Diocesan News09 Mar 16

Children’s Ministry Officer Appointed for Derry and Raphoe Diocese

The Derry and Raphoe Diocese has appointed its first ever Diocesan Children’s Ministry Officer. Kirsty Lynch will help parishes in their ministry with children, particularly by training, networking, and sharing ideas and resources.

Kirsty (pictured), who is a member of St Augustine’s Parish in Londonderry, studied at Stranmillis University College, where she obtained a Bachelor of Education focusing on Religious Education. After graduating she worked in All Saint’s Clooney Parish, in Londonderry, as Youth and Family worker, before moving to County Wicklow to take up a post as Youth Pastor at Christ Church in Bray.

During her four and a half years in Wicklow she worked with every age group, from 0–18 years. Colleagues in Bray described her as “a fantastic friend, a gifted leader and a dedicated Youth Pastor”. Kirsty moved home to Londonderry in October and prior to her appointment had been working with The Princes Trust Team Programme at Northern Regional College.

The Archdeacon of Raphoe, Ven. David Huss, says the role of Diocesan Children’s Ministry Officer is a new post for Derry and Raphoe. “Kirsty will support adult volunteers who are the backbone of our work with young people. There are around 2,000 children under the age of 12 enrolled in Sunday Schools and mid–week activities around Derry and Raphoe, led by several hundred adult volunteers. The Children’s Ministry Officer – who will be a part–time member of Diocesan Staff for three years – will bring great encouragement and support to this vital area of ministry, as we seek to help the youngest members of our churches live for Jesus.

“I have no doubt that Kirsty will bring a lot of energy and experience to the role,” Archdeacon Huss says. “She is talented, organised and committed. Above all, she loves the Lord and she loves seeing children grow in their faith.”

Kirsty says she cannot wait to get started in her new role. “I enjoy working with children and young people throughout the church and am looking forward to working with the children, leaders and clergy throughout the Diocese.”