A Voice in the Garden – Lapp’s Court Residents celebrate the Feast of St John the Baptist outdoors

Posted on June 26, 2026 by mediaccr

Yesterday, 25th June 2026, the residents of Lapp’s Court gathered beneath the shade of a beautiful tree for a special outdoor celebration of the Holy Eucharist, enjoying glorious summer weather and warm fellowship in the heart of their community.

An outdoor gathering with an audience of elderly people seated on chairs, listening to a speaker in religious attire, under a tree near a building.

The idea for holding the service outdoors came from Paul Smyth, Warden of Lapp’s Court, who transformed a peaceful corner of the residential complex into an open-air place of worship. Benches and chairs were arranged beneath one of the large trees, while a simple table served as the altar, creating a fitting setting for the celebration.

The Eucharist was celebrated by the Rev. Martin Steele, Dean’s Vicar of Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral, who has pastoral responsibility for Lapp’s Court and regularly celebrates the Eucharist there each month. He was assisted by Derek Johnson and David Hennessy, both former Diocesan Lay Readers who hold permission to conduct the Service of Holy Communion by Extension.

A gathering of elderly people sitting on chairs and benches under a large tree, enjoying a sunny outdoor event at a community garden.
A priest in a white robe conducts a service under a tree, addressing a group of elderly individuals seated nearby, including one in a wheelchair.
A group of elderly individuals seated outdoors in a garden setting, listening to a speaker in a white robe standing under a tree. The scene includes a residential building in the background and sunlight filtering through the foliage.
An elderly man playing a keyboard at the entrance of a house, smiling and enjoying the music.
A group of elderly individuals are gathered outside under trees, one person is reading from a book, while a priest conducts a service in the background.
A group of people attending an outdoor service, with a priest reading from a book. Two elderly women are seated on a bench, one in a blue top and the other in a yellow floral shirt, while a small white dog rests nearby.
A priest officiating a service outdoors under a tree, with attendees seated and standing around him, engaged in prayer. The setting features a table with religious items and a sunny garden backdrop.
A priest in white robes performing a blessing or ritual outdoors under a tree, with two men standing beside him. A gathering of seated attendees is visible in the foreground.
A clergy member in white robes and sunglasses distributes items to a group of people in a garden setting, with seated attendees observing.

Residents themselves played an important part in the service. Martin Dunne and Paul Smyth Senior read the lessons, while John Armitage accompanied the congregation on the piano as everyone joined together in singing the hymns. Ted Ardis, former Dean’s Vicar of Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral, coordinated the readers for the service and, together with John Armitage, selected the hymns for the occasion, helping to shape a service that reflected both the season and the community gathered in worship.

The service took place on the Feast of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist, a day that seemed particularly fitting for worship beneath the open sky.

Reflecting on the occasion, the Revd Martin Steele said:

“I am very grateful to Paul Smyth for suggesting that we celebrate the Eucharist outdoors this month. Gathering beneath the trees to celebrate the Feast of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist gave the service something of the atmosphere of the New Testament. Surrounded by God’s creation and worshipping together as a community, it was a joyful reminder that the Church has always gathered wherever people come together in Christ’s name.”

The shade of the tree provided a welcome breeze throughout the service, making it a comfortable and peaceful setting despite the warm weather.

A cheerful elderly couple standing outdoors in a garden setting, the man holds a red and white box while the woman smiles and poses beside him, both wearing sunglasses.
A group of six elderly individuals, including three men and three women, gathering outdoors in a garden setting. Two men are seated in front with mobility aids, while the women and one man stand behind them, all smiling. The background features a modest building, well-maintained greenery, and a clear blue sky.
Two women smiling together outdoors. One woman with short, blonde hair wearing a polka dot shirt and the other with long, white hair wearing sunglasses and a striped shirt. Lush greenery and a building can be seen in the background.

Following the Eucharist, residents and visitors gathered in the community room to enjoy tea, coffee, sandwiches and homemade cakes, providing an opportunity to continue conversations and share fellowship together.

A group of people socialising around a long table filled with food and drinks in a well-lit community room, with cheerful decorations on the walls.
A group of people enjoying an afternoon tea gathering, seated around tables covered with food and drinks, while a man serves pastries.
A large group of people gathered around a table filled with food and drinks in a cosy indoor setting.

Thanks to the careful planning and hard work of Paul Smyth and the Revd Martin Steele, the outdoor Eucharist proved to be a memorable celebration, bringing together worship, community and hospitality in a setting that reflected both the beauty of the day and the warmth of the Lapp’s Court community.

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New Bishop of Cork, Cloyne and Ross

Posted on June 19, 2026 by mediaccr

The Church of Ireland has announced the election of the Venerable Andrew Orr as the new Bishop of Cork, Cloyne and Ross.

The result of the elections was announced on Friday, 19th June 2026 following the second meeting of the Episcopal Electoral College in Christ Church Cathedral Dublin.

The Venerable Andrew Orr, who is currently the Archdeacon of Cork, Cloyne and Ross, will succeed the Right Reverend Dr Paul Colton, who retired at the end of April after more than twenty-seven years of episcopal ministry in the United Dioceses of Cork, Cloyne and Ross.

