Canon’s right hand retires

AFTER a long and distinguished service over the past 50 years as an officer and member of the Select Vestry of Glendermott Parish Church, Robert Mawhinney has retired.

During his time ‘in office’ Mr Mawhinney served under four Rectors including Cannon Derek Creighton the incumbent rector; Cannons Kelly, Johnston and Moore. He sat on the Nomination Board for three of the rectors to be appointed

Mr Mawhinney came to Glendermott Parish Church in 1955 from the Parish of Kilcronaghan, Tobermore - where his father was a leading member of the congregation - and he was appointed to the Select Vestry in 1962, marking the start of his long and distinguished service to the church.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

In addition, Mr Mawhinney served in the Sunday School and was the Sunday School Superintendent from 1960 to 1985; he served as Parochial Nominator for 45 years, retiring from that post last year, and also served on the Diocesan Council for over 38 years.

Mr Mawhinney also served for a number of terms as a member of the General Synod, and in his capacity as member of the Select Vestry, he was appointed as the honorary secretary in 1977, retiring from that post in 2004.

In addition to his ‘official’ service, Mr Mawhinney has played an active part in the parish life and frequently acted as MC at functions.

During the service on Sunday the Rector, Cannon Creighton paid tribute to Mr Mawhinney for his “exemplary service” to Glendermott Parish Church over the past five decades and more, and a presentation was made to him to mark his contribution to the life of the parish.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Responding Mr Mawhinney spoke of how he had received a letter from the secretary of the Select Vestry, Albert Smallwoods, thanking him for his 50 years’ service on behalf of the Church and Select Vestry.

He said he had been “absolutely overwhelmed” by the gift presented to him by the Rector and for his kind words.

“It is gratifying to know that my service to the church has been acknowledged in such a gracious and pleasant manner. I wish to express my sincere thanks to the Rector, Church Wardens and Select Vestry for their kindness,” he said.

He went on to say that anything he had done for the parish over the past five decades had been a pleasure to him, adding that his work had been simplified and considerably reduced by the support and help he had received from the Rector and Select Vestry, particularly during the 27 years that he had served as secretary.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Mr Mawhinney said he wished the Rector, Church Wardens and Select Vestry God’s blessing and said his “earnest hope and prayer” was that Glendermott Parish would “continue to prosper and be successful in spreading the Good News of God’s love for all”.

Speaking afterwards, Mr Mawhinney said he had mixed feelings about stepping down , but added that he had enjoyed every minute of it.

“It was my life’s work, but I thought it was an opportune time, having served 50 years, to give younger men an opportunity to take their place in the organisation of the church.”