Colin Taylor reflects on his deacon year
On 28 August Colin will be ordained presbyter to serve as Diocesan Curate with special responsibility for the Parish of Dromara and Garvaghy.
My Deacon year has been, to say the least, a hectic one as I have worked to balance looking after the parishes of Dromara and Garvagh, while studying at the same time. The parishioners of Dromara and Garvaghy have been incredibly supportive to me and have pulled together to allow me the opportunity to undertake the study required of me. The Revd Edward Gorringe and Mrs Jacqueline Gee and our parish readers have been particularly helpful in taking worship when I have had to be at the Church of Ireland Theological Institute.
The academic study of itself has been enlightening as I have engaged in particular with liturgy and with the theological, biblical, moral and ethical issues relating to today’s society. The fellowship and interaction with others training for ministry in the Church of Ireland Theological Institute has been enjoyable and beneficial.
I think that the parishioners of Dromara and Garvaghy have already benefitted from this year’s studies (though they may not know it) and I hope that that will continue into the years ahead.
After as short illness I now look forward to developing my ministry over the coming months and years alongside these faithful and supportive people.
Many years ago I met a Church Army Evangelist from the United States. He wore a big badge with the letters PBPWMGNY on it in large print. When people asked about it he told them it means “Please be patient with me God’s not finished yet.” I believe that is so and God has much in store for the future in terms of my personal faith and in my ministry to God’s people.