St John’s Lurgan welcome their new Rector
Revd Raymond Kettyle has received a warm welcome from his new congregation in St John’s, Lurgan.
The Archbishop’s Commissary, Archdeacon Roderic West, instituted Raymond as Incumbent and Revd Canon Jono Pierce, Rector of Cregagh, gave the address at the service on 10 December.
Raymond came to the diocese from a deacon year in Kilmore, Elphin and Ardagh and has been curate assistant in St Finnian’s for the past three years.
He tells us more about himself below:
I grew up just outside the town of Virginia, which is in County Cavan and not America! I attended the small, intimate, country church of Billis, where I experienced the benefits that a close knitted familial community can bring, along with the calling to ordained ministry.
I attended the Royal School Cavan, after which I obtained my BA in Quantity Surveying (Sligo IT). I worked for a construction company for a few months during which time I discerned the call to ordained ministry. This came as a complete shock as I completely loved what I did. Plus, having a speech impediment, I couldn’t visualise myself speaking in any capacity. Nevertheless, what I’ve learned from my ministerial experience is that the Lord has called us, not because we are self–sufficient, but because He is all–sufficient!
Following my ordination in August 2015, I served my Deacon year as an intern in the Boyle and Riverstown group of Parishes in the Diocese of Kilmore, Elphin and Ardagh. In August 2016 I went to St. Finnian’s Parish, Cregagh, as Curate Assistant.
I have had a very enjoyable experience in my three years in Cregagh. Of course, there were seasons of growing pains that come from being stretched, however I am grateful for the abundance of opportunities I was given to lead, develop and grow. Through the thrills and challenges I have experienced the presence of God leading, guiding and nurturing.
I am thankful for the mentoring and friendship I have received from the Rector, Canon Jono Pierce, and the team of people that are part of the mission and ministry of St. Finnian’s Parish.
As I prepare to take up the mantle of leadership in St. John’s, Lurgan, I am greatly encouraged by the fact that I do step into the role on my own, but with the Lord. I am also grateful for those who have prayed and continue to pray for me.
I am excited for what God has in store for us in St John’s, Lurgan. I count it a privilege to be among God’s people and part of building His Kingdom. So, as we continue in this Advent season, I finish with the reminder from Isaiah: ‘How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, ‘Your God reigns!’ (Isaiah 52:7).
