Commissioning of Parish Reader in Magheragall

Monday May 18th 2026

Commissioning of Brian Higginson as a Parish Reader in Magheragall by the Rev Canon Amanda Adams, Diocesan Warden of Readers, and the Rev Nicholas Dark. Photo: Norman Briggs.

A new Parish Reader was commissioned at Morning Worship in Magheragall Parish Church on May 17.

Brian Higginson was commissioned by Diocesan Warden of Readers, the Rev Canon Amanda Adams, assisted by the Rev Nicholas Dark, rector of Magheragall.

Brian shared his story in the Magheragall Parish magazine: “My journey of faith has been shaped over many years, but especially through times of illness, challenge, and recovery. During some of the most difficult periods in my life, I came to rely deeply on God for strength and guidance. In those times, reading the Bible and praying each day became a real source of comfort, and I became increasingly aware of God’s presence walking with me.

Parish Reader Brian Higginson. Photo: Norman Briggs.

“In recent years, particularly during my recovery from major surgery, I experienced what I can only describe as a quiet but persistent sense that God was calling me to something more. This wasn’t a single moment, but something that grew over time through prayer, reflection, and a deepening of my faith. I also had a vivid sense that God still had work for me to do, which stayed with me and continued to shape my thinking.

“At the same time, through my role in the community and my involvement with the Storehouse Trust Foodbank, I have met many people facing real hardship and difficulty. Listening to their stories, and sharing in some small way in their struggles, has deepened my compassion and strengthened my desire to serve others in a more meaningful and faith-led way.

“Looking back, I can see how my life experiences – both the challenges I have faced and the opportunities to serve – have been preparing me for this step. I now feel called to serve as a Parish Reader, offering what I can in support of worship, sharing God’s Word, and being alongside others in their own journeys of faith. I offer myself for this role with humility, trusting in God’s guidance, and with a desire to serve faithfully within the life of the parish.”

Magheragall Parish Reader Brian Higginson, left, with the Rev Canon Amanda Adams, Diocesan Warden of Readers, the Rev Nicholas Dark, rector of Magheragall, and John Williams, Diocesan Reader. Photo: Norman Briggs.