A day of celebration at Stoneyford Confirmation
Reverend John Farr with the candidates who went forward for Confirmation. Included is Bishop Alan Abernethy who officiated, supported by Canon Sam McComb and Diocesan Reader Jim Neill.
THERE was a day of celebration at St John's Church, Stoneyford last Sunday (September 18), when a record number of candidates were Confirmed.
In what was a double celebration, Reverend John Farr was also formally introduced as Priest-in-charge, having joined Stoneyford Parish in February. Rev. Farr said: "It was a very special Sunday in Stoneyford. Eighteen candidates went forward for Confirmation, 14 teenagers and four adults, the largest number in living memory, certainly that we know of since the Parish of Stoneyford came into being in 1887. There was a great buzz about the place."
Bishop Alan Abernethy of the Connor Diocese officiated the proceedings, supported by Canon Sam McComb and Diocesan Reader Jim Neill.
Rev. Farr said: "The Bishop spoke really well and the Church was almost full to capacity with around 200 in attendance to support the candidates."
Members of the congregation also turned out to officially welcome Rev. Farr to the post of Priest-in-charge.
Rev. Farr explained: "I began locum work in Stoneyford in October and took on the post of Priest-in-charge in February, but this was my formal introduction as it was the Bishop's first time in the Church since I started."
Rev. Farr said he has enjoyed his time in Stoneyford since he began his post. "This has been one of the most important days in my life," said the Rev Farr. "The people have made me feel very welcome, I am enjoying myself here."
A sumptuous feast was laid on by the ladies of the congregation in the Church Hall after the service.
Rev. Farr concluded: "There was a lovely lunch afterward in the Church Hall and there was a chocolate fountain. I'd just like to say 'thank you' to everybody who made the day possible, the ladies who organised the lunch, the Church Wardens who set up the Church and the candidates and their families for making it such a special day."
Ulster Star
26/09/2011
