St John’s Malone was the setting for a Eucharistic service to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Ordination to the Diaconate of both Bishop Edward Darling, who had been Rector of St John’s from 1972 to 1984, and Canon James Moore who had carried out parochial visiting in St John's after his retirement. Both were ordained in Belfast Cathedral on St Kilian's Day 1956 for curacies in St Luke's parish.
The Celebrant at the Eucharist was Bishop Edward, readings were by Mrs Mona Moore and Mrs Patricia Darling, and the prayers were led by Fred McDowell who had been People’s Churchwarden in St John's at Bishop Edward’s institution. The Gospel was read by Canon Moore, and the address was by Bishop Poyntz.
The offering went to “Bóthar”, an organisation of which Bishop Edward has been a Patron since it was founded in 1991. It exists to relieve poverty in the Developing World through the use of farm animals.
After the service a large number of the congregation remained for light refreshments provided and served by St John's choir and their families.
At a reception before the meal Katie Wright, recently appointed People’s Warden, welcomed all to St John’s. In the absence of the rector Canon Mann, who was on holiday, Bishop Poyntz seconded the remarks and thanked all for their presence on such a memorable occasion. Canon Moore and Bishop Darling also spoke of the wonderful reception accorded to them. Bishop Alan Harper, former rector of the parish, said grace.
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