The Venerable Andrew Orr

Speaking following the announcement, the Venerable Orr said:

I am delighted and honoured to have received the votes of the electoral college today. I am looking forward to walking together with the wonderful team of clergy and lay people in Cork, Cloyne and Ross and under God’s guidance to journey together into the wonderful future that is ahead of us.

Archdeacon Orr is already well known throughout the United Dioceses. Most recently, he served as Archdeacon of Cork, Cloyne and Ross, having been licensed and installed in that role by Bishop Paul Colton at Choral Evensong in St Fin Barre’s Cathedral, Cork, in March 2023. During the vacancy in the See, he has also served as Commissary to the Archbishop of Dublin, the Most Reverend Dr Michael Jackson, helping to support the ongoing life and ministry of the diocese during the interim period.

Andrew also currently serves as Chaplain to Midleton College and Priest-in-Charge of Youghal Union of Parishes. He was appointed to that role in 2018, coming to the diocese from the Tullow Group of Parishes in the United Dioceses of Cashel, Ferns and Ossory, where he had served as Rector and as Archdeacon of Ossory and Leighlin.

Born in Belfast, Andrew attended Sullivan Upper School in Holywood, County Down, before studying Geology and Physical Geography at the University of Sheffield. He later studied theology at Trinity College Dublin and was ordained deacon in 1992 and priest in 1993. His ministry has included service in Ballymacash in Lisburn, Castlecomer in the Diocese of Ossory, Castleknock and Mulhuddart with Clonsilla in the Diocese of Dublin, and Tullow in the Diocese of Cashel, Ferns and Ossory.

Andrew has also been closely involved in the Church’s work on environmental issues and climate change. He has served as a Church of Ireland representative and Chair of Eco-Congregation Ireland, and has represented the Church on wider environmental networks including the Anglican Communion Environmental Network.

The outcome of the election will now be transmitted to the House of Bishops to confirm the election. Following that arrangements will be made for the consecration and enthronements of the new bishop. Details will be announced in due course.

The clergy and people of Cork, Cloyne and Ross warmly welcome the news of this election and offer their prayers for Andrew, his family, and all who will share in this new season of ministry.

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St Anne’s Church, Shandon Secures Over €180,000 for Conservation and Heritage Projects

Posted on June 18, 2026 by mediaccr

St Anne’s Church, Shandon has secured more than €180,000 in grant funding to support a major programme of conservation and heritage works taking place throughout 2026. The funding is provided through Cork City Council, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and the Heritage Council, and will support a range of projects aimed at preserving one of Cork’s most recognisable landmarks while improving accessibility and deepening understanding of its rich history.

The programme includes repairs to the church’s front steps, waterproofing works to the bell tower, conservation and monitoring of historic windows, a feasibility study examining access and visitor interpretation, and the beginning of a conservation study of the historic Green Coat School collection.

Many of these grants require significant matching contributions from the parish itself, meaning that the continued support of visitors, donors and the wider community remains essential in helping these projects become a reality.

James Burke Architects will oversee the works as conservation architect, while Hearthstone Building & Restoration will carry out the conservation works on site.

Caring for a Living Landmark

Building on a successful year of conservation projects in 2025, this latest funding will help ensure that St Anne’s continues to serve as both a place of worship and a treasured part of Cork’s architectural and cultural heritage.

Among the largest projects is the waterproofing of the iconic bell tower, helping to safeguard the structure against one of the greatest threats to historic buildings: water ingress. Conservation works will also focus on the church’s stained-glass windows, including ongoing monitoring of the East Window depicting the Transfiguration.

Alongside physical conservation work, St Anne’s will begin a study of the Green Coat School collection, which includes historic books dating back to the sixteenth century and the well-known lead statues Bob and Joan, preserving an important chapter in Shandon’s history.

A feasibility study on accessibility, usability and interpretation will also help shape future improvements, ensuring that the church’s heritage can be enjoyed and understood by as many people as possible.

Rev. Meghan Farr, Priest-in-Charge of St Anne’s Shandon, welcomed the announcement:

“This summer marks another chapter in our commitment to caring for St Anne’s, not just as a building, but as a living part of Cork’s story. Each project is an investment in preserving the heritage of Shandon for future generations, and we are deeply grateful to our funders and to everyone who continues to support the church.”

Learn More

A full breakdown of the projects, funding streams, and conservation plans is available on the St Anne’s Shandon website.

Read the original article here.

Those wishing to support the ongoing conservation of St Anne’s Shandon can also make a donation through the church’s fundraising campaign. Every contribution helps preserve this historic landmark for future generations.

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Two new priests ordained in the Church of Ireland Diocese of Cork, Cloyne and Ross

Posted on June 14, 2026 by mediaccr

On Saturday, 13th June 2026, the Rev. Jean Taylor and the Rev. Alan Howe were ordained to the priesthood by the Archbishop of Dublin, the Most Rev. Dr Michael Jackson.

As the See of Cork, Cloyne and Ross is presently vacant following the retirement of the Right Reverend Dr Paul Colton, Archbishop Michael Jackson travelled to Cork to conduct the ordinations on behalf of the Church of Ireland.

