From Wrestler to Deacon: Canterbury Cathedral's Unlikely Journey

Canterbury Cathedral: Former wrestler ordained as deacon In a remarkable turn of events that highlights the diverse paths individuals can take in life, former wrestler Steven Horne has left behind the world of headlocks and takedowns to embark on a new journey as a deacon at Canterbury Cathedral. At the age of 43, Horne, hailing from Ashford, was recently ordained alongside a group of deacons and priests by the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Bishop of Dover. Sharing his unique story with BBC Radio Kent, Horne revealed that his passion for wrestling initially served as a form of escapism from a challenging upbringing in what he described as a tough environment. However, a profound shift occurred when Horne experienced what he described as a 'call' from God in 2022, prompting him to make a drastic career change from the wrestling ring to the sacred halls of the cathedral. This spiritual awakening led him to trade in his wrestling singlet for a dalmatic, symbolizing his transition from the physical intensity of wrestling to the spiritual calling of serving as a deacon. Horne's journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith and the capacity for individuals to undergo profound personal reinvention. His willingness to heed a higher calling and embrace a new vocation highlights the complexity and depth of human experience, showcasing that one's past does not necessarily dictate their future. As Horne embarks on this new chapter of his life, his story stands as a reminder of the diverse paths individuals can take in pursuit of purpose and fulfillment. His journey from the world of wrestling to the sacred duties of a deacon at Canterbury Cathedral serves as an inspiring example of resilience, faith, and the capacity for profound personal growth.