Sam becomes Rector of Comber
Warmest congratulations to Revd Sam Johnston whom Bishop David has instituted as Incumbent of Comber Parish. Sam had been serving as Minister–in–Charge in St Mary’s since September 2019.
The rector of Ballyholme, Canon Simon Doogan, gave the address at the service which took place on Monday 30 May.
Sam is thrilled to become rector, saying:
“Gayle and I count it as both a blessing and a privilege, to worship and serve in St. Mary’s. We believe we have more to offer the parish and are so happy to be able to stay here.
“Comber is a lovely place, with a long history of faithful Christian work, worship and witness. We are excited to be part of that tradition as we listen for God’s call and follow in his ways.”
About Sam
Sam grew up in Ballyholme Parish, leaving to study Music and Sound Recording in England. After a few years working in the music industry, he returned to Ballyholme, where he served as the youth worker for two years.
Having studied for ordination in Dublin, Sam moved to Lurgan, where he spent his deacon year and a further four years as curate. It is here that he met and married his wife Gayle, and the pair moved to Comber Parish in 2019.
Sam was introduced to the parish as Minister–In–Charge on 3 September, exactly one thousand days before his service of institution as Rector.
The Covid–19 pandemic hit six months into this new role. Moving to digital ministry presented challenges to all churches, and Sam’s previous training in technology proved particularly useful. Remote services also provided opportunities to reach people who had become disconnected from Church.
Over the last couple of years, and through the hard work of the select vestry, the parish sold the old rectory, securing a new one earlier this year. This, combined with the generous regular giving of the people of St. Mary’s, put the parish in a position to appoint a rector.
