Dear Parishioners,
As Rector, I write following the announcement made in church this morning that the Dean of Connor has appointed me to serve as Associate Minister of Lisburn Cathedral in the Diocese of Connor.
Over the past thirteen and a half years, Carrigrohane Union of Parishes has been home. It has been an extraordinary privilege to serve here, first as Mission Minister in Blarney and, more recently, as Rector. Together, we have laughed and cried, celebrated and mourned, taken risks, and explored new ways of being the Church together.
It has been a joy to serve God and the communities of this parish alongside such an outstanding team of clergy, staff, volunteers and parishioners. Together, we have worked hard to accomplish things that, by God’s grace, will continue to bear fruit for His Kingdom in the years ahead. For all that has been achieved, and for all the lives touched through the ministry of this parish, I give thanks to God.
Many within the parish and wider community have become cherished friends, and the prospect of moving so far away is not an easy one. However, over recent weeks, both Noelle and I have sensed a clear and compelling leading from God through a series of conversations, circumstances and opportunities which have prompted us to explore this next stage of our journey in faith and ministry.
In a recent sermon in Rosscarbery, Bishop Paul said:
“I have always believed that wherever you are in ministry, if you do not come to love the place and the people where you are serving in God’s name, then perhaps you are not in the place God means you to be.”
I can honestly say that I know this has been the place God meant me to be for all these years.
This Union of Parishes and this unique community of people will always hold a special place in my heart. Not least because it is here that Noelle and I met, and where we were married, but also because of the deep faith, friendship, generosity and encouragement that we have experienced among you. The privilege of serving here is something I will always treasure.
The coming months will undoubtedly be busy. There is still much ministry to be undertaken, and I am committed to ensuring that the parish is left in the strongest possible position as we prepare for this transition.
I would value your prayers for Noelle and me as we prepare for this significant move in life and ministry. Please also pray for the parish nominators and all who will be involved in the process of discerning God’s future for Carrigrohane Union of Parishes.
I have already spoken with Archdeacon Andrew Orr, who is currently Commissary of the Diocese, and we will work closely together to ensure that appropriate arrangements are put in place for the period of vacancy and that the ministry and mission of the parish continue to flourish. In due course, further information will be shared regarding the next steps in the appointment process.
Thank you for your friendship, support, encouragement and prayers over these many years. While there will be opportunities to express farewells more formally in the months ahead, I simply want to say how grateful Noelle and I are for the privilege of sharing this chapter of our lives with you.
With every blessing,
Canon Robert Ferris
Rector, Carrigrohane Union of Parishes