Diocesan News
Annalong Parish welcomes a new rector
The Revd Geoff Hamilton has received a warm welcome from his new congregation in Kilhorne Church, Annalong.
Bishop David instituted Geoff as Incumbent and the Revd Canon Malcolm Kingston, Rector of St Mark’s, Armagh, gave the address at the service on 22 April.
Geoff was ordained deacon in Down and Dromore in 2016 and spent his internship in Seagoe Parish. He returns to the diocese from a curacy in St Mark’s and is married to Jill.
Addressing the parishioners, Canon Kingston said: “You are receiving one of the most genuinely caring and attentive pastors that I know. Geoff, or Titch as he is also known, will serve faithfully amongst you, and I know he will sensitively encourage you as a people of faith.”
He continued: “Of course, Geoff isn’t here to serve you alone. He is accompanied by the lovely Jill who can simply be described as a star. Jill is a person with a servant heart and many, many gifts and I know that as you get to know both Geoff and Jill, you will identify characteristics that are outcomes of hearts of love of the Lord Jesus.
“Theirs is a desire to honour and serve the Lord. They will give you their best, because they want to give the Lord their best.”
On becoming rector, Geoff said, “I haven’t stopped smiling since arriving in Annalong as the setting is stunning. I’ve met numerous parishioners when I’ve been out walking the dog and I’ve been encouraged by their warm welcome.
“This past year has been challenging on many levels for all of us. During this pandemic we have been reminded afresh that we are relational beings, therefore we do life better together. I’m looking forward to doing life within Kilhorne Parish and also in the wider community. Jill and I value your prayers as we embark on this new and exciting chapter.”
A photo gallery from the institution is available here.
With thanks to Mr David Hanna who took the photographs.
For further information please contact:
Diocesan Communications Officer, Down & Dromore
07840 006899
Mrs Annette McGrath
dco@downdromorediocese.org