Press Releases05 Dec 25

Canon Nicola Halford appointed as Central Director of Ordinands

The Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, the Most Revd John McDowell, has announced that the Revd Canon Nicola Halford, Rector of Enniscorthy and Monart Union, at the invitation of the House of Bishops, has accepted the position of Central Director of Ordinands for the Church of Ireland.  Canon Nicola will take over from the Very Revd Linda Peilow, Provost of Galway, with immediate effect.

Making the announcement on behalf of the House of Bishops, Archbishop McDowell thanked Provost Peilow for her work as Central Director of Ordinands since taking up the post in November 2021.

“Provost Lynda Peilow brought her natural warmth, sharp insights and enthusiasm to this challenging role which requires a rare mixture of gentle encouragement and wise discernment,” he remarked.  “We wish her well in her ministry in Galway. I am confident that Canon Nicola will build on the work of previous CDOs in helping to encourage vocations in a Church and on an island that has changed dramatically over the past twenty years.”

On accepting the appointment, Canon Nicola commented: “It is an honour to be asked to take on the role of Central Director of Ordinands and contribute to the important work of encouraging vocations within our Church.

“I enjoy my work as Diocesan Director of Ordinands for my Diocese of Cashel, Ferns and Ossory. Spending time with people who are discerning God’s call on their life is a real privilege.

“I look forward to serving the Church in a wider capacity as Central Director for Ordinands and helping build on the wonderful work that is already being done by the Diocesan Directors of Ordinands across this island.”