A statement from the Diocese of Down and Dromore regarding the Parish of Knocknamuckley
In the context of the sad divisions in Knocknamuckley Parish, an evening was held on Wednesday 27 May, when a group appointed by the bishop reported to the parishioners.
Having looked at several possible options, the way forward involves two separate congregations, one in St. Matthias Church and a new missional congregation meeting in Craigavon. Both of these will be under the authority of the bishop and diocese of Down and Dromore.
These congregations will meet separately from next Sunday, 31 May. The Revd Alan Kilpatrick will remain as incumbent until 30 September, when he will step down as rector of Knocknamuckley and become minister–in–charge of the new missional congregation.
In the months of June to September, while remaining rector, Alan Kilpatrick has agreed that the services in St. Matthias will be led by another clergyman and that alternative pastoral cover will be provided for those who require it.
The bishop has announced that his working group on the theology of the Royal Black Preceptory and the theology of Bethel Church in Northern California, is to be chaired by Canon Dr. Christina Baxter, CBE. He has asked for a continued period of ‘gracious provisional judgement’ while it carries out its work and for co–operation with the group.
The bishop hopes that all parishioners of Knocknamuckley, no matter what their particular views, will participate with him in a time of prayer and fasting on a date soon to be announced and will come together with him to bless and pray for each other as they move into the future.
Issued by the Diocesan Communications Officer on behalf of the Diocese of Down and Dromore.
Wednesday 27 May 2015