On the Feast of Saint Barnabas the Rev’d Andrew Pender was ordained to the sacred Priesthood in Saint Canice’s Cathedral, Kilkenny, by the Rt Rev’d Adrian Wilkinson, supported by priests of the Diocese.
Andrew was brought up in Malahide Co Dublin but has been living in Baltinglass for a number of years. He holds a B.Sc. in applied science and a M.Sc. in physics from the University of Dublin. A celebration of Evensong at Christchurch cathedral Dublin was the spark that reignited an interest in faith and put him on his current spiritual path. He is a deacon in the Baltinglass group of parishes and was a diocesan reader prior this role. He lectures in physics in the Technological University of Dublin. He has three children and plays Spanish flamenco guitar as a hobby.
Supported by family, friends and parishioners, Andrew was reminded by the Bishop that one year previously, he had been made Deacon on the Feast of Saint Barnabas. The Bishop set before Andrew the model of Barnabas, the ‘Son of Encouragement’ who had helped introduce Paul into the fellowship of the Christian community when people were wary of him, but Barnabas saw his gifts.
The first lesson was read by Joan Jackson, and the second by Canon Mairt Hanley, the Dean-elect of Old Leighlin and the Rector of Baltinglass where Andrew’s vocation was nurtured. The Rev’d Janet Finlay, the first person to be ordained to the Ordained Local Ministry in the Diocese read the Gospel and preached.
At the moment of ordination the bishop and all priests present laid hands on Andrew, praying for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Andrew for the Office and Work of a priest in the Church. Andrew was given a bible by the Bishop as a sign of the authority he has received to preach the word and to administer the sacraments.
The Peace was followed by a Celebration of Holy Communion. The setting was Tomás Luis de Victoria, Missa O Quam Gloriosum, sung by Saint Canice’s Cathedral Choir. The anthem was Abendlied, by Josef Rheinberger.
At the end of the service Andrew stood alone before the bishop and was reminded that the treasure now entrusted to him is Christ’s own flock. He was then led out by the Bishop along with family, friends and parish representatives.
Refreshments followed, provided by the Baltinglass Group of Parishes where Andrew will continue to serve.
Pictures by the DCO