New Priests ordained

BISHOP Ken Good has ordained two new Priests in the diocese of Derry and Raphoe.

The ordination service took place on Sunday 20 June in Donemana Parish Church. Rev Judi McGaffin and Rev Mark Lennox were ordained as Non-Stipeniary priests. Both Judi and Mark will continue in fulltime jobs while they also minister part-time in their respective parishes.

Rev Mark Lennox is originally a native of Castledawson. With a background as a teacher in St Mary's Grammar School (Magherfelt) Mark also served as a Diocesan Reader for four years. Mark now serves as a Non Stipendiary Curate in the parish of Maghera and Killelagh. Mark works as a part of a busy ministry tem in the parish that has a significant commitment to community engagement. He also serves as a member of the Diocesan Board for Communciation.

With a fulltime job with the Western Health and Social Care Board as a dentist Rev Judi McGaffin will serve as a Non Stipendiary Curate in the parishes of Donagheady and Donemana. She is married to Brendan and with two grownup children She also chairs the Church of Ireland Working Group looking at issues relating to disability, is vice chair of the "Adoption Routes"/Board for Social Responsibility (NI) and is also a member of the Board for Social Theology in Action. She is passionate about leading people to unlock their spiritual gifts in order to grow the Church in the community.

A diocesan spokesperson said: "It is a great asset to the diocesan ministry team when people have significant gifts and expertise in their everyday work. Both Mark and Judi have a wealth of experience and will make a significant addition to the life of the diocese as priests."

A large congregation along with diocesan clergy and layreaders attended the ordination. The preacher was Archdeacon Don McLean. The service was led by Bishop Good and Canon David Ferry.

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