Diocesan News
Revd. Tanya Woods Instituted as the Rector of the Annagh Group of Parishes
On Friday evening (22nd April), family, friends and parishioners past and present gathered to celebrate the institution of the Revd Tanya Woods as Rector of the Annagh Group of parishes (Belturbet, Cloverhill, Drumaloor and Drumlane). The service, which took place in a packed Belturbet Parish church, was led by Bishop Ferran Glenfield assisted by Archdeacon Craig McCauley with Maud Cunningham acting as stand–in registrar.
The parish praise band led the congregation in worship and the Belturbet Community Choir were a fantastic contribution to the singing on the night. It was fitting that the music was a real highlight of the evening given Revd. Tanya’s interest in church music. Scripture readings were read by George Davidson and Canon Liz McElhinney whose reading was delivered by recording.
The address was given by The Venerable Craig McCauley, Archdeacon of Kilmore. He said that the symbols used in the Service of Institution remind us that ministry requires a person to be servant–hearted, pastorally minded, Bible focused and prayerful. He said that the readings chosen by Revd. Tanya highlight her understanding of ministry as a call to preach Jesus Christ and his grace and to encourage us into a living faith. He said ministry means reaching out beyond our boundaries to build relationships to bring the gospel message to all. But he reminded us that ministry is a collaborative effort. The role of the minister is to equip, teach and encourage parishioners but the ministry of the church is to be carried out by all.
The Act of Institution was then carried out by Bishop Ferran Glenfield, after which words of welcome were given to Revd. Tanya by Father Gerry Comiskey, Parish Priest of Drumlane, Canon Mark Lidwell on behalf of the Diocese of Kilmore, Sylvia Quinn (GFS Central President) and Violet Morton (GFS Diocesan President) on behalf of the GFS, David Coles on behalf of the Annagh Group of Parishes and Mavis Mcgee on behalf of the Mothers’ Union.
Refreshments were served in the Seven Horses Hotel after the service. The warmth and the atmosphere of the evening were a real affirmation of the ministry of Revd. Tanya who has been serving as Minister–in–Charge of the Annagh Group of Parishes. We pray that the Lord continues to bless Tanya and her family as she continues to preach Christ and serve as Rector in this Group.
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