A new rector for Kilkeel
Congratulations to Revd Alison Calvin who has become the rector of Kilkeel Parish following her institution on Thursday 13 February.
Alison is the first rector to be instituted by Bishop David who served his first incumbency in Kilkeel from 1990–2001.
Both received a warm welcome as did Bishop Ken Clarke who preached at the service.
Alison comes to Down and Dromore from the Killeshandra Group of Parishes in Co. Cavan where she ministered for over ten years.
Alison introduces herself
As a young child of 5 I asked Jesus to be my Saviour and since then my life has been a journey of getting to know Him through His Word and His Spirit. I continue to learn how to hear, trust and obey the wonderful Saviour who loves me. Seeking His Kingdom is my life. I also love people and community and look forward to new relationships in this next chapter.
I grew up just outside Markethill and after studying languages I returned there to teach in Markethill High School for 2 years before heading off to France as a missionary with Youth For Christ. After 3 years in France, I went to Kingdom Faith Bible College as a student for 2 years and then taught there and worked with the Way of the Spirit ministry for 4 years. It was a very clear call from God that brought me back to Ireland to train for ordination, something I would never have thought of doing!
I’ve been in the Killeshandra Group of Parishes, Co. Cavan since May 2009, first as Bishop’s Curate and then as Rector. It’s been a rich and wonderful experience – such a privilege to have been part of the family of God in this place. I have learned much and been deeply enriched by the people I have shared life with here. I will always be thankful to God for his guidance and grace as together we have sought to reach out with his love, under the vision, “Killeshandra for Christ, a community filled with God’s Spirit”.
As I follow God’s call to Kilkeel, I’d have to admit I’m more than a little overwhelmed. It will be very different, but I’m looking forward to seeing God’s plans unfold and am already praying for a fresh outpouring of His Holy Spirit that we might see His power at work in the whole community. Your Kingdom come Lord, Your will be done. What an awesome privilege to join with others in God’s redeeming plan.
