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New rector instituted to Grouped Parishes of Trory and Killadeas

A new rector for the Grouped Parishes of Trory and Killadeas in Clogher Diocese of the Church of Ireland has been instituted during a special online service through Zoom.

The Revd Mark Gallagher, who has served his curacy at Bangor Abbey in the Diocese of Down, conducted his first online services at the weekend from his new parishes.

The Revd Mark Gallagher.
The Revd Mark Gallagher.

The online service of institution took place on Thursday, 11th June, through Zoom because of the Covid–19 restrictions on churches and among those taking part were Archdeacon Brian Harper, Archbishop of Armagh’s Commissary, who conducted the service; the Revd John Woods, Rural Dean, who presented Revd Gallagher for institution; Canon Paul Thompson, neighbouring rector of Derryvullen North (Irvinestown) and Castle Archdale; Canon Shane Forster, Assistant Provincial Registrar, and Canon Ronnie Nesbitt, Rector of Bangor Abbey.

Representing both Trory and Killadeas parishes were churchwardens and secretaries as well as Diocesan Pastoral Assistants and Bangor Abbey was also represented at the service.

Mr Gallagher was welcomed to both parishes by their representatives and all those who have taken services and helped out during the vacancy were also thanked.

Mr Gallagher thanking everyone for their welcome and encouragement, said he had a great time at Bangor Abbey but said his calling was for a rural parish and he was excited about getting back to work in Clogher Diocese, having served as a Deacon in Magheracross Parish, Ballinamallard.

Mr Gallagher grew up in St Andrew’s Parish, Killyman, outside Dungannon in the Diocese of Armagh, where he was involved in Sunday School teaching and youth fellowship as well as organist.

He has a background in science, graduating from Queen’s University Belfast with a 2.1 BSc Hons degree in Medicinal Chemistry and is an Associate Member of the Royal Society of Chemistry and has worked as a research and development chemist.

He obtained his Professional Certificate in Ministry from St John’s School of Mission, Nottingham, before completing his training at the Church of Ireland Theological College, Dublin.

He served numerous placements during his ministerial training including Kill O’ The Grange, Dublin; Southwark Cathedral; and St. Hugh’s, Bermondsey, London; and St James Parish, Moy, before his deacon internship in Magheracross Parish where he took part in many spheres of worship.

During his term as Curate Assistant in Bangor Abbey Parish which included Clandeboye Chapel and St Columba’s, Kilcooley, Mr Gallagher became proficient in various areas of ordained ministry, working with young people and helping to lead community initiatives, as well as working with the Scout movement and involved in outreach ministry.

He is a keen musician, playing the piano, organ, clarinet and saxophone to worship standard. He also sings at Grade 8/Diploma standard. Another of his interests is a children’s party entertainer, as he is a balloon modeller.

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