Institution of Revd. Richard Waller

Last Friday evening, 11th September, Revd. Capt. Richard Waller was instituted as Rector of the Kildallon Group of Parishes (Corrawallen, Kildallon and Newtongore. To accommodate social distancing a small congregation gathered in Kildallon church while other family, friends and parishioners were able to participate via a livestream of the service. The service was led by Bishop Ferran Glenfield assisted by Archdeacon Craig McCauley.

The address at the institution was given by the Right Reverend David McClay, Bishop of Down and Dromore. Speaking from 1 Corinthians 9:16-27, Bishop David emphasised that the task of the church is to make disciples of Jesus, preaching Christ and coming alongside people. He spoke of the wonderful privilege of this work and encouraged the congregation to be active in the ministry and witness of the church.

The Act of Institution was then carried out by Bishop Ferran Glenfield. During Revd. Richard’s commissioning, symbolic gifts of the Bible, Water, the Book of Common Prayer and Bread and Wine were presented by Ewen Garland, Gwenda Richardson, Florence Bayliss and Bishop David. After this, words of welcome were given by Revd. Ruth West on behalf of the Diocese who congratulated Revd. Richard on this recognition of his ministry so far. Further words of welcome were given by Father John McMahon from Carrigallen Parish who spoke of Revd. Richard as an inspirational man of prayer. Roy Woods spoke on behalf of the Kildallon Group of Parishes.

The current health restrictions meant that we missed out on the traditional tea after the service, but the warm, end of summer’s evening gave a quick opportunity to wish Revd. Richard and his wife Janette well as they begin this next phase of their ministry.