Diocesan News
The Revd Alan Cross appointed as Armagh Diocesan Mothers’ Union Chaplain
The Archbishop of Armagh, the Most Revd John McDowell, has appointed the Revd Alan Cross, Rector of Lissan, to be the Diocesan Chaplain to the Mothers’ Union.
Speaking about the appointment, the Archbishop said: “I am delighted that Alan has agreed to both serve the Diocese and the Mothers’ Union in this important role. The MU has been at the heart of the life of the Church of Ireland since 1887 and provides not only a wonderful basis of fellowship but also many opportunities to serve God and his world. I have no doubt that as society opens up again there will be many other opportunities for service and that Alan will help Mothers’ Union members and branches in Armagh to feed on the spiritual springs which this vocation will require. I wish him well in his new role.”
Sophia Dillon, Diocesan Mothers’ Union President, welcomed Alan with these words: “It is a pleasure to welcome Rev Alan Cross as our new diocesan Chaplain. His keen enthusiasm and vigour for this position is amazing and I am really looking forward to working alongside him as we emerge from this lockdown to rebuild hope and confidence with our members and the wider church community.”
The Revd Alan Cross commented: “It is well known that the Mothers’ Union is the backbone of most, if not all, parishes. The Godly influence of the Christian mother on her children and home life cannot be underestimated. In Paul’s first letter to Timothy, he writes of ‘the genuine faith … that first filled your grandmother Lois, and your mother Eunice … that same faith that continues strong in you’. I am humbled by the Archbishop’s invitation to be Diocesan Chaplain, and I trust that by God’s grace, I, together with the many members of the Mothers’ Union will will be empowered to encourage, edify, and serve our families, and parishes.”
For further information please contact:
Diocesan Communications Officer, Armagh
07703 821533
Mr Jonathan Hull
dco@armagh.anglican.org