Reader ministry celebrated as 26 are recommissioned in Down Cathedral
Bishop Harold has recommissioned 26 diocesan readers at a special service in Down Cathedral.
Around 200 people attended on Thursday 28 January as the readers received their new licences and recommitted themselves to exercise the ministry of leadership in worship and preaching the Word of God. Four readers were unable to attend but will also be issued with new licences.
Bishop Harold said: “The presence of the Lord was palpable at the service in Down Cathedral. It was a rich mix of formality and informality in a place deeply associated with mission and ministry in this land. I am so grateful for the work done by our readers, and pray that they will always know the power of the Word of God in their lives and preaching.”
The bishop gave the address and was assisted with the act of recommissioning by the Warden of Readers, Revd Willie Nixon.
He said: “It was a joy both to recommission readers for the next 5 years of their ministry and celebrate the regular work they undertake in our parishes. The value of their role was evident not least in the numbers of family and friends gathered round them on this special occasion.
“These 30 readers minister regularly in 26 local parishes, as well as helping with cover in many more. It is a key ministry and we are excited that a new generation of 34 trainee readers will be joining their ranks over the next few years.”
We are grateful to Down Cathedral for hosting the service and providing refreshments in the narthex afterwards.
View a photo gallery here.