Diocesan News
Hilary McClay steps down as Education Advisor to the Bishops’ Appeal
Mrs Hilary McClay will step down as Education Advisor to the Church of Ireland Bishops’ Appeal at the end of September 2026 after three years in the post. During her tenure, Hilary worked to clarify and strengthen Bishops’ Appeal’s strategic vision and aims, working closely with the Advisory Committee regarding best practice when funds are allocated and liaising closely with aid and development charities supported by the appeal as they make funding applications. Bishop Glenfield, Chair of Bishops Appeal paid tribute to Hilary’s contribution, saying: “Hilary demonstrated a passion for the Church, and was untiring in her efforts to get out to parishes and dioceses to raise awareness of the objectives of Bishops Appeal, as well as providing diligent support for the committee in its work.”Bishops’ Appeal was set up in 1972, by the bishops of the Church of Ireland in response to the commands in the Bible to bring good news to people living in poverty and relief to the suffering. The appeal has recently benefitted from significant bequests made by generous individuals through bequests in wills as well as the sustained giving by members of the Church through the parish network. It is a registered charity in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, and its aims are to:
- Educate the Church at home about the needs and concerns of people in the less developed world and the causes of poverty;
- Encourage Church members to examine the reasons for the problems facing the less fortunate in the world and to consider what we can do to change conditions;
- Reach out in God’s name to those who need our help;
- Encourage informed prayer and prayerful action aimed at strengthening the poor; and
- Raise the funds needed to allow Bishops’ Appeal to support development projects and alleviate the suffering caused by disasters, both natural and man–made.
Commending Hilary on her work over the last three years to the Standing Committee in September, Archbishop John McDowell praised her commitment to the role and her enthusiasm. “Hilary has been unstinting in her efforts to encourage members of the Church to understand and offer support to people in those parts of the world most affected by poverty, violence, climate change and suffering. Her efforts have been a key part in bringing life changing help to those in need around the world.”