News
Mothers Union Festival Service in Donacavey Parish Church, Fintona
The Annual Service of Mothers Union took place this year in Donacavey Parish Church, Fintona. As usual
branch banners were carried, along with the Diocesan Banner.
The Rev Canon John W Stewart, retiring as Diocesan Chaplain after eleven years, handed over to the Rt
Rev John McDowell, Bishop of Clogher the new Chaplain.
Mrs Geraldine Beattie, MU President, on behalf of the MU in the Diocese made a presentation to Canon
Stewart. She spoke of the support he had been, not only to her but to the members in the Diocese. The
Bishop presented Canon Stewart with a plaque in recognition of his Services to MU over the past 11 years
and indeed since he came to the Diocese in 1985.
In reply Canon Stewart spoke of the many interesting people he had met from around the world as well as
within the diocese. It had been a privilege to have been invited to be diocesan chaplain and during his time
of office he had enjoyed visiting Mary Sumner House, London, and the Chaplain’s Conference. He had also
attended a World Wide Conference which broadened his experience, not only of Mothers’ Union but the Anglican
Communion. He expressed his gratitude to Mothers’ Union for their kind gifts and wished them much blessing
under the spiritual leadership of their new Chaplain.
The Rector of the Parish, Rev John Marsburg welcomed everyone present. The Service was conducted by Canon
Stewart and Bishop McDowell preached the sermon. Occasional Prayers were read by Dr Margaret Knox. The
lessons were read by Dorothy Adams, Vice-President of the Action and Outreach Unit and the President,
Geraldine Beattie.
During the Service, the Bishop dedicated a Prayer Book, the prayers were donated by Mothers’ Union members.
The printing of the book was funded with part legacy of the Helen Jackson bequest to All-Ireland Mothers’
Union.
This prayer book is for each member and it is hoped that it will be placed in the hospital, doctors
surgeries, dental practices etc.
