A happy occasion on Friday 23rd January at St Augustine’s Church, Swanlinbar, as Archdeacon Hazel Hicks was welcomed as Minister in Charge of the Swanlinbar Group of Parishes at a Welcome Service led by Bishop Ferran Glenfield.

The Sermon was delivered by Archdeacon Ian Berry, based on readings from Acts 20 v 28-30 and Psalm 84, delivered by Avril Graham and Robert Clark. Archdeacon Ian reflected on Paul’s response to God’s call in the Acts reading, drawing parallels with Archdeacon Hazel following God’s call to continue her ministry in this new group of parishes. He noted the emotions present in Paul’s visit to the Ephesians at Miletus, where joy at reunion was mingled with sadness at the likelihood he would not return. Similarly, the emotions in the church were joyful at Hazel’s move to Swanlinbar, yet tinged with sadness among friends she has moved on from in the Arva Group, though there was relief that she has not gone far and remains a crucial part of Diocesan life. Archdeacon Ian then discussed the importance of being watchful in building up our faith and that of others, touching on Psalm 84 as a guide to staying watchful. He also thanked Hazel for her help as he works in his own new role.

Prayers were led by Canon Simon Scott and Steven Crawford welcomed Hazel warmly to Swanlinbar.

Lorna Graham played the organ beautifully to accompany hymns sung with great gusto, including Archdeacon Hazel’s own favourite, “Great is thy Faithfulness”.

Archdeacon Hazel thanked her family, including husband Barrie, who were there in support. She acknowledged that her ministry would not be possible without the great support she enjoys. She reflected on her ministry to date and the 15 years of love, kindness and support she enjoyed from those in the Arva Group. She thanked Archdeacon Ian for his Sermon and Bishop Ferran for his continued support. Hazel said that she is looking forward to working with all the parishioners to grow the local Church and described coming to Swanlinbar as “coming home” to a church where her father worshipped and where her grandparents were buried. The service was followed by a lovely supper in the Hall. Thanks to all those that provided refreshments.

A significant new book examining the life and legacy of one of Ireland’s most intriguing 17th-century church figures was launched last night at St Fethlimidh’s Cathedral, Kilmore.

Bishop William Bedell, 1571-1642: His Life, Work and Contemporaries, edited by Brendan Scott, brings together ten scholarly essays exploring the multifaceted career of the former Bishop of Kilmore, whose pioneering work on translating the Old Testament into Irish was not published until long after his death.

The launch drew a large and appreciative audience of book-buyers and local history enthusiasts to hear from both the editor and the current Bishop of Kilmore, Elphin and Ardagh.

Bishop Ferran Glenfield, who introduced the volume, characterised Bedell as “a man of his age, a Renaissance man, a Reformation man.” Bedell’s remarkable journey took him from Emmanuel College, Cambridge, to serving as chaplain to the English ambassador in Venice, before his appointment to the bishopric of Kilmore.

Editor Brendan Scott described Bedell as a complex character whose greatest achievement, facilitating the translation of the Old Testament into Irish, came to final fruition only posthumously. Bedell died during the 1641 Rebellion, following a period of incarceration, and his translation work remained unpublished until years later.

The collection examines not only Bedell’s life and work but also explores the contribution of his biographer and stepson-in-law, Alexander Clogie.

Among those at the launch in Kilmore was Ruairí Ó hAodha of Roscommon County Library, whose essay examines Protestantism and learning in Ireland in the decades preceding Bedell’s arrival in Kilmore.

Dean Nigel Crossey, hosting the event, led prayers before guests enjoyed hot refreshments, which were particularly welcome on a cold December evening.

Ruairí Ó hAodha, Bishop Ferran Glenfield and book editor Brendan Scott at the launch in Kilmore Cathedral

St Fethlimidh’s Cathedral, Kilmore, was the setting for a Service of Installation on 23rd November 2025. The Venerable Ian Berry was installed as Archdeacon of Kilmore, and Canon Timothy Wright was installed as Prebendary of Triburnia and Canon Missioner. The service was led by Dean of Kilmore, Very Rev. Nigel Crossey and overseen by Rt Rev. Ferran Glenfield, Bishop of Kilmore, Elphin and Ardagh.

Before the service, clergy gathered next to a plaque lit up on for the Day of Prayer for Young People and Youth Ministry to commemorate 250 years of children’s and youth ministries in the Church of Ireland.

The Gospel reading (Mark 10:35-45) provided the foundation for a thought-provoking sermon delivered by Canon Gary McMurray, Rector of Richill. Canon Gary began by reflecting on his friendship with the newly installed Archdeacon before turning to the approaching Christmas season and posing a challenging question to the congregation: what type of people are we?

In the Gospel passage, James and John approach Jesus knowing exactly what they want—positions of power and privilege as key lieutenants when Christ rules as King. However, Canon Gary emphasized that they fundamentally misunderstood Jesus’ mission. The Apostles haven’t grasped yet what Jesus’ mission is about, he explained. Jesus is not about hierarchy and exercising power but about service.

