Revd Capt Isaac Hanna introduced in Kilmegan and Maghera
Bishop David has introduced Revd Capt Isaac Hanna as part-time Priest-in-charge in the Grouped Parishes of Kilmegan and Maghera.
The service took place this evening (Monday 14 October) in the lovely setting of Maghera Parish Church between Dundrum and Newcastle. The Revd Capt Colin Taylor (retired), a Church Army colleague for over 20 years, gave the address.
Preaching from Ephesians 4, Colin encouraged the people of Kilmegan and Maghera to work together with Isaac to build the church in unity and love. Looking to the future with anticipation, he said that Isaac had many skills and would help them move forward, but that their support and input were vital.
Born and raised in Kilkeel, Isaac (above right) began his career as a motor mechanic before answering the call to full-time ministry. After training with the Church Army in 1998, he was ordained in 2007.
Over the past 20 years, Isaac has served in a variety of leadership roles in Sheffield, Coleraine, Dungiven, Maghera, and Sligo. He has also gained extensive experience in church leadership, focusing on reconciliation, social justice, pastoral care, discipleship, and - his passion - evangelism, and pioneer ministry.
He says: “One of my significant achievements was overseeing a multi-million building and outreach project in Maghera, County Londonderry which resulted in a new Parish Centre and community garden, enhancing both church and community life. I have also led diverse teams working in areas such as children’s ministry, youth outreach, pioneer ministry and community development.”
Currently, Isaac serves as the Church Army’s Mission Development Officer for Ireland, offering oversight to a team of 11 evangelists. There are five Centres of Mission and one Project dotted throughout the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. He will continue in this role in a part-time capacity alongside his responsibilities in Kilmegan and Maghera.
He says: “Put very simply, my vision for ministry is to be led by Jesus, lead like Jesus, and lead others to Jesus.”
Isaac has been supported in ministry by his wife, Dianne, and their two sons, Joshua and Daniel. He and Dianne are back living in Kilkeel and in his spare time, he enjoys keeping his sons’ cars on the road and tackling various DIY projects around the house.
