Institution of Revd. Mark Smith as Rector of the Kildrumferton Group of Parishes

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On Sunday evening, 13th April, Revd. Mark Smith was instituted as Rector of the Kildrumferton Group of Parishes. St Paul’s, Ballymachugh was filled with parishioners,  friends, family and colleagues for a service led by Bishop Ferran Glenfield. Revd. Mark has been serving as the Minister-in-Charge of the group since May 2021 and his institution as Incumbent of the Group was a wonderful moment in the life of the parishes as well as the Diocese.

Ian Stokes, who is a Parish Reader in the Kildrumferton Group, read from Galatians 1:1-12 and Revd. Mark’s mother, Revd. Linnet Smith read the Gospel reading from Luke 7:1-10. Archdeacon Ian Horner gave the address at the institution. Preaching from Luke 7, he  reminded the congregation that in a world of suspect, unstable authority, there is one supreme authority we can truly have faith in. As Christians we sit under an authority that nothing can corrupt – an authority that can heal, restore and bring life out of death. Christian faith is about abandoning trust in our own merit and relying instead on the person of Jesus and his authoritative word. Speaking of Revd. Mark and his wife Ruth, Archdeacon Ian said they were people who sit faithfully and happily under the authority of the Lord Jesus Christ. He encouraged us all to keep faith in Jesus and to love and serve one another as we walk together under Christ.

The Act of Institution was then read by Bishop Ferran Glenfield and Revd. Mark was presented to the congregation as the Rector of Kildrumferton Group. During the commissioning the congregation were asked to affirm their commitment to be a witness to the love of Christ and to serve others in the name of Christ. Gifts of a bible, water (representing baptism), the Book of Common Prayer, bread and wine, a key to the door of the church and a towel (reminding us of the calling to serve) were presented to Revd. Mark as symbols of his commitment to guiding, nurturing and strengthening our faith.

Following the Act of Institution, Revd. Mark was welcomed as Rector of the Kildrumferton Group by Colin Gordon, Church Warden of Ballymachugh. Dean Nigel Crossey, spoke of behalf of the clergy of the Diocese.  Padraic Corley spoke on behalf of the Cavan Royal School where Revd. Mark is currently serving as Chaplain and Orla O’Connor spoke on behalf of Billis National School. Revd. Mark was spoken of as someone with a great deal of warmth and generosity, who was easily approachable. The delight that he would remain a part of the community was clearly evident.

The service was followed by a wonderful supper in the beautiful setting of the Crover House hotel. We pray for the Lord’s blessing on Revd. Mark and his family as they continue their ministry in the Kildrumferton Group of Parishes.


Colin Gordon, Revd. Mark smith, Veronica Roe, Bishop Ferran Glenfield, Alan Bleakley

Primate’s Reference Group shares webinar for Anti-Racism Month

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As part of Ireland’s Anti-Racism Month, the Primate’s Reference Group on Ethnic Diversity, Inclusion and Racial Justice recently held a discussion on using the Irish Council of Churches’ toolkit for anti-racist work in our dioceses and parishes.

The From Every Nation handbook provides practical guidance for faith communities to create welcoming, equitable, and actively anti-racist church spaces.  The discussion panel included Archbishop John McDowell, with the Revds Eileen Cremin, Maithrie White, Jenu John, Philip McKinley and Kevin Ronné, and Dr Lucy Michael.

Gazette April edition now out!

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Our April 2025 issue is out now, and full of great news and features from across the island.

We have a packed edition this month, starting with Central Church news. We feature a preview of General Synod, with a taster of the event provided by the Honorary Secretaries. We also have news from the recent meetings of the Representative Body and the Standing Committee, with updates on the issues raised at the meetings – communication with members, governance, and future planning priorities all hot topics – as well as news of the approval of over €600,000 worth of grant applications.

