Press Releases17 May 05

Internet Co-ordinator steps down

The Church of Ireland announces that the Revd Michael Graham, is resigning from his position as Internet Co-ordinator from 31 May 2005 to devote more time to his parish ministry.

Mr Graham, before ordination in 1995 had a background in communications and the computer industry. He is currently rector of Drogheda Union and Ardee Union in the Diocese of Armagh.

Mr Graham's work has been praised by Archdeacon Raymond Hoey, Chairman of the Internet Committee. He said: 'The Church of Ireland owes a vast debt of gratitude to Michael for the excellent work he has done over several years. Michael has brought his own mark to that work and today when one mentions the word internet, one thinks of Mike Graham. We thank him for all that he has done. His expertise and his knowledge will be missed.'

Mrs Janet Maxwell, Head of Synod Services and Communications has paid the following tribute to Mr Graham: 'Michael has made an immense contribution to the development of the use of the internet within the Church of Ireland and beyond. His technical ability and constant willingness to help have been of great value to many people at all levels of church life.'

Archdeacon Hoey said that Mr Graham's work in the area of internet spanned a period when the Church of Ireland was developing its early vision of the value and potential of the internet. Looking forward, he said: 'The use of the internet in our lives will obviously increase, and it will be the ongoing task of the Internet Committee to ensure that the Church of Ireland website continues to have its central place in church life and that the use of the internet is widely encouraged. The Church of Ireland benefited from Michael's ministry in this particular area of communications. We wish Michael well as he carries forward his ministry in the future.'

The Internet Committee has put arrangements in place to maintain the provision of information on the website and any change of details will be notified before 31 May 2005.