Dean Raymond Ferguson was commissioned as All Ireland Chaplain of the Mothers’ Union in St. Fethlimidh’s Cathedral, Kilmore on Sunday 11th December 2011 by the Archbishop of Armagh, the Most Revd. Alan Harper.
The service took the form of Evening prayer with Dean Raymond Ferguson leading the worship and prayers.
The lessons Romans 12 v 1 – 13 and John 1 – 6, 19 – 28 were read by Joy Little, Diocesan President of Kilmore, Elphin and Ardagh and Ruth Mercer, All Ireland President of Mothers’ Union respectively.
The choir sang two pieces under the conductorship of Dean Raymond Ferguson, Psalm 126 and “Beautiful Isle of Somewhere”.
The speaker was the Right Revd. Ken Clarke, Bishop of Kilmore, Elphin and Ardagh and the Central Chaplain of the Mothers’ Union Worldwide.
Bishop Ken welcomed everyone present and especially the Most Revd. Alan Harper OBE, Archbishop of Armagh, the Most Revd Dr Michael Jackson, Archbishop of Dublin and Bishop of Glendalough and their wives, also All Ireland Mothers’ Union President Ruth Mercer.
Bishop Ken said that this was a first, a historic occasion, for Kilmore Cathedral to have the Archbishop of Armagh and the Archbishop of Dublin visiting at the same time. Using our Gifts and Talents
In his address Bishop Ken discussed the gifts that every single member of the body of Christ has been given from God and asked how many did we have unused.
Important gifts we can give to others are a Christ like example – an example to be followed, and Christ like words that encourage, love and heal. He reminded us that thoughtless and loveless words could break people. Quoting Proverbs 12 we are told that a gentle answer casts away wrath.
Using a story from Mary Ann Baird and other instances when words and example have a powerful effect on others, using our gifts can give others unforgettable experiences of goodness and inspiration for life.
Concluding his address Bishop Ken talked of the new Chaplain’s experience in ministry, family life, his enthusiasm for the work of the Mothers’ Union, the Christ like example and words he uses and we thank God for his appointment