In the Acts of the Apostles, deacons are ordained to assist the Apostles. Today their Order exists to proclaim the gospel and caring for those in need, a role formalized in the liturgy through the reading of the Gospel and leading the Prayers of the People.

The Rev. Janet V. Clarke was born in Manhattan, NY in 1931 and raised attending the local Lutheran church until age 11 when her family transferred to The Episcopal Church. She was confirmed at age 12, and profoundly influenced by her experience of First Communion that year.

Janet attended Drakes Business School and pursued a business career that began in New Jersey and concluded in Miami, FL. After discerning a call to the Diaconate, Janet began studying at the necessary institutions, primarily the Diocesan School for Ministry in the Diocese of SE Florida.

Janet was ordained to the Diaconate on June 4, 1988 and assigned to serve at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Miami as Deacon and on staff as Director of Christian Education for Children and Adults. While in The Diocese of SE Florida, she served on the Commission on Ministry, Commission on Christian Education, and the Search Committee to elect a Suffragan Bishop. In 1996, she moved to Leesburg, FL and began serving at St. Thomas where she has been ever since.

Janet is the widow of Ronald “Chuck” Clarke. She has 4 married children, 9 grandchildren, two step-children, one step grandson, and one step-great grandchild. She enjoys reading, knitting, sewing, and cooking. Her earlier interests included sailing, flying, water-skiing, and diving. Janet believes her travels have given her a fuller appreciation of the diversity of creation that exists under our one creator.