Diocesan News
New Bishop’s PA sought as Mrs Rosemary Patterson announces retirement
Mrs Rosemary Patterson, Personal Assistant to the Bishop of Connor, is to retire next year after devoting her entire working life to the Church.
Rosemary has been full time Secretary/PA for Bishop Alan Abernethy since he became Bishop of Connor 10 years ago, and was part–time secretary to his predecessor, Bishop Alan Harper, for three years before that.
Rosemary’s career with the church began in 1965, when she worked with Church Mission Society (CMS) Ireland for four years before moving to the diocesan office for Connor and Down and Dromore, then based in May Street, in 1969.
In 1976 she took some time out following the birth of her daughter Helen. Rosemary returned to work in the diocesan office in 1989, and since then has worked in Stewardship, Board of Education and with the Bishops.
Rosemary is married to Jim, Connor Glebes Secretary and a member of Diocesan Council. Their daughter Helen currently works as a receptionist/administrator with Connor Diocese. Rosemary is mother–in–law to Chris and grandmother to Andrew and Rebekah.
She will remain as Bishop’s PA until March 2018.
Bishop Alan said: “Rosemary has served the Church of Ireland in various capacities, stewardship office, education office, diocesan office and Bishop’s personal assistant. She has given nearly 40 years of faithful and dedicated service.
“Since I became Bishop of Connor she has been a great support to me. Her loyalty, confidentiality, encouragement and discernment are great gifts to me. She has been able to organise my diary but above all she has looked after ‘me.’ I will be forever grateful for her care and friendship.”
Recruitment is underway for the position of Personal Assistant to the Bishop of Connor. Information about how to apply including a job description and person specification can be downloaded from the vacancies section of this website.
Please note: Closing date for applications is November 29 at 4pm. For further information please contact:
Diocesan Communications Officer, Connor
07766 103880
Mrs Karen Bushby
dco@connordiocese.org