The Church of Ireland
Press Release

Dean John Bond of Christ Church Cathedral, Lisburn describes his ministry in the Cathedral, as "a ministry of welcome".

Speaking tonight after his installation as the new Dean of Connor, Dean Bond said: "The Cathedral of Christ Church, Lisburn, set in the town centre has a vibrant ministry to young and young at heart with a commitment to support the work of the Church overseas. Every Cathedral proclaims the Gospel of Christ and provides a centre of spirituality and spiritual unity for the Diocese.

"The Cathedral is also a focus for ministry and reaches out to the whole community - civic, commerce, industry, sport. As Dean, I want to offer Christian leadership, to be a bridge builder serving the Church in the Diocese. I see my role as that of a ministry of welcome as a Cathedral exists for all sorts of people. I am a people person."

Dean Bond added: "In a world of sound bytes and instant images we need to teach ourselves to observe, to meditate, to appreciate and to listen. The wonders of our Saviour are not discerned in a moment, nor appreciated with a glance. Worship of God does not pour out of a packet marked 'just add water' . Worship is a precious gift made valuable by the time invested in its creation.

"Despite drug problems, violence, political tensions, stress and breakdown in family life and all the problems of our day, I believe that it is the message of the Kingdom that the world needs to hear. I also believe that the tasks ahead of us in the Church today are not as great as the Power behind us. Relationship with Christ is at the heart of all we are and do."

The new Dean was installed in Christ Church Cathedral, Lisburn by the Rt Rev James Moore, Bishop of Connor. He succeeds The Very Reverend Brian Moller who has retired.

Dean Bond is married to Joyce and they have a grown-up family, son Allan married to Sinead, Nicola youngest daughter, daughter Susan married to Andrew Brown - and they have a little daughter, Leah.

A native of Bunclody, Co. Wexford, Dean Bond was ordained Deacon in 1967 and Priest in 1969. He served curacies in St. Paul's, Lisburn and in Finaghy Parish, Belfast and was Domestic Chaplain to the Bishop of Connor (1971-77). Rector of the United Parish of Ballynure and Ballycaston (Ballyclare) 1977-99, he was appointed Rector of Skerry and Rathcaven and Newtowncrommelin in 1999 where he continues to serve. The Dean is secretary to Connor Diocesan Council and Synod. He is a member of General Synod and a member of the Standing Committee of General Synod and also serves on other committees.