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Service of Choral Evensong marks reopening of St. Macartin's Cathedral
The clergy Verger and Churchwardens taking part in the reopening service.
The official reopening service for St. Macartin’s Cathedral, Enniskillen has taken place, following extensive renovation works including the replacement of the Cathedral roof, complete internal redecoration, the refurbishment of the organ, and work in the grounds.
A special service of Choral Evensong was held on Sunday, 15 May when the Bishop of Clogher, the Rt Rev Dr Ian Ellis, officially reopened the Cathedral.
Among those in attendance were parishioners and friends of the Cathedral as well as many from across the community.
The Dean, the Very Revd Kenneth Hall introduced the service and expressed his thanks on behalf of the people and clergy of the Cathedral to the Project Management Team, including Mr Sam Morrow (Honorary Secretary), Mrs Hope Kerr (Honorary Treasurer), and the Cathedral’s two Glebewardens, Mr George Irvine and Mr Noel Johnston. He thanked all those who gave of their help and time over the project, those who contributed towards the costs incurred, and those who presented gifts to be dedicated at the service.
He also noted that the Parish was deeply indebted to Mr Chris McCollum, Mr Marius Blake, Mr Harold Graham and his team, RossScott and their team of skilled painters, and Mr Alastair McCartney.
At the beginning of the service, the Bishop, clergy, and Churchwardens gathered at the West door of the Cathedral, as Mr Nathan Clyde, the Rector’s Churchwarden asked the Bishop to reopen the Cathedral. The Bishop did so in God’s Name, and prayed for its work and witness. The Cathedral clergy were accompanied in the procession by the Revd Canon Desmond Kingston and the Most Revd Mgr Peter O’Reilly.
The service was sung by the Cathedral choir, along with special guests. The choir was directed by Dr David Baxter and accompanied on the newly refurbished organ by the Cathedral’s Director of Music and Organist, Mr Glenn Moore.
The Lessons were read by Mr Sam Morrow and Mr. Scott Elliott (the Parish Reader).
The sermon was preached by the Bishop, who referred to the role of cathedrals in worship.
The Occasional Prayers were led by the Curate Assistant.
Miss Alanna Williamson, the Peoples’ Churchwarden asked the Bishop to dedicate a number of gifts to the glory of God.
Refreshments were served in the Cathedral Hall following the service.