Bishop Edward Darling celebrates 40th Anniversary of his consecration
A special service was held on Saturday 29 November to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Rt Revd Edward Darling’s consecration as bishop. Bishop Darling was consecrated Bishop of Limerick and Killaloe on 30 November 1985 (the feast of St Andrew).
The occasion was marked with a special anniversary celebration in St. John's, Orangefield, where the bishop had served as a curate. Presiding at this special service was Edward and Mrs Darling's son, Colin, who is rector of Ballymore (Tandragee), in the diocese of Armagh. The preacher was Bishop David, and the readers were Canon Stephen Fielding, Canon Stuart Lloyd, and Rt Revd Robin Eames, former Archbishop of Armagh.
In his address, Bishop David paid tribute to the faithful example Bishop Edward had set throughout his ministry, and especially in the diocese of Limerick and Killaloe. He also highlighted the bishop's gifts of music and of pastoral care, the latter which was so appreciated in Down and Dromore as chaplain to the retired clergy, after he and Patricia retired to the diocese in 2000. Preaching from the gospel passage for the feast of St Andrew in Matthew 4, Bishop David reminded the congregation that like Andrew, our calling is to follow Jesus and to lead others to him.
The congregation enjoyed refreshments after the service when many well-wishers had the opportunity to greet Bishop Edward and Patricia.
With thanks to Archdeacon Mark Harvey