Our new Rector has been appointed and his institution by the Bishop took place on Sunday, 17 January.
St Matthias' Church was full for the occasion as clergy, friends and parishioners from the Union of Parishes and beyond joined together to welcome Reverend Steve McCann and his wife, Heidi, to their new life with us. We were also pleased to welcome a number of parishioners from Steve's previous parish in Kendal to this uplifting and joyful service.
Most of the congregation were also able to make the short journey afterwards to the Ballydehob Community Centre to enjoy the refreshments provided by willing helpers and of the high standard anyone who knows this community has come to expect.
Rectory Repair Update 1 February 2010
The repair work on the Rectory is almost complete and heartfelt thanks to all of you who have helped and made contributions to date. The work done on the building has stopped any further deterioration, completed essential repairs and also made a warm and welcoming home for Steve and Heidi McCann for which they are very grateful.
So far you have raised the majority of the money required; a tremendous achievement. However, the final bills are still arriving so we need to raise the last €15,000 to complete the job. A number of events have been planned to help clear this amount:
16 February – Shrove Tuesday
Coffee morning in Aughadown Hall
Following the devastating earthquake in Haiti it has been decided to divide the proceeds of this event between the two causes
12 March
Fashion Show
18 April
Céili
More details will follow here on the web site, in the Parish Newsletter and notices and in the Southern Star.
Once again, thanks to all of you for a truly magnificent effort
If you feel that you can make a contribution to help us to meet these extra costs then please do so. All gifts of money, no matter how large or small, are very welcome and very gratefully received.
To make a donation, please visit the Donations page.
Rev. Grattan Bannister Memorial
Reverend Grattan Bannister died last December in impoverished circumstances leaving no known relatives. He lived in Ballydehob for many years up until his death in 2008 and was laid to rest in Schull Cemetery.
A number of those who knew him in the area are collecting donations for the provision of a suitable headstone to mark his grave.
The Reverend Bannister will be remembered for his work for the Junior GAA and the Schull Community Care Association as well as his interest in astronomy.
Contributions may be handed in to Mrs Bridie Roycroft at the Ballydehob Post Office.
Kate Neilson has kindly undertaken to co-ordinate the administration of the donations collected. Cheques, made payable to 'Ballydehob Union' and marked Rev. Bannister, should be sent to Ms Kate Neilson, Paddock, Aughadown, Skibbereen. Please include a name and address if you wish your donation to be acknowledged.