We’ve taken a dive into the archives. Rachel Bennett, Assistant Archivist at the RCB Library, provides a fascinating insight into the features and history of four different buildings, all named after St Patrick. And since here at the Gazette we have a long and proud history of strong opinions and considered takes on Church concerns, we decided to take a look back at what was exciting our readers back in 2010, with the first in a series of features on letters to the editor from past issues.

Our Diocesan Focus this month is on Derry and Raphoe, with a look back over the past year in the diocese as well as discussion of plans and hopes for the future.

Our Opinion pieces never disappoint, and this month sees our customary broad range from the philosophical to the humorous. John Deane-O’Keeffe brings a Christian sensibility to our consideration of global politics with his piece on Donald Trump; Stephen Farrell discusses masculinity and role models, and asks who young men in today’s world can (or should) look up to; Christopher West discusses the Church’s role in and duty to society, and explores the concept of being ‘the grit in the spiritual spinach’.

We interview author (and retired Church of Ireland priest) Ted Woods – read all about Ted’s life in the Church, his writing, his faith, and the inspiration for his series of mystery novels. We also review Ted’s latest book, Deacon.

Scott Evans contributes the Devotional this month, and explores the importance of difficult questions and transformative conversation when ministering to young people. And Simon Henry discusses the importance of faith, friendship, and focus as part of his report on the recent CIYD Youth Forum.

In Gardening, Rae McIntyre laments the state of her garden after the ravages of winter, and discusses remedies for the problem of moss. And in Food, you’ll find a tasty alternative to lamb as an Easter treat, as well as a handy way of using up those leftover Easter eggs.

As always, we report on news from around the island and abroad. Among other stories, this month we report on the musical director who wants people to join him on a very energetic and innovative fundraising journey; the two Connor lay readers who together have contributed almost a century of dedicated ministry to their diocese; Archbishop McDowell’s recent trip to Washington; a very special meeting between ‘Black Santa’ and the King; and the ex-church treasurer recently jailed for fraud.

Not to forget our fun Crossword, Clergy News, Tributes, Liturgical Notes, and a Mothers’ Union feature on creative ways to encompass ‘faith in action and serving in love’. We hope you enjoy the April 2025 issue of the Church of Ireland Gazette!

Bishops’ Appeal supports Christian Aid’s response to South East Asia earthquake

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Following the devastating earthquake last Friday (28th March) in South East Asia in which over two thousand lives have been lost, the Bishops’ Appeal Advisory Committee is sending emergency assistance of €10,000 (currently equivalent to £8,400) to Christian Aid’s appeal for Myanmar.

Parishes and individuals are encouraged to donate directly to Christian Aid to ensure that what we can give reaches those affected as swiftly as possible.

Bishop Ferran Glenfield, who chairs Bishops’ Appeal, remarks: “Myanmar is one of the most closed countries in the world, and generally doesn’t welcome international aid, but the monstrous earthquake has presented an opportunity for organisations such as Christian Aid to offer help to those whose lives have been devastated.  Bishops’ Appeal always works with trusted partners on the ground and Christian Aid is one of those partners.”

Examples of aid are shared below to show how donations can make a direct difference:

  • £10 / €12 could help fund access to safe drinking water.
  • £20 / €24 could support a family to eat for a week by offering a food parcel of essentials such as oil and rice.
  • £20 / €24 could buy hygiene supplies for a family of five for two weeks.
  • £50 / €61 could buy a food parcel for a family of five.
  • £140 / €170 could provide blankets, mattresses and alternative sources of heating material for a family of five.
  • £200 / €240 could fund an emergency shelter for a family who’ve been made homeless.
  • £1,000 / €1,200 could fund emergency shelters for five families who’ve been made homeless.
  • £5,000 / €6,000 could buy food parcels for 100 families, meeting their urgent nutritional needs.
  • £10,000 / €12,000 could provide vital cash assistance so that 70 families can access shelter, food and safe drinking water.

Donations can be made directly through the Christian Aid Ireland website at this link:
https://www.christianaid.ie/appeals/emergencies/myanmar-earthquake-appeal

Julie Mehigan, Christian Aid’s Head of Asia, Middle East and Europe, adds: “Even before this heartbreaking earthquake, we know conflict and displacement has left countless people in real need. Every prayer and every gift will bring hope to people hit by disaster.”

