Ordination of the Reverend Yvonne Carter
A large and joyful congregation gathered on Trinity Sunday in the beautiful setting of Saint Patrick’s Church, Stradbally, to witness and celebrate the ordination of Yvonne Carter as a deacon in the Church of Ireland, marking the beginning of her ministry as an Ordained Local Minister.
In welcoming the congregation, the Bishop noted that Yvonne’s ministry had been rooted in the parish. ‘As a Parish Reader since 2004 and a Diocesan Reader since 2007, Yvonne has been involved in worship and pastoral care for many years and her ordination today as a deacon is a natural progression of her ministry.’ The Bishop highlighted the presence and support of her husband Richard, their four sons and the wider family circle at the service. He also took the opportunity to welcome the guest preacher, the Revd Ken Rue, Rector of Narraghmore and National Coordinator for Ordained Local Ministry. As he was preparing to step down from this role, the Bishop thanked him for all he had done to support and encourage the ministry of OLMs in this Diocese.
The first reading was read by Revd Olive Donohoe, former Rector of the Stradbally Union and mentor to Yvonne. Yvonne’s sisters read the Epistle and Revd Janet Finlay read the Gospel. The presence of Fr Sean Kelly from Stradbally Parish (Roman Catholic Church) and Beverley Barbour from the Methodist Church added an ecumenical dimension to the day.
In his sermon, the Revd Ken Rue reflected on the nature and calling of an Ordained Local Minister which is relatively new in the Church of Ireland, with the first cohort ordained in 2019. He explained that OLMs are appointed to serve in specific local areas as directed by the bishop, and they do not transfer between dioceses. He also clarified that OLMs receive no salary and are volunteers. Revd Rue described this as a sacrificial calling, one that deserves the appreciation and support of the wider Church. While OLMs do not carry the administrative responsibilities of running a parish, their work alongside rectors and other clergy is vital. He noted that for Revd Yvonne, working well with others is a natural gift.
Grounding his words in Scripture, Revd Rue reminded the congregation of many well-known biblical figures Isaiah, Moses, Sarah, and others who felt unsure or unqualified when called by God. He acknowledged that such feelings are common but reassured those present that ministry is ultimately carried out through God’s strength, not our own. He closed by encouraging everyone to continue supporting and uplifting Revd Yvonne as she begins this new chapter in her ministry.
Following the service, refreshments were enjoyed in the adjacent Cosby National School. Presentations were made to Yvonne on behalf of the Stradbally Union by Mr Philip Greene and Ms Joyce Cambers, from Ballyfin by Mr William McKay, and by Mr Shane Reynolds on behalf of The Rock and Portlaoise.
The ordination was a joyful and hope-filled occasion, marking an important milestone in Revd Yvonne Carter’s life and in the parish community. As she takes on this new role, the support and prayers of those who gathered go with her.
Report and pictures by the DCO – Mr Shane Reynolds