Former Green Party leader Trevor Sargent has been ordained a deacon in the Church of Ireland Diocese of Cashel, Ferns & Ossory.
The ceremony took place in Shillelagh, Co Wicklow this afternoon.
As well as preparing for his ordination, Mr Sargent has been studying for a Masters degree in Theology at Trinity College Dublin.
The former TD for Dublin North, 57, was appointed Minister of State for Food in the Fianna Fáil/Green Party coalition.
He resigned in 2010 and lost his seat in the 2011 election.
Reverend Sargent, who lives in Wexford, will serve as deacon in Tullow Group of Parishes.
