The Archbishop of Armagh, the Most Rev’d John McDowell, has made the following appointments:
The Rev’d Diane Matchett to be Rural Dean of Tullyhogue.
The Rev’d Gary McMurray to be Warden of Readers for the Diocese of Armagh.
Making the announcement the Archbishop expressed his thanks to Canon Barry Paine the outgoing Rural Dean of Tullyhogue and Canon Aonghus Mayes the outgoing Warden of Readers. “Canon Barry Payne has served almost ten years in the office of Rural Dean with efficiency and cheerfulness. Although a Rural Dean is for the most part involved in property and governance matters, here in the Diocese of Armagh, a strong tradition of fellowship and mutual support within rural deaneries has developed, which has been very beneficial to clergy morale and wellbeing. I know that the Rev’d Diane Matchett will bring her own gifts of friendship and enthusiasm to this role.
“The office of Reader is an ancient one in the Church, and was revived over a hundred years ago in the Church of Ireland to allow those with a particular vocation relating to the reading of The Office and the proclamation of the Word to exercise their calling within the due order of the Church, for the building up of the Body of Christ. Canon Mayes has carried out the role of Warden of Readers in that same spirit and I know that the Rev’d Gary McMurray will apply himself to this important role with equal judiciousness and devotion. I am delighted to say that Canon Michael Kennedy, who has a wealth of experience in this field, has agreed continue in his role as Assistant Warden of Readers.
Rev’d Diane Matchett said “I am humbled and honoured to be asked by the Archbishop to take on the role of Rural Dean in Tullyhogue Rural Deanery. I have been so grateful to Canon Barry Paine for all the help and support he has given over his tenure, and I am confident of his ongoing support and help as I begin mine. I would genuinely value your prayers; thank you.”
Rev’d Gary Murray commented “I would like to thank Archbishop John for appointing me as the Warden of Readers. Diocesan and Parish Readers have a valued ministry in our diocese, in leading God’s people in worship, and reading and preaching God’s Word. I look forward to supporting and equipping our current Readers, and to developing Reader ministry in the diocese.”