Diocesan News
Katharine Poulton installed as Archdeacon of Meath and Kildare
On Wednesday 15th October, we gathered for two services of Evening Prayer to mark the installation of the Venerable Katharine Poulton as Archdeacon of Meath and Kildare.
The first service, which took place in St Brigid’s Cathedral, Kildare, was presided over by Bishop Patricia Storey and led by Dean Isobel Jackson with the former Archdeacon, Leslie Stevenson, preaching. In his address, Leslie Stevenson remarked on some of the highlights of Katharine’s ministry so far – beginning in 1987 when she was made the first woman Deacon on these islands to her time in St George and St Thomas’ in Dublin as Bishop’s Curate.
From there it was onto St Canice’s Cathedral in Kilkenny where she was installed as the first woman Dean in the Church of Ireland. In 2018, she moved to the Diocese of Meath and Kildare to serve as the Rector of Julianstown. Leslie remarked on the wide range of experience that Katharine would bring to her new role.
Turning to the readings for the service from Isaiah 61:1–8 and Luke 4:14–20, Leslie noted a concerning reversal from the message of the Gospels in our society today and challenged the congregation to consider whether the way we treat migrants in our churches chimes with the Gospel message.
The second service which followed a short while later in St Patrick’s Cathedral, Trim, was led by Canon John Clarke with Bishop Pat presiding. The address was given by Canon William Stacey. Preaching from Mica: 6:6–8 and Luke 11:42–46, he noted that the role of Archdeacon is not one of prestige but of responsibility to serve Christ and His church – acting justly, loving mercy and walking humbly with God.
There was wonderful music at both services with organist Tatiana Konina in St Brigid’s Cathedral and the Meath Diocesan Choir, accompanied by Doreen Kimberly in St Patrick’s Cathedral.
Archdeacon Katharine is rector of Julianstown parish, and a Canon of St Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin, as well as already fulfilling a number of diocesan roles. She will continue in these posts.
Katharine was born in Belfast. Her father was a clergyperson and she grew up in rectories there and in Hillsborough.
Speaking on the day, Bishop Pat said: ‘I am delighted, as Bishop, to welcome Katharine as my new Archdeacon. Katharine is a wise, long–serving cleric. I have no doubt that she will flourish in this new role.’
Diocesan Communications Officer, Meath & Kildare
086 342 0299
Mrs Jenny Horner
[email protected]