The sermon highlighted Jesus’ teaching that the chief among the Disciples should be servants of all. The way of greatness taught by Christ is the way of service, as expressed in the words: “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve.” (Mark 10:45)

Canon Gary concluded by drawing a direct connection to the day’s installations. While the roles of Archdeacon and Cathedral Canon may appear to be lofty positions within the church hierarchy, they are fundamentally about service, just as Jesus taught.

Following the service, refreshments were served in the Cathedral Hall, allowing the congregation to offer their congratulations to Ian and Tim. We wish them well in their future ministry.

The Annual Meeting of the Diocesan Synod of Kilmore, Elphin and Ardagh took place on Saturday 11th October in Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim. The service of Holy Communion at St George’s Church was conducted by Archdeacon Hazel Hicks, with readings from Mark’s Gospel delivered by Rev. Gail McNeill and Rev. Michael Kenning.

Bishop Ferran’s Sermon focused on Mark’s Gospel, which he described as “The Good News on steroids.” Mark’s Gospel has two main parts: first, we learn who Jesus is; second, we learn what He came to do.

The reading, from Mark 8:22 to the beginning of Chapter 9, shows where these two parts meet. Jesus restores sight to a blind man at Bethsaida in two stages—first in haze, then in total clarity. Peter then declares Jesus as Messiah, and Jesus predicts His death and the Way of the Cross.

Bishop Ferran emphasized that Jesus never promised an easy path. We must choose to follow Him and resist the temptations of an easier life offered by the world. Just as Jesus helped the blind man see clearly, we can gain spiritual clarity by trusting in the Gospel. While physical blindness is a serious affliction, spiritual blindness is just as bad.

Synod Proceedings

Following the service, Synod members gathered at the Bush Hotel for business sessions, beginning with a moment of reflection. A unifying theme emerged as almost every speaker referenced “The Quiet Revival,” a report by the Bible Society in England & Wales published earlier this year. The report found that Generation Z is leading a return to the Church. Church attendance decline has halted and is now growing, particularly among younger people.

Presidential Address: Bishop Ferran

Bishop Ferran began by acknowledging troubles facing the world, including conflicts in the Biblical lands and elsewhere. Closer to home, he highlighted strain on public services and young people’s difficulty in finding affordable housing. These challenges form the turbulent waters on which “our little boat of the Diocese stays afloat by God’s grace.”

Bishop Ferran thanked all those working in parishes to maintain diocesan worship. He acknowledged the overwhelming burden of red tape and regulation they face in their work.

The Church of Ireland is proposing a nationwide patronage body to oversee all National Schools. This body will buffer schools from the Department of Education and provide professional support with administration. Pastoral care will remain the Bishop’s responsibility as Patron.

For secondary schools: The Department of Education has released €20 million for additional accommodation and a sports hall at the Royal School Cavan. Wilson’s Hospital School has a new principal, Mr Noel Cunningham, and it is hoped the school’s difficulties will soon be “in the rear view mirror.”

Chaplains report evidence of the Quiet Revival in secondary schools too. Small but growing groups of pupils are witnesses for Christ and are making a difference in school life.

Bishop Ferran discussed what might lie behind the revival of faith among Gen Z. He observed that as societies grow wealthier, religious belief and practice typically fade. But our young adults, he noted, are not growing wealthier. Many feel economically insecure and anxious about their futures. There is little or no comfort to be found in secularism. Gen Z is poorer, lonelier, and more anxious than previous generations at the same age.

In this context, they are looking for something more—something that answers the deeper longings of the human spirit. As a Church, Bishop Ferran insisted, we must grasp the opportunity God has given us to grow and revitalize, or we will miss it. The window of opportunity is open, but it will not remain open indefinitely.

» Click here to read the full Address.

Selected Presentations and Reports

Bishop Martin Hayes updated Synod on Care of Creation work. He has visited groups returning land to nature and highlighted ecumenical work on biodiversity. Environmental groups face obstacles from fossil fuel lobbies, slowing progress, but there is hope for better outcomes from COP30 in Brazil next month.

Canon Missioner Tim Wright emphasized that mission must be about meeting and nurturing young people’s faith. The Quiet Revival shows growth is possible, but it requires intentionality. All parishes should prioritize mission work both within and beyond their communities.

Canon Ricky Rowntree presented a new Liturgical Resource for children and young people. Each parish received a copy. He noted that part of the Quiet Revival appears to stem from young people seeking structure. He also offered copies of a book on the Canticles.

Rachael Murphy of the Church of Ireland Board for Ministry with Children and Families encouraged parishes to consider their “welcome offer” to newcomers and resources for families. The “shush” mentality has no place in our churches. If new people are to try church, we must show them what it means to be part of a faith community.

Heather Pope announced that the Benefact Trust is seeking to support more projects in Ireland. Parishes with projects needing funding should contact her. The Trust will assist with the application process: “Help Heather to help you!”

Rachel Cox introduced her work as agricultural chaplain. The Diocese has a higher proportion of people working in agri-food than the national average. Cox offers an online drop-in service and hopes to build stronger connections between farming communities and the Church.

Diocesan Reports were presented and discussed. Full copies are available to download on the Diocese’s website. Among those presenting, Gillian Kellett and Ann Howard urging parishes to support their GFS and Mothers’ Union branches or consider starting one. Both organizations offer fun and faith to their members.

» Click here to view a full copy of the reports.

Synod business closed with prayer.