New rector of Killyleagh follows in the family footsteps
The new rector of Killyleagh, Revd Colin Darling, has followed in the footsteps of his maternal grandfather, Revd Stanley Mann, who was rector of the parish from 1935–1962.
“It feels very sentimental to go to a place where my grandfather on my mother’s side was rector for 28 years from the mid 1930s,” said Colin. “I followed the course of ordained ministry only in later life and there is a little sadness that I didn’t respond earlier to God’s call. Because of that, I would say the chances of me serving in Killyleagh as long as my grandfather would be fairly slim!”
Family and friends joined Killyleagh parishioners at the service on 22 August when Bishop Harold instituted the new incumbent and Canon Jono Pierce, rector of St Finninan’s, gave the address.
A few words from Colin
Moving parish stirs in me a mixture of emotions. Excitement, anticipation and joy to be taking on the challenge of leading God’s people in a new environment and situation.
However these feelings are accompanied by a real sadness that I am leaving behind a wonderful parish at St Finnian’s, where I have enjoyed a positive working relationship with the rector, and where the people of Cregagh made me feel like I was amongst friends right from the start.
They put up with me with loving patience. They accepted all my hobby–horses, habits and wee howlers. They reassured and encouraged me and together we tried to make progress on our walk with Jesus. I leave St Finnian’s feeling blessed to have been here.
And I go to Killyleagh with a real sense that I am going where God wants me to go. I pray that I won’t let him down and that I can bring something more of him to the people of that beautiful corner of Co Down. I am motivated by a real desire to see people grow deeper in their faith and to see more people set out on their faith journey.
I have one son, Henry, about to start his GCSE year in Friends School Lisburn. Perhaps the biggest criticism that could be levelled at me in bringing him up is the fact that, like me, he’s now an avid Crystal Palace supporter. We both also love cycling and skiing, though the old man now has to watch the young son from behind as he flies off into the distance. Golf, rugby, music and travel are other interests.
I was blessed to have been brought up in a Christian home. As well as my maternal grandfather, my father and paternal grandfather were also ordained, as were other relatives. It was at St John’s Malone where I spent my teenage years and for 20 years prior to ordination, I worshipped in Hillsborough Parish, serving on vestry and singing in the choir. Prior to serving as curate at St Finnian’s, I spent a very enjoyable and enlightening year at Saintfield Parish.
Before ordination, I spent 25 years working for two different banks in a number of roles. Since taking the decision to put myself forward for full–time ordained ministry, I can honestly say that I have never looked back. It is a real privilege to serve God in any way. Undoubtedly I feel privileged and honoured to be appointed as rector of Killyleagh.