Work of former Diocesan Glebes Secretary recognised

Friday June 27th 2025

Presentation to Mr Jim Patterson, who has retired as Connor Diocesan Glebes Secretary, by Bishop George Davison and Archdeacon Stephen McBride.

Jim Patterson, who last autumn retired as Connor Diocesan Glebes Secretary after 16 years in the role, was honoured at Connor Diocesan Synod on June 26.

In his Presidential Address, the Bishop of Connor, the Rt Rev George Davison, paid tribute to Jim, who he described as our ‘go-to’ person in matters relating to rectories and glebe inspections.

“Jim’s diligence, understanding of the role and practical common sense have been invaluable to us and to the parishes of the diocese throughout the work of quinquennial and vacancy inspections,” Bishop George said.

“His patience may have been tried in many circumstances, but his good nature and sense of humour meant that the work was always accomplished as efficiently as possible.”

He added that the Diocesan Surveyor Chris McCollum had said he misses Jim terribly. Inviting Jim to come forward to receive a small token of appreciation, the Bishop said: “On behalf of us all, I want to say thank you to you for all that you’ve given of yourself.”

The Archdeacon of Connor, the Ven Dr Stephen McBride, said a replacement for Jim had not yet been found, adding that he was ‘irreplaceable.’ “We thank you on behalf of the Glebe’s and Architecture Committee for your diligence and a quiet way you did things,” the Archdeacon said.

Thanking the Bishop for his comments, Jim said: “I have had a ball. I have had a great time. I have been in many rectories and I have always been received with courtesy and respect. Our surveyors Chris McCollum and Michelle Atkinson have been an absolute pleasure to work with.”

He said the most terrifying thing he had done with Chris was to stand at the top of the tower of St Thomas’s, Rathlin, in a storm, adding that thankfully the tower did not fall!

“It has been my privilege and pleasure to serve the diocese, and I wish Connor Diocese well in the future,” Jim said.