The Bishop of Derry and Raphoe, Rt Rev Andrew Forster, paid his first visit to St Ann’s Church, Killult, on Sunday to dedicate two new doors which had been bequeathed by a former organist in the church. The bequest was made by Mrs Martha Baskin (neé Dunleavy) and her husband Jack, in memory of the Dunleavys of Baltoney. The couple were accompanied in church by their daughter, Jacqueline, and granddaughter Lisa.
The Service of Dedication was fully compliant with Covid-19 guidelines. Bishop Andrew was assisted by the Rector of Dunfanaghy, Raymunterdoney and Tullaghobegley, Rev David Skuce.
In his sermon, the Bishop recalled the words of Psalm 84, which extols the joy of worshipping in the Temple. Bishop Andrew said the closure of church buildings following the Covid-19 outbreak meant we could identify with the psalmist, whose soul longed for God’s house.
He thanked Mr and Mrs Baskin for their generosity towards the parish. The new doors – for the vestry and porch of St Ann’s – were made by MacBride Brothers of Convoy. A small plaque has been erected in the porch to mark the occasion.
Earlier in the day, Bishop Andrew presided and preached at a Service of Holy Communion eight miles away, in Dunfanaghy Parish Church.
