Diocesan News
Installation of New Canon at St Fethlimidh's Cathedral, Kilmore
At a service of Evening Prayer on Sunday 23rd November, the Revd Canon R. William (Billy) Stafford – Priest in Charge of Drumgoon (Cootehill) was installed as Canon of St Fethlimidh’s Cathedral, Kilmore (Predendary of Drumlease).
The Clergy, Parish Readers and Lay Readers assemble before the Service. Second from left – Dean Arfon Williams (Registrar), Third from left Dean Raymond Ferguson. To the Bishop’s left is the new Canon, Billy Stafford and to the Bishop’s right is the preacher Canon Mark Lidwill. Beside Canon Lidwill is Archdeacon George Davison.
There was a large turnout for the installation of Canon Billy not only in the congregation which included his wife Evelyn and their children and grandchildren, but also a large number of clergy, parish readers and lay readers from the diocese and beyond. There were also a large group of Roman Catholic clergy present reflecting the new Canon’s long standing commitment for ecumenism in and around Cavan.
The service was led by Dean Raymond Ferguson who also conducted the cathedral choir. The readings were read by Canon Billy’s children Richard and Lavinia and the preacher at the service was the Revd Canon Mark Lidwill, Rector of Cavan Parish. During his sermon Canon Mark spoke warmly about the new Canon whom he has known for many years. He reminded the large congregation that Billy had been made a lay reader in 1990 and after serving in that capacity had entered the theological college in 1996. Billy was made Deacon in the Auxiliary ministry in 1999 and ordained Priest in 2000. Billy had served with him in the Cavan group as curate until 2004 before being made priest in charge of Drumgoon (Cootehill) where he has remained.
Canon Billy Stafford, Bishop Ken Clarke, Canon Mark Lidwill and Archdeacon George Davison.
After the service the congregation enjoyed refreshments in the cathedral hall.
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