Rosemary Irene Dekker (born Dracatos) lived in Alberton for about 15 years. She was baptised in the Anglican Church as were her four siblings. In 1995 she became one of the first female priests to be ordained in the Anglican Church. She was the priest for Swartberg, while living in Kokstad, KwaZulu Natal.
An opportunity arose for her to move to Guernsey in the Channel Islands, UK, where she joined the parish of St. John’s and later took up residence as Priest-in-Charge at St. Andrews in Guernsey.
Denise was invited to Denise was invited in her capacity of Priest-in-Charge of a Parish that has the Crown as Patron to sit and vote in the States at the election of a new Jurat. She is also the first woman to be given this honour. A Jurat is expected to act as a jury member in civil and criminal cases as well as conduct other official duties on behalf of the Guernsey Royal court. They are people of proven ability, ensuring a broad range of skills and experience on the bench.
Denise has through the time at St Andrews met a variety of important people, including Prince Charles. She has been personally invited to attend a garden party to meet with Queen Elizabeth II on May 28, 2015.
Denise has also been honoured by having her name inscribed on a commemorative plaque for the refurbishing of the tower of St Andrews Parish Church in 2014.
Reverend Dekker will be retiring this year, however, she will still be ministering to her community in Guernsey.
