

Mr Clayton is passionate about spreading hope and joy through the church, particularly in his new role as a deacon.

“Even though at the moment there may have been people who did terrible things to other people and there are Royal Commissions, we – myself and my wife, Anna – have a vision of what the future can be,” he said.

To be ordained as a deacon, Mr Clayton underwent formation for seven years, meeting once a month for a full weekend. 

During that time he learnt a number of things, including being aware of himself and being able to relate to others.

“We’ve also completed a masters in theology,” he said.

Mr Clayton was ordained by Bishop Michael McKenna on Friday night alongside Mike Williams.

“It is really exciting. It is something that we’ve hoped and dreamed about for years,” Mr Clayton said of becoming a deacon. 

The ceremony included readings, a homily from Bishop McKenna, prayer and giving the vestments to the new deacons. 

The official proceedings were followed by Liturgy and supper in the Mother Ignatius Croke Centre at the Cathedral Primary School. 

Bishop McKenna said he was deeply grateful for the generosity that Mr Clayton, Mr Williams and their families had shown in completing the demanding preparation for this ministry. 

"We will now have four married deacons to serve God's people here. It is something new for the Diocese of Bathurst and I look forward to exploring with the deacons how to develop this gift for the benefit of our local church,” he said.

The Bishop has appointed Mr Clayton to St James Church in Blayney, meaning the family will be moving to be part of the community.

“We hope to help out with all the wonderful things that they already do,” Mr Clayton said.

“We’re happy to be of service to everyone in Blayney and in the religion.”