The Archbishop presided at the liturgy, and the former Archbishop of Armagh, the Right Rev. Richard Clarke preached at the service. The Lay Vicars Choral of St Fin Barre’s Cathedral Choir sung under their Director of Music, Peter Stobart. The Rev. Martin Steele, Dean’s Vicar at St Fin Barre’s Cathedral, sang the Litany.

Jean and Alan were presented for ordination by the Archdeacon, the Ven. Andrew Orr, as well as their respective sponsors. Parishioners, family and friends from all over the Diocese, as well as Diocesan Readers and clergy came to the cathedral to support them on this special day.

Captain Alan J. Howe

Alan Howe lives near Kilbrittain. He is the second son of the late James and Violet Howe. He has four siblings; two brothers live locally and the third lives in Dublin. His sister Jane is married to Canon Patrick Harvey who is Rector of Abbeyleix and Killermogh Union of Parishes. Alan is married to Olivia (nee Travers) and they have three children. Amy and Adam are in London, Rosie and Ian live near Ballylickey. Alan is a parishioner of Bandon Union of Parishes but has close family links to both Holy Trinity, Templetrine and the Church of the Ascension in Timoleague. He went to the National School in Timoleague. He attended Bandon Grammar School and Newtown School, Waterford. He was confirmed in Waterford Cathedral by Bishop John Armstrong in 1970. After leaving school in 1973 Alan was accepted for training as a Cadet within the Shell fleet. It was a career that was to span twenty-four years during which he attained a Certificate of Competency as Master Mariner. His first command in the fleet was in 1992. He joined Ostensjo Rederi AS in 1998, a company which provided marine services within the Port of Cork. He joined Fendercare Marine in 2002 as Berthing Master. Alan’s final career change occurred in 2007 when he joined Chevron Shipping as a Mooring Master. He worked in Nigeria and Angola and achieved the position of Senior Mooring Master before returning to the San Francisco office as Marine Superintendent, Terminal Advisor and Auditor. He retired in 2021 having completed forty seven years of marine service. Alan was licensed as a Diocesan Lay Reader by Bishop Robert Warke in 1998, was recommended by Bishop Paul Colton for training for Ordained Local Ministry in 2023 and ordained deacon in 2025. He will continue to serve as Ordained Local Minister in Bandon Union of Parishes.

Jean Taylor

Jean Taylor was born in the UK and has had a varied career, working in the Civil Service as a Judges’ Clerk in the County Court and then as an Editorial Assistant at the Sunday Telegraph in Fleet Street and subsequently in Canary Wharf. In 2004 Jean moved to Cobh and worked for Charles Daly, Solicitor. Then, from 2007 she worked at Fota Wildlife Park. During this time she qualified as a zookeeper and worked on the animal care team. She spent the last years before her retirement overseeing the Tropical house where she was responsible for the care of reptiles, fish and the sloths. One of the highlights of her career was hand rearing two cheetah cubs rejected by their mother. Jean has been a parishioner at Christ Church, Rushbrook, Cobh since 2019 and became a Church Warden in 2022. She also worships at St Fin Barre’s Cathedral. Feeling a call to Ordination she spent time in discernment and reflection and, having been encouraged by her Rector, she was accepted for training to the Ordained Local Ministry. Jean embarked on the training course at the Church of Ireland Theological Institute in 2023 and was ordained deacon in 2025. She will continue to serve as Ordained Local Minister in Cobh and Glanmire Union of Parishes.

With special thanks to Eoin Murphy, Operations Manager at St Fin Barre’s Cathedral, for the photographs.

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Two new priests to be ordained in the Church of Ireland Diocese of Cork, Cloyne and Ross

Posted on June 6, 2026 by mediaccr

The Archbishop of Dublin, the Most Reverend Dr Michael Jackson, will travel to Cork on Saturday 13th June 2026 to ordain two new priests for ministry in the United Dioceses of Cork, Cloyne and Ross. The Ordination Service will take place in Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral, Cork, and will commence at 4pm.

The Rev. Jean Taylor and the Rev. Alan Howe after their ordination to the diaconate in June 2025.

The two candidates to be ordained are the Rev. Jean Taylor and the Rev. Alan Howe, who were ordained to the diaconate in St Fin Barre’s Cathedral last June and are currently serving in parishes across the Diocese. The Rev. Jean Taylor serves in Cobh and Glanmire Union of Parishes, while the Rev. Alan Howe serves in Bandon Union of Parishes.

As the See of Cork, Cloyne and Ross is presently vacant following the retirement of the Right Reverend Dr Paul Colton, Archbishop Michael Jackson will conduct the ordinations on behalf of the Church of Ireland.

Ordination to the priesthood marks a significant stage in ordained ministry, authorising priests to preside at the Holy Communion and undertake the full range of sacramental and pastoral responsibilities within the life of the Church.

Clergy, parishioners, family members and friends from across Cork, Cloyne and Ross are expected to gather for this joyful occasion. Anyone wishing to attend the service will be most welcome to do so, and all are invited to join in supporting and praying for Jean and Alan as they begin this new chapter of their ordained ministry.

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