Christian Aid has shared the following prayer for Myanmar, to encourage intercession:

God, our strength and our refuge,
We pray to you for the people of Myanmar.
We hold in mind those who are injured or have been bereaved.
We ask your protection for everyone awaiting rescue.
May those who have lost homes and belongings be comforted.
May emergency workers and medical staff be safe as they pour their energy into saving the lives of others.
May the international community respond quickly to support those affected.
God, our strength and our refuge,
Be with our global neighbours today.
Amen.

Revd. Mark Smith appointed to the Kildrumferton Group of Parishes

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Revd. Mark Smith has been appointed as the Rector of the Kildrumferton Group of Parishes, serving Ballyjamesduff, Ballymachugh and Kildrumferton.

Revd. Mark has been serving as Minister-in-Charge of the Kildrumferton Group of Parishes since 2021, and was previously a Curate in the parish of Holy Trinity, Frogmore (just south of St Albans over in England). He’s really enjoyed getting to know people over the last four years, loves Co. Cavan and the local community, and is excited about continuing to serve the Lord Jesus here in the years to come. Mark is married to Ruth, who is originally from Co. Armagh and a chartered accountant by training. They have a five year old daughter, who has recently started at Billis NS.

Mark has a passion for good engaging preaching, for visiting and spending time with individuals, for children’s and youth work, and for reaching out into the community with the good news of the Lord Jesus. He also enjoys playing and watching sport, running, reading and putting together Disney Princess Lego with his daughter! Mark and Ruth love people and are looking forward to their home in Ballyjamesduff continuing to be a place of hospitality, friendship and fellowship!

Revd Mark will be instituted as the Rector of the Kildrumferton Group of Parishes on Sunday 13th April at 4.00pm in Ballymachugh. Everyone is very welcome to attend.

Don’t forget! Next Steps deadline coming up on 31st March

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The Church of Ireland Youth Department’s Next Steps Fund exists to encourage more and more young people – and current youth leaders – to undertake third level professional qualifications and development within the wider youth ministry sector.

Our aim is to support many young people and adults with a significant impact on the youth ministry and wider ministry across the Church of Ireland.  The next closing date for applications is Monday, 31st March.

“CIYD’s Next Steps programme has had a number of very grateful recipients thus far and we would love to see more – this is why the fund exists,” National Youth Officer Simon Henry says.

Vocational training and development in youth ministry is so essential and its impact on the Church can last for generations to come.

Could this Next Steps programme benefit you or someone you know? We would love to see more and more people undertake professional qualifications and development in youth ministry and this support available could encourage those who otherwise would feel challenged in the current financial climate.

Please forward the following link, which includes application forms, to those who you think may benefit from this funding opportunity and share widely: https://ciyd.org/2024/03/26/next-steps-2024-25

Webinar, 27th March: Anti-Racist Work in Church of Ireland Dioceses and Parishes

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As part of Ireland’s Anti-Racism Month, the Primate’s Reference Group on Ethnic Diversity, Inclusion and Racial Justice invites you to join us for a webinar discussion on using the Irish Council of Churches’ toolkit for anti-racist work in our dioceses and parishes.

All are welcome – clergy, lay leaders, and parishioners alike. 

Discussion panel: The Archbishop of Armagh, the Most Revd John McDowell, with Rev Eileen Cremin, Rev Maithrie White, Rev Jenu John, Rev Philip McKinley and Dr Lucy Michael and other guests

New Date: Thursday 27 March

Time: 8.00-9.00 pm

Location: Online (link to be provided upon registration)

The ‘From Every Nation’ handbook provides practical guidance for faith communities committed to racial justice, inclusion, and diversity. This session will explore how we can use the toolkit to create welcoming, equitable, and actively anti-racist church spaces.

  • Download the handbook for free here.

