A large congregation gathered last Sunday at Saint Mary’s Church, Bunclody, to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the church’s consecration.
The Choral Eucharist was presided over by the Bishop of Cashel, Ferns and Ossory, The Right Reverend Adrian Wilkinson, and he was assisted by The Reverend Canon Trevor Sargent, Rector of Bunclody Union of Parishes.
Among the clergy assisting were two former rectors of the parish, the Reverend Nigel Waugh and the Reverend Michael Stevenson. Canon Sargent, in his words of welcome, also noted the ecumenical and civic representatives present.
Music formed an important part of the service, and the Choir of Saint Mary’s Church and Friends were directed by Dr Jeffrey Cox. Valerie Twomey was the assistant organist, and the trumpet was played by Anthony Nolan.
Symbols of parish life and organisations were brought forward and placed in the sanctuary at the start of the service.
In his sermon, Bishop Wilkinson reminded the congregation that this church was consecrated while the ink on the American Declaration of Independence was still wet. Reflecting on the idea of ‘living stones’ in the epistle reading from 1 Peter, he reminded the congregation that ‘we are called not simply to preserve, but to embody the gospel, by serving, praying, and loving, so that this church remains a beacon of hope and grace in this community.’
Following the service, the congregation gathered in the adjacent hall for refreshments, where a special anniversary cake was cut.
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