At a Choral Eucharist in Saint Canice’s Cathedral on Sunday 2nd June the Reverend William Burke was licensed as curate assistant in Kilkenny Parish and as Bishop’s Vicar of the cathedral.
Welcoming William, his wife Mara and their children Abigail and Isabella, the bishop spoke of the journey that had brought Billy to this place and of the huge gifts as a liturgist and pastor that Billy brings to ministry. The Bishop said that the large turnout of Readers and Clergy was a warm and fitting welcome to William from the Diocese.
The Readings were read by William’s wife and sister and Canon Victor Fitzpatrick, a long-time friend of William’s read the Gospel. The Venerable Alec Purser preached, noting the contribution William and his family have made to Church life in Stradbally.
The service was followed by refreshments. William was welcomed by the Dean, The Very Rev’d Stephen Farrell and Mara and their girls were welcomed to the parish and to life in the cathedral close by the Dean’s wife, Laura. The Dean spoke of his joy at the arrival of his new colleague and his eager anticipation of their shared ministry in the years to come.
The Rev’d William Burke was ordained in 2004 in the Roman Catholic Church. Following a period of training in accordance with the Protocols introduced by the House of Bishops, he has returned to ministry in the Church of Ireland. William will serve as curate assistant in Kilkenny Parish. By longstanding tradition, the curate in St Canice’s Cathedral is styled the Bishop’s Vicar.
A selection of pictures taken by the DCO Mr. Shane Reynolds can be viewed by Clicking here