Link: https://www.irishchurches.org/cmsfiles/From-Every-Nation-.pdf

  • Register now to secure your place.

Link: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/webinar-anti-racist-work-in-church-of-ireland-dioceses-and-parishes-tickets-1244905538979

Emergency appeal supports communities affected by conflict in Congo

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Over 3,000 people killed and 400,000 displaced in upsurge in fighting

 Disturbed by the horrific news reports coming out of Eastern Congo, CMS Ireland has been connecting often with its partners there in recent weeks.  Bishop Martin Gordon of Goma Diocese fled over the border with his family in the first few days of the conflict, when Goma was under fire. And in recent days Bishop Bahati, of Bukavu Diocese, has also been forced to flee with his family. Those left behind, including CMSI partners in Kindu and North Kivu Dioceses, are living in fear of the progress of rebels towards their areas, and are already impacted by food shortages and restricted movement.

As a first-line response, CMSI held an emergency Zoom prayer event in collaboration with other mission agencies primarily involved in DRC. Both the Archbishop of Congo, the Most Revd Georges Titre Ande, and the Bishop of Goma gave their understanding of the situation on the ground, and presented points for prayer and action. You can find out more about the situation in Eastern DRC from the information they shared in the following article: https://www.cmsireland.org/single-post/where-shall-our-help-come-from

CMSI hopes to inspire many to pray and give financial support for the church in Goma, Bukavu, Butembo and Kindu Dioceses, because it is our beleaguered brothers and sisters who must be the lights of hope amongst the chaos and distress.

Please pray for people of peace to come to places of influence in the nations involved.  If you would like to give to the CMSI DRC Emergency Appeal, you can do so at the following link:  https://cafdonate.cafonline.org/15485

A gift towards the emergency fund will enable the church in Eastern DRC to meet the needs of those who are coming in desperation asking for help with food and other household essentials. Each diocese will prioritise the most vulnerable families first, and CMSI will continue to send any funds which are given in response to this emergency appeal.

Cavan Christian Women’s Conference 2025: Alive in Christ

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We are delighted to announce that bookings are open for this year’s Cavan Christian Women’s conference. ALL women are warmly invited!

Who is the speaker and what’s it about?
We’ll have three talks from the Bible book of Ephesians on being ‘Alive in Christ’.

Our speaker is Philomena Fitzpatrick, Youth Worker at Ballycullen Community Church near Tallaght, Dublin. With a background including teaching and musical theatre, we are looking forward to Philomena vividly sharing God’s word with us, as well as the wonderful story of how she came to know Christ for herself.

When and where is it?
Saturday 1st March 09:30-13:30
Cavan Crystal Hotel H12 P6E5
Doors open at 08:45 and there is an optional lunch in the hotel after 13:30

How much is it and how do I book?
This year the conference is €11 and the optional lunch remains €14.95.

For a variety of reasons, this year we are using an online booking system which includes taking payment in advance.

Please click HERE to book your tickets

Vacancy: SAMS Ireland Mission Director

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The General Council of the South American Mission Society (SAMS) Ireland wishes to appoint a Mission Director. We are looking for someone who has experience of mission and evangelism and is:

  • enthusiastic and creative
  • gifted in Church leadership
  • an effective communicator
  • a committed team player

The SAMS Ireland office is located in Lurgan, County Armagh, and the role of Mission Director has a salary linked to the rate paid to a Church of Ireland Rector.

SAMS Ireland is a registered charity and a member of SAMS International. SAMS Ireland works in partnership with the Anglican Church in South America, focusing on the proclamation of the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ and the growth of the Church throughout the world, but primarily in South America, Spain & Portugal.

More information about the work of SAMS Ireland can be found on our website
www.samsireland.com

The closing date for applications is noon on Tuesday 4th March 2025.

For further information and an Application Pack please contact:

Rev Peter Jones
Chairperson of SAMS Ireland 1 Woodford Manor, Newtownabbey,
Co. Antrim.
BT36 6FF

[email protected]